Sister City Success

Representatives from Japan, Slovakia, New Zealand, USA, China, Korea and Australia had the opportunity to share knowledge and build positive international relationships during the four day event hosted by Gosford City Council.

In addition to building sister city friendships, the conference provided a significant boost to the Central Coast economy and fostered international tourism relationships. "The conference was a great opportunity to showcase our beautiful region of Gosford City, with delegates given the opportunity to visit some of the Central Coast's top tourist sites, including the Reptile Park, Terrigal Beach and Brisbane Water," said Clr Jim Macfadyen, Mayor of Gosford City.

The conference also coincided with the 20th anniversary of the signing of Gosford City's sister city agreements with Edogawa, Japan, and Nitra, Slovakia. Residents had the opportunity to celebrate this milestone and Gosford's sister city ties with a Cultural Friendship Walk, held at the Gosford Regional Gallery on the eve of the conference.

Clr Macfadyen said, "Over the years, Gosford's sister city relationships have provided opportunities for people to see a whole different culture, to learn, and to build language skills. Importantly, so many friendships have been formed and, in a world where we often see conflict, it is encouraging to witness our communities strengthening ties and breaking down barriers."

Clr Macfadyen thanked everyone involved in the conference for ensuring a successful event for the region.
The conference was sponsored by ACS Integrated Services Provider, Korea Local Government Centre (KLAFIR), Japan Local Government Centre (CLAIR), The Central Coast Express Advocate, and the NSW Department of State and Regional Development.

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