Shire of East Pilbara Australia Day celebrations

The Shire of East Pilbara welcomed 33 new Australians at its Australia Day citizenship ceremony on January 26.

The ceremony took place at the Newman Community Hall and attracted more than 100 community members, family and friends — the largest turnout for a local citizenship ceremony in recent memory.

New citizens were joined by their loved ones and long-term residents to reflect on the meaning of citizenship and belonging in the East Pilbara.

Among those in attendance were Phil Twiss MLC, shire chief executive officer Steven Harding, and deputy president Cr Peta Baer, who addressed attendees and formally welcomed the new Australians.

Australia Day celebrations continued at the Newman Aquatic Centre with a relaxed, family-friendly program featuring a free sausage sizzle, free pool entry, inflatable pool activities for children, and live music by DJ Viv.

Shire president Cr Anthony Middleton said the event captured the spirit of Australia Day in the East Pilbara.

“It was a great, laid-back celebration — families enjoying the pool, the barbecue, spending time together, and making the most of the day,” he said.