Today, twelve Huon Valley community members were welcomed into Australian citizenship at a ceremony held at the Palais Theatre in Franklin.

The day also provided the opportunity for Mayor Bec Enders to ask attendees to join her to reflect and respect the shared history that we have with the traditional custodians of this land, our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Cr Enders and Councillors were joined by Nic Street MP to officially welcome the new citizens, who originate from countries around the world, including the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Taiwan, the Netherlands, and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics.

“I give my warmest congratulations to our new citizens on your decision to pledge your commitment to Australia,” said Cr Enders. “On behalf of our community, I warmly welcome you and wish you the very best for the years ahead.”

Council would like to congratulate our highly deserving award recipients for 2021:

• Citizen of the Year – Desmond Hay
• Young Citizen of the Year – Dylan Lovell
• Community Group of the Year – Port Cygnet Venturer Unit
• Community Event of the Year – Dover Seafest
• Certificate of Recognition – Chloe Moore

Read about the winners’ achievements 

We were delighted to have John X, our Australia Day Ambassador, give a special address to start off the Australia Day Awards presentation.

“The Australia Day Awards, presented each year, recognise the people who make outstanding contributions in our community and generously give their time to support others,” said Cr Enders.

“Our 2021 winners are being recognised for the difference they make in our townships to help make the Huon Valley a vibrant and supportive place to live.

“Congratulations to each of the award winners. Thank you for being inspiring role models in our communities.”

The joy of the day was beautifully captured in song by the Cygnet Singers.

Feature image: New citizens Dawn and Philip Humphreys