Pastry chef Franz Ziegler: Purpose, compassion and presence = happiness

"Wanted: Swiss pastry cook in Canberra." 30 years ago, Franz Ziegler from Graubunden successfully responded to this advert. But things didn't work out and Franz and his girlfriend (now wife) returned to Switzerland.

Der Schweizer Chocolatier Franz Ziegler bei seinem Besuch im SBS Funkhaus in Australien Source: SBS

Now back in Australia for a sabbatical, Ziegler shares his thoughts on that life-changing experience, and ponders the joys and sorrows of those who followed before and after him.

Namely: Are migrants from affluent nations such as Switzerland, Germany and Austria "gutsier" than their peers? Why do they risk their cosy nest to find happiness in Australia?

Listen to a talk with a curious man who embraces purpose, compassion and family - and firmly believes that we need to be more "present" - regardless of where we are.

"Wenn wir weggehen, befriedigen wir die Sehnsucht, etwas Neues zu erleben. Aber wir haben trotzdem Wurzeln - unsere Kultur, da wo wir herkommen." Franz Ziegler Source: My Switzerland

"Ich denke oft darüber nach, was wäre mit mir passiert, wäre ich (Ende der 1980er Jahre, nach einer OZ-Umrundung im Holden Kingswood) in Australien geblieben." Source: Parks Australia