Gippsland › Latest news › East Gippsland Local News
Thirty-six new Australians welcomed in Bairnsdale ceremony celebrating East Gippsland's growing cultural diversity and community
Gippsland ceremony, celebrating community, connection, and the region's vibrant cultural diversity at St Mary's Parish, Bairnsdale.
Thirty-six East Gippsland residents took a proud step on Thursday 12 June, officially becoming Australian citizens at a welcoming Citizenship Ceremony hosted by East Gippsland Shire Council at St Mary's Parish, Bairnsdale.
Thirty-six East Gippsland residents from 15 countries became Australian citizens at a welcoming ceremony in Bairnsdale on 12 June 2025
Welcoming New Australians
Originally from countries including France, Malta, Thailand, China, Sri Lanka, the United Kingdom, Vietnam, New Zealand, Malaysia, Ukraine, the Philippines, South Africa, Nepal, India and Pakistan, these new Australians now proudly call East Gippsland home.
Mayor Cr John White said that council was honoured to host the event on behalf of the Department of Home Affairs. "We're proud to welcome these 36 individuals to the Australian family. It was a joyful morning of celebration, and we're honoured they've chosen East Gippsland as the place to build their lives."
Among the new citizens was Ilse and Jan Malan from South Africa, who moved to Australia in 2016 after an opportunity arose to join a rural GP practice. "What brought us here was a professional opportunity, but what made us stay was the lifestyle," Ilse said. "Living in East Gippsland offers the same love for the outdoors we had back home - but with added peace of mind and access to great public services."
Celebrating cultural diversity
Ilse said the family enjoy being active members of the local community and have found connection through their church, local friendships, and the region's natural beauty. "We love that we can raise our children close to lakes, forests, and the beach and still enjoy traditional South African foods thanks to local stores."
"Our new citizens bring with them unique cultures and stories that enrich our communities. Ceremonies like this remind us how inclusive and vibrant East Gippsland is," Cr White said stories like theirs reflect the region's growing diversity.
East Gippsland Shire Council will host one more citizenship ceremony this year on 17 September which is Australian Citizenship Day. To learn more about becoming an Australian citizen, visit Department of Home Affairs website or call 13 18 80.
Pictures from East Gippsland Shire Council Facebook page.
Source: http://gippsland.com/
Published by: news@gippsland.com
Latest News
Bairnsdale Visitor Information Centre relocates, expands mobile services for flexible, cost-effective visitor support model
Independent panel completes Paynesville and Eagle Point growth review, considers community needs and environmental protection
Latrobe City Business Festival returns with range of events to connect and inspire on 2 to 18 September 2025
Latrobe City Council adopts 2025/26 budget and revenue plan following extensive community consultation and feedback
Latrobe City Council exceeds state average in Community Satisfaction Survey (CSS), commits to improvement in key areas
Tim Bull calls for shelter at Bairnsdale busy Coles Bus stop after relocation left commuters exposed
Tim Bull presents Victorian flags to Mallacoota and Cann River Colleges, praises strong school culture
Traralgon RSL continues nearly century-long commitment supporting local veterans, families and honouring their service
West Sale Airport Master Plan sets 20-year vision to drive jobs, investment and regional economic growth
Bass Coast leisure facilities now operated by Aligned Leisure, marking a new chapter for community wellbeing
