East Gippsland Shire has 17 new citizens following a citizenship ceremony on the morning of Tuesday 17 September.

The new citizens, who hailed from Iran, the Philippines, New Zealand, United States of America, Vietnam, Taiwan, Italy, and United Kingdom formally pledged their commitment to Australia in front of a large gathering of family and friends at St Mary’s Parish Centre, Bairnsdale.

East Gippsland Shire Council Mayor Cr Tom Crook presided the ceremony while CEO Fiona Weigall served as master of ceremonies.

“Each year on September 17, we celebrate Australian Citizenship Day. By becoming an Australian, you are showing that you want to have a say in Australia's future. It is pleasing to see that family and friends have come along today to support you all today and to witness this very special occasion,” Ms Weigall said.

The new citizens received a certificate, a commemorative citizenship coin, and a native plant as a gift from Council. This ceremony signifies the completion of all requirements set by Australian law for citizenship.

The ceremony was live-streamed so family and friends from across the world could watch the special occasion.

The ceremony can be viewed on Council’s YouTube channel, East Gippy TV.

Around 11 per cent of East Gippsland Shire’s population of nearly 50,000 residents were born overseas.

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