Moral support: Ibadat Kaur with her dad, Amardeep Singh, before he accepts his Australian citizenship. Photo by Rodney Braithwaite
Photo by
Rodney Braithwaite
Dozens of Shepparton residents were granted citizenship at Wednesday’s Australia Day celebration at Queen’s Gardens, cementing a new milestone along their journeys through life.
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Speaking at the event, Australia Day ambassador and aerobics champion Sue Stanley OAM encouraged the audience to follow their passions.
“I don’t believe anyone should say you can’t do anything ... Dedicate yourself to your vision,” she said.
Ms Stanley began winning gold medals for competitive aerobics on the international stage in 1993 and was undefeated both at a national and international level for four years.
She said she learned to ignore those who didn’t believe in her ability.
“Whatever you’re going to do, be the best that you can be ... Block out the negativity,” she said.
Altogether, Ms Stanley holds 35 consecutive wins for three World Championship titles, numerous international titles and nine consecutive Australian championships.
She now turns her attention to inspiring Australians to take care of themselves and enjoy life to the fullest.
Following her speech, more than 50 Shepparton residents embarked on an exciting new chapter of life, becoming Australian citizens.
City of Greater Shepparton Mayor Kim O’Keeffe officiated the ceremony, congratulating all citizenship recipients on their accomplishments.
Dressed up: Youhan Al Zuhairi, 9, and Yuna Al Zuhairi, 4, are wearing special outfits for the momentous ocassion.
Photo by
Rodney Braithwaite
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Friendly face: Bosco gets into the swing of things at the outdoor ceremony.
Photo by
Rodney Braithwaite
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Cuddles: Ibadat Kaur gives her dad, Amardeep Singh, some love before he accepts his Australian citizenship.
Photo by
Rodney Braithwaite
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Inspirational speaker: Australia Day ambassador Sue Stanley OAM.
Photo by
Rodney Braithwaite
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Queen’s Gardens: A crowd gathered on the lawns to witness the ceremony.
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Rodney Braithwaite
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Time together: Pavittar Singh and Rajpreet Kaur with their children Sehaj Kaur, 4, and Jasjot Singh, 3.
Photo by
Rodney Braithwaite
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We’ve boundless plains to share: Emma-Jane Law singing the anthem.
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Rodney Braithwaite
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Happy trio: Neil and Rachel Bickerstaffe with daughter Lillie, 8, off to celebrate becoming Australians.
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Rodney Braithwaite
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Family: Parents Kuldeep and Ranjit Sidhu with daughter Parneet, 14, and son Darshpreet, 7, shortly after accepting citizenship.
Photo by
Rodney Braithwaite
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New horizons: Shepparton general practitioners Dr Elizabeth Kennedy and Dr Robert Campbell say they came to Australia for an adventure, and eight years later they’re here to stay as citizens.
Photo by
Rodney Braithwaite
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