DUBBO REGION STUDENTS HAVE TRIP OF A LIFETIME IN MINOKAMO
A group of Dubbo students have recently returned from the trip-of-a-lifetime to Japan after participating in Dubbo Regional Council’s (DRC) Sister City Exchange Program.
The program, which is facilitated by DRC to encourage global social and economic development at the local level, saw 10 students and two chaperones travel to Minokamo to participate in a range of cultural exchange activities. The students spent seven days living with a host family, attending Minokamo Agricultural High School, and visiting local tourist attractions. A three day stay in Tokyo, including visiting Tokyo Disneyland, was also a highlight of the experience.
Dubbo student, Kacey Ireland, had an unforgettable experience and encouraged the region’s high school students to apply for the program in 2025.
"We had the incredible opportunity to host and be hosted by wonderful families through the sister city exchange program. The highlight of the trip wasn't only the places we visited but the people we met and the lifelong friendships that were made along the way,” Ms Ireland said.
Kacey’s father, Kym Ireland, travelled with the group as one of the two chaperones. Kym said the students had a fantastic experience and highlighted the importance of international exchange programs for young people.
“The Minokamo-Dubbo exchange has broadened everyone’s outlook on life. Japan is a truly amazing country steeped in history. So many incredible experiences were shared by the group and our host families. The people of Minokamo are so welcoming and went above and beyond with their generosity and willingness to share their day to day lives, their country and their culture,” Mr Ireland said.
Daisy Wang, DRC’s Sister City Officer, said that the Sister City Exchange Program is a great opportunity for high school students to explore another country and appreciate different cultures in an increasingly interconnected world.
“The opportunity to explore a different part of the world and a different culture is something that I’d encourage all students to do.”
“We’ve had our Sister City relationship with Minokamo in place now for 35 years, and the Student Exchange Program is one of the great things that has come out of this relationship.”
“Later this month, a delegation from Minokamo will visit Dubbo to celebrate our long-lasting friendship between the two cities,” Ms Wang said.
Dubbo Regional Council’s Sister City Exchange Program will run again in 2025, and residents can email Daisy at daisy.wang@dubbo.nsw.gov.au to ensure they are notified of when applications open.
Last Edited: 21 Oct 2024