Council welcomes 14 new Australians to the region

The Western Downs has officially welcomed 14 new Australian citizens as part of a special Citizenship Ceremony held over the weekend (Saturday, 28 August) in Dalby.

The region’s newest citizens have hailed from several countries including the United Kingdom, Ireland, and the Philippines.

Western Downs Regional Council Mayor Paul McVeigh said he was proud to welcome new Australians to the region on behalf of the Commonwealth.

“One of the absolute highlights of my role as Mayor is having the privilege of representing our country and being a part of this special moment in the lives of so many wonderful people choosing to call Australia home,” Cr McVeigh said.

“One of the things that sets the Western Downs apart is our fantastic and diverse community which supports one another and makes the region a fantastic place to live, work and raise a family.

“These ceremonies give us the chance to demonstrate our warm and welcoming community as well as the people that make the Western Downs so special.”

Jimbour East resident Rhoda Casilum, who is originally from the Philippines, said she was delighted to be officially recognised as an Australian citizen.

“I find the Western Downs so peaceful and quiet and the people are so friendly, and I moved here for my job opportunity in agriculture,” Mrs Casilum said.

“I also made the pledge with my husband and my daughter which was very special.”

This is the third citizenship ceremony for 2021.

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