Last Wednesday I was pleased to conduct a citizenship ceremony for close to 160 residents of Bankstown who had made the significant decision to become Australian citizens. Jason Clare MP and Clr Tadros joined me in congratulating our newest citizens.

On Sunday I attended a celebration at the Croatian Club to mark the restoration of Croatian Independence by the Proclamation of 10th April, 1941. The function had been organised by the Croatian Intercommittee Council for NSW and featured a number of cultural performances.

The Greenacre Senior Entertainers will be holding their annual Mother’s Day Concert on Monday 10 May 2010 from 1pm. This free concert will be held at the Greenacre Citizens Centre and mothers and grandmothers are encouraged to come along to enjoy the entertainment followed by light refreshments. For more details, contact Hilda on 9709 4146 or Marianne 9790 1569.

Members of the Bankstown’s Talent Advancement Program performed at the Finale of the Golden Slipper on Easter Monday and again on Wednesday at the Royal Easter Show where they drew a large crowd and enthusiastic applause. Congratulations to our young vocalists on their performances and for representing our city at these major events.

A reminder that there is still an opportunity for young people to join in National Youth Week celebrations with activities being held until Sunday. Council has an interesting program of events for everyone between the ages of 12 and 25. For more details visit Council’s website at www.bankstown.nsw.gov or call 9707 9605.

On Saturday 22 May, Council will host an interactive Bushcare bus trip for prospective and current Bushcare volunteers. If are interested in helping improve our local environment, I invite you to call Council’s Bushcare officer on 9707 9992 or visit www.bankstown.nsw.gov.au to reserve your seat for this popular trip.