Latest Australian citizens welcomed to shire: Bega Valley

Screen shot of Mayor Russell Fitzpatrick, Acting CEO Anthony McMahon, Djirringarns elder Aunty Colleen Dixon and our newest Australian citizens.
Screen shot of Mayor Russell Fitzpatrick, Acting CEO Anthony McMahon, Djirringarns elder Aunty Colleen Dixon and some of our newest Australian citizens.

An online citizenship ceremony was held today, welcoming 17 new Australian citizens.

The origins of our newest citizens include Colombia, South Africa, the Netherlands, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, the United Kingdom and the United States.

Bega Valley Shire Mayor, Russell Fitzpatrick congratulated our new citizens and on behalf of the local community, wished them well as they start their new lives as Australians.

“Today’s ceremony is particularly significant as not only is it Australian Citizenship Day, but it’s the 20th anniversary of this great day,” Cr Fitzpatrick said.

“It is the day we reflect on the meaning and importance of Australian citizenship and the responsibilities and privileges we have as citizens.

“Choosing to become an Australian citizen is an important expression of loyalty and commitment to our country.

“Australian citizenship is something to be valued and celebrated, and today is a moment in the lives of our newest citizens to be remembered with honour and enjoyment.”

/Public Release. View in full here.