October 12, 2012
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester has farewelled 18 Yarram Secondary College students bound for a 21 day tour of China.
Mr Chester today presented the students with Student Exchange Kits to take on their travels and wished them a safe journey.
The Student Exchange Kit contains an Australian Flag and booklet, a CD of the National Anthem and a booklet on Australian symbols.
Mr Chester said the students would benefit from the trip which includes visits to Shanghai, Nanjing, Hangzhou, Xian, and Beijing.
“The opportunity to travel overseas and gain a greater understanding of another country is always a worthwhile experience,” Mr Chester said.
“I’m sure the students and their teachers will learn a lot about China’s culture and its role in the global economy.”
Yarram Secondary College teacher Richard Johnston said the students will visit significant historical sites such as The Great Wall and the Terracotta Warriors during their travels.
He said the students were also looking forward to learning more about modern Chinese culture and tasting the range of Chinese cuisine that will be on offer.
“The students have a nine night homestay in Changhou each living with a separate family and attending the Changshu Foreign Language Middle School,” Mr Johnston said.
“This program is an excellent opportunity for students to immerse themselves in Chinese culture and compare their lives with the lives of their host brother or sister.
“The students will then be able to share their learning with the school and local community in Yarram when they return.”
Any Gippsland student heading overseas on a study tour who wishes to obtain a Student Exchange Kit should contact Mr Chester’s Sale office on 5144 6744.