SIX local residents have started a new chapter in their lives after becoming Australian citizens.
More than 30 people, including Gannawarra Shire Council and State parliamentary representatives, joined family and friends to celebrate the special occasion.
Each participant received a certificate honouring the milestone and a gift during the ceremony at the Kerang Senior Citizens clubrooms on Tuesday.
For the Mincha West-based Bojo family, the ceremony marked the end of a process that began when the family emigrated from the Philippines in 2011.
Piggery employee Renanie Bojo, his wife, Arlyn and their nine-year-old son, James have become a part of the Pyramid Hill community, where James attends St Patrick’s Primary School and Mrs Bojo works in the aged care sector.
“Australia is the lucky country, and that’s why we’re here,” Mrs Bojo said.
“We are just happy to be Australian.”
Cohuna resident, Sasank Vatsavai described the milestone as “rejoicing”.
“I feel that becoming an Australian citizen is a very important honour, as I love the community,” the former Indian resident, who moved to Australia in 2008, said.
For fellow new citizen, Fred Scheepers, the ceremony was another step in a journey that began when he emigrated from South Africa in 2011.
“I am happy to be an Australian citizen,” the Kerang-based truck driver said.
Kerang resident, Manny Chhina saw the ceremony as the start of a new period of his life.
Born in India, the project officer for Goulburn-Murray Water’s Connections project lived in the United Kingdom for 10 years before moving to Australia in 2012.
“Becoming an Australian citizen completes my journey as an immigrant, but my journey as an Australian is starting,” he said.
Gannawarra mayor, Cr Brian Gibson congratulated the six residents on choosing to become Australian citizens.
“Citizenship is very important, as it is the common bond that connects all Australians,” he said.
“Australia, and in particularly the Gannawarra Shire, takes pride in your decision to become Australian citizens.”
Member for Murray Plains, Peter Walsh urged the new citizens to be proud of their choice.
“I hope you all look back on today as an important step in your lives,” he said.
