Six people became Australian citizens last week in a ceremony hosted at The Civic.
For many, they have lived in the Gunnedah shire for years, and have found a home in the town or surrounding areas.
Joining for the official event was Gunnedah Shire Council mayor Colleen Fuller, deputy mayor Kate McGrath and Member for Parkes Jamie Chaffey.
It was conducted as a part of Australian Citizenship Day, September 17, which serves as an opportunity to reflect on the meaning and importance of being Australian.
“Whether we are citizens through birth or by active choice, it is a chance for all Australians to take pride in our citizenship, celebrate our democratic values, and think about what unites us as Australians,” Cr McGrath told the audience.
This was Mr Chaffey’s first time conducting the ceremony in the MP position, but already had experience from his eight years as Gunnedah’s former mayor.
“It is a rare privilege for me to be here,” he said.
“As a former mayor of Gunnedah conducting this ceremony, I know how important it was to me.
“To see our new Australia citizens … I can just imagine what it means to you.”
There was a sense of pride in the air as people pledged their commitment and loyalty to Australia along with its values while family and friends showed support from the seats of The Civic.
One of the citizens, Siriel William Northfield, said she felt “privileged” to become an Australian citizen.
“It is a beautiful country, [I like] the people and I like the vast open space,” she said.
“Even the government and the services you have here, it is a privilege to be an Australian.”
They received their certificates along with a gift of a plant and koala soft toy.
Apologies came from Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson, Sarah Mitchell MLC and 2025 Citizen for the Year Leonie Harley.
Gunnedah Shire Council deputy mayor Kate McGrath handing William Nicholas Upchurch a plant and koala soft toy as a gift after becoming an Australian citizen.
