The Gosford Sister City Association has welcomed 20 students and two leaders from Edogawa, Japan, for their 26th annual youth exchange to Narara Valley High School.
The annual exchange is a key feature of the Sister City relationship between Edogawa Council and Central Coast Council.
The Sister City relationship was initially signed between Gosford Council and Edogawa Council in 1988 and renewed in 2018 with Central Coast Council.
“Sister City relationships are about many things – including cultural exchange, friendship, peace and opportunities for learning,” Gosford Sister City Association President Jane Smith said.
“The relationship with Edogawa is particularly close.
“This is symbolised by the Edogawa Commemorative Gardens, located at the Gosford Regional Gallery.
“The gardens were a gift to the Central Coast from the people of Edogawa with materials, expertise and funding provided by Edogawa.
“Students from Edogawa spend a week on the Central Coast, hosted by Narara Valley High School students, families and teachers.”
Narara Valley High School’s Japanese Language Co-ordinator Amy Robinson said the students enjoyed a range of activities including attending school, a formal welcome by Central Coast Council and visits to the Australian Reptile Park and NAISDA.
“Through this exchange, Narara Valley High School students and families form deep friendships as well as a better understanding of Japanese culture and language,” she said.
The Edogawa Youth Wing exchange is co-ordinated by Narara Valley High School and the Gosford Sister City Association and supported by Central Coast Council.