Darwin’s Sister City Relationship with Ambon is a very important part of our international program. As well as our common war history and a geographical closeness, we celebrate our rich cultural diversity. Our friendship spans more than 25 years.
This year is very important to us all because we will be participating in commemorations for the 70th Anniversary of the Liberation of Gull Force, a Victorian Battalion, and 13 Squadron RAAF from Darwin who defended Ambon Island during the second world war. The Australian War Cemetery in Ambon is the final resting place for many of our war heroes.
The annual Darwin to Ambon Yacht Race is one of the many ways we maintain and strengthen our relationship with Ambon. The friendships formed through this event have been instrumental in consolidating cultural, economic and humanitarian ties across communities. Our strong, historic connection through our Sister City relationship will enable us to continue to work together to create mutually beneficial programs.
Last year, I was thrilled to receive a delegation of 11 people from Ambon to mark the 30th Anniversary of the Darwin to Ambon Yacht race and I am delighted to be visiting Ambon this year.
I hope that you enjoy fair sailing and a safe competition.
Katrina Fong Lim
Lord Mayor of Darwin