Although the relationship between the two centres is still very much in its infancy there is already a lot to like and most certainly a great deal of potential.

Two more exchange visits are planned next year, the aim being to give a shot in the arm to education, tourism and agriculture links.

Changchun, in north-eastern China, has already signed a sister-city agreement with Warrnambool and has sent two delegations to check out what our region has to offer in the way of goods and services that might benefit its population of 3.2 million — a small city by Chinese standards.

The state government has encouraged the partnership between Changchun and Warrnambool and has kicked in $220,000 to fund a pilot project to demonstrate economic opportunities for Victorian and Chinese cities.

If tangible, realistic trade opportunities present themselves the Warrnambool experience could form part of a blueprint for other regions to work from as they seek closer business ties with our massive Asian neighbour.

Although there is still some suspicion and cynicism in some quarters about China’s agenda with regard to Australia, particularly in the dairy sector, the city council recognises that the benefits far outweigh the harm in the long term.

Putting it simply, if China likes what it sees in Warrnambool and the south-west the opportunities for good are immeasurable if local businesses are smart enough to see them.

A Changchun secondee will be based in Warrnambool for eight months next year, hosted by local businesses.

His mission will be to check out what we have to offer and look for ways to do business with us in coming years.

Warrnambool has taken a smart, forward-thinking step in putting its hand up for this pilot program. It is big-picture thinking at its best and if it works will help lay an important foundation for future prosperity.

It is much more than just a sister-city relationship — it is the start of a very important business deal.