37 new citizens set to be officially welcomed to Whitsundays

Mayor Andrew Willcox has spoken about the significance of citizenship ahead of the ceremonies on Australia Day.

G'DAY: American resident Kenny Stouffer became an Australian citizen in Bowen on Australia Day last year.

New citizens from far flung nations like Brazil, France and South Africa will be celebrated at two ceremonies in the Whitsunday region on Australia Day.

The region will welcome 37 new citizens from 12 countries, including France, Philippines, New Zealand, United Kingdom, Thailand, Brazil, Canada, South Africa, China, Germany, Brazil and Spain.

A ceremony, combined with an awards presentation, will be held in Bowen from 11.45am and another will be held in Airlie Beach from 3.30pm to mark the occasion.

An awards presentation will also be held at Collinsville from 7am.

Mayor Andrew Willcox said the ceremonies were an opportunity for all Australians, whether they were citizens by birth or by choice, to join national celebrations that aim to reflect, respect and celebrate.

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“It’s really exciting to see how much becoming an Australian citizen means these people and to hear about the journey they’ve been on to get to this point,” Cr Willcox said.

“There is no greater privilege than our citizenship.

“It’s a lifelong commitment to Australia’s shared values, including respect for the freedom and dignity of the individual, the rule of law and democracy, and equality of opportunity for all people.”

Cr Willcox said Australian citizenship ceremonies were an important part of the nation’s celebrations and held special significance for those becoming citizens and the broader Australian community.

Mikhaila Flint, Michelle Wright and Jack Handley all received awards at the Australia Day award ceremony for Airlie Beach, Cannonvale, Proserpine and surrounds last year.

More than 12,000 people will receive citizenship at the many ceremonies being hosted by local councils across the country on Australia Day.

“Each year we are privileged to welcome new Australians to our growing community as part of Australia Day celebrations,” Cr Willcox said.

“I encourage everyone in the Whitsundays to reflect on and affirm their Australian citizenship as we warmly welcome our newest citizens.”

For more information on ceremonies in the Whitsundays click here and for more details on citizenship click here.

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