Push to restore Australia Day citizenship ceremonies

BY PETER HYSLOP

Two Liberal councillors are campaigning for citizenship ceremonies to be held on Australia Day.

Newcastle Council made the decision to move the ceremony to January 25 in 2022, arguing the change reflected community sentiment.

Councillors Jenny Barrie and Callum Pull say they support the re-introduction of Federal laws, which mandated holding the ceremonies on the national holiday.

Councillor Pull argues that debates around this issue should not interfere with the rights of new citizens.

"I've spoken to a number of people who have come to this country and they tell me how important this day is."

"The January 26 debate will continue no matter when Newcastle Council holds its citizenship ceremonies."

Newcastle Councillor Jenny Barrie Picture Novo News

 

Hunter's Lifesavers and Fireys Gearing up for Hot Australia Day

BY KAYNE STEPHENS

Newcastle residents flocking to the beach this Australia Day long-weekend are being urged by Hunter lifesavers to be safe and cautious in the water.

Temperatures are set to reach 37 degrees Celsius and in addition to being sun-smart, beach-goers are being reminded to stay between the flags and act responsibly in the surf.

Hunter Surf Life Saving branch President, Henry Scruten, says the lifeguards are preparing for one of the busiest beach days of the year.

"The Australia Day long weekend is a bumper for us. All of our surf lifesavers will be available, all of the surf clubs will be open and will have all their patrols set," he said.

"We're asking the bathing public to adhere to the rules, stay between the flags, and if you've celebrated Australia day too long - stay out of the water."

Meanwhile, the Fire and Rescue NSW is urging people to be fire-safe in the Hunter over the weekend, with both high temperatures and hot barbeques expected for Australia Day.

Chief Superintendent Michael Morris from FRNSW says it's important to be mindful of the risks while enjoying the weekend.

“BBQ Fires and gas cylinder leaks can turn a weekend holiday into a disaster, so we encourage the community to not be complacent with their barbeques, and to know some simple fire safety tips, to avoid potential disasters,” he said.

"We want people to have fun, and enjoy their social occasions, with groups of people gathering around the barbie. Just always adopt fire safety practices, and enjoy a safe barbie!"

Henry Scruten from Hunter Surf Lifesavers suggests people can escape the heat by jumping in the water.

"For those that may be interested, the Stockton Surf Club are having an across-the-harbour swim on Saturday, and the Newcastle Surf Lifesaving Club are holding a swim from Nobby's Beach around to Newcastle.

"There will be additional patrols, and we're treating Saturday like a public holiday. Saturday, Sunday, and Monday will be full patrols on all of our beaches," he said.

Newcastle's beaches will be heavily patrolled as swimmers are encouraged to swim safely this Australia Day.