East Gippsland Shire Council’s newest citizens were officially welcomedat a citizenship ceremony held on Sunday, September 17 to coincide with AustralianCitizenship Day.

The nine conferees from Iran, Thailand, South Africa, Pakistan, Fiji, Philippines,Kenya, Germany, and Britain, formally pledged their commitment to Australia infront of a crowd of 60 family and friends at St Mary’s Parish Centre,Bairnsdale.

The ceremonies for Australian citizenship aregreat occasions. An exciting moment for friends, family, and those who havedecided to make Australia their home.

Deputy Mayor CrAthur Allen presided over the ceremony.

“Australiancitizenship is the common bond that unites us all. Australia respects thediverse cultural inheritance of its citizens, and we are honoured you havechosen to become an Australian citizen,” Cr Allen said.

“Citizenship is a commitment to Australia,its people, the values we share, and our shared destiny.

“Our newest citizens represent a wide rangeof backgrounds and ages. Some have lived in East Gippsland or Australia formany years, while others are more recent arrivals to our great country. Congratulationsto those becoming Australian citizens on making their commitment to Australia.”

East Gippsland Shire Council holds four citizenship ceremonies each year.Attending a citizenship ceremony is the last step in the journey to become anAustralian citizen. The ceremony fulfils the requirements under Australiancitizenship law and provides an opportunity for Council to officially welcomeits new citizens.

The ceremony was livestreamed and can be viewed on council’s YouTubechannel at youtube.com/EastGippyTV.

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