A jubilant atmosphere enveloped the shores of Lake Macquarie as over 90 new Australian citizens commemorated Australia Day in a memorable way. The ceremony, held at Rathmines Theatre, witnessed 91 individuals from 31 different nations taking the citizenship oath against the picturesque backdrop of boats cruising the lake and families relishing picnics by the waterfront.
Among the newly naturalized citizens was Rupak Raj Baniya, accompanied by his twin sons, Shavan and Reyan, aged 8. Mr. Baniya, an electrical engineer who relocated to Australia in 2019 from Nepal via Finland, expressed his honor and delight in becoming an Australian citizen. He highlighted Australia’s safety, family-friendly environment, and promising future for his children as factors that influenced his decision.
Mayor Adam Shultz of Lake Macquarie, overseeing the ceremony, underscored the significance of the day. He emphasized the celebration of not just the country but also the diverse and dynamic community within Lake Macquarie. Mayor Shultz praised the enriching effect of welcoming individuals from various backgrounds to the city, citing their stories, cultures, and contributions as integral to the city’s fabric.
Australia Day symbolizes the appreciation of the freedoms and opportunities afforded to all residents, and the event at Lake Macquarie exemplified the unity and richness brought by the amalgamation of different cultures and nationalities in the region.
Leave a Reply