Shibetsu visit comes to a close
Published on 14 November 2019
Nine delegates from Goulburn’s sister city Shibetsu, Japan have today left for home after a visit to celebrate the 20th year anniversary of the relationship between the two cities.
Throughout the three days the delegation enjoyed a formal 20th anniversary celebration dinner, tours of Goulburn and Canberra and a native Australian animal experience at Taralga Wildlife Park.
The highlight of the visit was the Shibetsu Garden Dedication Ceremony, with a snow lantern and bamboo fencing donated by Shibetsu City for the project, along with two granite boulders donated by Mr Takashi Takiyoshi who is the Shibetsu garden technician.
Mayor Kirk stated that the visit had been a whirlwind three days of events, but was a brilliant chance to strengthen the relationship.
“Over the 20 years we have had more than 250 citizens and students involved in exchanges between the two cities, which is outstanding. The link between the regions is stronger than ever, and provides many social and cultural benefits to both parties.
“The work done in Victoria Park is only the beginning of what will be a wonderful traditional Japanese garden that is sure to draw visitors to Goulburn. This will stand as a showpiece for Goulburn and Shibetsu.”
The delegation included the Shibetsu City Mayor, Council Chairman, Councillor, Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce, President of Shibetsu Suffolk Research & Development, Vice-President of the Shibetsu International Exchange Society, Shibetsu City General Manager and Manager.
A delegation from Goulburn will next travel to Shibetsu in 2021, and Shibetsu is expected to send students for exchange in 2020.