Almost 14 years after Minokamo forged links with the western plains city, Dubbo City Council felt it unnecessary to send a representative to the fair hosted in the city’s honour.

During the past 14 years representatives from the Minokamo Exchange Association (MEA) have worked hard at fostering strong educational and cultural ties.

Among these initiatives have been the development of exchange trips for high school and TAFE students, teachers and health care professionals.

A sister hospital arrangement exists between Lourdes Hospital and the Ajasai Nursing College which has also signed an agreement with Charles Sturt University to run a nursing exchange course in conjunction with Lourdes Hospital and remote regional hospitals.

A highlight of the Dubbo Fair was a presentation by Dubbo indigenous artist Lewis Burns.

Mr Burns was invited to attend the fair by MEA co-ordinator Masashi Kimura.

Mr Kimura was impressed by Mr Burns’ artwork and didjeridoo playing which he had witnessed on a previous visit to Japan by Mr Burns two years ago.

Mr Burns was invited to perform on stage with the Makino Taiko Dancers and to play his didjeridoo with master musician and drum builder Akemi Mori.

Mr Mori is famous for having built the drums which are currently on display at the Dubbo library.

After dining out with Dr Yamada, a leading Japanese neurosurgeon and instigator of the nursing exchange program, Mr Burns was invited to inspect his home.

The significance of Dr Yamada’s invitation was not lost on Mr Burns who felt very honoured and privileged to be asked to inspect this man’s home.