THE Southern Downs has welcomed 21 new Australian citizens into the community.
Time was taken out from the council general meeting for the ceremony to introduce the new citizens and present their certificates.
A wide range of countries and cultures were represented including Brazil, India, Nepal, Netherlands, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore and South Africa.
Mayor Peter Blundell officially welcomed the citizens with the certificate and an Australian native plant as a welcome gift.
“We hope the plants take pride of place in the gardens of our new citizens and grow alongside them and their families,” Cr Blundell said.
“Choosing to become an Australian citizen is a very significant expression of a person’s pride in being part of Australia’s dynamic and diverse society, and on behalf of council, I congratulate each of our new citizens on their decision to become an Australian citizen.”
Mayor Blundell said it was good to see such a large group at the ceremony.
“It’s very special to be part of their day as they become an Australian citizen and we were all proud to sing the national anthem with them and take photos of the important ceremony,” he said.
