Published on Wednesday, 22 September 2021 at 11:53:00 AM
The Shire of East Pilbara celebrated Australian Citizenship Day on Friday September 17, with a citizenship ceremony for 28 of our community’s newest citizens in Newman and Nullagine.
In the 2016 Census, about 38% of the Shire’s population were born overseas, and over 51% of people had at least one parent born overseas.
The Shire of East Pilbara embraces its vibrant community and diversity of culture, with that spirit being celebrated at the Citizenship ceremonies in Newman and Nullagine last week.
Shire President Anthony Middleton said it was incredibly meaningful to be able to welcome 28 new Australian citizens on the 20th anniversary of Australian Citizenship Day.
“Citizenship is a common bond which unites all Australia, whether they are Australia’ traditional inhabitants, first generation migrants or early settlers,” he said.
“Our people have made Australia what it is, building our nation into a vibrant, open and diverse society of which we can all be proud.
“We are part of such a diverse and multicultural region and nation, and being able to welcome 28 new citizens on Friday was so meaningful.”
Friday’s ceremonies included people from different countries, including the Philippines, India, South Africa, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, United States, Indonesia, Zimbabwe, Thailand and Taiwan.
Lilaraj Sharma was one of the 28 conferees who became an Australian citizen on Friday, at a ceremony in Nullagine.
“I’m too happy, it’s been too long waiting here in Nullagine. When the borders open I want to bring my wife here, I really like Nullagine,” he said.
Photos of the event (taken by Sarah Stampfli - Serene Bedlam Photography) can be found at the Shire of East Pilbara Facebook page.
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