19 September 2022

Gunnedah Shire has welcomed 15 new citizens at a citizenship ceremony as part of Australian Citizenship Day celebrations.

The conferees from eight countries, including Indonesia, Vietnam, Ireland, Bangladesh, Zimbabwe, Philippines, Pakistan and the Netherlands, became Australian citizens at a ceremony at the Civic Theatre on Saturday. This year marks the 21st anniversary of Australian Citizenship Day.

Gunnedah Shire Mayor Councillor Jamie Chaffey said Australian Citizenship Day was an opportunity for all Australians in their community, whether by birth or by choice, to reflect on, and celebrate what’s great about being Australian.

“Australian Citizenship Day provides an occasion for us all to reflect on the contributions of citizens to our local communities. There is no greater privilege than our citizenship, and as Mayor it is always an honour to see these new Australians through the final stages of their citizenship journey.

“Gunnedah Shire is a culturally diverse community that is continually growing as more and more people from other nations make their homes here. Our community has a reputation as welcoming to all nations and it is important that we continue to diversify and grow as a community.

“I encourage everyone in the Gunnedah Shire to reflect on and affirm their Australian citizenship on September 17 as we warmly welcome our newest citizens.”

For more information about Australian Citizenship Day and Australian citizenship, visit www.citizenship.gov.au.

Caption: Gunnedah Shire welcomed 15 new citizens on Australian Citizenship Day on Saturday.

For further information, contact Gunnedah Shire Council’s Communications team on 02 6740 2100.

ENDS