Thirty-six East Gippsland residents took a proud step on Thursday 12 June, officially becoming Australian citizens at a welcoming Citizenship Ceremony hosted by East Gippsland Shire Council at St Mary's Parish, Bairnsdale.
Originally from countries including France, Malta, Thailand, China, Sri Lanka, the United Kingdom, Vietnam, New Zealand, Malaysia, Ukraine, the Philippines, South Africa, Nepal, India and Pakistan, these new Australians now proudly call East Gippsland home.
Mayor Cr John White said that Council was honoured to host the event on behalf of the Department of Home Affairs.
"We're proud to welcome these 36 individuals to the Australian family," Cr White said.
"It was a joyful morning of celebration, and we're honoured they've chosen East Gippsland as the place to build their lives."
Among the new citizens was Ilse and Jan Malan from South Africa, who moved to Australia in 2016 after an opportunity arose to join a rural GP practice.
"What brought us here was a professional opportunity, but what made us stay was the lifestyle," Ilse said. "Living in East Gippsland offers the same love for the outdoors we had back home - but with added peace of mind and access to great public services."
Ilse said the family enjoy being active members of the local community and have found connection through their church, local friendships, and the region's natural beauty.
"We love that we can raise our children close to lakes, forests, and the beach and still enjoy traditional South African foods thanks to local stores." Cr White said stories like theirs reflect the region's growing diversity.
"Our new citizens bring with them unique cultures and stories that enrich our communities," he said.
"Ceremonies like this remind us how inclusive and vibrant East Gippsland is."
East Gippsland Shire Council will host one more citizenship ceremony this year on 17 September which is Australian Citizenship Day.
