Thirty-one new citizens were officially welcomed as Aussies at a special Citizenship ceremony at the Glasshouse.
Port Macquarie-Hastings Council said it is a significant day for each of the candidates, representing an important step in their life; and creates an opportunity for candidates to announce their ongoing commitment to Australia and the national values.
Local residents taking part in the ceremony originated from countries including the United Kingdom, Philippines, United States, Colombia, New Zealand and Kenya. A number of families also registered to make the pledge as Australian citizens together.
Administrator Neil Porter, who officiated at the day’s proceedings, said the ceremony was his final citizenship ceremony before the Local Government Elections in September. Officiating at citizenship ceremonies will form part of the civic duties required of the incumbent Mayor.
“The citizenship ceremony is a wonderful occasion, not only for our newest Australian citizens, but for our community as a whole and my involvement at the ceremony as Administrator is one I have thoroughly enjoyed,” Mr Porter said.
“One of the things that makes our region great is the diversity and different experiences of people within our area, and I enjoyed celebrating with my new compatriots after the ceremony on Wednesday.”
