Welcome
everyone.
It
is my pleasure to present my final report as Chairperson of the Frankston
Susono Friendship Association.
As
we gather today for our AGM during our annual Hanami celebration in the
beautiful Japanese Garden at Frankston High School, it is fitting to reflect on
another successful year of friendship, cultural exchange and community
engagement. The Hanami event has become one of FSFA's cherished traditions,
bringing together members and the wider community to celebrate Japanese culture
and the enduring friendship between Frankston and Susono.
As
I prepare to step down at the conclusion of this AGM, I would like to sincerely
thank our dedicated committee members, volunteers, and supporters. The
continued success of FSFA is only possible because of the generosity,
enthusiasm and commitment of those who willingly give their time throughout the
year. Whether attending events, maintaining the Japanese Garden, supporting
fundraising activities, hosting delegations or promoting our organisation
within the community, your contributions are greatly appreciated.
The
past twelve months have been another busy and rewarding year for FSFA as we
continued our mission of fostering friendship, cultural understanding and
community connections between Frankston and our sister city of Susono in Japan.
Our
Japanese Garden at Frankston High School remains a valued community asset and
an important symbol of the friendship between our two cities. Throughout the
year, Simon Hast (Vice Chairperson FSFA) has maintained the Japanese garden,
leading the team of committee members and friends who have participated in several
working bees throughout the year, to maintain and enhance the garden. Their
commitment ensures that this special space continues to be enjoyed by students,
visitors and the wider community. Thank you so much Simon for overseeing this
beautiful garden.
In
May, FSFA was proud to participate in the Box Hill Japanese Festival, where
committee members volunteered their time to promote the work of the
Association, strengthened networks within the Japanese community and raised
awareness of the long-standing relationship between Frankston and Susono.
Education
and cultural exchange remain central to FSFA's activities. In August, we hosted
our annual Japanese Speech Contest, providing students from local schools with
the opportunity to showcase their language skills and deepen their appreciation
of Japanese culture. The enthusiasm and talent displayed by participating
students demonstrates the importance of encouraging international understanding
through education.
We
were also delighted to welcome a student delegation from Susono in late July/August.
Student exchanges continue to be one of the most meaningful aspects of our
sister city relationship, creating lifelong memories and friendships for young
people and their families in both communities.
FSFA
continued to support our Frankston Taiko drumming group through fundraising
activities, including assistance with Bunnings sausage sizzles. Monies raised
purchased equipment, including Taiko drums and covers. We also continued to
promote Ground Golf, providing community members with opportunities to learn
and participate in this uniquely Japanese sport while enjoying social
connection and friendly competition.
International
engagement remained an important focus throughout the year. Committee members
attended the International Fair in Susono in September, promoting Australian
culture and the strong friendship between Frankston and Susono. It was
particularly pleasing to see the participation of a student delegation from
Derinya Primary School, highlighting the value of international experiences for
younger generations and helping to strengthen connections between our
communities.
Throughout
the year, FSFA committee members generously volunteered their time to attend a
range of community events to promote the Association and raise awareness of our
activities. These included the Positive Ageing Expo at the Frankston Arts
Centre and the Community Connections Expo at Frankston Library. Such events
provide valuable opportunities to engage with residents and share the benefits
of cultural exchange and international friendship.
A
particularly significant achievement occurred in October 2026 when committee
member Therese Sakamoto was invited to speak at the Australian-Japan
Subnational Diplomacy Forum 2026. Therese delivered a presentation highlighting
the value of sister city relationships and the benefits of student exchange
programs. This recognition reflects the strength and success of the
Frankston-Susono partnership and was especially timely as we look ahead to a
major milestone in our shared history.
On
22 February 2027, Frankston and Susono will celebrate 45 years as sister
cities. This remarkable achievement is a testament to the dedication and vision
of those who have worked tirelessly over many decades to build and maintain
this important relationship.
Looking
ahead, FSFA remains committed to promoting Japanese culture, friendship and
cultural understanding within our community. Through our activities, events and
educational programs, we provide opportunities for people of all ages to learn
about Japan, develop meaningful connections and build greater understanding of
different cultures.
The
coming year will be particularly significant as preparations continue for the
45th anniversary celebrations. FSFA hopes to lead a delegation to Susono in
late 2027 to participate in the Australian Fair and celebrate this important
milestone alongside our friends at the Susono Overseas Friendship Association
(SOFA). We also look forward to continuing key programs and activities
including the Japanese Speech Contest, Taiko drumming and the promotion of
Ground Golf.
Like many community organisations, FSFA continues to adapt to changing
funding arrangements. This year, Frankston City Council has introduced a new
approach whereby community groups, which now includes FSFA, apply for funding
through the Community Grants program rather than receiving a direct annual funding
allocation. While this presents both opportunities and challenges, FSFA remains
committed to securing the resources necessary to continue delivering meaningful
cultural and community programs. We have recently submitted a grant application
to support our participation in the Australian Fair in Susono in 2027 and are
currently awaiting the outcome.
Additionally, the new Sister City Framework has replaced the previous agreements that existed between Frankston City Council and FSFA. While these changes represent a new operating environment, FSFA remains committed to representing Frankston City Council and continuing the valuable work of strengthening international friendships, promoting cultural understanding and supporting the sister city relationship.
As
I conclude my final report as Chairperson, I would like to express my sincere
thanks to the committee, volunteers, Frankston City Council, local schools,
community partners and our friends in Susono for their ongoing support and
commitment. Together, we have continued to foster friendship, understanding and
goodwill between our communities.
It
has been a privilege to serve as Chairperson of FSFA and to contribute, in some
small way, to a relationship that has enriched so many lives over the past 45
years. I leave the role with great confidence in the future of the Association
and excitement for the opportunities that lie ahead as we prepare to celebrate
this remarkable milestone with our friends in Susono.
Thank
you for your support throughout my time as Chairperson.
Yours
sincerely,
Julie D’Arcy
Chairperson
Frankston
Susono Friendship Association
