East Gippsland has 15 new citizens following a citizenship ceremony held in Bairnsdale last week.
The new citizens, hailing from the Philippines, New Zealand, England, Taiwan, Vietnam, Germany, Malaysia, Russian Federation, the United States of America, Thailand, and Uganda, formally pledged their commitment to Australia in front of a large gathering of family and friends at St Mary’s Parish Centre.
The ceremony was presided by East Gippsland Shire Council mayor Cr John White and Kaylene Williamson performed the Welcome to Country.
The mayor congratulated the new citizens, acknowledging their journey to becoming part of the Australian community, expressing her admiration for their commitment to embracing the rights and responsibilities of citizenship and wishing them a happy and successful future in Australia.
“This is a special day for our newest citizens and their families. Some of our new citizens have been community members for many years, and other are recently new to East Gippsland. It is a pleasure to have them all part of our community,” Cr White said.
The mayor reflected on how this year marks the 76th anniversary of Australian citizenship, a milestone that began on January 26, 1949, with the introduction of the Nationality and Citizenship Act.
“Since then, more than six million people from over 200 nations have been granted Australian citizenship,” Cr White said.
“Taking up Australian citizenship is a serious step. It is a symbol of commitment to the country which you have chosen to make your home. “However, no one who becomes an Australian citizen is expected to renounce their cultural identity.
“The customs and traditions you have grown up with are a part of your heritage. It is important that you maintain these links with your past, for this cultural mix, is what makes Australia a unique and special country.”
Each conferee received a certificate, a commemorative citizenship coin, and a native plant as a gift from council, marking the completion of all legal requirements for Australian citizenship.
The ceremony was live-streamed so family and friends, near and far, could be part of the celebration. The ceremony is available to watch on council’s YouTube channel.
