The WA branch has hosted various events over the past couple of years. In 2007 the University of Western Australia offered a cocktail reception to thank Humboldt fellows and their partners for their contribution to the state and in particular to the university. Vice Chancellor, Professor Alan Robson, spoke with great emphasis about the contribution that the Federal Republic of Germany makes towards Australian academic life and scientific research through the Humboldt Foundation. Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Doug McEachern thanked the German Government and the Humboldt Foundation for the support given to Australian-German scientific research. WA State representative, Professor Walter Bloom welcomed the Humboldt Fellows and encouraged them to maintain their links with the Humbodlt Association as well as with their host universities. Twenty Humboldt fellows attended with their husbands, wives and partners. Later in that year and during 2008 various smaller events were held, including a bush picnic, coffee-sessions at the University of Western Australia Staff club and informal sessions to discuss various matters of common interest. A cocktail reception is currently being organized at the University of Western Australia to bring existing WA Humboldt fellows together again and to welcome new fellows.
Peter Morgan