The J Theatre was filled with family and friends as Noosa welcomed 57 new citizens originating from 19 different countries on Australia Day.
They joined almost 19,000 people from about 150 countries who became new citizens at about 425 citizenship ceremonies across the country.
The audience listened to the dulcet tones of Jazz Strings and watched videos showing messages from ordinary Australians talking about being Australian and a message from Minister of Citizenship and Immigration Tony Burke, before taking the pledge to become citizens of the Commonwealth of Australia and receiving their certificates.
Presiding officer Mayor Frank Wilkie told the new Australians their citizenship enables them to participate in our inclusive society and to realise their aspirations regardless of race, gender, religion, language or place of birth.
“We aim to build a cohesive and unified nation,” he said.
“This country gains immeasurably by your commitment today.”
Noosa MP Sandy Bolton described the ceremony as a “moment of welcome, belonging and sharing”.
“By taking the pledge you have embraced us and that is heartwarming as we embrace you. For many of us our stories are in migration but that has developed who we are today – a very diverse, interesting, sometimes argumentative crew but we do so respectively.
“Many of you have been part of our family and community for many years. When I think about volunteering, raising of families, working, your contribution, it is all of those.
“We are full of character, connection, we’re colourful, we’re close knit, we’re deeply caring and we’re bound together. Your decision to call Australia and Noosa home fills us with such pride.”
