A significant chapter in Hornsby Shire’s history has been marked today, with the number of people who have become Australian citizens through Hornsby Shire Council ceremonies reaching 50,000.
The milestone was reached asCouncil welcomed 134 new Australian citizens from 29 countries across three ceremonies held at the Community Halls in Hornsby.
Citizenship ceremonies have been conducted by Council since 1954, when they were introduced at the request of the Federal Government. Over more than 70 years, generations of new citizens have taken this important step in Hornsby Shire.
Hornsby Shire Mayor Warren Waddell said reaching 50,000 citizens was a special milestone for the Shire and the many people who have made their home here.
“Behind this remarkable milestone are 50,000 individual stories, and it is a privilege for Council to have shared such an important moment with so many people over the years,” Mayor Waddell said.
“For some, becoming an Australian citizen marks the next chapter in a place they have chosen to call home. For others, it represents the security of a safer future for themselves and their families.
“Citizenship ceremonies are always special occasions, bringing families and communities together as our newest citizens take this significant step. We are proud to welcome today’s new citizens and congratulate every person who has taken part in a citizenship ceremony in Hornsby Shire over more than 70 years.”
Among those celebrating their citizenship today was theShuryhinfamily from Beecroft,originally fromUkraine.
“For me, being Australian means a safer and better future for my kids. I love Hornsby Shire because we have everything here to live happily,” Tetiana Shuryhina said.
Today’s ceremonies included a Welcome to Country by Brandon Etto, and were attended by Hornsby Shire Mayor Warren Waddell, Councillors Dr Greenwood, Seaglove and McIntosh, Julian Leeser MP, Federal Member for Berowra and James Wallace MP, State Member for Hornsby.
The Country Women’s Association provided refreshment packs for candidates following each ceremony, while Council gifted each new citizen a native plant from its Warada Ngurang Community Nursery to mark the occasion.
