Bass Coast's biggest citizenship ceremony of the year

Fifty-five Bass Coast residents became Australian citizens on Thursday, September 24, in what was the shire’s biggest citizenship ceremony of the year.

More than 100 people gathered for the occasion, including family, friends, councillors and community members.

Each new citizen made a pledge of commitment to Australia before receiving a certificate and a plant.

For many, it was an emotional experience, as some residents fought back tears as they made their pledge.

Grantville resident Daniel Hancock was among those taking the final step after about 20 years in Australia.

Originally from the Isle of Wight in the United Kingdom, Mr Hancock travelled to Australia for his work in security in the racehorse industry.

A trip for the Melbourne Cup helped set his life on a different course.

The reason he stayed was what he described as “a better way of life” and now plans to move from Grantville to Phillip Island.

When asked what he liked most about Bass Coast, he said “the sea, the scenery and the outdoor space.”

“You’ve got the countryside and the coastline,” he said.

Another new citizen, Paul Golby, arrived in Australia when he was seven.

Now 60, he said becoming a citizen had not been much of a concern when he was younger.

“When you’re younger, you’re not too worried about it,” he said.

Bass Coast Shire Mayor Brett Tessari welcomed the new citizens, many of whom had already spent years living and working in the community.

“Many of you bring incredible stories, and all of you have enormous courage in moving your lives to your new country,” Cr Tessari said.

“Thank you for bringing your culture, traditions, perspectives, stories, to interweave with what we currently have.”

Cr Tessari said seeing people become emotional while making their pledge filled him with pride.

The ceremony was the council’s fourth this year, and ended with the new citizens and all in attendance joining in the national anthem.