Swiss Festival 2025, Melbourne

Hard on the heels of celebrating Swiss National Day, the Swiss Community and friends of Switzerland came together again at the biennial Swiss Festival held for the first time at Seaworks in Williamstown, on the outskirts of Melbourne. The maritime setting suited the event perfectly, providing shelter as well as open spaces for the 1300+ visitors and the many exhibitors and stall holders.

It was a display of Swissness at its best, including Swiss culinary delights, entertainment, and impressive Swiss know-how and innovation. We were entertained by local music and folklore, and the Guggemusik (carnival band) from Auckland (NZ) which absolutely rocked the place. There were notable Swiss companies showcasing their latest products and services, foremost Kyburz Australia being the main sponsor of the event. Then there was the tempting Swiss fare of Nussgipfel, grilled Bratwurst, Cervelats and of course a varied offering of cheese including Raclette!

The Swiss Alliance Australia (SAA), the Organisation of the Swiss Abroad (OSA), together with SwissCham and the Swiss Australian Academic Network (SAAN) combined under the banner ‘Swiss Network Australia’ to inform interested visitors of their work and services on offer.

A big thank-you to the amazing and well-organised Swiss Festival team under the leadership of Rolf Huber for delivering such a vibrant celebration of Swiss culture downunder!

Listen here to the report by SBS Radio in German