1985 School Magazine

On Sunday, 21st July, 1985, a group of 16 girls led by Mr Hirayama, and accompanied by four teachers arrived from our Japanese sister school, Hirayama Gakuen Tsushima Girls' High School. At school, it was like a reunion as I remembered several faces, including Mr Hirayama, Mr Mizutani and Miss Kondou, from our Japan Tour in June. From B.G.G.S. we left for Mt Cootha to show our homestays the actual size of Brisbane. The next best place to explore was of course, Lone Pine, as most of our homestays were eager to nurse a koala. On Monday, our visitors arrived at school, where they received a warm welcome from all our friends and especially 12 England. We departed the school for a sightseeing tour of Brisbane. First, we visited Parliament House where our homestays started to "chat up" the security officer!! Following the guided tour, we viewed the "Turner Abroad" Art Exhibition and then proceeded to the riverbank where we enjoyed a typical Aussie picnic. In the afternoon, we visited StJohn's Cathedral where we observed the unique Gothic Architecture. From here, we spent the total afternoon at Bunya Park where we all had the opportunity to nurse a koala. To see their faces light up was a wonderful sight!! At least, twenty cameras were constantly clicking away, as the baby koalas were being weighed. On Tuesday, we spent the whole day at Sea World, where we watched numerous performances and of course, ventured on those thrilling rides. We even had spare time for a quick shopping spree at Surfers Paradise. However, the fun couldn't stop, especially on their last night in Brisbane. Therefore, Sarah, Kylie, Jenny and myself, decided to hit the city, so we decided on the Pancake Manor. It was a very memorable night!!

Now, it was time to return to our homestays for the final 60th Anniversary celebration parties. The last three days with my homestay family were unforgettable as they were always friendly and hospitable. This tour was definitely a very memorable one for the three Year 12 students, Jenny Russell, Julie Harrison and myself, while at the same time a very sad Qne, because saying "goodbye" or "see you again" were the hardest words to say to our host families, school friends and the staff of Tsushima Girls' High School. On behalf of all the girls, I would like to thank Mr and Mrs Hancock and Mrs Duncan, for making th is tour a complete success.

Jennie Cassidy

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