There were smiles, cheers and a few proud tears at the WORLD Sporting Precinct in Bairnsdale on Wednesday 15 July, as 33 people officially became Australian citizens in one of Council's most joyous events.

The milestone marks something much bigger than a number on a page. Behind every one of those 33 names is a story of courage, hard work and hope – journeys that are already being woven into the fabric of East Gippsland through family, friendships, careers, local clubs, volunteering and everyday community life.  

We hope our newest citizens never leave their culture behind but instead bring it with them and weave it into ours, helping build an even richer, stronger and more connected East Gippsland.

Representing 19 countries – India, Thailand, England, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Peru, the United States, Zimbabwe, Germany, the United Kingdom, China, Pakistan, New Zealand, Switzerland, Taiwan, South Africa, Vietnam and Canada. The newest citizens were formally welcomed by Mayor Cr Jodie Ashworth in a ceremony filled with pride, colour and celebration.

"It is always a privilege to welcome new citizens," Mayor Ashworth said. "Each person brings their own story, experiences and hopes for the future, and together they enrich the fabric of our community. East Gippsland is made stronger by its diversity, and we are grateful to those who have chosen to call our region home."

For Orbost resident Kathy Gupta, taking the Australian citizenship pledge marked the culmination of a journey spanning almost three decades.

Kathy said it all began in 1997 when she visited friends in Sydney. “Then my daughter Sara came to study veterinary science and then stayed on after becoming a citizen herself, and after my late husband passed away, I began alternating between Australia and the USA – 6 months with my daughter and 6 months with my son in the USA. I was always happiest here in Australia and began the process to become a citizen in 2019. Later, I met my partner, Carl – an American who got his Australian citizenship 40 years ago.

"I'm so grateful for the peaceful life I've found in the Orbost area, and for a community that's given me so many ways to belong through volunteering with organisations such as Rotary Club of Orbost, and as a member of CWA, Landcare, Newmerella Recreation Reserve and the Orbost Food Pantry.  

“Australians are very friendly and welcoming, with an excellent balance of individualism and caring for community. It’s refreshing to meet people who care so much about other people. I am thrilled to become an Australian citizen today.”  

Congratulations to all 33 new citizens. We are delighted you've chosen to call East Gippsland home and look forward to seeing the next chapter of your journey unfold here.

It's been a big year already, with 94 new citizens welcomed at Council ceremonies so far in 2026, and the celebrations continue Thursday 17 September, Australian Citizenship Day, when the next group takes their pledge.

For information about becoming an Australian citizen, visit immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/citizenship or call 13 18 80.