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East Gippsland welcomes new citizens in Bairnsdale for April 2022

East Gippsland's newest citizens have been officially welcomed at citizenship ceremony in Bairnsdale on Tuesday 26 April.

By news@gippsland - 26th April 2022 - Back to News

The 24 participants from the United States, Czech Republic, Britain, Germany, India, Malaysia, New Zealand and the Philippines, formally pledged their commitment to Australia at the ceremony, which was the final step in their citizenship journey.

Karen Cantutay of the Philippines with Sean-Alexander, Sean-Archer and Jerome Cantutay

Change for the better

East Gippsland Shire Council Mayor Cr Mark Reeves said citizenship ceremonies are one of the highlights of his role. "Welcoming people from all walks of life and all corners of the globe to East Gippsland changes our community for the better. I am absolutely thrilled that 24 new citizens have chosen to live in our wonderful part of the world."

Helping make the citizenship ceremony special for Tim Garthwaite (second from right) are, from left, Ian and Kim Dunwoodie, Emily Garthwaite, and Irene Dunwoodie

"I wish everyone who has become an Australian citizen today, every success in the future and enjoy their new life in the East Gippsland Shire." Cr Reeves said. East Gippsland Shire has welcomed over 50 new citizens this year. The next ceremony will be held on Tuesday, July 26. You can watch the ceremony on East Gippsland Shire Council's YouTube channel.