WHITTLESEA Secondary College students have thanked local community groups for their donations of handmade gifts to take to their sister schools when they visit Japan next month.
Representatives from Whittlesea’s Boomerang Bags, Country Women’s Association (CWA) and Men’s Shed attended a gathering at the College on Thursday, where they were presented with a certificate and gift from students in appreciation of their donations.
The CWA handstitched 30 koalas stencilled for the students to take over to the College’s sister school.
The koalas were cut from felt, which were then packaged with a description of Australia’s iconic cuddly bear: both in English and Japanese.
CWA members Jeanie and Sandra attended the presentation, saying when they were initially reached out to, it was something the group couldn’t say no to contributing to.
“A member found the pattern in a magazine and we then followed the pattern ourselves, Sandra said.
“It’s a small ornament the Japanese students can hang, but they’ve come out quite nice.”
The Men’s Shed crafted wooden ornaments, with varying native Australian animals hollowed out of the wood.
“The Men’s Shed got involved because we love to do things for the community. So when we made in contact that the school was looking for donations for their bags to take to Japan, we said yes,” Men’s Shed member Phil said.
While finally, members of Boomerang Bags sewed 30 individiual bags—all of which were created with recycled or donated fabrics by the Whittlesea and Surrounds Boomerang Bags Group.
The 17 students begin their journey on September 15 and spend 10 days exploring Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima and the College’s sister schools near Nagoya.
For many, it’s the first time they’ll travel abroad – but the comfort of being with their peers and the excitement of exploring a new country and learning a new culture has them far from worried.
“I decided to be a part of the trip that going to Japan because I’m currently studying Japanese at a VCE level and I’ve always been interested in languages,” said student Mickey.
“I found when I was learning Japanese I really enjoyed it so having this opportunity to go over there and practice with real people ordering food, asking directions and even helping my fellow students if they ever get stuck in translations is going to be an exciting experience.”
“I knew the experience would be unforgettable and one that would be so much fun because I get to be with my friends,” said another student, Lily.
“I’m just excited to experience everything there and go to a new country for the first time without my parents.”
