The opening of the International Union of Forest Organizations (IUFRO) 125th Anniversary Congress saw President Prof. Mike Wingfield being welcomed on-stage by Acoustic Instinct, a well know German BeatBox duo. Performers Paul Brenning and Julian Knörzer, who claim to be able to imitate any sound with their mouth and voice, have performed across the globe and provided an artistic touch to the usually more formal opening ceremonies. Their performance repertoire included musical instruments, animal sounds, singing as a small display of their remarkable talent.  They interspersed various acts within the Mike Wingfield’s opening address to produce one of the most unusual presentation. Certainly one that was different to a typical welcome speech.