17/03/2026
Our President, Hiroko Prado, was honoured to celebrate the 65th Anniversary of Ikebana International Sydney Chapter with members, guests, and friends.
The day featured a beautiful exhibition, an inspiring demonstration, and a joyful dinner, We are especially grateful to our patron, the Consul-General of Japan in Sydney, and Mrs Yamanaka, for opening the event with a warm speech and their continued support. During the dinner, we were delighted to be entertained by shamisen player Sayuri Hayashi, whose performance added a truly enchanting atmosphere.
A highlight was the guest demonstration by Headmaster Rishi Otsuka and Headmaster Designate Rikou Otsuka, a father and son duo who travelled all the way from Tokyo. We were also delighted to welcome Ray Bywaters (President, Ikebana International Adelaide) and Anna Kwan (President, Ikebana International Singapore Chapter), as well as members from the Tokyo Founding Chapter.
Our thanks to the Consular community for joining, and to everyone who contributed—especially Clifton Tam for capturing these beautiful moments. Special thanks also go to Faye Brock and Pat Walters for working tirelessly behind the scenes, Kuniko Nakano and Megumi Bennett for providing materials from their gardens, Kiyoshi Hasegawa and Vickie Tan for assisting with the reception, and Junko Daniels for overall support.
Here’s to continuing to share the beauty and spirit of ikebana, and to fostering cultural exchange across our chapters! 🌿