Eight new city citizens

NEW CITIZEN: Originally from the United State of America, Matthew Eudy was one of eight new citizens who took part in the citizenship ceremony conducted by Mayor Lynette Martin on Australia Day. Photo Frank Monger.

MOUNT Gambier is home to eight new Australian citizens following a citizenship ceremony conducted by Mount Gambier Mayor Lynette Martin on Australia Day.

The new citizens originated from Thailand, Vietnam, the United States of America, Zimbabwe and Myanmar.

“It is one of the greatest privileges I have as Mayor to confer citizenship upon members of our community and the Australia Day ceremony is always a very special occasion,” Mayor Martin said.

“I could sense from the conferees that taking the final step in their citizenship journey on a day of national significance was a proud moment for them as they pledged their commitment to Australia.”

Originally from Thailand, new Australian citizen Napatsawan Chambers has lived in Mount Gambier since 2014.

“Australia is now my home, so to complete my connection to my new home country I feel it’s important to become a citizen,” Ms Chambers said.

From the United States of America, Matthew Eudy arrived in Mount Gambier in 2008.

“It’s a celebration with other folks about cementing ourselves to a place we love and value,” Mr Eudy said of becoming an Australian citizen.

Local MPs were in attendance at the ceremony, including Member for Mount Gambier Troy Bell and Member for Barker Tony Pasin along with Member of the Legislative Council Clare Scriven.

The National Anthem was performed at the ceremony by local singer Alison Newman.