2006-12-06 - Sister Cities Minutes

     2.    Europe:
           •    Bologna, Italy (Cont’d)

           He discussed with the representatives the previous history of the link between Noosa
           Sister Cities and Bologna and expressed the desire to re-establish the links with the
           Italian Government and the Bologna University. It was agreed that friendship links should
           be established at government level and be greater than individual relationships,
           particularly when a formal process is followed.
            Following the visit to Bologna by Lew and Francesca Grillo, elections took place and the
           principal contacts no longer held their positions making it difficult to maintain contact.
           Distance and expense are recognised as difficulties in maintaining links.
           Action:
           1.    The verbal report from Lew regarding difficulties in progressing the relationship
                 with Bologna be noted. It was agreed that the NSC&FL take no further action to
                 re-establish the links between Noosa Shire and Bologna until such time as there is
                 an indication of firm support from Bologna.

           2.    The NSC&FL undertake a critical review of its activities and existing friendship
                 links to identify the original purpose for which they were developed, progress to
                 date, perceived difficulties in the link advancing and the overall value of it to the
                 Noosa community.

           3.    Given that the existing links between Noosa Shire and its overseas counterparts
                 have been established primarily through Committee Members and through
                 community organisations, it was agreed that the NC&FLA should develop Operating
                 Guidelines setting out the criteria to be followed for the establishment of future
                 links. The Guidelines to include the role and authority of Sub-committee Chairs.

     3.    Latin America:
           •     Uruguay – Where to from here?


     6.    OTHER:
           1.    ASCA Conference – Devonport, Tasmania:
           Marilyn’s report regarding the National Conference held in Devonport, Tasmania was
           noted. In general, the quality of the speakers was aimed more at a Local Government level
           rather than community members of Sister City Associations.

           One of the major issues from the Conference was the change in name of the National Body
           from Australian Sister Cities Association to Sister Cities Australia. This change was
           based on the fact that ASCA is also an acronym used by other organisations, ie. Advocates
           for Survivors of Child Abuse and also Australian School Canteen Association.

           The youth delegates to be invited to attend the next Sister Cities Meeting to provide a
           report on their experience at the ASCA Conference.                               HG




Minutes – Noosa Sister Cities - 6th December, 2006                                          Page 3.