“How everything started“
Established in 1963, the German Canadian Business & Professional Association (GCBA) has a rich history of promoting cultural exchange and business relations between Germany and Canada. Founded by Horst Müller, Fritz A. Ziegler, John R. Roffeis, and Kurt Maurer, the association began with a vision for a German club of “higher standards.”
The inaugural meeting of the organizers took place on June 16, 1963, at “Schloss Klipphaus,” a castle-like structure in Fort Langley constructed by Fritz Ziegler from an old farmhouse. Horst Mueller served as the first President, alongside Vice-Presidents Horst Koehler and Kurt Maurer, Secretaries Bernhard Hoeter and Wolfgang Zink, Treasurers Walter Schubert and John Roffeis, and Membership Directors Miss Kathe Sanean and Dr. Gemeinhardt.
Formally registered in Victoria on December 13, 1963, the GCBA established its constitution, policies, and procedures. The association’s first official meeting was held in November 1963, featuring a cocktail reception with German beer and an elk roast donated by President Horst Mueller.
The GCBA’s inaugural event, a costume party at the “Villa Hotel,” took place in February 1964 and was deemed a tremendous success with several VIPs in attendance. The first Annual General Meeting was held in March 1964, followed by a series of successful events, including a breakfast hosted by member Ulrich Freybe and a “Herrenabend” at “Schloss Klipphaus” with notable guests from the Federal Republic of West Germany.
In 1969, in response to Canada’s new multiculturalism policy, the GCBA introduced Oktoberfest as a means of sharing German culture with Canadians. The event grew significantly, eventually moving to BC Place Stadium and attracting over 12,000 attendees.
The GCBA’s involvement in Expo ’86 included organizing the “Bavarian Garden Restaurant,” which generated $1.6 million in profits. Additionally, member Klaus Fuerness initiated the “Germanica” conference in 1988.
Today, the GCBA continues its mission under the new leadership of Andrea Basche as a successor of former longtime President Beatrice Schreiber, who joined the association in 1995. With a history spanning over six decades, the GCBA remains committed to fostering strong ties between the German and Canadian communities through cultural and business initiatives.
