I, as Clarence Valley Mayor, acknowledge the disappointment raised by some community members regarding the scheduling of the citizenship ceremony held on Friday, 23 January 2026 rather than on Australia Day.
On Friday, I had the honour of proudly welcoming twenty residents as Australian citizens, and I expect to confer approximately 80 more who are expected to take their pledge at ceremonies later in the year.
This week, I also had the honour of attending the Clarence Valley Citizen of the Year Awards held on Monday, 26 January, in line with the decision made at the June 2025 Ordinary Council Meeting.
I would like to congratulate this year's winners; Allan Woods - Citizen of the Year, Reny Dooley - Young Citizen of the Year, Haley Hodgson - Local Hero, and the Cane Harvest Festival committee - Community Achievement Award.
While held on 26 January this year, the Clarence Valley Citizen of the Year Awards is not an Australia Day celebration, but a distinct local government honour recognising outstanding community contribution.
To ensure the event remains appropriate and reflects our community's expectations, Council will review the guidelines for the Citizen of the Year Awards ahead of the 2027 event.
Council recognises the significance of Australia Day to many members of the community and understands that views on the day are strongly held. At the same time, Council is committed to conducting citizenship ceremonies as well as other civic events, in accordance with legislative requirements, and in a manner that is respectful and inclusive of all participants.
I thank our community and community organisations for their ongoing engagement and contribution to civic events and lookforward to continuing to work collaboratively in the future.
