It has been 60 years since the Japanese cities Yamato Takada and Lismore have been creating connection, understanding, and respect between each city and culture. This year a nine-member delegation is going from Lismore to Yamato Takada to immerse themselves in a four-day journey exploring the vibrant cultural landscape of the Sister City as well as taking part in the Cherry Blossom Festival between 1 and 4 April.
An information evening was held at the Lismore Council Chambers to help equip the delegates with essential knowledge about Japanese customs, etiquette and expectations to ensure a respectful and meaningful cultural exchange. The delegation includes a selection of six self-funded community members who were nominated to represent the city, joining three Councillors, including Mayor Steve Krieg, Cr Vanessa Ekins, and Cr Anderew Bing.
All delegates fund their own associated costs, including accommodation and airfares.
Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg said the visit to Yamato Takada, will strengthen the long-standing relationship between the two cities and mark a significant milestone in the partnership.
‘Yamato Takada City Council extended an invitation to our community for delegates to visit during the Cherry Blossom Sakura season, which holds cultural and social importance,’ he said.
‘The information night was geared to ensure we were fully prepared to appropriately respect the Japanese attire, dining etiquette, greetings and other customs to deeply engage with our hosts and honour the traditions of Yamato Takada.’
‘The Lismore City Council is grateful for Yamato Takada’s warm invitation and looks forward to a successful visit that further solidifies the sister city relationship.’
Among the delegates is Julie Burton, an enthusiastic junior coach at the Far North Coast Table Tennis Club. She said she is embarking on a mission to bridge cultures and sports by connecting with her Japanese sister city.
‘My motivation to go is to hopefully create a connection with the Yamato Takada Table Tennis Club by meeting someone face to face so I can invite them to our club in Goonellabah,’ she said.
‘Some of the best Table Tennis players in the world come from Japan and it’s their second biggest sport, so it’s a worthwhile journey to forge this connection. We could certainly learn a lot from them and empower our own club’
When the delegates arrive in Japan, they will embark on a visit celebrating the breathtaking Sakura season and the enduring partnership between Lismore and Yamato Takada.
Highlights of the visit will include cherry blossom viewing at Onaka Park, meetings with Mayor Horiuchi and other dignitaries, tours of local landmarks, including Kashihara Shrine, and insights into the region’s disaster recovery efforts caused by landslides.
Isabella a Cappella, our very own talented Vocal group, will follow up with a Japanese tour later this year. This will be another Lismore connection to Yamato Takada. The Choir is very excited for this opportunity to reconnect with friends in Japan and perform on behalf of Lismore and the Northern Rivers. Lismore is definitely still very connected to Yamato Takada!:-)