The City of Newcastle welcomed 150 new citizens from 39 different countries in a COVID-19 safe ceremony at the Civic Theatre on April 28.
From the United Kingdom to the USA, India, and Afghanistan, the newest Novocastrians pledged to Australia in the first face-to-face ceremony since the Department of Home Affairs moved to online ceremonies due to the pandemic.
Newest Newcastle citizen, Sahlee Cook, met her now-husband, Adam, in the Philippines, where they chose to move to his hometown of Newcastle to build a life together.
“Aside from the beautiful beaches, lots of cafes to choose from and different variety of restaurants, what I like most is the people,” Cook said.
“The people here in Newcastle are nice, helpful, and pretty laid back.
“I am grateful and beyond happy to finally be an Australian citizen.
“Australia is such a beautiful and amazing country, so I am honoured to be part of this great nation and to live in Newcastle.”
Presiding over the ceremony was Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes and Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen.
Cr Nelmes said she had looked forward to welcoming Australia’s newest citizens in person once again.
“City of Newcastle has worked closely with the Department of Home Affairs to safely resume face-to-face ceremonies to allow conferees to come together and celebrate one of the most special days in their lives,” she said.
“As Novocastrians, we are proud to be part of such a culturally diverse, inclusive community, and we welcome people of all backgrounds.”
Information source: Media release, Apr 29, City of Newcastle