The Burdekin Theatre foyer became permanently enshrined in the memories of 10 Burdekin residents on Tuesday, 9 December, as the place where they were officially celebrated as naturalised citizens of Australia.
At 10:20am, Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, alongside councillors and families, came together to celebrate the new Australian citizens, each from various backgrounds such as Europe, Africa, and Asia.
New citizen Liezel Klopper, along with her two children, Andre Henri and Adriana Carmen, said the moment represented the end of a long journey toward becoming Australian.
"We're very happy to be [in Australia]," said Liezel. "It's been six years coming, so we're very proud to finally [become official citizens]."
Originally moving to the Burdekin from South Africa because of employment opportunities, Liezel says the decision to stay is very much a conscious choice.
"We like the Burdekin because we grew up in small towns in South Africa. We like the small-town community... raising your kids in a small town is beautiful—better than a city."
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the ceremony marked a milestone for both the new citizens and the region, underscoring the importance of cultural diversity in the community.
"I'm ecstatic to see the smiles on their faces, the enthusiasm, and their love for the Burdekin," she said. "I hope each one can bring a little bit of their own culture into our already multicultural community."
Following her address, Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort led the pledge to Australia, the singing of the national anthem, and the presentation of citizenship certificates.
The ceremony concluded with photos, light refreshments, and conversations between families, Councillors, and community members, marking the beginning of the new citizens’ formal place within the region.
The Burdekin Theatre foyer became permanently enshrined in the memories of 14 Burdekin residents, as the place where they were officially celebrated as naturalised citizens of Australia. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
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