Bradley and his companion, Dorian, are seen by the sea in Sanya, South China’s Hainan province. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Extracts from Bradley McConachie's interview with chinadaily.com.cn

Why did you choose to come to China and participate in such a cultural project?

I am majoring in international relations and my research is focusing on Australian government-funded education programs, as a tool of public diplomacy in China. The Australian Government funds these programs as they are thought to build relationships and mutual understanding between the peoples of Australia and China. I find it so interesting to talk with Chinese students who have returned to China after studying in Australia and Australian students currently studying in China to find out how their programs have impacted them and their future careers. I came to China to survey students and alumni of these programs to find out more about their in-country experiences. I am a strong believer in education as a tool for breaking down negative stereotypes and building bridges between different nations. China is an incredibly important relationship for Australia’s economic future, yet we have very different cultural and political systems. There is no more important time for Australians to build an understanding of working and living in China than right now. I came to Beijing just under two years ago to work with researchers at Peking University. For me, I could not resist this opportunity to experience a day in the life of a Chinese employee and learn so much about Chinese culture.