Two local students, Ava Kruizinga and Leah Ryan, have received the incredible news that they will be participating in a year-long international exchange in 2026, thanks to the support of the Tocumwal Rotary Club and the Rotary Youth Exchange Program.
Their hard work and dedication have paid off, and the dream of living and studying abroad is now becoming a reality.
As part of this exchange, Ava and Leah’s journey also involves a vital community role - finding welcoming local families to host incoming international students.
These reciprocal placements are a key element of the Rotary Youth Exchange Program, allowing global students to immerse themselves in Australian life.
The Tocumwal Rotary Club is now reaching out to the community for assistance.
They are seeking four generous families from our area to host a high school exchange student for a period of 3-4 months during 2026.
Ava and Leah’s own families will take part in the hosting rotation, and now, they hope other local families might be open to doing the same.
Hosting an exchange student is a rewarding opportunity to share your home and culture with a young person from another part of the world.
It’s a way to help them experience life in Australia, while your own family gains insight into another culture.
Many host families report that the experience leads to deep and lasting connections that span the globe.
Host families are asked to provide a safe and supportive home environment and offer the student their own private bedroom.
They also provide three meals a day and include the student in day-to-day family life.
Transport to and from school and Rotary events is required, along with general emotional support and encouragement to help the student adjust and thrive.
Each host family typically welcomes a student for around 3-4 months, as part of a rotating arrangement where the student lives with three different families over the course of the year.
If you have ever considered opening your home to a student from abroad, now is the perfect time.
Your involvement will not only make a difference in the life of an international student but will also help Ava and Leah finalise their participation in this program.
For more information or to express your interest, please contact Kerry Davies on 0428 965 146 or email kazdavies@westnet.com.au.
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Looking for fun and creative activities to keep the kids entertained these school holidays?
Tocumwal Library has you covered with its exciting Library School Holiday Program, offering hands-on workshops perfect for children of all ages.
On Thursday, July 10, children can get their imaginations soaring with a kite making workshop.
For just $5, participants will have the chance to design and build their own colourful kites to take home.
The following week, on Thursday, July 17, the creativity continues with a no-sew scarf making session. This cosy crafting activity is just $4.
Both sessions begin at 10.30am, and bookings are essential. Be sure to secure your child’s spot early.
For bookings and more information, contact the Tocumwal Library on 5874 2633.
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The team at the Tocumwal Railway Heritage Museum are heading into hibernation to escape this winter cold.
The museum will be closed in July and will be reopening on Saturday, August 2 from 10am until 2pm.
They still hope to accommodate any group bookings over this period, so please get in touch with them to organise your group booking by calling 0417 868 498.
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If you have something of interest for inclusion in the ‘Tocumwal Tells’ column, or are celebrating a special event, please email leonie.smith1725@gmail.com or call on 0432 261 296.