Southern Downs newest citizens excited to call Australia home in record-breaking citizenship ceremony

A record-breaking number of new Australian citizens have been welcomed to the region, with each sharing their stories of why they chose to call Australia home.

The Southern Downs has welcomed a record-breaking number of new Australian citizens to the region with 40 people honoured in Wednesday’s ceremony.

The history-making celebratory ceremony marked the end of the new citizen’s journey as migrants and the beginning of their life as Australian citizens.

SDRC welcomed 40 new Australian citizens. Photo: Contributed

Southern Downs Mayor Vic Pennisi said the citizens would all add to the diverse and multicultural Australian community.

“Citizenships have been happening for a long time, and it's about becoming an Australian citizen and adding to that multicultural society. That’s how this nation has been built, I just see it as a continuation of a process we've adopted and accepted for many years,” he said.

“With the greatest respect, we have one of the most diverse, multicultural regions you could ever wish for and they all contribute to that.”

Cr Pennisi said the residents hailed from many different countries including South Africa, New Zealand and England.

“They see Australia as a better place than where they’ve been, lots of opportunity, friendly people, they can easily assimilate into the community and they really love the country feel,” he said.

Each new Australian citizen was presented with their certificate as well as an Australian native plant for them to take home and nurture.

The Mayor said he was proud and honoured to be part of their special day.