Meet Douglas Shire's newest citizens

DOUGLAS Shire welcomed another diverse group of new Aussies at a well-attended Citizenship Ceremony in Port Douglas on Australia Day.

About 200 people packed into the Port Douglas Community Hall to celebrate Australia Day Award winners and welcome 28 new citizens to Douglas Shire.

The new Aussies hailed from a range of countries including United States of America, Nepal, Thailand, Canada, Republic of Ireland, Ukraine, France, Malaysia, India, Germany, India, Italy, France and United Kingdom.

Douglas Shire Mayor Julia Leu welcomed new citizens before presenting them with a certificate and native plant from the Mossman Nursery.

“It was fantastic that so many new citizens have chosen to live in our beautiful shire,” she said.

“For most it is a long journey leading up to their special day and hearing their individual stories was inspiring.

“In 2019, we authorized more than 50 new citizens at Douglas Shire Council ceremonies and the latest turn-out shows the lure of our region remains strong.”

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, about 20% of the population in Douglas Shire was born overseas.

Meet our newest citizens below!