Eight residents took part in the colourful citizenship ceremony, which was held before the council’s monthly ordinary meeting and in front of a packed public gallery.

Last week’s ceremony brings the number of Katherinites to become citizens in 2016 to 39, with 15 taking their Affirmation of Allegiance during the biggest event in March.

With family and friends watching on proudly, the octet listened intently as mayor Fay Miller explained the rights and obligations that came with becoming an Australian, adding that taking on the citizenship of another country represented tremendous commitment and dedication.

Katherine’s newest Australians are Kempon Bates, Abhilash Koirala, Raju Koirala, Raunak Koirala, Riwaz Koirala, Juna Pachhai, Anudit Pachhai and Suzanne Rath.