Extending the Hand of Friendship across the Tasman

Eight visiting Rotarians are being given a taste of life in the Central West this week.

Members of the Rotary Clubs of Orange North and Daybreak are hosting the deputation from New Zealand for 10 days as part of Rotary’s Friendship Exchange Program.

The New Zealand team, who all come from Rotary districts to the north of Wellington,

were welcomed to our city on Monday morning by Councilor Russell Turner, a former Rotarian.

Rotary Club of Orange North’s John Fraser, who led a team from Orange North to Wellington earlier this year said this return visit provides a wonderful opportunity to broaden international understanding, build enduring friendships and better appreciation of another country’s culture.

Our local Rotarians have put together a comprehensive program for our international guests, including exploring local attractions, viewing past and present Rotary projects, evening dinners as well as visiting Bathurst and the Blue Mountains.

“I only hope we provide our Kiwi visitors with the same warmth and generosity which was afforded to us when we visited in March.” said Orange North member Steve Jackson.

“One of the highlights for me was visiting Castle Point, a beautiful beachside town with its imposing lighthouse on the Wairarapa coast.

“And on a visit to Takaro Public School our team was welcomed into the school with a traditional Maori welcome and were special guests at the school assembly. A small group of Rotarians were given the privilege of working with the students on a special reading program supported by the Takaro Rotary Club in conjunction with that school.’

Following their time in Orange the NZ team will then move onto Condobolin for the next part of their visit to Central West NSW.