Sister Cities News Vol 24 No. 1 April 2010 Rockhampton is a tropical winter getaway A delightful part of Rockhampton. The beautiful Riverside Park in Rockhampton, on the banks of the Fitzroy River. DON'T just dream about from 11 to 14 July 2010. the resort is idyllically tion bookings and confer- es along the Capricorn Ibusuki. a tropical winter in sunny You are invited to explore located to take maximum ence registration on the Coast as well as the Our most loved brothers, Central Queensland – how to make your sister advantage of the conference website at Yeppoon Main Beach, Cassie and Ockie the register now to be city relationships even Capricorn Coast. http://sistercities.rock- voted as Keep Australia Chimpanzees are a must inspired and challenged more real, relevant and All rooms have a private hampton.qld.gov.au Beautiful’s “Queensland’s to see at the at the Sister Cities rewarding for your com- balcony or terrace offer- Then experience the envi- Cleanest Beach 2009”, Rockhampton Zoo. Australia (SCA) 2010 munities, while enjoying ing stunning views of the able outdoor lifestyle and many parks and gardens, For a trip back in time, National Conference – warm winter days at lush subtropical gardens, great hospitality that the including the internation- visit the interactive town- “Real. Relevant and Capricorn Resort Yep- the lagoon swimming pool Rockhampton Region ally recognised Botanic ship of the Rockhampton Rewarding” to be held in poon. With 20 kilometres and the ocean. Please offers and see why it is and Japanese Gardens, Heritage Village or the Rockhampton Region of private beach frontage, make your accommoda- one of the most liveable Rockhampton Art Gal- Archer Park Rail communities in the world. lery, Rockhampton Zoo, Museum, take a mine From the city, to the Murray Lagoon Wet- tour in the historic min- Rockhampton and Ibusuki beach and the bush the lands, Mount Archer ing town of Mount region has something for Lookout, Fitzroy River Morgan, visit the everyone. Parkland and Nature Dreamtime Cultural celebrate 30 years of friendship Further information Walk, and Byfield Centre, that showcases about this lovely part of National Park. the history, cultural and PINK Floyd’s song, “Another Brick in vide snapshots that showcase their Australia, including a cal- Rockhampton’s 140 year traditional skills of the Wall”, George Lucas’ classic movie, Central Queensland lifestyle to rela- endar of events, is avail- old heritage-listed botanic Aboriginal and Torres “Star Wars V: The Empire Strikes tives in their Japanese sister city. able on the council’s web- gardens are regarded as Strait Islanders. Back” and the Rockhampton Region's The theme for this year is Sister City site at www.rockhamp- among the best in region- Register now for the Sister City relationship with Ibusuki in Snapshots this year is “Celebrate!” and tonregion.qld.gov.au al Australia and host the Sister Cities Australia Japan all started in 1980. all photographs entered must not only The region offers an excit- tranquil Japanese Gard- 2010 National Conference Back when Malcolm Fraser was showcase the great Rockhampton ing range of free and low ens designed by Japanese in July, on 0419 736 000, Australia's prime minister. Region lifestyle, but also how we cele- cost attractions for you to landscape architect, and experience the Rockhampton Regional Council mayor brate. The photos are exhibited both in enjoy during your visit, Kenzo Ogata as a gift warmth of the Rock- Brad Carter said he was excited to host the Rockhampton Region and in including pristine beach- from Japanese Sister City hampton Region. the Sister Cities Australia National Ibusuki and on both councils’ websites. Conference, to showcase the Rock- hampton Region to the rest of Australia, and add to the 30th anniversary cele- Reward yourself at the Capricorn Coast brations of the region’s sister city rela- tionship with Ibusuki in Japan. One of most appealing things rants, bistros, quaint cafes, kangaroos, Capricorn Coast in the country, Koorana Cr Carter said Rockhampton this year about the Rockhampton licensed clubs, hotels, and an Trail Rides for an adventure Crocodile Farm, Nob Creek celebrated 30 years of embracing oppor- Region’s beautiful Capricorn array of outdoor attractions. on horseback, Causeway Pottery, and for the thrill tunities for cultural and educational Coast, just 30 minutes from Or take a day trip to Emu Lake Boat Hire to explore the seekers, you can learn to Surf exchange with our Japanese relatives in Rockhampton, is the laid Park and stop in at the diverse and beautiful area, on Farnborough Beach or our sister city of Ibusuki. back, sand-between-your-toes Rosslyn Bay and Keppel Bay the largest collection of Peter Tandem Skydive with “Friendships like this build trust and friendliness of this coastal Marinas. Brock cars and memorabilia Skydive Capricorn Coast. respect over the years, which builds eco- community. This is the perfect place to nomic, business and cultural develop- You will see that you just enjoy a coffee while gazing ment opportunities for our community. can’t get enough of a good out over the luxury yachts "I encourage you to register for this con- thing, when you take the and boats in the marina's ference to examine your own sister city time to enjoy the pristine turquoise water. relationships,” he said. beaches and relaxed lifestyle Emu Park is a quaint fishing The Sister Cities Australia 2010 of the Capricorn Coast, espe- village, a 20 minute drive National Conference will attract dele- cially during a tropical win- from Yeppoon, and home to gates from countries including the USA, ter. the famous ‘Singing Ship’ - a Japan, China, South Korea and New Yeppoon, the major seaside soaring white sculpture that Zealand. One of Rockhampton’s success- town of the Capricorn Coast ‘sings in the wind’. ful sister city programs, the Sister City offers a relaxed casual atmos- Other attractions on the Snapshots Photo Competition is held phere. Capricorn Coast include the each year, and this year’s winning There is something to suit award-winning Capricorn entries will be exhibited on site at the everyone’s tastes with its Caves, Cooberrie Park where conference. Sister City Snapshots is a variety of entertainment, you can cuddle a koala, hold a Footprints of the homo sapien along the beautiful photo competition where residents pro- sporting facilities, restau- snake and hand feed friendly Capricorn Coast where you will find plenty of adventure. Page 2 Sister Cities News April 2010 Executive committee President’s message Secretary’s message President SINCE my last report in the Sister Cities News we, I AM saddened to say that this will be my last secretary's col- your executive, have been fairly busy working on a umn in the Sister Cities News, however, pleased that I have Ald Bill Wilson number of issues. been able to contribute to the extent in which the organisation Box 1237 Following on from our very successful 2009 Conference has moved in the past 10 years. Devonport Tas 7310. in Tamworth it has been all systems go to be in readi- Yes, it's been 10 years since I was first elected as secretary, which was in Adelaide in 2000. ness for the 2010 event in Rockhampton, or as they During this time I have been able to contribute to what our Home:03 6424 5026 keep reminding us, Rock Vegas. members have seen as a professional and important body with- Bus: 03 6424 4499 During a visit and meetings in February the program in the sister cities movement. was ratified and I can assure you the array of speakers [email protected] Although the elections are not until 2011, I have decided to and topics will be very relevant to all those who attend. step down now allowing the current executive to seek an alter- The organising committee has done a wonderful job in native person for the position. pulling everything together and is offering a great I have developed a procedures document to make it easier for Vice president event in a delightful location for a very affordable price. the new person to take on the role. Once again the youth program is pack full of exciting Although this position has been on a voluntary basis, I have Jan Teasedale leadership and team building challenges for every dele- been given the opportunity to use skills that I have not been PO Box 968, gate and I urge you to give your communities youth the able to use in my current employment. Cloverdale WA 6985 opportunity to explore and grow within themselves. Opportunities included, speaking at a Sister Cities Home: 08 9470 2664 Whilst speaking of youth. How exciting for Belinda International conference in Dallas, Texas, presenting at Sister Mobile: 0407 442 136 Williams to be offered the opportunity to speak and Cities New Zealand's annual conference on two occasions, Fax: 08 9470 2664 represent the youth of Australia at this year's Sister facilitating sessions at our own annual conferences, being part [email protected] Cities New Zealand (SCNZ) conference. of a delegation to China on two occasions, speaking at various [email protected] Many would remember Belinda as a former youth dele- sister city meetings and openings and meeting so many won- gate and a team leader in Tamworth. derful and like minded people within the movement. We wish her well and I am looking forward to her pres- I guess the most thrilling and exciting opportunity was when I entation as this year for the first time in over a decade, was nominated and accepted to carry the Commonwealth Secretary I as your president, will be attending the conference to Games baton in my very home town of Altona.