As the first children wandered into the new Australia Japan Friendship Park in Ichinoseki, Japan last month, their eyes lit up.
With koala and kangaroo springers, a flying fox, a wheelchair accessible swing and a digger, this playground was like nothing they had seen before.
The ‘barrier-free’ park, a project of the Central Highlands Regional Council, was officially opened in October in front of more than 170 people.
Guests included equipment suppliers, disability sector representatives, staff and councillors from both the Central Highlands and Ichinoseki councils and local families.
Among those in attendance were a number of people in wheelchairs, who were the first to try out the Devine Liberty Swing from Australia’s Jenway Industries.
Central Highlands Mayor, Councillor Peter Maguire said, “The smiles on their faces said it all.
“That’s what this project has been all about, breaking down barriers and being inclusive. The concept of all – abilities was something that was unfamiliar to the Japanese people until now. We should be really proud of the role we have played in introducing that way of thinking to Japan.”
Ichinoseki Mayor Osamu Katsube, thanked the Central Highlands Council for their special gift.
“I understand that many parks in Australia are designed so people with or without disabilities can enjoy the same space, and that this park was designed and equipment chosen in line with that.”
He acknowledged the language and cultural barriers that had to be overcome by the builders and staff from both countries.
Cr Maguire said the project provided invaluable cross-cultural learning for council staff and suppliers. It was an opportunity to showcase Australian products and strengthen future international trade.
As a direct result of the project, Australian company Greenplate is now looking to expand their interests into Japan.
Variety – the Children’s Charity is also hoping to work with their Japanese tent (branch) and YMCA Japan to install Liberty Swings across the country.
“The professionalism, perseverance and teamwork shown by everyone involved in this project, particularly in the face of some extraordinary challenges, have been nothing short of inspiring.
“For a small regional council to pull off a project this monumental and innovative is a huge achievement.
“This is a great example of the good that can come from a Sister City agreement and I hope it encourages other councils around the world to build and strengthen their own relationships.”
The project also included the construction of barbecue facilities and a shelter at the Tategamori Hotel in Fujisawa, which was opened on 11 October 2015.
Around 60 people, including 14 Japanese Mayors from across the country, attended the barbecue, which was hosted by the Central Highlands Regional Council at which Central Highlands beef was featured.
Central Highlands’ delegates also attended the Fujisawa Junior High School during their visit, in recognition of their strong involvement in the Sister City student exchange.
The Commonwealth through the Australia – Japan Foundation, supported the Japanese playground project, which is part of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Cr Maguire said, “It has been a really rewarding experience for both councils and I’m looking forward to seeing the friendship between Central Highlands and Ichinoseki continue to grow and prosper in the years to come.”
