When I decided, twenty years ago, to organize an international film festival within the genre of mountain and adventure films in Graz , I had no idea what a positive echo this project would have with film makers, visitors, institutions and sponsors. Therefore I would today like to truly thank all partners who supported, motivated and accompanied me on my way with all their forces. These thanks are also especially directed to my small but very smart and powerful team who has achieved such great work under the careful direction of the festival manager Barbara Koren-Tauscher.

Usually, an anniversary gives reason for extensive retrospectives in a programme. Originally I planned a retrospective together with a commemorative publication, but I rejected this idea in favour of the presentation of new works, as we received so many outstanding films this year.

However, in addition to the regular festival programme I have also inserted two small “delicacies” which will introduce a new, exquisite festival place, the so-called „Dom im Berg“, and at the same time illuminate the historic role of a Styrian alpine expedition.

The protagonists of many films will once again be our festival guests and a top-class jury will once again have the difficult task to decide who will leave the stage with the main prize, the „Grand Prix Graz 2006“, or one of the “Alpine Cameras in Gold”. In this context I would like to wish you – as every year – many thrilling and exciting festival hours.

Your
Robert Schauer
Organiser