Cessnock has officially welcomed 37 new Australian citizens from 18 different countries during a citizenship ceremony held today at the Cessnock Performing Arts Centre.

The ceremony, hosted by Cessnock City Council, marked an important milestone for the new citizens, who took the pledge to become part of the Australian community.

Clayton Barr was in attendance to welcome the new citizens and acknowledge the significance of the occasion.

“I had the privilege to be part of the Citizenship Ceremony held today at the PACC to welcome 37 new citizens from 18 different countries. Congratulations to everyone who took the pledge today — welcome,” he said.

The ceremony reflects the region’s growing cultural diversity, with new citizens now calling Cessnock home.