From July 24-31, 2004, a total of 29 children (23 Carrum Downs & 6 Ed Parks/Lonsdale) and 4 Location Chiefs (chaperones) from AAPL traveled to Japan for the annual Yazaki Summer Camp.

The Melbourne group were seen off by family from Carrum Downs on a cold Saturday morning at the delightful time of 4.00am and met up with the Adelaide crew at Tullamarine airport.

Enjoying a traditional Taiko concert

This year's contingent was a record number for AAPL and, in fact, we had the biggest group from any single overseas affiliate. Only Yazaki North America had more participants due to the many varied companies under the YNA umbrella.

In total, there were about 180 kids from 25 overseas Yazaki companies represented. Many new friends and, hopefully, long lasting relationships, were made over the week. In a hot and sticky Japanese summer, the parties were divided into two groups for the first four days. One bound for Kyoto in Japan's west (2 buses) and one for Tokyo (4 buses). There was plenty of sightseeing, not to mention bus-riding time!

Visiting Disneyland in Tokyo

The two groups were reunited on Wednesday night at Gotemba, ahead, of the official farewell party on Thursday hosted by Chairman Yazaki. Unfortunately, due to an impending typhoon, the farewell party was transferred to the Y-City Hall, rather than the gardens of the Yazaki guesthouse Ikkyusu. Nevertheless, the party was a fine display of Japanese Don Don Daiko drumming was thoroughly enjoyed by all.

The theme of this year's camp was "The oceans, skies and earth belong to everyone on this planet. What can we do for our environment?"

Chairman Yazaki made an address to all emphasizing Yazaki Corporation's commitment to this theme.

Meeting Chairman Yazaki

A representative group gave a gift to Mr. Yazaki on behalf of all AAPL campers.

The final day, Friday, saw a trip to Tokyo Disneyland. It was hot and busy, but fun! That night at the closing dinner, fellow campers from USA, Europe, Thailand and our YES colleagues from Samoa entertained us.

Farewell Concert

Farewells to new friends from around the world were exchanged throughout Saturday July 31st, before AAPL departed for Australia on overnight flights. A terrific experience for all!

Our thanks go to Mr. Kan Ito and Yazaki Corporation for continuing to support the Summer Camp.