News

Murray River Council welcomes 16 new citizens

By Lua Ikenasio

Jan 28, 2026

Murray River Council chief executive Stacy Williams and Mayor John Harvie with new citizen Gayan Gunarathna and his parents. Photos: Supplied.

Murray River Council recently welcomed its largest group of new citizens, with 16 residents taking the pledge to officially become Australian citizens.

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The event, held on Australia Day at the Rich River Golf Club, was the council’s biggest ceremony in recent years.

The newest citizens taking part in the ceremony.

Murray River Council Mayor John Harvie and chief executive Stacy Williams led the ceremony on the day.

Family members and loved ones also attended the ceremony to celebrate and support the new citizens during their big moment.

Mayor John Harvie with new citizen Jenna Park.

Cr Harvie said he was proud to have been a part of the ceremony.

“It was a privilege to welcome 16 new Australian citizens at one of Murray River Council’s largest-ever citizenship ceremonies on Australia Day,” he said.

“It was one of the most beautiful ceremonies I have ever had the honour of participating in.

“It was also wonderful to be joined during morning tea by our Murray River Council Citizens of the Year, Alex and Geoff Kent, who dropped in fresh from the Australia Day celebrations at Picnic Point, adding even more meaning to an already special occasion.”