Wingecarribee Shire to welcome new citizens
Thirteen residents from the United Kingdom, Germany, India, Cambodia, Italy and New Zealand will make the pledge of Australian Citizenship as part of Wingecarribee Shire Council’s 2014 Australia Day celebrations this Sunday 26 January at Berrima.
Wingecarribee Shire Mayor, Councillor Juliet Arkwright said the occasion was not only a chance to celebrate what unites Australians on Australia Day but to also acknowledge the importance of citizenship in Australia.
“Becoming an Australian citizen is without a doubt a very special occasion, but doing so on Australia Day makes it even more memorable,” the Mayor said.
“Australia Day is always a special day for Australians and with this year’s events also marking the 65th year of Australian citizenship, there has never been a better time to celebrate the spirit and diversity of our country.”
The status of Australian citizenship was created by the Nationality and Citizenship Act 1948 which came into force on 26 January 1949.
“For those becoming an Australian citizen, it is a particularly significant occasion, marking the final stage of their migrant journey as they pledge their commitment to Australia and its people and accept the privileges and responsibilities of Australian citizenship,” Mayor Arkwright said.
“The Southern Highlands community is proud and excited to welcome every one of its newest citizens and wishes them well as they make the pledge to officially join the Australian family.”
Wingecarribee Shire’s official Australia Day program kicks off at 9.30am at the historic Berrima Court House Museum.
Following the citizenship ceremony, our Australia Day Ambassador – local radio broadcaster Graeme Day – will address the crowd prior to the announcement of this year’s Australia Day Citizen and Young Citizen of the Year recipients.
Celebrations continue with the famous grand parade at 12 noon featuring vintage cars, fire engines and tractors. Entertainment will continue until 4pm and include heaps of rides, amusements and a farmyard nursery for the children. Entry is free.
Food, drinks and market stalls will also be available.
“I encourage the entire community to join in Wingecarribee Shire’s Australia Day festivities and celebrate all that is great about our nation.”
For further information contact Council’s Australia Day Coordinator on 4868 0719 or visit Council’s
website at www.wsc.nsw.gov.au.