FRIDAY was a big day for five residents of Swan Hill as they took the oath and affirmation to become Australian citizens.
This year is the 75th anniversary of Australian citizenship as before 1949 there was no reference to being an Australian in the constitution or and legislation.
Swan Hill mayor Stuart King said although it was only a small group this time it was always exciting to be involved in the citizenship ceremony.
“To see the joy the new citizens have in becoming new citizens, for some of them it has been a real journey to become a citizen,” Cr King said.
“You don’t just sign a bit of paper to become a citizen; there is a process to go through to get to that point.
“For me, getting to officiate, I get a lot of joy out of it as well.
“As Australians we often take for granted just how lucky we are, and for me each citizenship ceremony is a timely reminder to not take for granted what we have and to make sure that we hang onto it dearly.”
