In typical Australian style the sun shone as families and mates nestled in for a morning of celebrations at the soundshell.

Everything that encompasses Aussie tradition was at hand – Mildura Lions Club members rustled up a feast of bacon, eggs and snags on the barbecue, children played backyard cricket, Australian themed books were read at storytime sessions and flags were flown, worn and tattooed across people’s faces.

The atmosphere was filled with true blue Aussie spirit as the community showed its patriotic side, wearing anything red, white and blue, or green and yellow.

Event facilitator and MC, Nardia Sheriff, said Mildura Rural City Council was delighted with the attendance.

Mildura Mayor John Arnold encouraged people to celebrate their municipality and country at every opportunity.

“I encourage people to be inspired on important occasions, on any occasions and to say to themselves, ‘I’m Australian, I’m proud of it and I respect and certainly want to be proud of this country,” Cr Arnold said.

With more than 50 different nationalities living in Sunraysia, Cr Arnold urged people to embrace Sunraysia’s newest citizens and residents, as well as each other.

Chloe Russell sang the national anthem during a flag raising ceremony and then Mildura’s 12 newest citizens took to the stage to mark the final phase of their citizenship journey.

Certificates and plants were awarded to the citizens – originally from places including the United Kingdom, Sudan, Pakistan, Italy, New Zealand, India and the Philippines – and awards were distributed to people devoted to their community.

Watching the citizenship ceremony was a touching moment for Len Krause who was awarded Citizen of the Year.

“It was lovely to see so many people of different nationalities inducted as Australians, it’s fantastic,” he said.

“That’s the best part I think about Australia, we all become one.”