From 8 to 12 February, Assistant Director Noriyuki Shiba visited the Shire of Augusta Margaret River in Western Australia for his internship.
Whilst there he talked with the shire president, CEO, directors and staff and learned from them about how the shire attracts people to visit or live in their area, how they interact and collaborate with the local community, and what efforts are being made in solving environmental issues.
The shire area is very famous as a wine region but Noriyuki was able to experience more than just wine. There were a lot of attractions such as amazing beaches, mysterious caves, beautiful national parks, and wonderful off-road tracks suitable for mountain biking.
When he visited an organic olive farm and a waste facility, he found that Australia and Japan have similar challenges such as a decreasing number of farmers and waste reduction problems although there are differences between the two countries in the size of land and population. He also got some good ideas that could be successful in Wakayama (where he is seconded from) such as venison sausages.
He had opportunities to attend meetings such as a councillor briefing and an ordinary council meeting. He found the process of these meetings interesting as it had higher involvement from citizens compared to Japanese local government meetings. Again this was the same when he took part in an arts and culture advisory group meeting which led him to believe that Japanese local government should be taking a few notes about community collaboration from Australian local governments.
Noriyuki notes that his time in Augusta Margaret River was an unforgettable and awesome experience. He sincerely appreciates the kindness and effort of the shire president, CEO, the directors and all the staff in the shire who helped arrange and facilitate his internship.
