Bairnsdale played host to the region's latest citizenship ceremony on Tuesday, July 6 which saw 33 conferees initiated as Australian citizens at St Mary's Parish Centre.
Candidates from India, South Africa, Britain, the Philippines, New Zealand, Poland, Iran, Iraq, Turkey and Malaysia took part in the ceremony, pledging their support for Australia by reciting the Australian citizen affirmation and singing the national anthem as Australian citizens for the first time.
Cr Mendy Urie conducted the ceremony, which was live streamed on Council's YouTube channel. You can view it here.
"It was a bumper ceremony with 33 people from 10 different countries being welcomed as Australian citizens," Cr Urie said.
"I always look forward to these events on our civic calendar and getting to meet East Gippsland's newest Australian citizens. Despite some COVID restrictions on numbers, it was also great that some family and friends were able to attend this special event.
"Australian citizenship is the common bond which unites us all. Australia respects the diverse cultural inheritance of its citizens, and we are honoured that you have chosen to become an Australian citizen today.
"We in East Gippsland are delighted that you have chosen to make your home in our shire - it is truly a great place to live."
Citizenship ceremonies are officiated by East Gippsland Shire Council on behalf of the Australian Government.
All new citizens receive a native plant as a gift from Council to mark the special occasion.
Visit to the image gallery on Council's website for more photos from the ceremony.
