Jack Hudson

PLAYFORD Mayor Glenn Docherty has welcomed more than 3500 Australian citizens across his tenure.

He hit the milestone at a citizenship ceremony earlier this month, and he said it was one of his favourite duties as mayor.

“One of the roles of mayor is you get to conduct citizenship ceremonies and confer Australian citizenship on our new residents, it’s absolutely fantastic and I feel honoured to be part of their very special day,” he said.

“Playford’s a fast-growing community and over my time as mayor, inducting over 3500 people to Australian citizenship is a real honour.”

Reflecting on the past decade, Mr Docherty said he remembered his first ceremony.

“I do (remember),” he said. “It’s always a bit nerve-racking trying to pronounce everyone’s name right. I do try my best, but it really is great to see the joy on people’s faces, to hear their journey to become Australians and to see the great pride and why they choose Playford and Australia as their home.

“Citizenship ceremonies are always a fantastic occasion. They are year round with the main ones being on Australia Day and National Citizenship Day.”