Moira celebrates new citizens on Australian Citizenship Day

Published on 02 October 2025

Moira Shire has warmly welcomed 13 new citizens as part of a special National Citizenship Day ceremony.

Moira Shire Council Chair Administrator Dr Graeme Emonson officiated the ceremony on Wednesday 17 September, alongside Administrator Susan Benedyka and Member for Ovens Valley Tim McCurdy.

Dr Emonson said it was a pleasure to be part of such a special occasion in people’s citizenship journeys.

“It is always a delight to formally welcome new citizens to our region, and this ceremony was extra special as it coincided with National Citizenship Day,” Dr Emonson said.

“It’s an honour for us when people officially choose to call Moira Shire, and Australia, their home; and we know our new citizens will continue to contribute to the fabric of Moira’s communities, helping to support and build our region through their unique experiences and backgrounds.

“We are richer as a shire in officially welcoming these citizens. We wish them all the best and we look forward to seeing their contributions to our society and their journey as proud Australians.”

During the ceremony, 13 people officially became Australian citizens, coming from countries including India, the United Kingdom, Malaysia, Philippines, German Democratic Republic, New Zealand, Taiwan, the United States, and Thailand.

They’ve made their home in Bundalong, Cobram, Katunga, Wilby, Wunghnu, Yabba North, and Yarrawonga.

After taking the citizenship pledge, recipients were presented with their citizenship certificates, a commemorative 2025 Australian Citizenship coin and gift, and local singer Matilda Altoft sang the Australian National Anthem.

Dr Emonson also read a message from the Minister for Home Affairs, Immigration and Multicultural Affairs, the Hon Tony Burke MP, who welcomed the new citizens as full members of one of the most diverse nations on earth, where citizenship is a bond that unites all Australians.