Benalla Rural City proudly welcomed 15 new citizens during the Australia Day Awards and Citizenship Ceremony on Australia Day, Monday, January 26.
The citizenship ceremony was a highlight of the day, celebrating the diversity and strength of our community.
Benalla Mayor Bernie Hearn officiated the ceremony that saw the following residents take their pledge of commitment to Australia:
- Katia Braghini
- Airisten Bereso Falcon
- Aicie Falcon Raut-Raut
- Queency Falcon Raut-Raut
- Hao Thu Ha
- Angela Shu Min Chew
- Luxshika Kannan
- Jasmeet Kaur
- Sufia Khatun
- Nafiya Azhar
- Zainulabideen Mohammad
- Chi Weng Lou
- Ricardo Jr Martinez Malansing
- Azharuddin Mohammad
- Wiebke Reynolds
Cr Hearn said the ceremony was an opportunity to reflect on what it meant to be part of the Australian community.
“Welcoming new citizens is one of the most significant roles we have as a council,” she said.
“It is a privilege to share this moment with people who have chosen to make Benalla Rural City their home.
“Congratulations to all new citizens and thank you to everyone who joined us at Benalla Lakeside Community Centre.”
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