Our 2019 Hanami Party was held in the Japanese Garden at Frankston High School (Senior Campus) on Sunday 20 October. We were very pleased to welcome old and new friends of FSFA to enjoy the wonderful garden and vivid pink blossoms at the height of their blooms. A range of Japanese food and snacks was available with drinks generously provided by Frankston High principal John Albiston.
It was lovely to see so many families and young children enjoying the garden and each other's company. It was also an opportunity for old friends to catch up and a chance to meet new people.
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| Chairperson Julie D'Arcy's welcome speech |
FSFA Chairperson Julie D'Arcy welcomed those present, thanked everyone for coming along and hoped they were enjoying the day. Having recently stepped into the role she stated that it was her aim to build on the great work achieved by the immediate past Chairperson Peter Patterson, and to encourage those attending to consider a more active role in our Association. It is important that we all work together to further promote our love of Japan, its food, language, culture, etc. and to also bring new blood into the fold.
Julie also acknowledged the great work done in the Japanese Garden by Vice-Chairperson Simon Hast and those who provide great support by attending the working bees, particularly committee member Adrian Thomas. The fantastic support provided by our longest serving member Bev Hannan was also noted by Julie.
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| Vice-Chairperson Simon Hast planting a camelia |
After the speeches it was time for a group photo under the pink blossoms before further discussions with fellow lovers of all things Japanese.
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| Group photo under the pink blossoms |
Our next major function will be a Proclamation Anniversary event in late February 2020. Our committee will finalise the details for this activity at our November monthly meeting and details will be released afterwards.
