Northern Beaches Council is strengthening its Sister City relationship with Brewarrina Shire Council in north-west New South Wales and exploring new ways to support the regional council.
More than 800km from Sydney, Brewarrina is on the banks of the Barton River upstream from Bourke. The region is rich in Aboriginal culture and was a significant meeting place for Aboriginal nations of eastern Australia. Brewarrina is also known for its heritage listed Brewarrina Aboriginal Fish Traps.
Since 2000, when the Sister City agreement was made, Northern Beaches Council has supported the regional council with staff exchanges, assistance during floods, cultural exchanges, administrative support, travelling exhibition and youth exchanges.
The Brewarrina Youth Exchange will see six young people from Brewarrina spend a week in the Northern Beaches, and six young locals from the Northern Beaches will head to the bush.
Mayor Sue Heins said the youth exchange program is an invaluable opportunity for young people to experience life in a totally different community.
“City kids living on the Beaches have a unique opportunity to see what life is like in the bush, experience a different community and culture, and build new friendships,” Mayor Heins said.
“It’s a real opportunity to build a deeper understanding and respect for Aboriginal culture – and that experience is so life changing.
“Young people from Brewarrina get a taste of life in metropolitan Sydney, can explore new pathways for education and employment, and of course experience the very best of the Northern Beaches, from surf lessons to sailing.”
An important part of sister city relationships is the upskilling of staff from each council. Discussions will continue between the councils regarding options to support their staff through exchange programs.
For more information about the Sister City program, visit northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/council/about-northern-beaches-council/sister-cities
