Jenny Dowell awarded by Japanese Foreign Minister

LISMORE Mayor Jenny Dowell has been awarded a Foreign Minister's Commendation by the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Mayor Jenny Dowell, pictured in 2013 with Yamato Takada Mayor Masakatsu Yoshida, has been awarded a Japanese Foreign Minister's Commendation. Photo Contributed. Picture: Contributed

LISMORE Mayor Jenny Dowell has been awarded a Foreign Minister's Commendation by the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Cr Dowell was among five 2015 recipients of this award, which is presented to individuals and groups who have made outstanding contributions to the promotion of friendship between Japan and other nations.

Cr Dowell has long been an advocate of the sister city relationship between Lismore and Yamato Takada, the first of its kind between Australia and Japan, pioneered by the late Father Paul Glynn in 1963.

Since she was elected to the top job in 2008, Cr Dowell has played a key role in maintaining that relationship and fostering cultural sharing.

She played an integral part in the 50th anniversary celebrations in 2013 and became close friends with Yamato Takada Mayor Masakatsu Yoshida.

She has since visited Japan with Lismore City Council General Manager Gary Murphy to extend the hand of friendship and often takes a lead role in gestures that maintain the close sister city link, including annual Skype sessions and letters.

"I am deeply honoured by this very special Commendation for my and Lismore City Council's role in building friendships and cultural exchange between Lismore and Yamato Takada and our two nations," Cr Dowell said.

"I am always astounded by the Japanese way of life and their spirit of generosity toward others, which in my time presiding over sister city ceremonies and events, seems absolutely boundless.

"To help create bonds and understanding between our two cultures, which were once torn apart by war, is something I feel very passionate about.

"It is also, through the work of the late Father Paul Glynn, something Lismore is known for - a city that was progressive and looked for common ground and understanding at a time when emotions ran high.

"To receive a Commendation for carrying on that friendship is both a personal reward and something that reflects on the spirit of our city."

Mayor Jenny Dowell will be presented with her award by the Consul-General of Japan in a special ceremony on Thursday, October 8, in the Council Chambers from 5pm.