Wingecarribee Shire to welcome new citizens
Thirty one residents from across the globe will make the pledge of Australian Citizenship as part of Wingecarribee Shire Council’s 2019 Australia Day celebrations this Saturday 26 January in Berrima.
Wingecarribee Shire Mayor Duncan Gair said the occasion was a chance to acknowledge the importance of citizenship.
“Becoming an Australian citizen is a very special occasion,” he said. “But doing so on Australia Day is particularly memorable.”
2019 commemorates 70 years since Australian Citizenship was introduced into law, creating for the first time a legal status of being uniquely Australian.
“Australian citizenship is a shared identity,” the Mayor said. “It’s a common bond which unites all Australians while respecting our diversity.”
“It also marks the final stage of a migrant’s journey as they pledge their commitment to Australia and its people and accept the privileges and responsibilities of becoming an Australian.”
The 31 residents taking the pledge on Saturday hail from the United Kingdom, India, Iran, Taiwan, Vietnam, the Netherlands, Canada, South Korea, Thailand, Hungary, Poland, Nepal, Indonesia and the remote British Indian Ocean Territory.
“We’re extremely humbled and excited that these residents have all chosen to call the Southern Highlands home and we congratulate them as they join our Australian family,” Councillor Gair added.
Wingecarribee Shire’s official Australia Day program kicks off at 9.30am at the historic Berrima Court House Museum.
The morning will also feature an address from this year’s Australia Day Ambassador – international chef, businessman and author David Bitton – who will address the crowd prior to the announcement of the 2019 Australia Day Citizen of the Year recipients.
“David has some amazing stories working in some of the finest dining establishments across Europe and Australia,” the Mayor said. “I look forward to hearing what drew him to our shores and his plans for the future.”
“We’re absolutely thrilled that he has agreed to join us and we can’t wait to hear his address.”
After the official ceremony guests can enjoy morning tea, complete with lamingtons.
Celebrations will continue with the famous street parade at 12 noon featuring vintage cars, bikes and tractors. Entertainment will continue until 4pm and includes rides, amusements and a farmyard nursery for the children.
Food, drinks and market stalls will also be available.
“I encourage everyone to join in Wingecarribee Shire’s Australia Day festivities and celebrate all that’s great about our wonderful country,” Mayor Gair said.
Entry to the Shire’s official Australia Day celebrations is free.
For further information contact Council’s Australia Day Coordinator on 4868 0719 or visit Council’s website at www.wsc.nsw.gov.au/australia-day.