Danish Exchange Student Reunites in Australia After 25 Years

In a heartwarming reunion, Danish exchange student Andreas Arnvig recently revisited Australia after a span of 25 years, accompanied by his family. The reunion was a special occasion where Andreas had the chance to reconnect with friends he had made during his exchange program in 1999, notably Steven Mottlee from Woolgoolga.

Andreas’s initial exchange experience in Australia was facilitated by the INTO Education program, with Steven serving as the Australian Coordinator. To commemorate Andreas’s return with his wife Doris and daughters Vilde and Clara, Steven organized a lunch at C.ex Woolgoolga Bowling Club, reflecting on the enduring bonds forged across continents and time.

During his stay in Australia as a student, Andreas developed a keen interest in media and public relations, leading to a unique opportunity to host his radio program, the Australian International Student Hour, on Canberra Local Multi-Cultural Radio Station. Through this platform, Andreas engaged with prominent figures like Senator Gary Humphries and ACT Chief Minister Kate Carnell, broadening his horizons and skill set.

Following his initial exchange stint, Andreas returned to Australia in 2004/2005 on a working holiday visa with his Danish friends Rasmus and Ole, eager to share his love for the country with them. Now, as a father, he felt compelled to introduce his family to the significant places and people that shaped his life in Australia, including his former host family and Steven Mottlee, who played a pivotal role in his Australian journey.

The reunion was marked by a touching gesture from Steven, who presented Andreas’s family with a limited edition Royal Doulton figurine of Princess Mary, now Queen Mary of Denmark, signed by Michael Doulton himself. This symbolic gift encapsulated the enduring friendship and memories shared between Andreas, his family, and his Australian connections.

Through this reunion, Andreas not only revisited cherished memories but also celebrated the cross-cultural friendships and experiences that transcend time and distance. The essence of the reunion lay in the profound impact of international exchanges, fostering lifelong connections and enriching perspectives across borders.