Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM has welcomed one of the largest ever groups of new citizens at a super citizenship ceremony attended by almost 2,000 people.
NSW Labor Leader Chris Minns was a special guest at the mega ceremony, which saw 1,379 new Aussies receive their citizenship at Blacktown Leisure Centre, Stanhope.
Residents from 74 countries, from Afghanistan, to Botswana to Samoa to Vietnam, pledged their allegiance to Australia surrounded by family and friends
Mayor Bleasdale congratulated the newest citizens on calling Blacktown City home: “As Mayor, it is always a great honour to witness our newest Aussies take one of the most significant steps of their lives right here in Blacktown City.
“Our new citizens come from around the world, and bring a wealth of cultural knowledge and experiences, helping build the multicultural fabric of our community.
“I was delighted to have Chris Minns attend and give a special welcome to all our new citizens, their families and friends.
“I wish these citizens all the very best as they embark on the next chapter of their lives in Australia.”
Close to 4,800 residents, including children, have sworn their allegiance to Australia at Blacktown City Council ceremonies so far this year.
In July, Mayor Bleasdale welcomed an extraordinary 1,695 new citizens across 2 super citizenship ceremonies.
Photo: Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM welcomes Blacktown City’s newest citizens at a bumper ceremony.
