On 2 and 3 December, a delegation from Kuroishi City in Aomori Prefecture visited Tyndale Christian School in Blacktown, Australia, to promote youth and cultural exchange. The group included four junior and senior high school students, a shamisen player, and two staff members. Approximately 150 Tyndale students from Year 6 to Year 12 participated in activities centred around “Kuroishi Yosare,” one of Japan’s three major flowing dances.
The Kuroishi students performed graceful hand dances and powerful songs of Tsugaru folk music, such as “Tsugaru Jonkara Bushi” and “Tsugaru Aiya Bushi.” The shamisen player —a performer of the traditional three-stringed Japanese instrument— delivered a captivating live performance of “Tsugaru Shamisen,” leaving the local students mesmerised. Additionally, the visitors held a workshop where the students experienced playing the shamisen and learned the steps to “Kuroishi Yosare.” The event concluded with everyone coming together to dance, creating a lively and memorable experience filled with smiles and energy— a unique opportunity for local students to engage with Japanese culture. 
On the afternoon of 3 December, a “Kuroishi Yosare Workshop” was held at the Japan Foundation. The workshop was attended by many participants who were impressed by the Kuroishi students’ exceptional skill in both dance and song. Attendees enthusiastically joined the dance, enjoying and appreciating the traditional culture of Kuroishi City.
At the request of Kuroishi City, CLAIR Sydney provided on-site support for the visit. We remain committed to support initiatives that deepen cultural exchange between Kuroishi City and schools or communities in Australia.
From the 3rd to the 13th of December, eight selected swimmers from the Fukuoka Swimming Association visited NSW, where they participated in joint training sessions with a local school and competed in the 2024-25 Speedo NSW Senior State Age Championships.
