Fraser Coast welcomes 77 new Australian citizens
MORE than 70 Fraser Coast residents proudly pledged their commitment to Australia at a special ceremony in Maryborough as part of Australian Citizenship Day.
Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour said this year marked the 76th anniversary of Australian citizenship, with today’s ceremony in Maryborough one of hundreds held across the country, welcoming thousands of new citizens nationwide.
“Our new citizens on the Fraser Coast range in age from three to 79 and were born in 16 different countries,” he said.
“Australian Citizenship Day is not only a chance for new citizens to embrace their future, but also a day for all Australians, whether by birth or by choice, to reflect on what it means to belong.
“Since the first citizenship ceremony in 1949, more than six million people from over 200 countries have become Australian citizens.
Today, more than half of all Australians were either born overseas or have a parent who was.
“Citizenship provides us with a shared identity and a sense of belonging, while allowing us to celebrate the many cultures, traditions and stories that strengthen our nation.
“For those making the pledge today, it is the start of a new chapter filled with opportunity. For the rest of us, it is a privilege to welcome them as part of our Fraser Coast community.”
The Mayor was joined at today’s ceremony by Member for Wide Bay Mr Llew O’Brien MP, fellow Fraser Coast Regional Councillors, students from St Mary’s College studying Civics and Citizenship, and St Mary’s College student Bomi Adebanjo, who performed the National Anthem.
The moving event highlighted the importance of community and the pride that comes with becoming an Australian.
Families, friends and community members gathered to celebrate the occasion, applauding as each new citizen made their pledge.
Local representatives said the event not only recognised the personal journeys of those becoming citizens, but also the collective strength that diversity brings to the region.
For more information about Australian Citizenship Day, citizenship eligibility and the application process, visit www.citizenship.gov.au
