THE SCENIC Rim community celebrated its newest Australians on September 17 with a citizenship ceremony at The Centre in Beaudesert, where 27 people pledged their commitment to the nation.
Mayor Tom Sharp said the event was one of the region’s most uplifting occasions, welcoming families, friends, councillors and community members to witness the milestone.
“Today we welcome 27 new citizens into the Scenic Rim community,” Mayor Sharp said. “They have chosen to call this country home and to make their lives here in the Scenic Rim. That choice is something Australian Citizenship Day invites us to reflect on – the responsibilities it carries and the privileges it brings.”
The new citizens, originally from Germany, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Belgium and South Korea, joined a tradition of migration that Mayor Sharp said had shaped Australia into the vibrant multicultural society it is today.
“You bring fresh energy, skills and cultural richness, and we know you as neighbours, colleagues, volunteers and friends,” he said.
“You are now part of our story too.”
The ceremony featured a message from Federal Minister for Home Affairs, Immigration and Citizenship, Tony Burke, who noted the importance of citizenship as a unifying bond across cultures.
“Australia welcomes you as a full member of one of the most diverse nations on Earth, where our citizenship is a bond which unites us all,” Mr Burke’s message read.
“Today, your new nation says to you, welcome home.”
During the ceremony, the new citizens recited the Australian Citizenship Pledge before receiving their certificates from councillors.
The celebration concluded with afternoon tea shared among family, friends, and the wider Scenic Rim community.
