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East Gippsland welcomes 25 new citizens in heartfelt Bairnsdale ceremony celebrating diversity and shared Australian values

Twenty-five residents from ten countries became Australian citizens at a joyful Bairnsdale ceremony, celebrating East Gippsland's diversity and welcoming new community members who now proudly call the region home.

By news@gippsland - 24th April 2025 - Back to News

Twenty-five East Gippsland residents officially became Australian citizens at a warm and welcoming ceremony held on Thursday 24 April at St Mary's Parish in Bairnsdale. The new citizens, originally from Cambodia, Chile, China, Germany, Nepal, New Zealand, Philippines, Sweden, Switzerland and Vietnam, now proudly call East Gippsland home.

Twenty-five residents from ten nations became Australian citizens at a heartfelt Bairnsdale ceremony, now proudly calling East Gippsland home

Citizenship, a new chapter

East Gippsland Shire Council Mayor Councillor John White said it was a privilege for the council to host the event on behalf of the Department of Home Affairs. "We're incredibly proud to welcome these 25 individuals into 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 future," John White said.

Among those taking the citizenship pledge was Juan, who first came to Australia from Chile in 2016 on a working holiday, seeking adventure and travel. "Little did I know I'd meet my partner, now nine years old, and make the decision to stay. I chose to make Australia home because I felt safe and welcomed. The people were kind, the culture was new and exciting, and I felt a strong sense of belonging," Juan said.

Juan now works as an apprentice chef at the Nicholson General Store, a role he's held since 2021. He's also studying Certificate III in Commercial Cookery at TAFE Gippsland. "There's a real sense of peace in this area. I've found great colleagues, a supportive workplace, and a slower pace of life compared to Melbourne. The food and wine are fantastic, and I love the walks by the lakes, rivers and beaches. It's a beautiful place to live," Juan said.

Welcoming new Australians

Becoming an Australian citizen marks a meaningful moment in Juan's journey. "While I'll always feel Chilean in many ways, I really connect with Australia's values. Even before becoming a citizen, this country gave me a fair go, the chance to grow, learn and contribute."

Cr White said stories like Juan's highlight the strength of East Gippsland's growing diversity. "Our new citizens bring with them a wealth of cultures, perspectives and experiences that enrich the social fabric of our region. Ceremonies like this remind us how vibrant, inclusive and welcoming East Gippsland truly is."

Celebrating Australian citizenship

Cr White also noted that citizenship ceremonies are a key highlight of the council calendar. "They give us all an opportunity to reflect on what it means to be Australian - our shared values, our freedoms, and our collective hopes for the future," John said.

East Gippsland Shire Council is set to host two more citizenship ceremonies this year, on 12 June and 17 September. For more information about becoming an Australian citizen, visit the Department of Home Affairs website or call 13 18 80.
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Pictures from South Gippsland Shire Council website.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com