By Lucy Waldron
Thirteen new citizens were welcomed in Stanthorpe on 17 September.
Southern Downs Mayor Melissa Hamilton officially welcomed the new Australian citizens, marking an important milestone in their journey to becoming part of the Australian community.
The event coincided with Australian Citizenship Day, celebrated nationally on 17 September 2024.
Mayor Hamilton, who led the proceedings, reflected on the significance of the day.
“This year, we mark 75 years since Australian citizenship was introduced into law, creating for the first time a legal status of being uniquely Australian,” she said.
“Since 1949, we have welcomed more than 5 million new Australian citizens to our shores.”
The mayor emphasised the importance of the ceremony as not just a formal recognition of new citizens, but also an opportunity for all Australians to reflect on their role in building a cohesive and prosperous nation.
“To our conferees here today, this ceremony marks the end of your journey as a migrant and the beginning of your life as an Australian citizen. I offer you all my congratulations and wish you the very best for your future as you go forward as Australian citizens,” Cr Hamilton said.
One family from Christchurch who took the pledge on Tuesday said they have been in Australia for 17 years, now reside in Wheatvale and have decided it’s about time to become citizens as they already call Australia home.
Youth Council representative Penny Andreatta also addressed the gathering, offering her congratulations to the new citizens.
“We are honoured to play a small part in today’s leadership ceremony. Events like this are an important part of why we choose the Southern Downs as a great place to live, work, play, and stay,” Penny said.
“I love living in the Southern Downs because of its country town atmosphere.
“My entire family grew up here, so I feel connected to these stories and know the people and places that shaped their childhood.”
The ceremony, held under the authority of the Australian Citizenship Act of 2007, saw participants make the official Citizenship Pledge, formally accepting the rights and responsibilities of being Australian citizens.
“Today, your new nation says to you, welcome home,” Mayor Hamilton concluded.
