By CASEY NEILL
BERWICK Rotarians opened Jenny Randle’s eyes to the working life and culture of Turkey.
The Berwick woman told the Rotary Club of Berwick that her participation in the Group Study Exchange (GSE) program also improved her ability to communicate, particularly with people who didn’t speak English or used it as a second language.
The club sponsored the Prensa environmental consultant to take part in the Turkey tour in April.
“She reported that it had been a very stimulating and informative experience and that her Turkish hosts were very welcoming, generous and hospitable,” public relations director Sam McCurdy said.
“The GSE team visited Anzac Cove, which they found to be a very moving experience.”
Ms Randle lived with several host families and visited 15 Turkish Rotary Clubs during her trip.
At each, she gave a presentation on Australia and her specific vocational role and collected banners that she brought back to Berwick president Gus Dominguez.
“On the vocational side, she learned that although Turkey follows similar regulatory standards for the environment as Australia, the problem there appears to be in the enforcement of the standards,” Mr McCurdy.
“For example, they expressed surprise about precautions that should to be taken when dealing with asbestos.
“She suggested that something similar to Clean-up Australia Day could be introduced to engage and inform youth on environmental issues. Her hosts thought this was an excellent idea.”
Mr McCurdy said she viewed several important archaeological sites, learned about different interpretations and applications of the Muslim religion, and developed a taste for Turkish food.
The group exchange program was founded in 1965 and allows young professionals to study abroad as well as learn different practices overseas.
The incoming Turkish team visited Berwick in March.
