Families and individuals from all walks of life were officially welcomed as Australian Citizens on Wednesday during the annual March Citizenship Ceremony.
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This year 35 individuals received their Australian citizenships, which for many is a dream come true as for most the process has been a long time coming.
Among the new citizen's were nine families and three couples, with our youngest new citizen being only one year old.
Mayor for the Dubbo region Ben Shields said these citizens come from places all across the world from Bangladesh, the Philippines, India, Nepal, New Zealand, Nigeria, Sri Lanka to Vietnam.
"It's a very special day for everyone receiving their Australian Citizenships," Clr Shields said.
"Australian citizenship represents a full and formal membership of the community of the Commonwealth of Australia."
Anjan Khadka, Laxmi Shrestha and their son Aahil Khadka were among those who were excited to have 'finally' received their citizenships.
The family of three have called Dubbo home for some years now, but receiving their citizenships made it official.
The ceremony was also Dubbo Regional Council CEO Michael McMahon's very last as he sets to retire after 41 years in local government.
Mr McMahon was 'given the honour' of being the ceremonies MC.
"This ceremony marks a very special moment for all of those receiving their Australian citizenship and for all of those they are sharing the experience with," Mr McMahon said.
"We would like to congratulate each and every one of you (new citizens) in your decision to become an Australian citizen, I know this is a very special day for each one of you," Mr McMahon said.
Despite the implementation of COVID-19 restrictions which required social distancing, citizens were asked to come forward to accept their citizenships one at a time and were presented with the opportunity to have their photo taken with the mayor.
This year the new citizens were also asked to recite the first part of the Australian National Anthem as opposed to the traditional singing of it for the first time as an Australian citizen in order to follow the implemented COVID-19 safety guidelines.
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Taylor Dodge
Your story matters, your voice deserves to be heard and I would love to help you share it. I have five years of experience as a Journalist with Australian Community Media covering an array of topics, with a key focus on breaking news and crime and a passion for people. E: taylor.dodge@austcommunitymedia.com.au.
Your story matters, your voice deserves to be heard and I would love to help you share it. I have five years of experience as a Journalist with Australian Community Media covering an array of topics, with a key focus on breaking news and crime and a passion for people. E: taylor.dodge@austcommunitymedia.com.au.
