Thirty-three East Gippsland residents officially became Australian citizens during a milestone ceremony at the WORLD Sporting Precinct on Wednesday, July 15.
The new citizens represent 19 different countries of origin — including India, Thailand, England, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Peru, the United States, Zimbabwe, Germany, the United Kingdom, China, Pakistan, New Zealand, Switzerland, Taiwan, South Africa, Vietnam and Canada.
They were formally welcomed by East Gippsland Shire mayor Cr Jodie Ashworth in a ceremony filled with pride, colour and celebration.
“It is always a privilege to welcome new citizens,” 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 our region home.”
The latest cohort brings the total number of new citizens welcomed at East Gippsland Shire Council ceremonies so far this year to 94.
The region’s next citizenship ceremony is scheduled for Thursday, September 17, to coincide with national Australian Citizenship Day celebrations.
