The students stayed with local families and enjoyed an exciting itinerary, which included visiting local schools and experiencing Japanese cultural activities including wearing a traditional Kimono.
During this visit, the group celebrated this being the 22nd Anniversary of the original Sister City Agreement signed in 1997.
The strong relationship between the two cities continues to grow with this visit representing fifteen cultural exchanges involving over 100 students and 46 adult chaperones.
Federation Council Mayor, Cr Patrick Bourke said during his speech on behalf of Federation Council, “I thank you for inviting us to share in these important celebrations and look forward to many more years of exchanges and making lifetime friends.
“Federation Council is very thankful for the enduring friendship that we have with Miki City and we are delighted to have been able to participate in this year’s exchange to Japan and hope that old friendships have been rekindled and new friendships established.
“It takes a lot of time and energy to organize the itinerary and travel between our cities and we thank each of you very much for the effort that you have all made for us to visit Japan.” he said.
In appreciation of the hospitality, generosity and friendship shown, Federation Council Mayor, Cr Patrick Bourke presented some gifts to Miki City from Australia. The gifts were Indigenous Australian artworks from Burraja Gallery. The shield and clap sticks were tools used in war and are now used in cultural ceremonies especially with making music and smoking ceremonies i.e Welcome to Country. One of the paintings known as ‘Mother’ tells the story of the path we travel on with our mothers. It depicts the life lessons shared through song, dance and storytelling, which are then passed down to our little ones.
Students will be invited to address council’s November meeting to share their experiences and what they have learnt during the exchange.
