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By Marion Revelli, Bond University journalism student
A German student said he felt close to home when he attended Oktoberfest celebrations at Lake Café and Bar at Varsity Lakes.
Thomas Schneber from Berlin arrived on the Gold Coast in January to complete his degree at Bond University.
Mr Schneber said while he was enjoying his time in Australia, it was important for him to celebrate Germany’s traditional events.
‘’I haven’t been home for a long time and on this day I really felt like I was in Munich,” he said.
Lake Café has celebrated Oktoberfest for the past four years.
Owner Gerhardt Breuss is Austrian and his family marks the Germanic tradition by recreating the atmosphere of Oktoberfest in their Café.
Manager Mathew Breuss said the cafe was decorated with flags, the staff wore the famous Lederhosen and participants could enjoy Austrian food and beer while listening to a traditional German band.
‘’We installed long tables so people could be all together singing German songs and sharing a happy moment,” he said.
Around 200 people attended the event, an equal mix of Australians and Europeans.
Mr Schneber said he particularly enjoyed sharing the day with Australians who showed a real interest in Oktoberfest.
“I was so surprised to see them singing in German,” he said.
Mr Breuss said most of the Australian participants had already celebrated Oktoberfest in Munich and came to relive good memories.
“They loved the food and they knew from experience all the traditional songs,” he said.
“We had a lot of fun that day.”
Photo caption: Students Matt Tengdhal and Celine Maguet celebrating Oktoberfest at Lake Café & Bar.
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