Shire of Harvey hosts first delegation from City of Moka in Japan since signing of friendship agreement

What do Akubra hats, a sack race and a Taiko performance all have in common? It was all part of the experience for an Japanese delegation who visited the Shire of Harvey for the first time last week. A contingent of government representatives and school students from the city of Moka got a taste of life in Australia in the first face-to-face cultural exchange since both councils signed a friendship agreement in June last year. Delegate members were kept busy during their three-day trip, visiting a number of schools alongside seeing the best of what the Shire of Harvey has to offer. At a welcome function held at the Gibbs Pool Ampitheatre on October 30 representatives were treated to activities including a smoking ceremony by the Harvey Aboriginal Corporation and a Australian barbecue. Shire president Michelle Campbell described the visit as significant, stating it was the first time the two communities have had an opportunity to relax and connect since the friendship agreement had been signed. “This agreement solidifies a shared future of growth, collaboration and cultural exchange between our communities, and it also acknowledges more than 30 years of friendship and learning championed by the incredible teachers at our local schools and the schools in the city of Moka,” she said. But the highlight of the welcome was the first Shire of Harvey-City of Moka games, which saw representatives of both councils face off in a test of athletic ability. There were plenty of laughs had on both sides as they tried their best at activities, including hula hooping and a sack race. The Japanese delegation were victorious, being given a trophy and Tim Tams for their hard-fought win. A celebration dinner was held the following evening at Edith Valley in Roelands, where attendees enjoyed both Indigenous Australian and Japanese musical performances, great food and a few laughs. City of Moka mayor Shinichi Ishizaka said he hoped the friendship between the two areas expanded to many fields, including sports, arts and tourism. He told attendees it was the first time he had visited Australia, and he loved it. “I am sure I will come back pretty soon and play golf with President Campbell,” Mr Ishizaka said. The mayor invited representatives from the Shire to visit Moka City next year as part of its 70th anniversary celebrations. There was an exchanging of gifts between the visitors and local residents. Representatives of the Harvey Aboriginal Corporation presented Moka City with a message stick, while the Shire of Harvey gave them Akubra hats. In return, Moka City representatives gave the council a paper lantern and the Harvey Aboriginal Corporation were presented tapestry from the city which is no longer produced.