A record forty three residents from across the globe will make the pledge of Australian Citizenship as part of Wingecarribee Shire Council's 2020 Australia Day celebrations this Sunday January 26 in Berrima.
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Wingecarribee Shire Mayor Duncan Gair said the occasion was a chance to acknowledge the importance of citizenship.
"Becoming an Australian citizen is a very special occasion," he said. "But doing so on Australia Day is particularly memorable."
"Australian citizenship is a shared identity," the Mayor added. "It's a common bond which unites all Australians while respecting our diversity."
"It also marks the final stage of a migrant's journey as they pledge their commitment to Australia and its people and accept the privileges and responsibilities of becoming an Australian."
The 43 residents taking the pledge on Sunday hail from the United Kingdom and the Philippines, Nigeria, Italy, India, Pakistan, Japan, New Zealand, Serbia, the Russian Federation, South Africa, the Republic of Ireland, Germany, Mauritius, Scotland, France, Kenya and the Netherlands.
"We're honoured that these residents have all chosen to call the Southern Highlands home and we congratulate them as they join our Australian family," Mayor Gair added.
Wingecarribee Shire's official Australia Day program starts at 9.30am at the historic Berrima Court House Museum.
The morning will also feature an address from this year's Australia Day Ambassador, former Opposition Leader and Director of the Australian War Memorial, Dr Brendan Nelson AO, who will speak prior to the announcement of the Shire's 2020 Australia Day Citizen of the Year recipients.
"Dr Nelson has held a variety of nationally significant and high-profile positions," the Mayor said. "We're thrilled he has agreed to join us and hear what Australia Day means to him."
After the official ceremony guests can enjoy morning tea complete with lamingtons.
Celebrations will continue with entertainment by the Vocal Muster, centre stage artists, rides, a farmyard nursery and market stalls in the Berrima Market Place. Food, drinks and market stalls will also be available.
"I encourage everyone to join in Wingecarribee Shire's Australia Day festivities and celebrate all that's great about our wonderful country," Mayor Gair said.
Entry to the Shire's official Australia Day celebrations is free.
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Vera Demertzis
Journalist at the Southern Highland News covering council yarns and community news. Got a tip or a story to tell? Email vera.demertzis@southernhighlandnews.com.au or call on 0427 250 908.
Journalist at the Southern Highland News covering council yarns and community news. Got a tip or a story to tell? Email vera.demertzis@southernhighlandnews.com.au or call on 0427 250 908.
