Refugee Week was celebrated across Australia last week under the powerful theme, One Million Stories, marking a historic milestone that recognises the one million individual journeys that have helped shape modern Australia. Each story reflects the unique experiences of individuals, families, and communities who continue to enrich the cultural fabric of the nation.
Against this national backdrop of reflection and celebration, the East Gippsland Shire Council proudly welcomed 31 new Australian citizens at an official ceremony held at the WORLD Sporting Precinct in Bairnsdale on Thursday, June 18.
The citizenship ceremony was led by Mayor Cr Jodie Ashworth, who formally inducted residents originating from 16 diverse countries, including Britain, Botswana, Canada, France, Germany, India, Nepal, New Zealand, the Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Taiwan and the United Kingdom.
Cr Ashworth said the occasion beautifully mirrors the national theme while reflecting the true strength and diversity of the local community.
“It is always a privilege to welcome new citizens to call East Gippsland home,” Cr Ashworth said.
“Each person brings their own story, experiences, and hopes for the future, and together they enrich the fabric of our community. East Gippsland is made stronger by its diversity, and we are grateful to those who have chosen to call this region home.”
The East Gippsland Shire Council extends its warm congratulations and best wishes to all new citizens as they embark on this next chapter of their lives as official Australians.
The latest cohort brings the total number of new citizens welcomed at council ceremonies so far this year to 63. Primary producers and community members looking ahead to the next intake won’t have to wait long, with the next citizenship ceremony scheduled to take place on Wednesday, July 15.
