COOTAMUNDRA put out the welcome mat Wednesday for a group of 28 Aruban pilgrims who have arrived in Cootamundra along with a contingent of 14 French Vietnamese on their way to World Youth Day (WYD) in Sydney.

In a welcoming ceremony at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, mayor Paul Braybrooks urged the visitors to enjoy their stay in Cootamundra, assuring them that they were welcomed warmly by the community despite the extreme cold weather.

Cr Braybrooks provided welcome gifts and booklets to the pilgrims and wished them well during their stay in Australia.

A number of activities have been planned for the group, who have been billeted with local families, including an opportunity to meet and pet kangaroos, farm visits and a tour of Bimbadeen.

The pilgrims will leave Cootamundra tomorrow (Saturday) and travel to Canberra for a tour of our nation’s capital. Pictured with Mayor Paul Braybrooks are Sasha Ridpath and Nilaine Koolman of Aruba.