What's on This Weekend

Munster Wein Festival 8th - 10th Aug - Free entry





This year, the wine festival will take place from August 8th to 10th, 2025, at Münster's beautiful Überwasserkirchplatz . Sample wines from a range of top-class national and international wineries.

Drive time is 1hr 30 mins the train journey is roughly the same time.

Rietberg - Water fun - €6 adults, €2 Children



Six and a half weeks of water fun during the summer holidays! The Garden Show Park offers refreshing cool-off on hot days.

From the large bouncy castle, you can slide directly into the pool. Small electric paddle boats are available, and the giant water balls require just the right balance.

There's no stopping you on the waterslide – it's a blast when the weather's nice! Water fun is available daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. during the summer holidays in the North section of the park.(make sure you head to the correct area of the park.)

The water fun is included in regular park admission. Season ticket holders pay nothing. A day ticket costs €6 for adults, and €2 for children ages four and up. Children under four are free.

Drive time 27 mins.

Time for Fishing?

At the last NFS Town Hall, it was raised that SOFA members in Paderborn were unable to renew or obtain a German fishing licence.


The GEO has now re-enabled this facility for SOFA Members to gain a German fishing License in Paderborn.


Applicants MUST attend the 2 hour GEO Briefing.
The intention is to run a pilot course briefing (Week commencing 1 Sep. Register with the pilot exam two weeks later (week commencing 15 Sep).

Applicants MUST pass the GEO Angling Exam (in English)


30 Hr self-learning package. The GEO exam (in English) is aimed at already experienced anglers and not for complete novices.
https://garmisch.armymwr.com/programs/hunting-fishing-sport-sho


Summer Nights Cinema - Schloss Neuhaus 6th -11th Aug







You chance to watch new and classic movies in the open air and in German too!
Tickets are available here.

Festival On The Lake

Things won't be quite so tranquil at this year's Bridge Festival, which runs from August 7th to 10th. With live music on two stages, a funfair, and a varied program for all ages, the festival is once again an experience for the whole family after a three-year hiatus.


Tickets are available online at 7.50 Euro each. Use this link

Machsee - Hannover Colourful programme on the children's meadow

Colourful children's programme every Wednesday and Friday - Sundays from 14-19h on the meadow at the stadium.

The children's meadow at the Maschsee Festival is the best place in Hanover for all those who like to play, do handicrafts, jump and run around. From Friday to Sunday and on Wednesdays there is a brilliant programme for the kids from 2pm to 7pm.

All play, creative, movement and hands-on activities are free of charge.


Drive time is a 1hour 30 mins from Sennelager. The lake is transformed during the festival with several music and event stages set up around the shore.

you can walk around the lake and visit all the pop up restaurants, lounges and bars. Or use the boats laid on to transport people between the venues. music is from choirs to rock, dance DJ's and funk.

Check out the website here for the complete details.

Women’s International Defence Rugby – 14 Aug to 4 Sept

 

More info on the tournament can be found here 

Simplifying overseas service finances…

Defence’s new digital tools and updated allowances help you and your family navigate the financial aspects of overseas assignments – with greater confidence and less paperwork.  

When serving overseas, you should be able to focus on your work and settling into your new location, without worrying about unexpected costs or navigating complex policies.  

 Financial stability and a clear understanding of what you and your family can receive are essential components to support operational effectiveness. That’s why Defence is freeing up valuable time and providing welcome reassurance, by simplifying allowance processes and providing tools that reduce admin. 

 These changes make the move to overseas life smoother for everyone, providing greater clarity and choice – whether you’re posted abroad or keeping a home across borders. 

Easier claims with more flexibility 

From 1 July 2025, eligible personnel assigned to Brunei, USA, Kenya, and select European and Rest of World locations (administered by the Global Support Organisation) can opt into the Global Mobility Allowance (GMA) trial.  

This initiative combines existing Disturbance Expense Overseas, Respite Provision, and Overseas Private Vehicle Provision allowances into a single, non-taxable lump sum payment – and there’s no requirement for expenses receipts to be provided before claiming.

The GMA Calculator gives a real-time, tailored estimate of how much you will receive, and you can use the allowance however you see fit – with JSP 752 providing guidance on expenses the combined allowances can contribute towards.