Gerringong, Kiama, Kiama Downs and Jamberoo all hosted their own activities and all reported good community support, while a big crowd attended a special Australian Citizenship ceremony in Hindmarsh Park.

Highlight of the day was special performances from Australia Day Ambassadors, the Special Olympics Dance Performance Group, who wowed the crowds at Gerringong and at the citizenship awards.

Kiama Mayor Brian Petschler inducted Brian and Leona Hutchison, Dr Hilary Maitland, Neal McDonald, Marites McGovern, Sarah Phipps and John and Margaret Temple who took the Australian Oath, while Edel Holmes, Christine McDonald, Vipada Phetmung, Tawatchai Tangwattanakrit and Robert Water, who affirmed their citizenship.

Mr Petschler paid tribute to the 13 new Australians.

“It is such an important thing to do and we welcome them as new citizens.”