The Hills Shire Council has welcomed 117 new Australian citizens at its special Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony on Thursday, January 26.
Mayor of The Hills Shire, Dr Peter Gangemi said Council's citizenship ceremony was an important part of Hills Australia Day celebrations.
"I believe this ceremony really highlights what it means to be an Australian and how lucky we are to call this amazing country 'home'," Mayor Gangemi said.
"It was such an honour to be part of this significant occasion for our new Australian citizens and I wish them all the best on their new journey," Mayor Gangemi added.
New Australian citizens pledging their loyalty to Australia, its people and values come from an array of countries, including China, Singapore, Nepal, Ireland, Malaysia, Lithuania, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Japan, Indonesia, South Korea, Pakistan, Egypt, Germany and many more.
"More than 42 per cent of our Hills population was born overseas," Mayor Gangemi said.
"I am delighted that so many people have pledged their love and devotion to Australia, and that they have chosen The Hills to set-up their home.
"Our multicultural population has added a wonderful tapestry of additional community groups, cultural events, foods and communities to our story in The Hills," Mayor Gangemi added.
