Sister City

Bathurst has had a sister city relationship with Ohkuma (Japan) since March 1991.

The relationship provides an opportunity for both Bathurst and Ohkuma residents to learn about each others culture and language.

As part of the relationship Council coordinates the Sister City Working Party.  This group is made up of different community members who have an interest in Japan and further developing the strong relationship that already exists between Bathurst and Ohkuma.

If you would like to join the working party please contact Council's Events / Promotions Officer on 6333 6188.

Activities that take place throughout the year include:

• The Bathurst Regional Council Sister City Student Scholarship program.  This is available to Bathurst Region high school students in years 10 or 11 who are currently studying Japanese. The program allows for two students to travel to Bathurst's sister city, Okhuma, Japan, for four weeks where they will be home hosted with local Japanese families and attend the local high school.
• Exchange students - Two students from Ohkuma usually travel to Bathurst in July/August where they spend 4-6 weeks being home hosted and attending local Bathurst high schools.
• 'Wings of Hope' visit - takes place late July.  A group of students from Ohkuma travel to Bathurst with official delegates and teacher.  Once here they attend intense English language courses at Charles Sturt University each morning and sight see during the afternoon.  The group usually stay for just over a week.
• A number of different activities take place during each year surrounding the key activities above.  Each year varies depending on the planned visits.