Two delegates from Gunnedah Shire Council's Sister Cities and Friendly Relationships Working Group joined our Sister City of Kolomotu'a, Tonga in early November to celebrate 150 years of the nation's constitution.
Gunnedah Shire Mayor Colleen Fuller and Working Group Chair Cr Robert Hoddle visited Kolomotu'a for the festivities at the invitation of the Legislative Assembly of Tonga and paid all their own travel and accommodation costs.
Tonga's Constitution was inspired by the Constitution of the former colony of New South Wales and was established on 4 November, 1875. Tonga marked the significant occasion with a week-long celebration that also recognised the 55th anniversary of the nation's diplomatic ties with Australia and New Zealand, and the 10th anniversary of the reign of King Tupou VI.
During their time in Tonga, Cr Hoddle and Mayor Fuller visited four schools and attended a number of events, including a Council meeting, sod-turning for Tonga's new Legislative Assembly Building, trade show and a royal luncheon. They also visited the street that has been named 'Gunnedah Avenue' in honour of the sister city relationship.
"It was wonderful to meet with our Tongan friends again as they marked the 150th anniversary of their constitution. It is a significant moment in Tongan history and we were honoured by the invitation to take part in the celebrations," Mayor Fuller said.
"It was lovely to go into some of the schools to meet the young people and hear about what they are learning.
"While they don't have many physical possessions, they are so generous and always smiling and happy."
Cr Hoddle said it was wonderful to be back in Tonga amidst the celebrations to build relationships and explore mutual opportunities.
"It's going to be a great thing for the younger generations," he said.
"The advantages of sister city relationships are cultural exchanges, an economic two-way street, and may give our young people opportunities in the future."
Gunnedah Shire signed an official Sister Cities agreement with Kolomotu'a, Tonga, on June 24, 2022.
Captions: Gunnedah Shire Mayor Colleen Fuller and Gunnedah Shire Councillor Robert Hoddle gift plush koalas to Kolomotu'a Government Middle School. They are pictured here with Principal Solomone Siulua.
