In one of the largest citizenship ceremonies in the city for many years, mayor Herman Beyersdorf welcomed the new residents in what was also his first official engagement as Armidale Dumaresq Council mayor.

Twenty-eight new citizens pledged their commitment to Australia, coming from all around the globe, including India, Brazil, Chile, Portugal, Bangladesh, France, Israel, Thailand and Iran.

Cr Beyersdorf knew exactly how the new residents were feeling, too, having gone through a similar ceremony in Muswellbrook in 1964 after emigrating from Germany seven years earlier.

“It was a great privilege and honour to welcome such a diverse group of new Australian citizens, especially since they have chosen to call Armidale home,” he said. 

“Armidale is a very welcoming and tolerant city that embraces diversity and I have no doubt that our newest Australians will thrive in our wonderful city.”