|
Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony
Tuesday, 24 January 2012
11:36 AM
Media Releases
Thirty people from all corners of the globe will officially become Australian Citizens this Australia Day in Geelong.
Individuals from The Philllippines, South Africa, Sweden, Sri Lanka, Belgium, Netherlands, Russia, Malaysia, New Zealand, Indonesia and the UK will all pledge their allegiance to Australia at a ceremony held at Waterfront Geelong.
The annual Australia Day citizenship ceremony is happening from 12noon as part of the Festival of Sails.
City of Greater Geelong Mayor John Mitchell said it was an honour to participate in citizenship ceremonies.
“Last year more than 400 people in Geelong received Australian Citizenship at eight major ceremonies through the year,” he said.
“Australian Citizenship is a birth right for many of us, but for those going through the application process it is considered both an achievement and a privilege.”
“I’m proud of the cultural diversity of our city and citizenship ceremonies always highlight to me the contrast in backgrounds and cultures that make our city such a rich and diverse place.”
“It’s also important to recognise the traditional owners of this land: the Wathaurong people.”
“The Wathaurong are part of the oldest surviving continuous culture in the world, and we pay our respects to the current Elders and the spirits of the Wathaurong people.”
“Congratulations to all those receiving their citizenship this Thursday and thank you for your contribution to our community,” said the Mayor.
Other events happening on Australia Day include:
• Oz Fest at Cunningham Pier, broadcasting the Triple J Hottest 100 plus children's rides, mini golf, face painting and the chance to get a photo with the 2011 AFL Premiership Cup.
• Children’s Free Fun Day at Rippleside park with a flag raising ceremony, free rides, giant slides, fun factory, jumping castle, horse cart rides, face painting and much more
• Festival of Sails, with food and wine, live music, market stalls and a fireworks display from 9.20pm.
|