Members of the FSFA Executive Committee recently met with new Frankston City CEO Phil Cantillon prior to our December meeting. The purpose of the meeting was to introduce ourselves and to give Phil a briefing on the role FSFA plays in the sister city relationship with Susono.
FSFA Chairperson Julie D'Arcy opened the meeting by giving a brief outline of the history of our Association and the formation of the sister city relationship from the early 1980's. This included the vital role Yazaki (Australian Arrow Pty Ltd) played in bring the two cities together, the early delegation visits between the cities, the proclamation ceremony in February 1982, and the subsequent student exchanges that commenced in 1983.
Vice-Chairperson Simon Hast outlined how our Association promotes Japanese culture, language and activities via the delegation visits, our bi-annual Japanese Festival, the annual Japanese Speech Contest, our Hanami (Cherry Blossom) Party, maintaining the Japanese Garden at Frankston High School, along with representations and presentations at a number of Japanese themed events within the wider Melbourne community.
We wanted to convey the strong commitment and passion members of our Committee have in promoting the sister city relationship with Susono on behalf of the Frankston City Council. Members of the Committee also spoke of their reasons for joining FSFA before CEO Cantillon outlined his background in local government, future planning and expectations in his role as CEO and any ongoing concerns we might have and how the Council may be able to support our Association.
Our positive meeting ended with the understanding to remain in contact and discuss any issues which may arise in the future.
