THEY came from all parts of the planet and left Coffs Harbour’s Yarrila Place as newly minted Aussies after two official citizenship ceremonies last week.
Presiding officer and Mayor Nikki Williams told those who had taken The Pledge for Australian Citizenship they now enjoyed the “same rights and responsibilities as any other Australians”.
“Citizenship is a common bond which unites all Australians,” she said.
“Coffs Harbour in particular prides itself on its diversity.
“Australia’s future success depends on how we all work together.”
Mayor Williams was joined at the official events by Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan.
The conferees from more than a dozen countries, including Myanmar, New Zealand, Ethiopia, Iran, South Africa, Syrian Arab Republic, Thailand, Philippines, United Kingdom, Burundi, Argentina, Nepal and Spain, became Australian citizens as part of a ceremony held on Gumbaynggirr Country.
The event hosted by the City of Coffs Harbour was one of hundreds of ceremonies taking place across Australia that saw thousands of people officially become new citizens on or around Australian Citizenship Day.
“Australian Citizenship Day is an opportunity for all Australians, whether by birth or by choice, to reflect on and celebrate what’s great about being Australian,” Mayor Williams said.
“Australian Citizenship Day provides an occasion for individuals, schools and community organisations to reflect on the contributions of all citizens, new and old, to our local communities.”
The River Oak Room at Yarrila Place was an exotic palette of colour as many donned traditional dress for the occasion.
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