Remarks by Consul-General Ms Haneda at The Akita Sake and Food Tasting Event on Monday 4 August 2014
Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is my great pleasure to say a few words at this event to taste sake and food from Akita Prefecture.
I would like to welcome the members of the Akita delegation to Melbourne. Akita is famous for its excellent rice and water which are both necessary for producing good sake. Victoria is also home to some of the best wineries in Australia.
Akita food is also loved all over Japan. The people of Melbourne are great supporters of the cuisine of many different cultures. I believe that there is great potential for the sake and food of Akita to grow in popularity in Melbourne.
Finally, I would like to mention a similarity between Akita Prefecture and Melbourne. Many tourists who have visited Akita will have seen the Namahage Festival which features people dressed as red and blue demons. Of course, Melbourne has its very own red and blue demons that come out to play in winter.
Once again, I sincerely appreciate that the delegation from Akita chose to introduce its sake and food to Melbourne. I also appreciate the interest shown by people who have come here today to experience Akita’s sake and food.
Thank you.