WE arrived at Plantahof in Lanquat (the Rally site), Switzerland on Saturday 26th July 2008. Here we met with the other Rally 2008 teams and through ice-breaker games we got to know the other participants.
The official opening ceremony took place on Sunday morning. It began with traditional Swiss dancing, cow bells and yodelling. In the afternoon we went for a tour of Plantahof farm. Sunday evening was the International Buffett, where we enjoyed sampling food and drink from all the other countries involved in the Rally.
Monday started with a 2 hour walk to a creek where we looked at man-made defences against flooding. We then had the opportunity to produce land art. This is the use of stones, wood and flowers to create a visual display. On Monday evening we enjoyed a show of international folk songs.
On Tuesday we were divided into groups and examined how energy is produced in Switzerland. This included visits to energy sites containing solar panels, hydro-electric plants and a biomass system. In the afternoon we discussed how Swiss energy production compared with other European countries and the advantages and disadvantages of each. Tuesday evening was our opportunity to entertain and be entertained with a show of singing and dancing that showed off the culture of each of the 26 countries involved in the Rally.
Wednesday began with a visit to the mountains where we saw the process of Swiss cheese making and also learned about milking cows in the Alps. In the afternoon we went up the mountain by cable car. The rest of the afternoon was spent travelling to our host family where we learned more about Swiss culture and family life.
Thursday was spent with our host families and we got the chance to see more of Switzerland. Activities included visits to Chur Old Town, Central Switzerland and going up the mountains in the oldest chair lift in Europe!
The General Assembly of Rural Youth Europe was held during on Thursday afternoon. At this meeting Robin Swann (Past President YFCU) was elected to the highest position of Chairman of Rural Youth Europe. Thursday evening was spent returning to Plantahof with our host families to enjoy a BBQ and traditional Swiss music.
Friday was National Swiss Day and so we celebrated the day with several workshops of traditional Swiss activities. These included Flag Swinging, Yodelling, Hay Bale Carrying, Swiss Wrestling, Swiss Cheese Rolling and traditional Swiss Dancing.
The Rally ended with a traditional Swiss dish of cheese fondue.
Everyone had a great time, made new friends and learned about different cultures. We would like to take this opportunity to thank our sponsor, Northern Bank, for their continued support and interest which allowed us the opportunity to participate in the Rural Youth Europe Rally 2008.