A record 184 people will take the Australian Citizenship Pledge at Redland City’s biggest ever citizenship ceremony on Wednesday, 13 November.
It will bring the number of Redlanders awarded citizenship this year to 763 and surpasses the previous record for a single ceremony (180) set in September.
Mayor Karen Williams, who will preside over the ceremony at the Redland Performing Arts Centre, said the increasing numbers of people who wanted to make the Redlands their home was a positive sign for the City.
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“People come from throughout the world to settle in Redland City, drawn by our beautiful bush, beach and bay environment, relaxed village atmosphere and great amenities,” Cr Williams said.
“We welcome them all and the contribution they make in ensuring our city truly is the best place to live, play and do business.
“This ceremony will bring the number of new residents awarded citizenship at ceremonies in the Redlands this year to 763 and we are expecting many more on Australia Day in January.’’
The new citizens come from 28 countries across the globe, predominantly the United Kingdom (82), South Africa (36), Philippines (13) and New Zealand (11).
Other nations represented include: Bangladesh, Canada, Czech Republic, Finland, France, Macedonia, India, Ireland, Kenya, Korea, Malaysia, Mauritius, Netherlands, Papua New Guinea, Portugal, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Suriname, Sweden, Taiwan, Thailand, USA and Zimbabwe.
The ceremony, from 5.45pm–7pm, will open with a Cuban and Brazilian dance performance and a traditional Welcome to Country by Aunty Joan Hendriks.
Last year, Redland City welcomed 677 new citizens.
The citizenship test has 20 general knowledge questions. A practice test is available at http://www.citizenship.gov.au/learn/cit_test/practice/
