Frankston City’s newest Aussies shine at Citizenship Ceremony
Published on 10 May 2021
Our newest Aussies hail from far and wide, but they’ve all got one thing in common – they love Frankston City.
Thirty-five locals, proudly supported by family and friends, formally pledged their commitment to Australia at a Citizenship Ceremony at Frankston RSL recently.
Our new citizens were born in India, England, the United Kingdom, Canada, Moldova, France, Germany, New Zealand, China, Scotland, Venezuela, Ireland, Portugal, the Philippines, United States and Myanmar.
The Citizenship Ceremony was attended by Mayor Kris Bolam, Deputy Mayor Nathan Conroy, Federal Member for Dunkley, Peta Murphy, and Council CEO, Phil Cantillon.
Mayor Bolam noted that the new Citizens were making a pledge of commitment to Australia, our people and the principles which define our society.
Mayor Bolam said: “By making the pledge you accept the privileges and responsibilities of Australian Citizenship. Today marks the start of your new life as an Australian. Australia welcomes you and encourages you to contribute to your new country to help build our great nation.
“You will belong to one of the world’s most diverse nations and our Australian Citizenship is a bond which unites us all.
“Becoming an Australian Citizen is a very significant moment in a person’s life. In doing so, you are demonstrating a commitment to Australia and confidence in Australia’s future.
“Australian Citizenship symbolises our unity as a nation. It is the common bond that unites all Australians, whether you were born here, or you have decided to make Australia your home,” Mayor Bolam said.
Mayor Bolam added: “Making the Pledge marks the symbolic and substantive commitment you must make to become an Australian Citizen. It is a statement that outlines what the Australian community asks of all citizens and in turn the privileges that are bestowed on citizens by the community.
“We welcome you and the talents, diversity and vitality that you bring to Australia. Congratulations on becoming an Australian citizen. I wish you and your family the best for the years to come,” the Mayor said.
Deputy Mayor Nathan Conroy, who pledged his commitment at a previous Citizenship Ceremony, said he loved being part of the Frankston community and giving back in his role as the Deputy Mayor.
Cr Conroy, who was born in Ireland, added: “Frankston City has everything you need. It has the foreshore, parks and reserve. It is accessible and affordable. I love its culture, heritage and people. I am grateful to be a part of this country and I will continue to contribute in the best way I can for as long as I can.”
The Federal Member for Dunkley, Peta Murphy, congratulated those present who had made the pledge to formally become Australian Citizens.
Ms Murphy said: “It’s a time when everyone is so happy and it’s a very special day for all of you and your family and friends. The opportunity to be part of today is an honour for me.
“You enrich us. That’s why it’s an honour and a privilege to be part of this ceremony,” Ms Murphy said.
Venezuelan expats Maria and Guillermo were among those who participated in the Citizenship Ceremony.
Maria and Guillermo, who with daughter Eva now call Seaford home, said they loved living in Frankston City close to the beach, adding: “It’s a beautiful place and a great locality. We love the lifestyle.”
Filipino expat Janina, who now lives in Frankston and also became a new Citizen, agreed that the beach was a major drawcard.
Janina, who was supported by her sister Janneil at the Citizenship Ceremony, added: “We love being close to the beach and living in a nice neighbourhood.”
The Frankston Ladies Choir performed heartfelt renditions of the National Anthem and I Am Australian to conclude the Citizenship Ceremony.