Consulate Event Gallery - 2022 Archive
December 2022
Austrade End of Year Networking Reception

On 15 December, Consul-General Tokuda and Mrs Tokuda attended Austrade's End of Year Networking Reception.
University of Technology Sydney campus tour

On 15 December, Consul-General Tokuda was invited to participate in a campus tour at University of Technology Sydney.
Opening of the 26th Japanese Film Festival

On 7 December, Consul-General Tokuda attended the opening ceremony and film of the 26th Japanese Film Festival in Sydney.
ANA 70th anniversary event

On 7 December, Consul-General Tokuda attended ANA's 70th anniversary event.
Courtesy call on NSW Minister for Infrastructure, Minister for Cities and Minister for Active Transport, the Hon. Rob Stokes MP

On 5 December, Consul-General Tokuda paid a courtesy call on NSW Minister for Infrastructure, Minister for Cities, and Minister for Active Transport, the Hon. Rob Stokes MP, to exchange greetings.
Opening Ceremony of Toyoa Australia’s hydrogen forklift station

On December 2, Consul-General Tokuda attended the opening ceremony of Toyota Australia’s hydrogen forklift station.
November 2022
Australia-Japan Roundtable

On 30 November, the Australia-Japan Roundtable was held at the Consul-General’s Official Residence. Dr Alan Dupont AO, CEO of the Cognoscenti Group, attended as the guest speaker.
Meeting with SANAA

On 30 November, Consul-General Tokuda met with SANAA’s Kazuyo Sejima and Ryue Nishizawa to exchange views during their visit to Sydney on the occasion of the opening of the Art Gallery of NSW’s new building.
SANAA is an internationally renowned Japanese architectural firm and was responsible for the design of this new extension.
It is scheduled to open to the public on 3 December.
Reference link: Art Gallery of NSW
Courtesy call on NSW Minister for Enterprise, Investment and Trade, the Hon. Alister Henskens MP

On 29 November, Consul-General Tokuda paid a courtesy call on NSW Minister for Enterprise, Investment and Trade, Minister for Sport, Minister for Skills and Training, and Minister for Science, Innovation and Technology, the Hon. Alister Henskens MP, to exchange greetings.
The Strathfield Symphony Orchestra

On 26 November, Consul-General Tokuda enjoyed a performance of “The Scots” by the Strathfield Symphony Orchestra. The orchestra is led by Japanese conductor Dr Sadaharu Muramatsu, who has been working as its artistic director for more than 10 years, and for this concert, they were joined by Ms Aiko Goto, violinist with the Australian Chamber Orchestra.
Courtesy call on NSW Minister for Multiculturalism and Minister for Seniors, the Hon. Mark Coure MP

On 24 November, Consul-General Tokuda paid a courtesy call to NSW Minister for Multiculturalism and Minister for Seniors, the Hon. Mark Coure MP to exchange greetings.
Reception for the NSW Consular Corps

On 22 November, Consul-General Tokuda attended a reception for the NSW Consular Corps hosted by the Governor-General of NSW.
Consul-General Tokuda’s trip to Dubbo

From 19 to 20 November, Consul-General Tokuda went to Dubbo for the 20th anniversary of the opening of the Shoyoen Japanese Garden, a symbol of the sister-city relationship between Dubbo and Minokamo in Gifu Prefecture.
At the time of construction, the layout of the garden was designed by high school students from Kamo Agricultural and Forestry High School. Within the traditional ‘karesansui’ landscape of the garden, one can enjoy a lake and waterfall, as well as the new ‘sukiyamon’ entrance gate built by Japanese craftsmen in 2013. There is also a beautiful Japanese tearoom in the garden.
Visit to Father Paul Glynn

On 18 November, together with Mrs Tazuko McLaren (coordinator of Japanese exchange and Japanese lecturer at Southern Cross University), Consul-General Tokuda met the father of Australia-Japan sister-city exchange, Fr Paul Glynn.
During a time of great anti-Japanese sentiment after the war, Fr Glynn and his brother, the late Fr Tony Glynn, hosted cultural exhibitions in Australia and Japan, implemented joint services for the war dead in Cowra, and realised the implementation of the first Australia-Japan sister city relationship between the cities of Lismore and Yamato-Takada in Nara Prefecture. Through such activities, the brothers Glynn made great efforts towards reconciliation between Australia and Japan.
Ikebana International Sydney Chapter's Christmas Meeting

On 17 November, Consul-General Tokuda attended a Christmas meeting hosted by Ikebana International Sydney.
Courtesy call on Secretary of the NSW Department of Premier and Cabinet Michael Coutts-Trotter

On 16 November, Consul-General Tokuda paid a courtesy call on the Secretary of the NSW Department of Premier and Cabinet, Mr Michael Coutts-Trotter, to exchange greetings.
Courtesy call on NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb APM

On 16 November, Consul-General Tokuda paid a courtesy call on New South Wales Police Commissioner Karen Webb to exchange greetings.
Courtesy call on Sydney City Councillor Robert Kok

On 16 November, Consul-General Tokuda paid a courtesy call on City of Sydney Councillor Robert Kok to exchange greetings.
Consul-General Tokuda’s trip to Darwin

From 10 to 13 November, Consul-General Tokuda travelled to Darwin to exchange greetings with the Administrator of the NT, Her Honour the Hon. Vicki O’Halloran, the Deputy Chief Minister of the NT, the Hon. Nicole Manison, the Leader of the Opposition, Mrs Lia Finocchiaro, and Lord Mayor of Darwin, the Hon. Kon Vatskalis.
The Consul-General also received briefings from representatives of the NT Government concerning the development of gas, hydrogen, critical minerals and the surveying of the Japanese submarine “I-124” among others. In addition to these briefings, the Consul-General exchanged views with members of the Australian-Japanese Association of the Northern Territory, the Uniting Church, and INPEX.
Consul-General Tokuda also attended the Remembrance Day memorial service and paid visits to the I-124 memorial, the Japanese graveyard and the Darwin Military Museum.
Asia Pacific Parliamentary Friendship Group Event

On 9 November, Consul-General Tokuda attended the Asia Pacific Parliamentary Friendship Group Event hosted by the Speaker of the NSW Legislative Assembly, the Hon. Jonathan O’Dea MP.
Courtesy call on NSW Minister for Transport, Veterans, and Western Sydney, the Hon. David Andrew Elliott MP

On 8 November, Consul-General Tokuda paid a courtesy call on the Minister for Transport, Minister for Veterans, and Minister for Western Sydney, the Hon. David Andrew Elliott MP, to exchange greetings after his arrival in Sydney.
“KAZOKU” Festival at Campbelltown

On 6 November, Consul-General Tokuda attended the “KAZOKU” Festival organised by Campbelltown City Council. In 1984, Campbelltown and Koshigaya City in Saitama Prefecture signed a sister-city agreement. A traditional tea house “Koshigaya-tei”, a gift from Koshigaya City, can be seen at Campbelltown Arts Centre’s Japanese garden. The garden was established in 1988 to commemorate the Campbelltown-Koshigaya sister-city relationship.
Farewell Reception for Team Australia Baseball

On 4 November, at his official residence, Consul-General Tokuda co-hosted a farewell reception together with His Excellency Ambassador YAMAGAMI Shingo for members of Australia’s national baseball team, Team Australia, ahead of their departure for Japan to play Japan’s national team, Samurai Japan, in two international friendly games. At the reception, Mr David Hynes, President of Baseball Australia, and Mr David Nilsson, Head Coach of Team Australia, gave speeches, and a video message from Japan’s National Team Manager, Mr KURIYAMA Hideki, was screened.
The 2022 JET Programme Returnee Reception

On 2 November, Consul-General Tokuda hosted the 2022 JET Programme Returnee Reception at his official residence. This was the first returnee reception in three years and was held in collaboration with the JET Alumni Association of New South Wales (JETAA NSW).
Nagano Prefecture promotional event

On 1 November, Consul-General Tokuda attended a reception hosted by Nagano Prefecture Governor ABE Shuichi, held to promote Nagano Prefecture.
Courtesy call on Governor of NSW Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC

On 1 November, Consul-General Tokuda paid a courtesy call on Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC, Governor of NSW, to exchange greetings after his arrival in Sydney.
October 2022
Courtesy call on Speaker of the NSW Legislative Assembly Jonathan O'Dea

On 26 October, Consul-General Tokuda paid a courtesy call on the Speaker of the NSW Legislative Assembly, the Hon. Jonathan O'Dea, MP, to exchange greetings after his arrival in Sydney.
First Port Call Ceremony at Newcastle of SHO-FU-MARU

On October 24, Consul-General Tokuda attended the official ceremony held by Mitsui O.S.K Lines (MOL) to celebrate the first port call at Newcastle of SHO-FU-MARU, the very first bulk carrier loading coal equipped with “Wind Challenger” – a hard sail wind power production system.
Courtesy call on President of the NSW Legislative Council Matthew Mason-Cox

On 17 October, Consul-General Tokuda paid a courtesy call on the President of the NSW Legislative Council, the Hon. Matthew Mason-Cox MLC, to exchange greetings after his arrival in Sydney.
“Spring Chakai – Fragrant Breeze” hosted by Chado Urasenke Tankokai Sydney Association Inc.

On 16 October, Consul-General Tokuda participated in the “Spring Chakai – Fragrant Breeze” hosted by Chado Urasenke Tankokai Sydney Association Inc., held for the first time in three years.
Australian Sake Festival

On 1 October, the Australian Sake Festival was held in Sydney and Consul-General Tokuda made an opening remark
At the event, more than 200 kinds of sake tastings were offered as well as Japanese food, taiko drum and kimono performances, a calligraphy exhibition and a display of sake serving wares.
Reference link
September 2022
Consul-General Tokuda's trip to Cowra

On 24 September, the day after he assumed his post as Consul-General, Consul-General Tokuda visited Cowra.
Together with Ambassador Yamagami and Consul-General Shimada (Consulate-General of Japan in Melbourne), Consul-General Tokuda participated in the long-established Cowra Sakura Matsuri held at the beautiful Cowra Japanese Garden.
The following day, the Consul-General also laid flowers with Cr Bill West, Mayor of Cowra and Mr Bob Griffiths, Chairman of the Cowra Japanese Garden and Cultural Centre, at the Australian and Japanese War Cemeteries.
Australian Sake Awards

On 17 September, the International Sake Competition, Australia Sake Awards was held in Sydney and Consul-General Kiya made an opening remark.
The event was the very first of its kind in Sydney and almost 200 kinds of sake entered the competition this year. At the event, around 70 judges including Australian sommeliers, sake retailers, food and beverage industry professionals did a blind-taste test.
Reference links
Ms Midori Furze receives 2022 Foreign Minister’s Commendation

On 15 September, a 2022 Foreign Minister’s Commendation was awarded to origami artist, Ms Midori Furze.
In 2010, Ms Furze founded her studio in Australia, and since then, she has held many workshops and special exhibitions around the country, largely in NSW. With multiple appearances in local media, she has not only contributed to the promotion of Japanese culture through origami, she has also collaborated on events with local government organisations, hospitals, schools and art galleries, among others. While expanding the scope of her activities and utilising various occasions to promote the appeal of origami, she has actively created opportunities at the grassroots level for people to experience Japanese culture and contributed to greater Japan-Australia cultural exchange.
Farewell Reception for Consul-General Kiya

On 15 September, the Farewell Reception was held for Consul-General Kiya.
Reference : Consul-General Kiya's speech
Visit to Darwin
From Sunday 11 to Wednesday 14 September, Consul-General Kiya visited Darwin. The visit coincided with the port of call by the destroyer escort JS Kirisame for the multilateral maritime joint Exercise Kakadu hosted by the Royal Australian Navy.

On Sunday 11 September, he took part in a commemorative service, organised by Fleet Escort Force Commander FUKUDA Tatsuya in town for Exercise Kakadu. The service was held in front of the memorial for the I-124 submarine in the presence of Australian dignitaries and naval personnel. Members of the JS Kirisame conducted a three volley salute.

On Monday 12 September, the Consul-General made farewell calls on Chief Minister Natasha Fyles, Deputy Opposition Leader Gerard Maley, Legislative Assembly Speaker Mark Monaghan and Darwin Mayor Kon Vatskalis.

The Consul-General also visited the Darwin Memorial Uniting Church to say farewell to members of the congregation.
On Tuesday 13 September, he visited the Northern Territory Archives Centre for the first time to see materials relating to Fujita Salvage that Mr FUJITA Senichiro had donated to the archives centre in 2010.
He also visited the Telstra National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Awards (NATSIAA) exhibition at Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, guided by Director Adam Worrall.
Presentation of the Consul-General’s Commendation to Australian-Japanese Association of the Northern Territory (AJANT)

On his final evening in Darwin, he hosted a ceremony at a city hotel to present the Consul-General's Commendation to the Australian-Japanese Association of the Northern Territory (AJANT).
AJANT has held Japan-Australia cultural exchange events based in Darwin over many years. In 2017, on the 75th anniversary of the sinking of the I-124 submarine and the Bombing of Darwin, AJANT erected the I-124 submarine memorial with the cooperation of the Governments of Japan and Australia; in 2020, they planted the Tree of Healing at the same site; and this year, on the occasion of the 80th anniversaries, they erected a new memorial with the names of the 80 crew members who perished onboard the submarine.
Reference : Consul-General Kiya's newsletter No.71 "Japanaroo 2022, visit to Darwin and farewell"
Consul-General’s Commendation for SBS Announcer Kumi Taguchi

On 2 September, a Consul-General’s Commendation was presented to SBS announcer, Kumi Taguchi. Ms Taguchi is a Japanese-Australian of both Japanese and Australian heritage. As one of Australia's leading news announcers, on occasions of historic significance for Japan and Australia, she has served as a role model of a Japanese-Australian contributing to multiculturalism in Australia and to the deepening of Japan-Australia relations, as well as being a positive force for friendship among the broader Australian community of which the local Japanese community is a part.
1. Important points in Kumi Taguchi’s career:
(1)2014 - 2020: Worked as a presenter for ABC News
(2)2017 - 2020: Became the presenter for the popular ABC program Compass, a show dealing with topics such as Australian multiculturalism and identity
(3)November 2020 – present: Appointed as the host of SBS TV’s signature current affairs program Insight
2. Major examples of contributions to the promotion of Japan-Australia relations:
(1)In May 2019, in her congratulatory speech at the 50th anniversary of the Sydney Japanese International School, she explained to Japanese and Japanese-Australian children about the significance of contributing to Australian multiculturalism and friendship between Japan and Australia as a Japanese-Australian.
(2)Through the ABC TV documentary “Kumi’s Japan” (screened October 2019) she explored her identity as a Japanese-Australian living between two cultures.
(3)In August 2020, as a co-host of ABC TV’s “Australia Remembers: 75th Anniversary for the End of WWII” broadcast, she embodied the unshakeable nature of today’s friendly relationship between Japan and Australia.
(4)As a commentator for the Australian TV broadcast of Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics Opening and Closing Ceremonies (July – August 2021), she contributed to greater understanding of Japanese culture among Australian society.
Reference : Consul-General Kiya's speech
August 2022
Consul-General’s Commendation for Fire & Rescue NSW Former Assistant Commissioner Regional Operations Robert McNeil

On 26 August, a Consul-General’s Commendation was awarded to Former Assistant Commissioner Regional Operations at Fire & Rescue NSW, Mr Robert McNeil, who worked as the leader of an Australian rescue team sent to Japan at the time of the Great East Japan Earthquake.
1. Important points in Robert McNeil’s career:
In March 2011, immediately after the Great East Japan Earthquake, Mr McNeil was deployed as the leader of an Australian rescue team of 76 members and 2 search dogs to the town of Minamisanriku in Miyagi Prefecture (length of deployment: 10 days from 12 March).
In April of that year, he revisited Minamisanriku with then incumbent Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard. He also attended a memorial service for the one year anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake.
In July 2014, during his visit to Australia, then Prime Minister Abe mentioned Mr McNeil and his team’s efforts cooperating with Japanese firefighters in his address to the Australian Federal Parliament and also thanked Mr McNeil who had been invited to Parliament House.
In March 2016, on the 5th anniversary of the earthquake, Mr McNeil personally visited Minanmisanriku to engage with the townspeople.
In July 2022, he retired from his position as Assistant Commissioner Regional Operations at Fire & Rescue NSW.
2. Contributions to the promotion of Japan-Australia relations:
Immediately after the Great East Japan earthquake, Mr McNeil was dispatched to Minamisanriku in Miyagi Prefecture with an Australian rescue team, where he was the leader of the team’s activities. In the affected areas, they focussed on searching for and giving emergency aid to survivors and in the process, found several of the deceased. The team also sent any personal belongings they found in the rubble to members of the bereaving families.
From the disaster area to even after returning to Australia, Mr McNeil continued to give updates to the Australian Government on the current state of the disaster, and also proposed that further medical support should be implemented in the affected areas. In the following month, Mr McNeil contributed to realising then Prime Minister Julia Gillard’s visit to Japan and the disaster area where he gave the Prime Minister a tour of the disaster-affected areas.
From 2012 to 2021, he has supported the Great East Japan Earthquake Remembrance Ceremony (organised by the Rainbow Project, a non-profit organisation in Sydney), which has been held annually in March in Sydney, and has given lectures and speeches.
As someone who witnessed the disaster situation, Mr McNeil has been speaking out about the importance of staying close to those affected by the disaster and watching over them, but also the need for reconstruction assistance.
Mr McNeil made a personal visit to Minamisanriku in 2016, the 5th anniversary of the earthquake, to interact with the townspeople. He was also scheduled to visit Japan last year on the 10th anniversary of the earthquake, but had to abandon the plan due to border restrictions caused by the spread of COVID-19. He intends to visit Japan again in March 2023 to take advantage of the reopening of the border and visit the site of the disaster.
His actions have been widely covered by the Australian and Japanese media and have gained recognition as symbols of the friendship between Australia and Japan in the wake of the Great East Japan Earthquake.
Presentation of Consul-General’s Commendation to Mr Peter Gibson, former Executive Advisor – Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, Australian Olympic Committee

On 10 August, Consul-General Kiya Masahiko presented Mr Peter Gibson, former Executive Advisor – Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games for the Australian Olympic Committee, with a Consul-General’s Commendation in recognition of his contribution to Japan-Australia friendship in particular for the promotion of sports exchange.
Major positions
1. Previous positions
- Early 1980s – first foreign tennis player to be admitted to the Japan Professional Tennis Association
- Executive Advisor – Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, Australian Olympic Committee (AOC)
- Executive Advisor – Japan Australia Sports Business Project, PwC
2. Current positions
- Head of Japan Sales, Gullivers Sport Travel Australia
- Scape, Head of Japan Market Development
Major achievements in the promotion of friendship between Japan and Australia
1. Promoting Japan-Australia exchange on the occasion of the Tokyo Olympics
In his capacity as the Australian Olympic Committee’s Advisor for Japan, Mr Gibson led the planning and implementation of “Tomodachi Connect”, an online school exchange program. Following the success of the pilot program in 2020, the main program held between April and July 2021 saw the participation of around 20,000 Japanese and Australian students from across approximately 600 classes in Japan and Australia. Tomodachi Connect is a groundbreaking initiative which presents a model which enables Japanese and Australian students to interact online, in spite of the difficulties travelling internationally during the COVID-19 pandemic, and which can lead to ongoing exchange between the youth of Japan and Australia.
Furthermore, in June, Mr Gibson independently planned and inaugurated the “Connect Tomodachi” project as a Tokyo Olympic legacy program and this project has received funding from the Australia- Japan Foundation (AJF) which is run by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).
2. Promoting sports exchange between Japan and Australia through rugby
From 2017 to 2019, as a member of the organising committee for the “Kids Rugby World Festival” held in Japan, Mr Gibson worked dedicatedly to support the Australian representative team’s visit to Japan and to promote sports exchange.
In addition, during the 2019 Rugby World Cup held in Japan, he worked for the Australian travel company, Gullivers, and was in charge of Japan-Australia sports exchange and led the planning of large-scale tours which brought 3,500 Australian rugby fans to Japan. This included visits to Japan by 12 Australian school rugby teams which saw 42 friendly matches played against Japanese rugby teams.
3. Supporting Great East Japan Earthquake recovery efforts
In 2013, two years after the Great East Japan Earthquake occurred, Mr Gibson undertook a 269km solo walk from Fukushima to Ofunato and during this charity walk, he did volunteer tennis coaching throughout Tohoku.
In addition, drawing on his fluent Japanese, he has deepened Japan-Australia exchange through other social activities, not only through sports, for example by working on multiple occasions as an MC at Great East Japan Earthquake commemorative events in both Japan and Australia.
Seiko Australia New Sydney Boutique Opening Ceremony

On 3 August, Consul-General Kiya attended the opening of Seiko Australia’s new Sydney boutique at MidCity shopping centre.
Visit to the New South Wales Police Commissioner

On 1 August, Consul-General Kiya visited the New South Wales Police Commissioner Karen Webb, accompanied by members of the Japan Club of Sydney (JCS), the Japanese Society of Sydney (JSS), and the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Sydney Inc (JCCI) and engaged in informal talks regarding public safety.
At the beginning of the meeting, Consul General Kiya expressed his gratitude to the NSW State Police for their ongoing support to the Japanese community. The meeting continued with an exchange of views on issues the Japanese community is concerned about, such as dealing with children suffering from domestic violence, road traffic problems such as dangerous driving, and internet fraud.
Commissioner Webb welcomed the Consul-General’s visit, and in addition to emphasising the importance of improving public safety in a multicultural society, promised continued support of the Japanese community and hoped the voices within the Japanese community will continue to be heard.
July 2022
JSS and JCCI Annual General Meetings

On 29 July, the Japanese Society of Sydney Inc.(JSS) and the Japan Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Sydney Inc. (JCCI) held their respective annual general meetings, where they approved the annual business reports and account statements. Also, new board members were announced at each meeting. Consul-General Kiya Masahiko attended both meetings and made remarks.
In his remarks for the JSS meeting, Mr Kiya expressed his appreciation for the activities of JSS, which have contributed greatly to the Japan-Australia relationship as well as energising Japanese people living in Australia. He also said the Consulate-General of Japan would continue to provide quality administrative services and useful information, supporting JSS’s activities as much as possible.
In his remarks for the JCCI meeting, Mr Kiya said that business between Japan and Australia has been accelerating with more opportunities for face-to-face meetings as well as the resumption of ministerial visits. Mr Kiya also expressed his appreciation for Japanese companies’ earnest day-to-day business activities which strengthen the trust between Japan and Australia.
• Consul-General Kiya’s remark at the JSS meeting (Japanese)
• Consul-General Kiya’s remark at the JCCI meeting (Japanese)
June 2022
Lismore Visit

On 25 June, Consul-General Kiya and Ambassador Yamagami participated in the Lismore Lantern Parade together with Mayor Krieg and members of the local Sister City Advisory Council. The Consul-General helped carry the mascot of Lismore’s sister city (Yamato-Takada), ‘Miku-chan’.
Visit to the Hunter Region

On 10 June, Consul-General Kiya went to the Hunter Region, accompanying a delegation of Sydney’s Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) Resource and Energy Sub-Committee. Consul-General Kiya visited the Newcastle Institute for Energy and Resources (NIER) and attended the Hunter Energy Investment Networking Lunch. Consul-General Kiya also observed where new technologies relating to energy and decarbonisation are commercialised and exchanged views with stakeholders.
Reference link: Consul-General of Japan in Sydney Newsletter No.64 Resources and energy business opportunities in the Hunter Region
Darwin Visit

From 6 to 8 June, Consul-General Kiya travelled to the Northern Territory and Darwin to meet with the Hon. Natasha Fyles, new Chief Minister of the Northern Territory, Hon. Ngaree Ah Kit, new Minister for Multicultural Affairs, the Fujita Family, and the Australia-Japanese Association of the NT (AJANT).
Reference link: Consul-General of Japan in Sydney Newsletter No.63 New Cabinet of the Northern Territory, and the Fujita Family
HMAS Kuttabul 80th Anniversary Memorial Service

On 1 June, Consul-General Kiya attended a memorial service for the HMAS Kuttabul 80th anniversary.
Commodore O’Grady and Ambassador Yamagami laid wreaths, with Mr Kiya joining to observe a minute’s silence.
Reference link: Consul-General of Japan in Sydney Newsletter No.62 80th anniversary of the attack on Sydney Harbour: Remembering for the future
May 2022
Japan vs. Australia Basketball Series

On 27 May, Consul-General Kiya attended a friendly women’s basketball game between Australia’s Opals and Japan’s AKATSUKI FIVE.
80th Defence of Sydney Harbour Commemorative Service

On 27 May, Consul-General Kiya attended the 80th Defence of Sydney Commemorative Event held at North Head in Sydney Harbour and laid a wreath.
This service was organised by NSW Minister for the Environment and Heritage the Hon. James Griffin, and former prime minister Tony Abbott with local representatives including students also participated alongside Consul General Kiya.
Australia-Japan Society of NSW Student Awards Night

On 18 May, Consul General Kiya presented certificates to Japanese language students at the Student Awards Night held by the Australia-Japan Society of NSW.
The ceremony is held annually targeting universities in and around Sydney. This year the University of Newcastle was included for the first time.
Reference link: Consul-General of Japan in Sydney Newsletter No.61 Resuming tourism and student exchange between Japan and Australia
April 2022
Imperial Decoration Conferment Ceremony in honour of Mr Tokura Katsunori

On 30 April at his official residence, Consul-General Kiya presented Mr Tokura Katsunori, Former Chairman of Australia-Japan Cultural Exchange Association, with the Order of the Rising Sun, Silver Rays.
From 1988 on, Mr Tokura presided over the “Australia-Japan Cultural Exchange Association” and contributed to the promotion of friendship and goodwill between Japan and Australia. In 1989, he organised a memorial service in the city of Cowra for the Australia and Japanese victims of the war. He also constructed an “Avenue of Cherry Trees (Sakura Avenue)” in Cowra and has made ongoing and significant contributions to Cowra’s “Cherry Blossom Festival (Sakura Matsuri)”.
Consul-General Kiya’s visit to the Snowy Mountains and Queanbeyan

From April 20 to April 23, Consul-General Kiya visited the Snowy Mountains and Queanbeyan.
Consul-General Kiya visited many sites in Queanbeyan that commemorate the sister city relationship of Queanbeyan with Hatta Village in Yamanashi Prefecture.
On April 21, the Consul-General travelled to the Snowy Monaro Regional Council, where he saw a torii gate commemorating the sister city relationship between Cooma and Yamaga City in Kumamoto Prefecture. The Consul-General also met with Snowy Monaro Regional Council Mayor Narelle Davis, who gave a tour of a koala sanctuary.
Consul-General Kiya also visited the Snowy Hydro Museum and observed the use of hydroelectric renewable energy in the Snowy Mountains. Consul-General Kiya attended a lunch function hosted by the Cooma Multicultural Centre, which supports the families of the workers at the Snowy Hydro Company.
In the evening of the 21st, Consul-General Kiya attended a networking event at the Cooma Car Club organised by Mayor Davis. While at the event, the Consul-General expressed his gratitude to the people of Cooma for the long period of sister city exchange.
The Consul-General also met Mrs Nichole Overall MP, newly elected in February this year to the NSW Legislative Assembly, and her husband, Mr Tim Overall, former mayor of Queanbeyan. Later that day, the Consul-General attended the unveiling of a sculpture by Japanese sculptor, Keizo Ushio titled ‘Oushi Keizo’.
Reference link: Consul-General of Japan in Sydney Newsletter No.60 Snowy Mountains and Japan
Visit to Western Sydney University

On 19 April, Consul-General Kiya visited Western Sydney University again to give a lecture on climate change and Japan-Australia cooperation as part of a WSU program on Australia-Asia relations.
Reference link: Japan-Australia Partnership: Addressing the Climate Change
Imperial Decoration Conferment Ceremony in honour of Mr Dekura Hideo and Mr Funayama Seijiro

On 6 April, Consul-General Kiya hosted the Imperial Decoration Conferment Ceremony in honour of Mr Dekura Hideo and Mr Funayama Seijiro who received the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Rays respectively.
As a food researcher and a founder of Japanese Functions of Sydney, Mr Dekura has contributed to the popularisation of both the technical and cultural aspects of Japanese cuisine in Australia. Mr Funayama, who is Proprietor of Japan Pacific Corporation Pty Ltd, has contributed to the distribution of Japanese food products, laid the foundation of the Japanese food market and promoted the development of Japanese cuisine throughout Australia.
March 2022
NSW Japanese Teachers' Conference 2022

On 25 March, Consul-General Kiya Masahiko attended the NSW Japanese Teachers' Conference. In his speech, he thanked the teachers for their contribution to Japan-Australia mutual understanding and friendship. More than 160 Japanese language teachers attended the conference in Parramatta.
Reference link: Consul-General Kiya's address
Emperor's Birthday Reception
![]() |
![]() |
On 2 March, the National Day Reception was held at the official residence of the Consul-General of Japan in Sydney, Mr Kiya Masahiko, to celebrate the Birthday of His Majesty the Emperor of Japan. Despite the severe weather, the event was attended by dignitaries from various fields including the NSW Government.
The official proceedings began with the singing of the national anthems by Ms Kato Hisae, a resident of Sydney and coordinator of Voice Collage, who produced a choral video by Japanese residents in Australia for Japanaroo.
In his welcome remarks, Consul-General Kiya spoke about many aspects of Japan and Australia's close ties including politics, security, business, sports and people-to-people exchange. Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC QC, Governor of NSW, also spoke, extending birthday greetings to Emperor Naruhito and reflecting on the friendship between Japan and NSW. The Governor participated in the kagami-biraki ceremony, the traditional breaking open of a sake barrel.
An additional element on this occasion was the conferment ceremony of the Imperial Decoration (Autumn 2021) for the Honourable John Ajaka, former President of the NSW Legislative Council. Mr Ajaka received the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette in recognition of his contribution to the promotion of bilateral ties and friendship between Japan and Australia.
Food served at the reception included sushi made with rice grown in Japan and canapés made using regional ingredients from around Japan. Sake was also served. In addition, there were displays arranged by Japanese organisations which introduced products and services as well as Japan-NSW sister cities. Taikoz gave a performance of Japanese drumming. Conversation flowed and it all made for a very lively evening.
The Consulate would like to thank the following organisations for their contributions:
- ANA
- Grow Green Tea Company
- Japan Airlines
- JR Tokai
- Jun Pacific
- Lion
- Morishima Shuzo
- Suntory
Reference links:
- Welcome remarks by Consul-General Kiya Masahiko
- Speech by Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC QC, Governor of NSW
- Speech by the Honourable John Ajaka
February 2022
JNTO Japan Networking Event

On 25 February, the Japan National Tourism Organisation (JNTO) Sydney Office held the “Japan Networking Event” for travel industry representatives.
In his remarks, Mr Kiya said he hoped that knowledge gained at the event would help them to offer Australians even higher quality tours and packages in Japan once borders reopen for Australian travelers.
Reference links:
Imperial Decoration Conferment Ceremony in honour of Mr Manuel Panagiotopoulos

On 22 February, Consul-General Kiya hosted the Imperial Decoration Conferment Ceremony in honour of Mr Manuel Panagiotopoulos who received the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette, in recognition of his great contribution to the promotion of Japan-Australia business relations and mutual understanding.
The Consul-General read a message from Ambassador Yamagami and added his own words of appreciation for his contribution to the development of mutual understanding between Japanese and Australian business communities.
The celebratory dinner that followed the ceremony was held in the style of the Australia-Japan Roundtable which Mr Panagiotopoulos created. The Roundtables have provided invaluable networking opportunities.
Reference links:
- Consul-General Kiya's speech at the Conferment Ceremony
- Manuel Panagiotopoulos' speech at the Conferment Ceremony
Consul-General Kiya visits Darwin again
![]() |
![]() |
Following on from last month's visit, Consul-General Kiya visited Darwin from 16 to 20 February to participate in a series of important events including the 80th anniversary - Bombing of Darwin Commemorative Service on 19 February.
Among other events, on 18 February, the Consul-General attended the Unveiling Ceremony of the new I-124 Memorial listing the names of all 80 crew members who perished when the I-124 submarine was sunk off the coast of Darwin. At the subsequent reception, hosted by HE Ambassador Yamagami Shingo, Mr Kiya gave the closing remarks.
In the afternoon of 19 February, the Consul-General Kiya hosted Consul-General's Commendation Ceremony in honour of Darwin Memorial Uniting Church, which has played a significant part in reconciliation between Japan and Darwin since its inception. The commendation ceremony and reception took place in Fujita Hall at the church.
Reference links:
- Consul-General Kiya's speech at the Commendation Ceremony
- Mr Kevin Davis AM's response at the Commendation Ceremony
- Pastor Lauren's response at the Commendation Ceremony
Meeting with JSS, JCS, JCCI representatives

On 9 February, Consul-General Kiya invited representatives from Japanese Society of Sydney Inc., Japan Club of Sydney, and the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Sydney Inc. at his official residence and exchanged views.
January 2022
Visit to the Hunter Region

From 31 January to 1 February, Ambassador Yamagami and Consul-General Kiya visited the Hunter region. During the visit, they attended meetings including a discussion with companies based in the region, joined a tour of Newcastle port, as well as a briefing session on the development of hydrogen in the Hunter.
For further details about the visit, please see Consul-General of Japan in Sydney Newsletter No.56 Visit to the Hunter Region.
Reference link: Consul-General of Japan in Sydney Newsletter No.56 Visit to the Hunter Region (10 February 2022)
Consul-General Kiya’s visit to Darwin
On 20 January, Consul-General Kiya attended and gave a speech at the 80th anniversary Memorial Service for the 80 crew members of the Japanese I-124 submarine. The Northern Territory Chief Minister Michael Gunner also attended.
The day before the service (19 January), Consul-General Kiya met with Chief Minister Gunner and discussed further collaboration between Japan and the NT.
On 21 January, the Consul-General met with the Lord Mayor of Darwin, the Hon. Kon Vatskalis again. He was joined by the Director of CLAIR Sydney, Mr Akaiwa Hirotomo, and they discussed Darwin’s cooperation with Japan and future city exchanges.
While in Darwin, Consul-General Kiya also visited Darwin Memorial Uniting Church.
Reference link:Consul-General of Japan in Sydney Newsletter No. 55 Memorial Service for I-124 Crew Members (28 January 2022)