Three councillors will be packing their suitcases and visiting China in September.
Councillors Josh Gilligan, Preet Singh and Larry Zhao will be visiting sister city Changzhou for two days then spending two days in Shanghai between September 7-12.
The delegation will be funded by a $20,000 grant from Sister Cities Australia.
Wyndham ‘Friendly City Agreement’ with Changzhou – signed in 2019 – was established shortly before the Covid-19 pandemic, limiting opportunities for connection in recent years.
With a delegation from Changzhou visiting Wyndham in 2024, this trip was designed to be an important reciprocal step in building momentum in the partnership.
Changzhou is a major city of more than 5.3 million people, located in Jiangsu Province – Victoria’s sister state.
During their stay, the councillors will meet with municipal leaders, tour innovative business and manufacturing precincts as well as visit cultural and educational institutions.
The program will highlight opportunities in education, enterprise, innovation, and tourism, all of which align strongly with Wyndham 2050’s vision.
Cr Gilligan said the visit marks a significant opportunity to foster greater collaboration.
“Our agreement with Changzhou is about creating opportunities for Wyndham’s community – from education and cultural exchange through to economic development and innovation.
“This visit will allow us to learn first-hand from Changzhou’s world-class education and technology sectors while showcasing Wyndham’s strengths as a growing and dynamic city.”
In Shanghai, the trio will explore educational, tourism and cultural sites.
Cr Gilligan said he expects education to be at the forefront of the trip.
“Education is expected to be a strong focus of the visit, with Wyndham schools already enjoying links with schools in China.
“These partnerships provide opportunities for student and staff exchanges, cultural immersion, and shared learning that strengthen understanding across borders.”
Deeping cultural and economic links to the area were listed as council’s long-term agenda.
“The visit also highlights the long-term vision of Wyndham’s international relationships,” Cr Gilligan said.
“Sister city relationships create lasting cultural and educational connections, promote mutual understanding, and open doors for trade and investment.
“By nurturing these ties, Wyndham is building pathways for our community and gathering knowledge to support our growth.”
