By Paul Hemsley

Bathurst Regional Council will donate $10000 to its earthquake stricken Japanese sister city Ohkuma following previous donations by local community groups.

Previously, local radio station 2BS and local newspaper The Western Advocate raised $12,000 from the Bathurst community.

According to a Bathurst Regional Council spokesperson, the council has been supporting the community's charity for Japan as an informal oversight arrangement.

The spokesperson said the council has coordinated the transfer for funds to Ohkuma through the sister city arrangement.

Mayor Paul Toole said Bathurst remains committed to help as the friendship shared with its sister city is “extremely important” to the community.

“There is a long road ahead for the people of Ohkuma but we will continue to stand by them in their time of need,” Mr Toole said.

Ohkuma Mayor, Toshitsuna Watanabe said Bathurst’s “precious gift” will be used for children “who will build the future of Ohkuma town”.

Fundraising is continuing across the region and more money will be sent to assist Ohkuma as it becomes available.
 

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