Over the past five years Central Queensland University Homestay participant Nadine Buckton has played mum to more than 20 international students.

Nadine said she has had up to four students stay with her at any one time from countries such as Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Thailand and Turkey. She is currently hosting two students, Hirofumi Koyanagi and Nappadol Feungfung.

“Some only stay for a few weeks when they are on tour groups and others have stayed up to 18 months,” Nadine said.

“I have a fairly large home and my partner is away a lot, so I really enjoy the company.

“The students get to learn about our culture and I learn about theirs. They get the opportunity to interact with Australian families, practice their English language and are able to have peace and quiet when they need to study.

“As a Homestay “mum” I am responsible for making the students’ lunch and dinner and I offer to drive them to University and pick them up each day.

Hirofumi Koyanagi and Nappadol Feungfung.

Director of the CQU Language Centre, Paulo Vieria said the Homestay program played a vital part in housing the University’s international students.

He said families often received a different perspective on their own culture and lifestyle by having international students living in their homes. “Host families enjoy understanding different ways of life and are often inspired to travel themselves. There are also financial benefits too.

“There are responsibilities in being a host family, but these young adults are fairly independent and self sufficient.

CQU Homestay organisers are currently looking for enthusiastic families or singles to join their database of Homestay providers for short or long-term stays.

If you think you could provide this important and rewarding service for an international student please contact Paulo Vieria on 4930 6577 or email p.vieria@cqu.edu.au.