Families of Mitchell Shire welcomed another successful delegation from the sister city of Honbetsu earlier this month, with 13 students and three staff among the group visiting from Japan.
The group was welcomed at Tullamarine airport by committee members of the Mitchell-Honbetsu Sister City Association before attending a welcome party at Kilmore Library.
A formal introduction from Cr Rob Eldridge was followed by a presentation of a Mitchell-Honbetsu hat for each delegate to take home, as well as a bag filled with local information and gifts purchased within Mitchell Shire.
Gifts between Honbetsu Town Mayor Motohiro Sasaki and Mitchell Shire Mayor Louise Bannister were exchanged to commemorate the delegation and further strengthen the 32-year partnership between the two councils.
The original agreement signing took place in Kilmore Library’s John Taylor room in 1991, making the Mitchell-Honbetsu Sister City relationship one of the longest and most active in Victoria.
The short visit ended with a farewell party attended by delegates, homestay families, and committee members.
An Australian barbecue was prepared by the Wandong Heathcote-Junction Community Group and its volunteers, with dessert provided by The Wallan Ice Cream Van. A demonstration by Snake Safe Victoria also took place before presentations.
Mitchell-Honbetsu Sister City Association chairman Chris Garrett said the visit was a great experience for all involved.
“The committee would like to thank all of the local host families who welcomed the people of Honbetsu with open arms and volunteered their time,” he said.
“Thank you to all committee members of the Mitchell Honbetsu Sister City Association for their tireless work in coordinating this year’s delegation.
“We would also like to thank Cr Rob Eldridge for attending the welcome party, representing Mitchell Shire Council in an official capacity.
“Lastly, we would like to thank the local businesses and community groups for contributing to a successful delegation, including Bramble and Hedge Flavours of the Garden who donated a small gift for each delegate to take home.”
The committee hopes to visit Honbetsu in the near future with other local residents. The program is available to all residents of the Mitchell Shire.
For more information, visit the Mitchell-Honbetsu Sister City Association Facebook page or email mitchell.honbetsu@gmail.com.
