I recognise the remarkable history and enduring success of the Bega–Littleton Citizens Exchange, a program that has fostered international friendship and understanding for more than six decades.

The exchange began in 1952 when Curly Annabel, editor of the Bega District News, was inspired by a film about Houston Waring, editor of the Littleton Independent in Colorado. This connection deepened following the launch of President Eisenhower’s “People to People” program in 1956, which encouraged cultural exchange as a pathway to greater global understanding.

Recognising the similarities between the two communities, Curly Annabel visited Littleton in 1960, forming a lifelong friendship with Houston Waring and inviting a delegation to Bega the following year. Their visit in February 1961 marked the beginning of the Bega–Littleton Citizens Exchange.

Since then, delegations have travelled regularly between the two towns, building strong personal and cultural connections. From Australian-themed floats in Littleton’s Western Welcome Week to warm hospitality in Bega, the exchange has created lasting friendships across generations.

Today, the Bega–Littleton Citizens Exchange stands as the longest continuously operating Sister City program of its kind—a testament to the vision, goodwill and community spirit that unites these two towns.