Friends Indeed

On Thursday 11 September, St Paul’s played host to a group of six international visitors. They were in town for a week’s program of activities, arranged by former staff members, Jan Stubbs and myself, on behalf of a local group known as The Friendship Force of Kempsey. FFK is one of over 350 clubs in more than 60 countries whose aim is to promote understanding, cultural exchange and citizen diplomacy through homestay journeys and the personal friendships that arise as a result.

Following an online Diocese of Lismore Catholic Schools Welcome to Country, they were entertained and informed by teacher, Mr Conrad Tamblyn, and his skills with and knowledge of the didgeridoo. They then watched a filming of Year 11’s recent winning Interpretive Performance based on Shakespeare’s Macbeth. Gracie Campbell, one of those involved, was on hand to provide a personal perspective of the competition.

Later in the day, our guests were put to work in the Food Technology kitchen preparing their own lunch. Ms Laura Evans and Ms Laura Campbell were ably assisted by students Amy-Jo Gannell, Annabelle Connor and Tuesday Marin, preparing a delicious “two serve drop” of Johnny cakes and sausage rolls.

After lunch it was over to Francis Farm where they were shown the sights by Farm Assistant, Mr Ash Gardiner, and given an extensive explanation of its workings, along with its significance to our students and their education.

For a group of people from homes in highly urbanised cities across Japan, this visit to a regional NSW school to be introduced to some of its staff, students and operational procedures was a wonderful eye-opener and did much to enhance their visit here.

It was also fun to see how excited our Year 7 students were when they were greeted with the word “konnichiwa” as they encountered our visitors between lessons!

Thanks so much to the staff and students involved for contributing to such a rewarding experience.