The Southern Grampians Shire joins towns and regions across the nation in welcoming our newest Australian citizens as part of the Australia Day 2017 celebrations.
Five new citizens from two countries will pledge their loyalty to Australia and our people at the Shire’s Official Australia Day Ceremony in Hamilton on Thursday 26 January.
Yulecart local Victoria Condon is originally from Britain and has been living in the region for almost 41 years after migrating to Australia as a child. Victoria says it is “about time she officially became an Australian Citizen”, and plans to celebrate with 14 family and friends at the Shire’s Official Australia Day ceremony in Hamilton.
Penshurst resident Juby Jacob, together with his wife Jishamol Abraham and their son Alex and daughter Angelina are thrilled to officially become Australian Citizens on Australia Day after living and working in the region for 5 years.
Southern Grampians Shire Council Mayor Cr Mary-Ann Brown said it was an opportunity to reflect on the importance of citizenship as a unifying bond strengthening the local community.
“Australia Day is a time for us to congratulate our newest citizens and welcome them to the Australian family,” Mayor Brown said.
Across Australia, more than 16,000 people from around 150 countries are set to become Australian citizens at over 400 citizenship ceremonies on 26 January.
Mayor Brown said many conferees have lived in Australia for a long time and already feel Australian, but choose Australia Day to make their citizenship official.
“We are very encouraged to have so many locals attend and join in on the local celebrations on Australia Day, as we all reflect on our commitment to make Australia an even better place for future generations,” Mayor Brown said.