By Bridie Byrne
WYNDHAM’S Sister City in Chiryu received an Aussie welcome when delegates explored the sites of one of Melbourne’s fastest growing areas.
A nine person delegation including university students, retired business people and council officers arrived in Wyndham last Wednesday for a five day trip.
Also, 12 school students visited Baden Powell College and were accommodated by Wyndham families.
Wyndham and Chiryu have been Sister Cities since 2000.
Chiryu is located on the island of Honshu in Aichi Prefecture, which is close to the centre of Japan.
The delegation was given a guided tour of the municipality including the Werribee Police Station, Baden Powell College, K Road Cliffs and council facilities.
Wyndham mayor Kim McAliney said the delegates would report back to a specialist Sister City Committee and Chiryu Council on the findings of their visit.
“The Sister City program creates a relationship which fosters cultural and educational exchange, and develops a better understanding of different cultures and customs,” Cr McAliney said.
“Having a strong relationship with a Sister City, such as the one that exists between Chiryu and Wyndham, allows both parties to exchange information and learn from each others experiences to help achieve goals and overcome problems.”
