By the time you see this newsletter, I will have already departed from Sydney. So in my message this time, I am writing to bid farewell to you as my tour of duty in this splendid city of Sydney comes to an end.
I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to all of you for the kind support and warm friendship extended to me and CLAIR Sydney during my three year tenure. Mr Hirotomo Akaiwa has replaced me as the Director. I ask you for your ongoing support for him and his team.
It was my pleasure to have the chance to meet and work with people dedicated to developing their local community and fostering friendships with Japan.
With my background of local government and decentralisation reforms for many years, it was interesting to find differences in the structure and operation of local governments between Japan, Australia and New Zealand, but what I have learnt most is the common challenges local government face, such as financial sustainability, regional cooperation and revitalising rural areas.
It is my great honour if you have learnt something new through my presentations about Japanese local government and decentralisation reforms.
I have come and stayed here in Sydney for three years with my wife and two children (an eight-year-old son and a five-year-old daughter). Our family have fully enjoyed the various Australian sites, natures and kindness. For our kids, they have spent almost half of their lives here in Australia surrounded by friendliness and kindness of their friends and teachers. My family and I will cherish the great experiences and memories we have had in the three years in Australia for the rest of our lives.
I would like to extend my sincere thanks for your kind cooperation and friendship, and I wish everyone well in your future endeavours. I will continue to work for Japanese local public administration and strengthening the friendships between Australia/New Zealand and Japan. I hope that our paths will cross again.
All the best!
Katsunori Kamibo
