Discussions about a new marathon exchange program to celebrate the Geelong Running Festival were on the agenda when the City of Greater Geelong welcomed a delegation from Izumiotsu, Japan, to Wurriki Nyal.
The delegation, led by the Mayor of Izumiotsu City Mr Kenichi Minamide, celebrated 30 years since the Friendship City relationship was signed between the two cities in 1996.
They also discussed the work of the Advanced Fibre Cluster with Japanese industries and support for a North Geelong Secondary College student exchange program.
Starting their hosted visit at Geelong Port, the delegation also enjoyed tours of Geelong Gallery, the National Wool Museum and Nyaal Baanyul before a formal meeting with Greater Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj OAM, City of Greater Geelong chief executive Ali Wastie, Running Festival founder Lee Troop and North Geelong Secondary College's Brad Headlam.
Izumiotsu had relationships with the Shire of Bellarine and the City of Geelong pre-amalgamation, which began in 1992 due to strong manufacturing links associated with the supply of wool to industry in the Osaka region.
Since then, the two cities have benefited from the Friendship City relationship, with regular visits by community members, students and officials, and the participation of more than 40 Geelong athletes in the Senshu International Marathon.
While these visits ended in 2017, the delegation's visit shows an interest in expanding the relationship once again.
Mayor Stretch Kontelj OAM:
International relationships are very important to us, putting Geelong on the map and encouraging bilateral exchanges that benefit our trade, economy and culture.It was great to welcome Mr Kenichi Minamide, and I hope they return to Izumiotsu with plenty to share about the great work we are doing here in Geelong.
Councillor Elise Wilkinson:
We were able to showcase the brand new Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre to the delegation, and take them on a tour of Geelong Port.It's great that Geelong is being recognised internationally for all of the opportunities which exist here.
