Australia’s Best Citizenship Ceremonies: How Local Councils Are Helping Forge a New Australia

Australia’s Best Citizenship Ceremonies
How Local Councils Are Helping Forge a New Australia

From this time forward, under God*

I pledge my loyalty to Australia and its people,

whose democratic beliefs I share,

whose rights and liberties I respect, and

whose laws I will uphold and obey.

*A person may choose whether or not to use the words “under God”

Every year, tens of thousands of new Aussies are welcomed into this wide brown land. Not by birth, that curious accident of geography and biology, but by pomp and circumstance at official citizenship ceremonies held by local councils across the country. It is fitting that it is most often on Australia Day that local councils host these ceremonies, gathering together people of all origins to recite the pledge of commitment, the final step in their journey to become Australians.

Most of us are aware of this on some level, but how many of us have attended a citizenship ceremony? What actually happens? And by what special enchantment do these councils transform people of every origin imaginable into true blue, fair dinkum Aussies?

Well, Global Mobility Lawyers & Migration Agents decided to find out – not just what goes on at citizenship ceremonies, but what lies at the very heart of what it means to be Australian in 2019.

As well as a whole bunch of trivia.

Ever wondered what food is the most Aussie food to be found in this country?

We now have the answer!

How about music? Which is the most Australian of Australian songs?

Nailed that too!

We interviewed 55 of local government’s best and brightest, and their answers were nothing short of inspirational. We laughed, we cried, we ate meat pies (not always in that order).

The results, as they say, may surprise you…

History

The first ever “naturalisation ceremony” took place at Canberra’s Albert Hall on the 3rd of February, 1949. It was a small, sombre affair compared to the celebrations we hold today, but it marked the historic moment that we stopped calling ourselves “British subjects” and became full-fledged Australians.

Seven men attended, representing one person from each state and the ACT. These first seven official Australian citizens hailed from everywhere: Greece to Norway, Czechoslovakia to Spain, France, Denmark and Yugoslavia. Multiculturalism was off to a good start. Well, as long as you were white, European and male.

Of course there is another side of modern Australian history. Accordingly, a number of councils invite local Indigenous Elders to speak, sing or perform Welcomes to Country at their citizenship ceremonies. Amongst the thoroughly modern trappings of the day, these ancient traditions help remind conferees of the tens of thousands of years of history of which they’re now a part.

Modern Citizenship Ceremonies:  Lamingtons, Karaoke and Goats

A lot has changed in the nearly 70 years since that first ceremony. Today’s events are bigger, more colourful and embrace a more exuberant notion of Australian culture. Councils from across the country hold celebrations where friends and family feast on lamingtons, belt out karaoke versions of the national anthem and then listen, rapt, to the haunting tones of ‘Down Under’ by Men At Work, as their loved one takes the solemn pledge to go full Aussie.

The rites of passage are as varied as the people participating. The Shire of Augusta-Murray River spoke to us of one conferee who brought a goat to one of their ceremonies, as it was a significant animal in his culture. Meanwhile the City of Armadale told us about a trio of young boys dressed for the occasion in flashy three piece suits, while the City of Moreland recounted a conferee slightly holding up the ceremony by taking the time to high-five all of his friends on the way back to his seat.

Of course, there are still some formalities involved, including inviting the Minister for Immigration. Speeches from the Minister or their representative are a must, while other prominent Australians in attendance are encouraged to get up and say a few words of encouragement to our newest citizens. Incorporating aspects of Indigenous culture is also encouraged. Logan City Council, for instance, accompanies each ceremony with a performance by the Nunukul Yuggera Dance Troupe

Mayor Joe Paronella of Tablelands Regional council, a second generation Australian himself, refers to his role administering citizenship ceremonies as “an honour and a privilege”. Mayor Greg Christensen of Scenic Rim Regional Council recalled young Alfie, a two year old dressed in a tiny suit who was “a wonderful reminder of the essence of citizenship, full of joy, hope and excitement about his dreams for life in Australia.”

Food

We are a young country, not famed for our curry or croissants. Our land abounds in nature’s gifts, yet we boast of no gnocchi, wontons, gyoza, pierogi or any form of national dumpling. Nevertheless, there’s still a basket of quintessentially Aussie food that can be served up to new citizens. While a tub of Vegemite might just scare some of them off, meat pies (served by 15% of councils), Tim-Tams (served by 6% of councils) and, of course, laminations (served by 52% of councils), are all on the menu. Some councils even harken back to our British roots and serve scones with jam and cream, under the stern gaze and stiff upper lip of the obligatory portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

The hospitality doesn’t just go one way either. Bega Valley Shire council recounts one conferee who drew on the grand Australian tradition of BYO – bringing her own lamingtons to share, because this was “the Aussie thing to do, to bring a plate to any get- together”. Similarly, Albury City council spoke fondly of an attendee who brought a cake in the shape of Australia, baked in the colours of the Australian flag, adorned with kangaroos and koalas.

Fashion

It’s hard to strike a solemn tone in a country whose closest approximation of a national dress is a cork hat and flip-flops (sorry cobber: thongs). While the Minister or their representative is obligated to dress formally at a citizenship ceremony, the conferees and guests are not. This makes for a much more relaxed atmosphere. Tweed Shire and Shellharbour City councils have welcomed new citizens, of every origin, decked out in the glory of full Aussie regalia: shorts, Australian flag t-shirt and stubbie in hand. Sartorial choices range from suits to singlets; conferees and guests come draped in everything from the Australian flag to traditional Indigenous art.

Successive generations of immigrants have found ways to incorporate their cultures of origin into their Australian identities, and nowhere is this more apparent than at the time of conferring citizenship. Cessnock City council, for example, spoke of one older conferee who arrived in traditional Thai dress. She solemnly took to the stage to collect her certificate, then broke into an excited “Aussie, Aussie, Aussie! Oi! Oi! Oi!”. With moments such as these, can anyone really doubt former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull’s oft- repeated claim that we are the most successful multicultural society on earth?

Music

The national anthem is an obligatory feature at every ceremony, but it’s hardly their sole soundtrack.

We discovered that several councils invite their official Town Criers to open the ceremonies. Local school choirs and music groups have also been invited to sing the national anthem and then follow it up with an Australian song of their choice.

This made us wonder: what qualifies as an Australian song? Well, if there was ever any doubt as to what music takes the mantle of most Australian – Barnsy? Farnsy? – our meticulous research puts that to rest. We found the most common musical accompaniments include Waltzing Matilda (played at 9% of ceremonies), ‘I Am Australian’ by The Seekers (also played at 9% of ceremonies) and Home Among The Gumtrees by John Williamson (played at 6% of ceremonies). Sing-alongs are always encouraged.

Fun

Selfies of freshly minted Aussies together with beaming Mayors and Councillors are a common feature of many ceremonies across the country. Councillors have also been known to get more informally involved in the ceremonies themselves. Henry Zelones OAM, mayor of the City of Armadale, told us that at one event, some of the children felt too shy to climb up on stage in front of the assembled crowd.

In a flash of genius, one of the councillors “jumped out during the singing of Home Among the Gum Trees and started hopping around the stage like a Kookaburra.” This break in the formality gave all of the smallest new citizens the confidence to climb up on stage and join in the festivities.

Of course, things don’t always go exactly according to plan. After one particularly dry summer in Bourke Shire council, in which the kangaroos had moved into town to graze, one new citizen took her solemn pledge surrounded by  “the largest amount of kangaroo droppings that had been seen in a long time”. In the Shire of Peppermint Grove an unusually strong breeze blew the official portrait of Queen Elizabeth II clean off stage in the middle of the ceremony.

Facts and Figures

According to our exhaustive research, there are marked differences from state to state. For example, conferees can choose whether or not to mention God when they take the pledge of commitment. We discovered that Queensland and South Australia had the most God-fearing ceremonies, with 74% of new citizens choosing to mention God. On the other end of the spectrum, Tasmania had the lowest number, with only 49% pledging in the name of the big Citizen upstairs.

While citizenship ceremonies are overwhelmingly happy occasions, they are often the end of a difficult journey and a complicated legal process, and tears of joy are not unknown. Observations of council staff across Australia, indicate that Tasmania are the most likely to well up during a ceremony (as mainlanders may have already suspected) with 50% of attendees crying. Meanwhile Queensland were the most cool, calm and collected, with only 1% needing to reach for their handkerchiefs.

Frankly, some of the stories we heard had us misting up a little ourselves. Bundaberg Regional council, for example, told us about a conferee who had been diagnosed with cancer during her citizenship approval process and had not long to live. The council agreed to perform a private ceremony at her home with only her family in attendance. Similarly, Towong Shire Council spoke of an attendee who sought citizenship to please his Aboriginal wife – she died before the process was complete, but he completed the ceremony anyway because he felt that he wanted to honour her.

What Citizenship Ceremonies Tell Us About Who We Are

Beneath the intoxicating veneer of lamingtons and Men At Work, one might still wonder what exactly is being conferred at these ceremonies, other than very specific rights, responsibilities and a commemorative coin or two. What do the symbols of Australiana actually symbolise? And what do all these people, of every race, religion and ethnicity, share in common? In other words: what does it mean to be Australian?

The answer, to state the obvious, is somewhere in between what it has meant to be Australian in the past and what it will mean in future – a cultural continuum shaped by the differing waves and splashes of immigration we have known since 1788.

Australia Day is, in some respects, the perfect day to celebrate citizenship of a nation that has been so profoundly shaped and reshaped, made more generous and welcoming, by immigration. However it must also be acknowledged that some people  (and some councils) object to this date and the history it represents to our Indigenous citizens. It’s a vexed issue, reflective of the fact that there are aspects of our past that we are not particularly proud of and still struggle to come to terms with. The debate over what Australia Day represents – or should represent – is ongoing. Nonetheless, most councils still use Australia Day to celebrate the positive aspects of our past. Inviting members of local Indigenous communities to participate in ceremonies held on January 26th may be the first small step to reconciling the meaning of this contentious date.

Perhaps a nation is merely the sum total of its citizens – and ours hail from India [22% of new citizens in 2018], the Phillipines [6%], South Africa [4%], Sri Lanka [4%], Ireland [3%], South Korea [3%], Malaysia [2%], New Zealand [2%] – too many to list..

But we are also more than just the sum of our parts. We are a nation, magnificent and flawed, with a culture still defined by transformation. And nowhere is this more evident, than in the local councils around Australia who pay tireless tribute to a ritual that makes a stranger, as if by miracle, one of us.

What Each Council Said…

Bundaberg Regional Council

Areas covered: Abbotsford, Abington, Alloway, Apple Tree Creek, Ashfield, Avenell Heights, Avoca, Avondale, Bargara, Boolboonda, Booyal, Branyan, Bucca, Bullyard, Bundaberg Central, Bundaberg East, Bundaberg North, Bundaberg South, Bundaberg West, Bungadoo, Burnett Heads, Buxton, Calavos, Childers, Coonarr, Coral Cove, Cordalba, Dalga, Dalysford, Damascus, Delan, Doolbi, Doughboy, Drinan, Duingal, Electra, Elliott, Elliott Heads, Eureka, Fairymead, Farnsfield, Gaeta, Gin Gin, Givelda, Gooburrum, Goodwood, Good Night (part), Gregory River, Horse Camp, Horton, Innes Park, Isis Central, Isis River, Kalkie, Kalpowar (part), Kensington, Kepnock, Kinkuna, Kolonga, Kullogum, Lake Monduran, Maroondan, McIlwraith, Meadowvale, Miara, Millbank, Molangul, Monduran, Mon Repos, Moolboolaman, Moore Park Beach, Moorland, Morganville, Mullett Creek, Nearum, New Moonta, North Gregory, North Isis, Norville, Oakwood, Pine Creek, Promised Land, Qunaba, Redhill Farms, Redridge, Rosedale (part), Rubyanna, Sharon, Skyring Reserve, South Bingera, South Isis, South Kolan, St Agnes, St Kilda, Svensson Heights, Takilberan, Thabeban, Tirroan, Walkervale, Wallaville, Watalgan, Waterloo, Welcome Creek, Windermere, Winfield, Wonbah, Wonbah Forest, Woodgate, Woongarra and Yandaran.

Interviewee: Kim Ovens, Protocol Officer

Most common country of origin: UK and India

Australian foods served: Lamingtons and sausage rolls

Australian music played: Australian National Anthem

Most “Australian” thing seen at a ceremony: Recipient appearing at Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony in shorts, singlet and thongs

Gifts provided: Australian native plant and commemorative gold coin

Percentage of oaths vs affirmations: 90% oath, 10% affirmation

Percentage of people who cry: 0%

Comment:We were requested to do a private ceremony for a Citizenship Recipient who had been  approved,  however during the approval process they had been diagnosed with cancer and had not long to live. We went out to their home and did the Citizenship Ceremony with the lady and her close family. It was an honor to do this, but also a very sad occasion.

Tablelands Regional Council

Areas covered: Atherton, Barrine, Beatrice, Butchers Creek, Carrington, Danbulla, East Barron, Ellinjaa, Evelyn, Gadgarra, Glen Allyn, Glen Ruth, Gunnawarra, Herberton, Innot Hot Springs, Jaggan, Kaban, Kairi, Kalunga, Kirrama, Koombooloomba, Kureen, Lake Barrine, Lake Eacham, Lake Tinaroo, Maalan, Malanda, Middlebrook, Millaa Millaa, Millstream, Minbun, Minnamoolka, Moomin, Moregatta, Mount Garnet, Mungalli, North Johnstone, Palmerston (part), Peeramon, Ravenshoe, Silver Valley, Tarzali, Tinaroo, Tolga, Topaz, Tumoulin, Upper Barron, Wairuna, Walkamin, Wondecla, Wongabel, Wooroonooran (part) and Yungaburra

Interviewee: Mayor Joe Paronella

Number of ceremonies in the past year: 3-4 ceremonies per year

Number of new citizens processed in the past year: 80

Most common country of origin: varied

Australian foods served: Lamingtons and sausage rolls

Australian music played: just the National Anthem

Most “Australian” thing seen at a ceremony: When people come dressed in t-shirts and thongs, the ocher look and a family brought a cake to share, and there was enough for the 80 people in attendance

Gifts provided: Certificate signed by the Mayor and the Minister for Immigration, Native Australian Plant from the Council nursery

Percentage of oaths vs affirmations: 70-80% oath, 30-20% affirmation

Percentage of people who cry: 0%

Comment: I love doing Citizenship Ceremonies, it such a big decision that those people have to make. I try to make it as jovial, as formal as we can, there is no degree of ah you have just signed a piece of paper and off you go…

Although I have not seen people cry, there is a lot of pride. The amount of photos I am invited to join with and things like that. It is a very proud day and it always a very joyous occasion. It is something I love doing, and seeing the expression on people’s faces.

If I could have 500 people from the community coming to the Ceremony I would. I am second generation Australian myself, my family are originally from Spain. It is something that my grandparents went through and they were always proud of their Citizenship. I think it is a very lucky country we have, and if you have something to offer the country then you are welcome.

Toowoomba Regional Council

Areas covered: Acland, Anduramba, Ascot, Athol, Aubigny, Back Plains, Balgowan, Bergen, Biddeston, Birnam, Blue Mountain Heights, Bongeen, Boodua, Bowenville, Branchview, Bringalily, Brookstead, Broxburn, Brymaroo, Budgee, Bulli Creek, Cabarlah, Cambooya, Canning Creek, Captains Mountain, Cattle Creek, Cawdor, Cecil Plains, Centenary Heights, Charlton, Cherry Creek, Clifton, Clontarf, Coalbank, Condamine Farms, Condamine Plains, Cooyar, Cotswold Hills, Cranley, Cressbrook Creek, Crows Nest, Cutella, Cypress Gardens, Darling Heights, Devon Park, Djuan, Doctor Creek, Domville, Douglas, Drayton, Dunmore, East Cooyar, East Greenmount, East Toowoomba, Ellangowan, Elphinstone, Emu Creek, Evanslea, Evergreen, Felton, Felton South, Finnie, Forest Ridge, Formartin, Geham, Gilla, Glenaven, Glencoe, Glenvale, Googa Creek, Goombungee, Gowrie Junction, Gowrie Little Plain, Gowrie Mountain, Grapetree, Grassdale, Grays Gate, Greenmount, Greenwood, Groomsville, Haden, Hampton, Harlaxton, Harristown, Headington Hill, Highfields, Highgrove, Highland Plains, Hirstglen, Hodgson Vale, Irongate, Irvingdale, Jondaryan, Jones Gully, Kearneys Spring, Kelvinhaugh, Kilbirnie, Kincora, Kings Creek, Kings Siding, Kingsthorpe, Kleinton, Kooralgin, Kooroongarra, Kulpi, Kurrowah, Lavelle, Lemontree, Leyburn, Lilyvale, Linthorpe, Maclagan, Malling, Malu, Manapouri, Meringandan, Meringandan West, Merritts Creek, Middle Ridge, Millmerran, Millmerran Downs, Millmerran Woods, Millwood, Missen Flat, Motley, Mount Binga, Mount Darry, Mount Emlyn, Mount Irving, Mount Kynoch, Mount Lofty, Mount Luke, Mount Molar, Mount Moriah, Mount Rascal, Mount Tyson, Mountain Camp, Muldu, Muniganeen, Nangwee, Narko, Nevilton, Newtown, Nobby, North Branch, North Maclagan, North Toowoomba, Norwin, Nutgrove, Oakey, Palmtree, Pampas, Pechey, Peranga, Perseverance, Pierces Creek, Pilton, Pinelands, Pittsworth, Plainby, Preston, Prince Henry Heights, Punchs Creek, Purrawunda, Quinalow, Ramsay, Rangemore, Rangeville, Ravensbourne, Redwood, Rockville, Rocky Creek, Rosalie Plains, Rossvale, Ryeford, Sabine, Sandy Camp, Scrubby Mountain, Silverleigh, South Toowoomba, Southbrook, Spring Bluff, Spring Creek, Springside, St Aubyn, St Helens, St Ruth, Stonehenge, Stoneleigh, The Bluff, The Pines, Thornville, Tipton, Toowoomba City, Top Camp, Torrington, Tummaville, Turallin, Umbiram, Upper Cooyar Creek, Upper Pilton, Upper Pinelands, Upper Yarraman, Vale View, Victoria Hill, Wainui, Wattle Ridge, Wellcamp, West Haldon, West Prairie, Westbrook, Western Creek, Whichello, Wilsonton, Wilsonton Heights, Woodleigh, Woolmer, Woondul, Wutul, Wyreema, Yalangur, Yandilla, Yargullen, Yarraman and Yarranlea.

Interviewee: Kate Tawns, Mayoral Support Officer, Governance Branch

Number of new citizens processed in the past year:At the moment, we have a Ceremony generally every 2 months. The last ceremony we had, we welcomed 93 new Citizens into the region. The average amount is between 60 and 100 candidates. Each year, we definitely have a ceremony the day before Australia Day and on Citizenship Day which is the 17th September. These ceremonies are the most popular

Most common country of origin: Sudan, South Africa, India, the Philippines, China, etc

Australian foods served: Lamingtons, Bushels Tea and sandwiches

Australian music played: Australian Anthem at the closing of every Ceremony, Waltzing Matilda, True Blue, Home Among the Gum Trees, Land Down Under, etc.

Most “Australian” thing seen at a ceremony: Sometimes new Citizens or their families who come to support them wear funny/classic Australian outfits/accessories. It’s great when a Candidate or their family cheer when their name is called and chant Aussie Aussie Aussie or they’re Australian nickname they’ve given them.

Gifts provided: native plant, Australian flag, Australian Citizenship coin and badge, photos from the ceremony (sent afterwards)

Percentage of oaths vs affirmations: 17% affirmation? (Our last ceremony we had 16 candidates out of 93 who swear by affirmation)

Percentage of people who cry: 0%

Albury City Council

Areas covered: Albury, East Albury, Ettamogah, Glenroy, Hamilton Valley, Lake Hume Village, Lavington, North Albury, South Albury, Splitters Creek, Springdale Heights, Table Top (part), Thurgoona, West Albury and Wirlinga

Interviewee: Ros Wells, Events Team Leader

Number of ceremonies in the past year: six ceremonies per year

Most common country of origin: India

Australian foods served: no catering provided

Australian music played: National Anthem

Most “Australian” thing seen at a ceremony: The most Australian thing I have seen was a cake that was made especially for two of the clients by a friend – it was the shape of Australia, colours of the flag and had their names written across the top as well as a kangaroo and koala on top, it was brilliant.

Gifts provided: welcome pack that include a card with the word of the national anthem, branded AlburyCity ‘keep cup’, drink bottle, vegemite and native plant and children are given a native wildlife toy

Percentage of oaths vs affirmations: 50/50

Percentage of people who cry: 0% (lots of smiles)

Ballina Shire Council

Areas covered: Alstonvale, Alstonville, Bagotville, Ballina, Broken Head (part), Brooklet, Cabbage Tree Island, Coolgardie, Cumbalum, Dalwood, East Ballina, East Wardell, Empire Vale, Fernleigh, Goat Island, Keith Hall, Knockrow, Lennox Head, Lynwood, Marom Creek (part), Mcleans Ridges (part), Meerschaum Vale, Newrybar (part), Patchs Beach, Pearces Creek (part), Pimlico, Pimlico Island, Rous, Rous Mill, Skennars Head, South Ballina, Teven, Tintenbar, Tuckombil, Uralba, Wardell, West Ballina and Wollongbar

Interviewee: Mayor, Cr David Wright

Number of ceremonies in the past year: 4 or 5 a year

Number of new citizens processed in the past year: 33

Most common country of origin: United Kingdom

Australian foods served: Meat pies, lamingtons, fairy bread, lots of fruit, Australian flags in the food

Australian music played: Traditional – just National Anthem, although sometimes will do a country version, or a karaoke version.

Most “Australian” thing seen at a ceremony:We like to create a relaxed Australian atmosphere, lots of people do not want to leave at the end, they want to ask us questions and keep talking.

We had a couple two ceremonies back, and one lady had been here for fifty years or so, and she just cried her eyes out.

Gifts provided: Australian Native Plant (from Ballina Shire Nursery), Gold Dollar coin minted each year (commemorative of Citizenship)

Percentage of oaths vs affirmations: about 50/50

Percentage of people who cry: 0%

Comment: We had one conferee from a non-English speaking background arrive with a plate of lamingtons to share, even though Council had advised that catering would be provided. She stated this was because it was the “The Aussie thing to do was to bring a plate to any get together”

Bega Valley Shire Council 

Areas covered: Angledale, Bald Hills, Barragga Bay, Bega, Bemboka, Bermagui, Berrambool, Black Range, Bournda, Boydtown, Broadwater, Brogo, Buckajo, Burragate, Candelo, Cathcart (part), Chinnock, Cobargo, Coolagolite, Coolangubra, Coopers Gully, Cuttagee, Devils Hole, Dignams Creek (part), Doctor George Mountain, Eden, Edrom, Frogs Hollow, Green Cape, Greendale, Greenlands (part), Greigs Flat, Jellat Jellat, Kalaru, Kameruka, Kanoona, Kiah, Kingswood, Lochiel, Merimbula, Millingandi, Mirador, Mogareeka, Mogilla, Morans Crossing, Mount Darragh, Mumbulla Mountain, Murrah, Myrtle Mountain, Nadgee, Narrabarba, Nelson, Nethercote, New Buildings, Nullica, Numbugga, Nungatta (part), Nungatta South, Pambula, Pambula Beach, Pericoe, Quaama, Reedy Swamp, Rocky Hall, South Pambula, South Wolumla, Steeple Flat (part), Stony Creek, Tanja, Tantawangalo, Tarraganda, Tathra, Timbillica, Tinpot (part), Toothdale, Towamba, Tura Beach, Verona, Wadbilliga (part), Wallaga Lake, Wallagoot, Wandella, Wapengo, Wog Wog, Wolumla, Wonboyn, Wonboyn North, Wyndham, Yambulla, Yankees Creek, Yellow Pinch and Yowrie (part)

Interviewee: Janelle Curtis, Acting Governance Coordinator

Most common country of origin:Thailand, United Kingdom and India

Australian foods served: Anzac Biscuits, Lamingtons, Scones

Australian music played: National Anthem

Gifts provided: Native Plant, Certificate signed by the Mayor (with words to National Anthem), Locally published books on history or Inidgenous Culture, Citizenship $1 Commemorative coin, Pewter Letter opener featuring Australian Fauna(one or two of the above are selected)

Percentage of oaths vs affirmations: 50/50

Percentage of people who cry: 10%

Comment: A married couple whose country of origin was India had purchased a service station in a small village within the Shire. The husband had converted part of their garage into a “man cave” as he had embraced the Lyrics of Australian Country and Western Artist, John Williamson’s song “The Shed – “Yeah, all Australian boys need a shed” The husband sang the song and related an anecdote on how he had negotiated with his wife to have time off from their 24 hour a day 7 day a week business on weekends, to spend time with his “Aussie mates” in the shed. As dedicated as they both were to their cultural work ethic he had convinced his wife that this was a necessary part of assimilation into his new community.

Edward River Council

Areas covered:  Moulamein, Barratta, Booroorban, Willurah, Morago, Wanganella, Steam Plains, Four Corners, Mabins Well, Moonbria, Conargo, Pretty Pine, Wandook, Warragoon, Birganbigil, Lindifferon, Hartwood, Coree, Logie Brae, Myrtle Park, Pine Lodge, Tuppal

Interviewee: Belinda Perrett, Executive Assistant

Number of ceremonies in the past year: 4

Number of new citizens processed in the past year: 15 , (10 families)

Most common country of origin: Philippines, South Africa

Australian foods served: Sponge cake

Australian music played: Australian National Anthem

Gifts provided: Commemorative coin for all conferees, Native Plant for the adults and an Australian Native animal soft toy for the children

Percentage of oaths vs affirmations: 90% oath, 10% affirmation

Comment:We are a small regional council, and so we do not have that many conferees per year becoming citizens. Our ceremonies are small and I think this gives them a warm and intimate atmosphere. With our recent ceremonies we have them in the Heritage Centre, in the gallery room, which gives it quite an intimate atmosphere..

City of Cantebury Bankstown Council

Areas covered: Ashbury (part), Bankstown, Bankstown Aerodrome, Bass Hill, Belfield (part), Belmore, Beverly Hills (part), Birrong, Campsie, Canterbury, Chester Hill (part), Chullora, Clemton Park, Condell Park, Croydon Park (part), Earlwood, East Hills, Georges Hall, Greenacre (part), Hurlstone Park (part), Kingsgrove (part), Lakemba, Lansdowne, Milperra, Mount Lewis, Narwee (part), Padstow, Padstow Heights, Panania, Picnic Point, Potts Hill, Punchbowl, Regents Park (part), Revesby, Revesby Heights, Riverwood (part), Roselands, Sefton, Villawood (part), Wiley Park and Yagoona

Interviewee: City of Canterbury Bankstown Mayor, Khal Asfour

Number of ceremonies in the past year: Monthly ceremonies (12)

Number of new citizens processed in the past year: typically 120 candidates

Most common country of origin: China, Lebanon, Vietnam, India, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Nepal

Australian foods served: tea, coffee, lamingtons and muffins

Australian music played: National Anthem

Most “Australian” thing seen at a ceremony: Simply how proud people are when they become a citizen and how eager they are to be fully immersed in our City.

Gifts provided: City of Cantebury Bankstown drink bottle and photo with the Mayor

Percentage of oaths vs affirmations: varies from ceremony to ceremony

Percentage of people who cry: 0%

Comment:As an incredibly multicultural and diverse City, we have people from many different backgrounds attending our ceremonies.

I am always moved by how proud people are to become Australian citizens. It is an important time in their lives and I am humbled to be a part of that experience.

Each of our ceremonies are welcoming of our new citizens and I make sure they understand the great honour it is not only to be an Australian citizen, but also part of our great City. (Cantebury Bankstown City)

Cessnock City Council

Areas covered: Aberdare, Abermain, Abernethy, Allandale (part), Bellbird, Bellbird Heights, Big Yengo, Bishops Bridge (part), Black Hill (part), Branxton (part), Brunkerville, Buchanan, Bucketty (part), Buttai, Cedar Creek, Cessnock, Cliftleigh (part), Congewai, Corrabare, East Branxton, Ellalong, Elrington, Four Mile Creek, Greta, Greta Main, Heddon Greta, Kearsley, Keinbah, Kitchener, Kurri Kurri, Laguna, Lochinvar (part), Lovedale, Loxford, Millfield, Moruben, Mount View, Mount Vincent, Mulbring, Neath, North Rothbury, Nulkaba, Olney, Paxton, Paynes Crossing (part), Pelaw Main, Pelton, Pokolbin (part), Quorrobolong, Richmond Vale, Rothbury, Sawyers Gully, Stanford Merthyr, Stockrington, Sweetmans Creek, Weston and Wollombi

Interviewee: Cessnock City Mayor, Councillor Bob Pynsent

Number of ceremonies in the past year: 4

Number of new citizens processed in the past year: 80 people (approx.)

Most common country of origin: UK

Australian foods served: Lamingtons and vanilla slices

Australian music played: Students from local high schools sing the Australian National Anthem and another song chosen by Music Department

Most “Australian” thing seen at a ceremony: A lady dressed in national Thai dress, an older lady, and she came to collect her certificate she yells out Aussie Aussie Aussie, Oi Oi Oi and it broke the formality

Gifts provided: Native Plant, Citizenship Coin, minted in Perth

Percentage of oaths vs affirmations: 70% oath, 30%  Affirmation

Percentage of people who cry: 0%

Comment: There is nothing like seeing the Town Crier, he has a large bell and calls out ‘he ye’ and does the traditional spiel and sing the “Barbeque Song”. We involve students from the local high schools, they sing the National Anthem and a second Australian song. I think it is very important for these students, who are 16 or 17 years old to have the experience of seeing a Citizenship Ceremony, which they would not have seen before.

It is the most moving thing I do as Mayor. It is a very important thing, and before I started doing the Citizenship Ceremonies I did not realise, but after I did my first one, I saw what it meant to these people, it is a very moving thing. When there is a family becoming citizens, we do it as one family unit, the adults and the children come up together, and this is important because it binds the family together.

We are always thinking about how we can improve our Citizenship Ceremonies, and we go to other Council Ceremonies, to see how they also do it, and how they make them as personal as possible

Eurobadalla Shire Council

Areas covered: Akolele, Batehaven, Batemans Bay, Belowra, Benandarah, Bergalia, Bimbimbie, Bingie, Bodalla, Broulee, Buckenbowra, Cadgee, Catalina, Central Tilba, Coila, Congo, Corunna, Currowan (part), Dalmeny, Denhams Beach, Deua, Deua River Valley, Dignams Creek (part), East Lynne (part), Eurobodalla, Guerilla Bay, Jeremadra, Kianga, Kiora, Lilli Pilli, Long Beach, Maloneys Beach, Malua Bay, Meringo, Merricumbene, Mogendoura, Mogo, Moruya, Moruya Heads, Mossy Point, Murrengenburg, Mystery Bay, Narooma, Nelligen, Neringla (part), Nerrigundah, North Batemans Bay, North Narooma, Potato Point, Rosedale, Runnyford, South Durras, Sunshine Bay, Surf Beach, Surfside, Tilba Tilba, Tinpot (part), Tomakin, Turlinjah, Tuross Head, Wamban, Woodlands and Yowrie (part)

Interviewee: Kylie Green – Executive Services Coordinator

Number of ceremonies in the past year: 3

Number of new citizens processed in the past year: 20 people

Most common country of origin: Philippines, Indonesia and then UK

Australian foods served: Lamingtons, Scones, sausage rolls

Australian music played: Australian National Anthem, ‘I am Australian’

Most “Australian” thing seen at a ceremony: one year we had an Australian Flag cake

Gifts provided: Native Australian Plant, Painting by a local Indigenous Artist

Percentage of oaths vs affirmations: 40% oath, 60% affirmation

Percentage of people who cry: less than 5%

Comment: Our ceremonies range in size, this year we had a ceremony we conducted in January for one man who was keen to become a Citizen, and we were not conducting another ceremony until a few months later. The atmosphere was quite different having just one person…

We have had ceremonies with 14 people, and then others with 2 to 4 people. I think the small, intimate ceremonies are nice, and people are able to talk to each other…

We have also had people ask if they can bring a cake, and they bring one to share with all the other people attending the ceremony. We encourage people to invite as many guests as they would like in attendance. We invite local schools to come and sing and perform at the ceremony, including the National Anthem and another song of their choice.

The Council of the Shire of Hornsby

Areas covered: Arcadia, Asquith, Beecroft (part), Berowra, Berowra Creek, Berowra Heights, Berowra Waters, Berrilee, Brooklyn, Canoelands, Castle Hill (part), Cheltenham, Cherrybrook, Cowan, Dangar Island, Dural (part), Epping (part), Fiddletown, Forest Glen, Galston, Glenhaven (part), Glenorie (part), Hornsby, Hornsby Heights, Laughtondale, Maroota (part), Middle Dural (part), Milsons Passage, Mount Colah, Mount Kuring-gai, Normanhurst, North Epping, Pennant Hills, Singletons Mill, Thornleigh, Wahroonga (part), Waitara, West Pennant Hills (part), Westleigh and Wisemans Ferry (part)

Interviewee: Louise De Stradis (Event Officer), Julie Williams (Manager)

Number of ceremonies in the past year: 19

Number of new citizens processed in the past year: 720 approx

Most common country of origin: India, then South Korea and UK

Australian foods served: Scones and cream, ANZAC Biscuits

Australian music played: Australian National Anthem, and also as people are leaving: We are Australian (The Seekers)

Most “Australian” thing seen at a ceremony: Typically the sense of community we try and foster, the Mayor and three or four Councillors in attendance

Most “Australian” thing seen at a ceremony: Conferees bringing Australian flags and Australian stuffed animal toys

Gifts provided: ‘Basket’ of locally produced gifts from our tourist information centre, ie: locally grown produce (honey, cotton, fruit jams, oils), and also products sourced from our local community as well (where possible).

Percentage of oaths vs affirmations: 75% Affirmation, 25% Oath

Percentage of people who cry: 0%

Comment: At one of the ceremonies last year, one man, he got his certificate, and he burst into tears and hugged the Mayor and all the other Councillors that were there on the day.

You can see from their faces that they are happy and excited and it is a privilege to get their Citizenship.

Port Macquarie-Hastings Council

Areas covered: Bagnoo, Bago, Ballengarra, Banda Banda, Batar Creek, Beechwood, Bellangry, Birdwood, Black Creek, Blackmans Point, Bobs Creek, Bonny Hills, Boorganna, Bril Bril, Brombin, Byabarra, Cairncross, Camden Head, Comboyne, Cooperabung (part), Crosslands, Deauville, Debenham, Diamond Head, Dondingalong (part), Doyles River, Dunbogan, Ellenborough, Fernbank Creek, Forbes River, Frazers Creek, Gearys Flat, Grants Beach, Gum Scrub, Hacks Ferry, Hartys Plains, Herons Creek, Hollisdale, Huntingdon, Hyndmans Creek, Innes View, Jolly Nose, Kendall, Kerewong, Kew, Kindee, Kings Creek, Kippara, Lake Cathie, Lake Innes, Lakewood, Laurieton, Limeburners Creek, Logans Crossing, Long Flat, Lorne, Lower Pappinbarra, Marlo Merrican, Middle Brother, Mortons Creek, Mount Seaview, North Brother, North Haven, North Shore, Pappinbarra, Pembrooke, Pipeclay, Port Macquarie, Rawdon Island, Redbank, Riverside, Rollands Plains, Rosewood, Rossglen, Sancrox, Swans Crossing, Telegraph Point, The Hatch, Thrumster, Toms Creek, Upper Pappinbarra, Upper Rollands Plains, Upsalls Creek, Wauchope, Werrikimbe, West Haven, Yarras and Yippin Creek

Interviewee: Linda Kocis, Executive Assistant to the Mayor

Number of ceremonies in the past year: 9 ceremonies

Number of new citizens processed in the past year: 94 (80 adults/14 under 16yo)

Most common country of origin: UK, then India and then the Phillipines (25 different countries in past year)

Australian foods served: Scones with Jam, Lamingtons, Caramel slice, small cakes and fruit (strawberries and rockmelon etc), tea and coffee

Australian music played: Australian National Anthem only

Most “Australian” thing seen at a ceremony: people turning up in classic “Australian dress”

Gifts provided: Australian paper flag, balloon, sticker, words to the National Anthem, Australian Citizenship Coin

Percentage of oaths vs affirmations: 62.5% Oath, 37.5% Affirmation

Percentage of people who cry: 0%

Comment: We invite our Birpai Aboriginal Elder, Uncle Bill O’Brien OAM, to our ceremonies and he does his very unique and beautiful “Welcome to Country”.

We also invite a Special Guest for the presentation part of the ceremony, generally one of our current Australia Day Award winners, ie. Citizen of the Year, Senior Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the year or a rep from the Community Group of the Year.

One guy turned up in his work gear and high viz vest as he came straight from roadworks. One guy after he received his Certificate, put an Australian Wallabies jumper on for his photo. One lady hand-made a flower lapel with Australian Natives. Some guys have just turned up in jeans, t-shirt and thongs.

Tweed Shire Council

Areas covered: Back Creek, Banora Point, Bilambil, Bilambil Heights, Bogangar, Bray Park, Brays Creek, Bungalora, Burringbar, Byangum, Byrrill Creek, Cabarita Beach, Carool, Casuarina, Cedar Creek, Chillingham, Chinderah, Chowan Creek, Clothiers Creek, Cobaki, Cobaki Lakes, Commissioners Creek, Condong, Crabbes Creek, Crystal Creek, Cudgen, Cudgera Creek, Doon Doon, Dulguigan, Dum Dum, Dunbible, Dungay, Duranbah, Duroby, Eungella, Eviron, Farrants Hill, Fernvale, Fingal Head, Glengarrie, Hastings Point, Hopkins Creek, Kielvale, Kings Forest, Kingscliff, Kunghur, Kunghur Creek, Kynnumboon, Limpinwood, Mebbin, Midginbil, Mooball, Mount Burrell, Mount Warning, Murwillumbah, Nobbys Creek, North Arm, North Tumbulgum, Numinbah, Nunderi, Palmvale, Piggabeen, Pottsville, Pumpenbil, Reserve Creek, Round Mountain, Rowlands Creek, Sleepy Hollow, Smiths Creek, South Murwillumbah, Stokers Siding, Stotts Creek, Tanglewood, Terragon, Terranora, Tomewin, Tumbulgum, Tweed Heads, Tweed Heads South, Tweed Heads West, Tyalgum, Tyalgum Creek, Tygalgah, Uki, Upper Burringbar, Upper Crystal Creek, Upper Duroby, Urliup, Wardrop Valley, Wooyung (part) and Zara

Interviewee: Carole Goodwin, PA to the Mayor and Councillors

Number of ceremonies in the past year: 3 in 2018

Number of new citizens processed in the past year: 93 in 2018

Most common country of origin: United Kingdom and then New Zealand

Australian foods served: Lamingtons, season fruits, local teas and coffees

Australian music played: National Anthem, local musician plays songs such as ‘Give me a home among the gum trees’ (encourages a sing-a-long)

Most “Australian” thing seen at a ceremony: Thongs and stubbies and an Australian flag t-shirt

Gifts provided: local Native plant, Australian flag waver, words to Advance Australia Fair

Percentage of oaths vs affirmations: 50/50

Percentage of people who cry: 0%

Comment: A new citizen attending on his own was pulled into a group photo with friends and family of other new citizens.

The daughter of one of our new citizens (her mother) presented me and the representative from the Australian Electoral Commission with hand written affirmations on their arrival. Her mother followed up after the ceremony with beautiful hand written heart-felt letters to thank the Mayor and myself, saying how pleased she was to now be an Australian citizen and officially part of this beautiful country.

At the end of one of our bigger ceremonies, everyone was standing when the Mayor sung out ‘Aussie, Aussie, Aussie’. With a wonderfully loud cheer and arms raised they all returned a huge ‘Oi, Oi, Oi’ – it was fantastic.

Holding Citizenship Ceremonies is a favourite part of my job. The new citizens, friends and family are so happy to have reached this point. It is a big deal for them and a big deal for us.

Wagga Wagga

Areas covered: Alfredtown, Ashmont, Belfrayden, Big Springs, Bomen, Book Book, Boorooma, Borambola, Bourkelands, Brookdale, Brucedale, Bulgary, Burrandana, Cartwrights Hill, Charles Sturt University, Collingullie, Currawarna, Downside, East Wagga Wagga, Estella, Euberta, Eunonoreenya,  Forest Hill, Galore (part), Ganmain (part), Gelston Park, Glenfield Park, Gobbagombalin, Gregadoo, Gumly Gumly, Harefield (part), Hillgrove, Humula (part), Kapooka, Kooringal, Kyeamba, Ladysmith, Lake Albert, Lloyd, Lockhart (part), Mangoplah, Marrar (part), Matong (part), Maxwell, Moorong, Mount Austin, North Wagga Wagga, Oberne Creek, Oura, Pulletop, Rowan, San Isidore, Springvale, Tarcutta, Tatton, The Gap, The Rock (part), Tolland, Turvey Park, Uranquinty, Wagga Wagga, Wallacetown and Yarragundry

Interviewee: Elizabeth Cox, Executive Assistant to the Mayor

Number of ceremonies in the past year: one per month generally

Most common country of origin: India, Sri Lanka and UK

Australian foods served: Scones and Lamingtons

Australian music played: Local choir or the Australian Army Band Kapooka to attend and perform two ceremonial songs that are Australian. One is the Australian Anthem and the other is decided upon by the performing group (as long as it is an Australian song)

Most “Australian” thing seen at a ceremony:People have worn thongs to a ceremony on Australia Day

Gifts provided: Commemorative coin and Native Australian Plant

Percentage of oaths vs affirmations: 90% Oath and 10% Affirmation

Percentage of people who cry: less than 10%

Comment: There are 112 nationalities represented in the City and 107 different languages spoken. Our current and previous Mayors are strong supporters of refugees. Out of all of the events, functions and ceremonies that he attends – monthly citizenship ceremonies are one of his favourites.

As we are such a multicultural city we hold an annual event to celebrate multiculturalism in Wagga called Fusion, please see link to our website https://www.wagga.nsw.gov.au/city-of-wagga-wagga/events/fusion

We invite a local Aboringal Elder to perform a Welcome to Country at the beginning of each ceremony. And the Local Member for Wagga Wagga and the Member for the Riverina to attend these important ceremonies.

I personally love to see all of the native/country dress that the clients wear, it is truly amazing some of their culture and love that goes into how they dress.

City of Karratha 

Interviewee: Brittany Cover, Arts and Culture Coordinator

Number of ceremonies in the past year: 4

Number of new citizens processed in the past year: approximately 1,000 Conferees attend each year

Most common country of origin: India, China, Pakistan, Indonesia, United Kingdom

Australian foods served: Yes – soft drinks, orange juice.  Food – vegemite scrolls and/or cakes

Most “Australian” thing seen at a ceremony: Someone wearing a Akurbra hat with corks!   Australian flag t-shirts.  No thongs!

Gifts provided: Yes – A plant and $1 coin created by Perth Mint

Percentage of oaths vs affirmations: 70% Oath – 30% Affirmation

Percentage of people who cry: Over my 20 years at these ceremonies I have only seen one person cry – everyone is so happy to receive their certificate and proud to become an Australian citizen.

Shire of Peppermint Grove

Areas covered: Peppermint Grove

Interviewee: Community Development Officer (works on citizenship specifically)

Number of ceremonies in the past year: 4

Number of new citizens processed in the past year: approximately 1,000 Conferees attend each year

Most common country of origin: Philippines

Australian foods served: A local cafe caters with Australian themed food, such as bush lollies, lemon and myrtle, damper, rocky road with bush lolly in it. It is regarded as an aboriginal social enterprise.

Most “Australian” thing seen at a ceremony: headbands of Australian flags

Gifts provided: Books and tea towels with pilsborough theme, created by a local art group

Percentage of oaths vs affirmations: 65% pledged to God and 35 to affirmation

Percentage of people who cry: 0%

City of South Perth

Interviewee: Maria Noakes Media Officer

Number of ceremonies in the past year: 4

Most common country of origin: The United Kingdom and India.

Australian foods served: The City provides new citizens and their guests a mix of finger foods, including the traditional favourites such as sausage rolls and lamingtons.

Australian music played: The Australia National Anthem is always played at the City’s citizenship ceremonies. We regularly invite a local choir to perform at citizenship ceremonies, these performances include well recognised Australian songs, such as I am Australian and We Are One.

Most “Australian” thing seen at a ceremony: The sense of overwhelming pride that washes over people’s faces. People are proud to be granted citizenship. It’s beautiful to see.

Gifts provided: We present each new citizen with an Australian native plant grown at the City of South Perth nursery as well as a Perth Mint Australian Citizenship coin.

Percentage of oaths vs affirmations: Each citizenship ceremony is very different, overall a majority of new citizens make their pledge by oath.

Percentage of people who cry: Usually one to two new citizens or family members will become emotional at a citizenship ceremony. It can be an overwhelming experience for people, especially those who have left countries where there is turmoil and unrest. To be granted Australian citizenship is an important moment in people’s lives and often the emotion spills over.

Comments/Anecdotes: A recent moment we witnessed was a grandparent giving her two granddaughters who had just become Australian citizens, a large bag of Cadbury’s Caramel Koalas, their little faces just lit up with excitement. Part of what makes the City such a vibrant and unique community is the diversity of cultures and people who have settled into the area.

We recently welcomed 63 new Australian citizens into the community at its Citizenship Ceremony held on Monday 17 September, which also marked Australian Citizenship Day. Making their Pledge at the ceremony were the Consen family – Sergio Consen and his wife Iris Belliot, and children Zara, 11 and Alex, 4. Sergio, Iris and Zara were born in the Republic of Suriname, a small country in the north east of South America. With a population of just over 500,000, it’s not uncommon for residents of Suriname to travel overseas for university studies and employment opportunities. Having lived and worked in countries including the Netherlands, the USA and Malaysia, Iris said it wasn’t until she came to Australia in 2013 that she finally felt like she fitted in.

City of Perth

Australian foods served: The City provides light and tasty refreshments including prawns and lamb as well as a variety of hors d’oeuvres and other dishes from around the world to include all cultures in attendance. The City also provides Australian beverages.

Australian music played: We have pianist for general background relaxation music.  The National Anthem is played after the presentation of certificates and all people are asked to stand and participate in the singing of the anthem.

Most “Australian” thing seen at a ceremony: The Welcome to Country with didgeridoo playing by Aboriginal performers is profoundly Australian.

Gifts provided: All adults are offered an Australian minted coin.  Duly presented with red ribbon and gold City of Perth seal. Children are offered an “Australiana” booklet which includes information on Australian history, native animals, first peoples and explorers, fun facts, and Australian currency etc.

Percentage of oaths vs affirmations: The City does not record this information. The Department of Home Affairs may be able to assist

Percentage of people who cry: It’s an emotional experience for many. A proud, exciting and joyous time that is reflected mainly through smiles and happy embraces. There are not too many people who cry, but are very excited about their future.

Comments/Anecdotes: Some come dressed in national costume out for respect to their culture, which is very impressive and warming to see. It’s simply a wonderful opportunity to be involved with people genuinely happy to be becoming Australian citizens.

City of Mitcham

Areas covered: Bedford Park, Belair, Bellevue Heights, Blackwood, Brown Hill Creek, Clapham, Clarence Gardens, Colonel Light Gardens, Coromandel Valley, Craigburn Farm, Cumberland Park, Daw Park, Eden Hills, Glenalta, Hawthorn, Hawthorndene, Kingswood, Leawood Gardens, Lower Mitcham, Lynton, Melrose Park, Mitcham, Netherby, Panorama, Pasadena, Springfield, St. Marys, Torrens Park, Upper Sturt, Urrbrae, Westbourne Park

Interviewee: Nat Franklin, Events and Grants Officer

Number of ceremonies in the past year: 4

Most “Australian” thing seen at a ceremony: I haven’t seen anything extremely Australian, generally people rock up in their traditional dress to represent the country they have come from rather than celebrating their Australian-ness.

Gifts provided: We like to provide Australian seedlings as a gift, as well as a gift that is of an Indigenous nature, at the moment we are using jam variations.

Percentage of oaths vs affirmations: The variation between pledge 1 and 2 varies between ceremony. For instance my last ceremony, out of roughly 42 people only 6 said pledge 2 with the majority saying pledge 1 under God, but the previous ceremony it was the other way around.

Percentage of people who cry: 0%

Comments/Anecdotes: I place a lot of Australian flags around the room as decorations, I generally use wattles and gum leaves as decorations on the tables and have flags that new citizens can take home.

City of Mandurah

Number of ceremonies in the past year: 6

Most common country of origin: United Kingdom

Australian foods served: Lamingtons, Watermelon, ANZAC Biscuits, Sausage Rolls and Mince Pies

Australian music played: Australian Rock Classics after the ceremony when everyone is mingling

Most “Australian” thing seen at a ceremony: We had a citizen wear an Australian flag as a cape for all the photographs with the new citizens and Mayor.

Gifts provided:Minted Citizenship Coin and a Native Plant

Percentage of oaths vs affirmations: 85% Oath – 15% Affirmation

Percentage of people who cry: 0%

Comment: Port Hedland is very culturally diverse for a Town of our size, with only 30% the population being of Australian ancestry (2016 Census). Our ceremonies are very intimate and special for all of our new citizens and guests.  We hold outdoor ceremonies overlooking the spectacular Indian Ocean during the winter months when the average temperature is a balmy 25 degrees.

Yankallila

Areas covered: Back Valley, Bald Hills, Cape Jervis, Carrickalinga, Deep Creek, Delamere, Hay Flat, Inman Valley, Mount Compass, Myponga, Myponga Beach, Normanville, Pages Flat, Parawa, Rapid Bay, Second Valley, Sellicks Hill, Silverton, Torrens, Vale, Tunkalilla, Waitpinga, Wattle Flat, Willow Creek, Wirrina Cove and Yankalilla

Interviewee: Lisa Colquhoun, Executive Administration Support Officer

Number of ceremonies in the past year: 1

Most common country of origin: There seems to be a wide variety of nationalities.  Most have travelled and come to the area and stayed, or meet someone from this area and come back to settle here.

Australian foods served: Yes, we purchase Lamingtons from our local Bakery and have a sausage sizzle.

Most “Australian” thing seen at a ceremony: The new Citizens, their friends and family came dressed in Australian T-Shirts or colours and fancy hats.

Gifts provided: We also give a native plant and frame their certificates.

Percentage of oaths vs affirmations: The majority take the Oath, probably 98%.

Percentage of people who cry: In my experience, I haven’t seen anyone cry.

Comments/Anecdotes: When they are held in conjunction with Australia Day, we personalise the event as much as possible, read out a Bio, invite their friends and relatives.  We also give a native plant and frame their certificates.   The areas are always decorated and we often hand out Australia Day flags, and we purchase Australia Day cups and plates and decorate the vicinity.  When held in the Chambers, in addition to the above, we also try to find Australian gifts like koala/kangaroo keyrings, etc.  The Mayor always finishes all of our Citizenship Ceremonies with Aussie, Aussie, Aussie, Ow, Ow, Ow.

Cleve

Interviewee: Bridget Johnstone, Tourism & Community Development Officer

Most common country of origin: United Kingdom

Australian music played: National anthem

Most “Australian” thing seen at a ceremony: Children love the Australian flag at the ceremony.

Gifts provided: Pewter Australian animal.

Percentage of oaths vs affirmations: 50%/50%

Percentage of people who cry: 0%

Comment: Our ceremonies are conducted in a way the citizen requests (private or public), we try to encourage all ceremonies to be conducted in conjunction with our Australia Day Breakfast event, although this is not always possible.

Waratah Wynyard