By Steve Dawson
On 17 October 2025, Nikkei Australia members Dr Yuriko Nagata, Chair Elysha Rei, and Steve Dawson gathered in Brisbane at the University of Queensland to speak to visiting students from Kwansei Gakuin University, arranged and supported by their teacher, Professor Jun Nagatomo from the School of International Studies. The students, as part of sociology studies, are particularly interested in Nikkei identities.
Following Professor Nagatomo’s welcome remarks, Dr Nagata provided a concise, thoughtful background about Japanese immigration to Australia, including groupings and locations, and elucidated the internment of Japanese people in Australia during World War II. Finally, and fittingly, she highlighted Broncos star Gehamat Shibasaki as a 5th generation Nikkei story.
Steve Dawson gave a visually stimulating historical account of the first Japanese settler in Australia, Sakuragawa Rikinosuke, focusing on the legacy of his adopted son and protege, Togawa Iwakichi (Ewar Dicinoski – progenitor of the unique Dicinoski clan).
Elysha Rei spoke fondly about her Obaachama, Akiko, who was a Japanese war bride. A poignant and thrilling moment was Elysha’s realisation that the Forgan Smith building in which she was speaking was the same building Akiko worked in as a tutor for the Japanese Language and Literature Department, newly introduced in 1966 by Professor Joyce Ackroyd. Dr Nagata had the pleasure of showing Elysha her Obaachama’s former office location. Elysha also shared highlights of her arts career, showcasing paper cutting (kiri-e), including her recent experience at World Expo Osaka 2025, as part of a display at the Australia Pavilion.
Finally, there was an inspiring Q&A session, where Professor Nagatomo’s students also provided well-received and grateful feedback for this Australian Nikkei experience.
Special thanks and gratitude, once again, to Dr Nagata for being the linchpin in yet another wonderful Nikkei Australia activity.
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