Cowra Mayor Paul Smith has travelled to Japan to celebrate the 55th anniversary of the Cowra-Seikei exchange program, a partnership that has become a cornerstone of friendship and reconciliation between the two communities.
Speaking at a commemorative event in Japan, Mayor Smith reflected on the long history of the exchange and its deep personal meaning to him and the people of Cowra.
“It is with great honour and deep appreciation that I stand before you tonight to mark the 55th anniversary of the Cowra-Seikei exchange program,” he said.
“I bring warm greetings from the people of Cowra and heartfelt thanks for the generous hospitality we’ve received here in Japan.”
Mayor Smith’s connection to the program runs back more than five decades.
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“I am here tonight both as Mayor and also as a past host family,” he said.
“I played basketball with the second exchange student to Cowra, Katsu, in 1971, over 50 years ago.”
“My family was also privileged to welcome the program’s third exchange student, Harumichi Maeda, to live with us for 12 months in 1972.”
He said the milestone represented far more than a number, describing it as a story of peace, understanding and enduring friendship born out of history.
“Fifty-five years ago, few could have imagined how a regional town in Australia and a distinguished educational institution in Japan would form such a lasting bond,” he said.
“Yet, out of the shared desire for reconciliation and mutual respect, Cowra and Seikei built a bridge that has withstood the test of time.”
The exchange program began as part of Cowra’s efforts to turn the tragic events of 1944 Cowra Breakout into a message of peace and understanding.
“Cowra holds a unique place in the shared history between Australia and Japan,” Mayor Smith said.
“The tragic events of 1944 left a mark on our town, but they also became the foundation for something truly hopeful.”
“Cowra chose peace.”
“We chose remembrance with dignity.”
“And we chose friendship.”
He praised the exchange for creating lasting human connections that have enriched both nations.
“This program has connected our communities in the most human way, through students, teachers, host families and friendships that span generations,” he said.
“Every exchange has enriched lives, expanded horizons and helped us all better understand one another’s cultures and values.”
Mayor Smith also acknowledged the many people who have supported the program since its beginnings.
“To the families, educators, volunteers and all those who have supported the exchange over the decades, you are the quiet heroes of this story,” he said.
“Your generosity and open-mindedness have made Cowra and Seikei not just partners, but family.”
He thanked Seikei staff, students and principals for their ongoing commitment to strengthening ties between the two nations.
“Your commitment has strengthened the ties between our two nations in ways that diplomacy alone never could,” he said.
“To Principal Senda and Principal Dechamp, I thank you both for your continued commitment to the exchange program.”
Mayor Smith closed his speech by encouraging the next generation to continue the legacy.
“As we look to the future, may the next 55 years bring even greater collaboration, deeper respect and continued friendship between Cowra, Seikei and our two great nations,” he said.
“Let this anniversary not only be a moment of reflection, but also a celebration of what we can achieve when we choose connection over division, learning over fear and friendship over history.”
