Diana Chashchina from Russia is immersing herself in the Australian way of life during a month-long stay as part of a Rotary sponsored program.
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A guest of the Rotary Club of Taree, the majority of the 22-year-old's time has been based in the Manning and she said what has stood out to her is "how active the community is, including in volunteering".
"Every person is really nice and always smiling, you wouldn't see that in Russia. Also, how you're really open to helping others".
From Irkutsk, Siberia, Diana studied a business degree at Baikal International Business School at Irkutsk State University (ISU) and was selected to participate in the Watch and Learn program, established and operated by Rotarian Vladimir Donskoy of ISU.
She is being hosted by several Rotary families during her stay, Karenne Norling, Ian Dyball and Judy Richardson, Colin and Di Rose, and Ian and Di Woollard.
Ian Dyball first established connections with Vladimir 25 years ago when he was asked to head up a program to reach out to the people of Russia.
The purpose of Watch and Learn is to give Russian business students exposure and experience in a western democracy, and how companies and their management operate.
Diana has spent time at Mid Coast Council, Manning Support Services, and learned about different aspects healthcare, and how it is accessed, from a doctor's surgery, to Manning Hospital's accident and emergency and the oncology department, and aged care.
Her biggest highlight has been petting a wallaby during a visit to Billabong Zoo. "They're really cute and fluffy. I want to have one as a pet." She also lists scones with jam and cream as among her favourite foods after trying them in Moorland.
Diana has also seen and swam in the ocean for the first time (in Newcastle), went to North Brother Lookout, explored a State Forest, had a flight over the Manning, went whale watching at Crowdy Lighthouse, met artist and Biripi elder Russell Saunders and more.
On Monday she will give a talk to Rotary members about life and conditions in Siberia and also some comparisons between our communities.
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