Eight enthusiastic Central Highlands high school students are headed to Japan this week for a once-in-a-lifetime cultural experience thanks to council’s Sister City Exchange Program.
After a three-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the popular program was finally able to resume in 2024.
The Sister City program was established in 1991 to foster mutual understanding and goodwill between the former shires of Duaringa and Fujisawa, and now the program is between the Central Highlands Regional Council and Ichinoseki City Council (ICC) following local government amalgamations in both countries.
Since then, more than 500 people have been involved in exchanges between the two councils.
Mayor, Janice Moriarty and Councillors Robert Donaldson and Karen Newman attended the 2024 cohorts’ farewell dinner earlier this month.
“The Sister City Student Exchange program is an exciting opportunity for high school students in the Central Highlands to experience Japanese culture and see this beautiful country,” said Mayor Moriarty.
This year, students, parents, friends, and school communities rallied together to raise an impressive $32,000 for the trip.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to the 56 sponsors who have contributed to the success of this year’s exchange program,” said Mayor Moriarty.
“The program not only enriches the lives of participating students, but also strengthens cultural ties between our community and Japan.”
She wished all the 2024 Sister City Exchange Program students and staff the best of luck on their unforgettable journey.
