Eight people were yesterday welcomed during the Australia Day Citizenship ceremonies held at the Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre.

They were Peter and Riana Deacon and their children Peter Jnr and Leanka, originally from South Africa, Linda Keene from Wales, John Scales from England, Jeong Ah Song of South Korea and Ian Ivison.

Mayor Westman said he was proud and honoured they had chosen to make their home in the Bathurst region which holds a special place in the history and culture of Australia.

“It’s Australia’s oldest inland settlement, and today you become its newest citizens – and as such will contribute to shaping its future,” Cr Westman said.

“We live in a country that has so many opportunities and freedoms.

“Australia prides itself on the values of community and mateship, and today we take the time to share these values and our culture together.”

Our Australia Day Ambassador Andy Paschalidis welcomed the new citizens as a proud Australian of Greek heritage.

“In the last decade I have welcomed many new Australian citizens,” Mr Paschalidis said.

“They all have unique stories to tell.

“This truly is the best country in the world.

“I only went to Greece once but I saw enough to realise why my parents came to Australia,” he said.

Mr Paschalidis talked about how his dad had always been a hard worker and, in the Greek way, the family owned a fruit shop and milk bar.

“I also worked hard and by the time I was 21 I had enough money to buy my first house,” he said.

“This country is truly unique, you will always have opportunities here. Engage yourself in the local community and you will get it back ten fold.

“Congratulations – this is an historic day for you – a day you’ll never forget.

“In true Aussie fashion I expect you to throw a souvlaki on the barbie for me,” Mr Paschalidis said.