Maggie and Darryl Patterson initially approached Goulburn Mulwaree Council with the idea.

They have commenced a charitable status organisation to support vulnerable women and children in Timor Leste (commonly known as East Timor).

Mayor Bob Kirk recently met with his Excellency Mr Abel Guterres, Ambassador Extraordinary of Timor Leste, in Council Chambers to formalise the agreement.

“The opportunity has come about through Maggie & Darryl who should be commended on the community work they are planning and undertaking in Timor Leste.

“It was wonderful to meet Mr Guterres and have him in Goulburn. He spoke of the efforts in Timor Leste to create Local Government organisations and give power back to the community, building a strong democratic country.

“Timor Leste will be using Australian Council’s such as Goulburn Mulwaree as an example for success and I look forward to a productive relationship on a number of levels.”

The formal relationship is between the Sub-District of Quelicai, Municipality of Baucau and the Citizens of Goulburn Mulwaree Council.

The two areas have agreed to work together to recognise and promote the rights of people in both areas to manage their own affairs and destiny.

Councillors resolved to enter into this Friendship City agreement at the meeting held on November 8, 2017.