With the Ilmenau summer reaching its height, what better way to celebrate the beautiful weather than to hold an Australian evening at bi-club. The club was filled with the sound of classic Australian bands such as ACDC and Men At Work, while songs from new artists Chet Faker and Vance Joy were also crowd pleasers. A long line stretched outside the main entrance of bi (getting longer and longer with every passing hour) as international students queued up, waiting impatiently to get their hands on some traditional Australian “tucker” (food) and a mug of some chilled Fosters beer. Those who finally made it to the food counter on time were treated to the delicacy of Sausage Rolls with puff pastry (Blätterteig) filled with seasoned mincemeat or a vegetable mix. A side salad was also served with the Australian additions of beetroot and white cheese. For those with a sweet tooth, they could enjoy mini-Pavlovas (meringue with frosting sugar, whipped cream and forest berries).
The presentation hosted by head chef Sally Remington (with the able assistance of her fellow Aussie mate Jan Wisniewski) gave the audience an insight into Australian English, with everyone invited to try out some new words. Bonza! There was also an opportunity to learn a little more about the culture and importance of first Australian people, the Aboriginals. This was followed by a game of “Australian or New Zealander” featuring such celebrities as Russell Crowe, Hugh Jackman, Lorde and Nicole Kidman. Finally came the countdown of Australia’s most dangerous animals. Some technical problems only helped build the suspense for the top three: the Saltwater Crocodile, the Taipan, and the Box Jellyfish.
With the tables cleared, everyone could enjoy a refreshing beer and relax to some more tunes from the land Down Under.