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Celebrating the continued friendship with Whitehorse City Council's sister city the City of Matsudo.
In 1969, the Mayor of Box Hill, the late Cr Ron Gleghorn, initiated discussion between the Japanese Consulate and the Australian Embassy, to establish a Sister City relationship. The result was the formation of a relationship with the City of Matsudo, Japan.
The former Box Hill Council was the first municipality in the state of Victoria, and one of the first in Australia, to establish a Sister City link with a Japanese city. Our Whitehorse-Matsudo Sister City relationship is the longest running Victorian sister city relationship, and one of the longest running in Australia.
Green Tree Day
When: Friday 12 May
Each year on 12 May, a tree planting ceremony is held simultaneously in Matsudo and Whitehorse to celebrate our Sister City anniversary. Both Mayors speak on the telephone; messages are exchanged and are photos taken on the day.
Tress signify both our communities' mutual appreciation for beauty and the natural wold. The trees we plant each year are a symbol our strength and mutual commitment to a long-term vision and diplomatic relationship.
Courses and Workshops
When: Throughout May
During the month of May, celebrations at the Box Hill Community Arts Centre include a range of Japanese themed courses, activities and exhibitions including art, craft, food and music.
Come along and learn the age-old tradition of Japanese Plate Making or learn to use different sumi-e ink tones and techniques to create tradition Japanese sumi-e ink paintings.
Enrol in a workshop today.
The Boîte - Blue on Blue
When: Saturday 13 May
Time: 8:00pm – 9:30pm
Where: Box Hill Community Arts Centre
Blue on Blue incorporates Japanese instruments within a brand-new suite of Australian music, it is contemplative, entertaining, surprising and hauntingly beautiful.
Don’t miss the opportunity to hear this important new Australian work. Visit the Box Hill Community Arts Centre website for ticketing further information.
All Nations Foyer - Matsudo Week Exhibition
When: 6 May to 30 May
Time: Tuesday to Friday 10am – 4pm, Saturday 12pm – 4pm
Where: All Nations Foyer - Artspace Gallery
Both Whitehorse City Council and the City of Matsudo have a long rich history of fostering and enriching artists. Through both exhibition opportunities and artist-in-residence programs.
During the 52 years of friendship, the City of Matsudo has made many magnificent donations to the Whitehorse City Council's collection. Visit the Artspace Gallery to experience some of these treasured pieces.
Japan Festival
Date: Sunday 21 May
Time: 10am – 5pm
Where: Box Hill Town Hall
This annual event is held at the Box Hill Town Hall and is run by the Japan Club of Victoria. The Festival, which is supported by Whitehorse City Council, provides a rich variety of exhibits and stalls, and attracts people of all ages and nationalities.
Visit the Japan Festival website for ticketing, performance and exhibit information.
