Princess leads Kolomotu’a delegation to Gunnedah, NSW [1]
Thursday, July 20, 2023 - 19:50
A delegation from Kolomotu'a in Tonga visited its sister city, Gunnedah in Australia last week one-year since the start of their sister relationship.
Led by Princess Angelika Latūfuipeka, Tonga's High Commissioner to Australia, the visit from 14-17 July included various great community events.
Gunnedah is a town in north-eastern New South Wales, Australia, and is the seat of the Gunnedah Shire local government area. In the 2021 census the town recorded a population of 8,338.
Lose Kuluka, Principal of GMS (Government Middle School) Kolomotu’a in her message to the people of Gunnedah posted by Gunnedah Shire Council [2] extended their gratitude to the Mayor of Gunnedah Shire, Cr Jamie Chaffey, the Council members, and the people of Gunnedah for their exceptional hospitality and welcome.
She said as principal she, “set out on this journey with one goal in mind, to raise funds for the development of a much-needed library for our pupils.”
"I am overjoyed because I attended that fundraising ball, saw shelves, table and chairs, a container of books offered, and many more offers on the way, implying success for the mission I was on.
“Throughout our stay, every aspect of our visit was beautifully carried out and flawlessly executed, ensuring that every member of our delegation felt valued and respected. From the moment we arrived until our departure, we were greeted and received with open arms and embraced as part of your community. The warmth and sincerity with which you received us made us feel at home, despite being thousands of miles away.”
“At the same time, the countless hours of time, effort, and resources that you dedicated to making our stay memorable and successful did not go unnoticed. From arranging accommodation and transportation to organizing engaging activities and cultural exchanges, your meticulous attention to detail truly reflects the spirit of Gunnedah's community,” she said.
The Tongans had visited McLean Care, Puggles Child Care Centre, Gunnible Pastoral Company, Christian School Gunnedah [3] and Gunnedah High [4]School.