Community & Business
17 February, 2026
A taste of Australia for Paju students
A party of high school student from Toowoomba’s Sister City, Paju, in South Korea has been given a close look at the life and culture of our country during a stay in our part of Queensland.
The high school touring party from the Republic of Korea gained invaluable insights into the Australian way of life on their study tour to the Toowoomba Region.
The 16 students and accompanying teacher were welcomed to the Toowoomba Region at a formal reception at Toowoomba City Hall as part of their 22-day tour.
Toowoomba Region Mayor Geoff McDonald said the touring party was the 23rd student group from Toowoomba’s Sister City of Paju to visit the Region since 2003.
“Almost 420 students have visited the Toowoomba Region through the program, in addition to three online programs with 40 participating students,” Mayor McDonald said.
“The latest visit further highlights the Region’s role as an education centre and its importance to the economy.
“Education plays a pivotal role in the economic outcomes that are stipulated in the Sister City Agreement.
“The students are undertaking an Intensive English Language and Cultural Program, coordinated by the Australian Institute of International Understanding (AIIU).”
This is the second consecutive year AIIU has coordinated the program.
“After their formal lessons, the students have the benefit of gaining conversational proficiency and experiencing Australian life, such as our geography, wildlife, food, Indigenous culture and regional attractions, with their host families in Toowoomba,” Mayor McDonald said.
“The home stays allow for a rich exchange and a better understanding of each other’s culture and everyday lifestyles.
“The visiting students develop their language skills and cultural appreciation for Australia in everyday situations.
“The study tour also encourages long-term international connections, building on past visits, that also have the capacity to influence the students’ and hosts’ study, travel and career pathways.
“Apart from strengthening personal links between residents in both areas, the study tours contribute significantly to the Regional economy through accommodation, tourism, education and visitor spending.”
The Mayor said Toowoomba Regional Council is pleased to highlight the Region as an attractive destination for future study and encourages students to consider educations opportunities that we offer.
“This latest visit reinforces Toowoomba’s commitment to international engagement, youth exchange and global understanding, while delivering lasting cultural and educational benefits to both communities, particularly as we look forward to the 25th anniversary of our Sister City Agreement in 2027,” he said.
Students must complete a competitive selection process in Paju to be eligible for the program.
Away from the formal side of the tour, the students spent Australia Day with their host families, participating in local celebrations and experiencing aspects of Australian life, including a visit to Bestbrook Farmstay at Tregony in the Southern Downs Region for a brief appreciation of rural living.
