SIX South Gippslanders became dinky di Aussies at the Meeniyan celebration of Australia Day, even Kiwi Julia Almond admitting to having a few tears in her eyes when singing ‘Advance Australia Fair’ for the first time.
Having been in Australia for 15 years, originally moving to Melbourne for work, she’s looking forward to voting rather than just commenting on the voting choices of husband, Josh.
Like the other new citizens, she enjoys the natural setting of South Gippsland, its proximity to the beach and bush appealing, along with not being too far from the city.
Konkanok Homon from Thailand lived in the Blue Mountains for a few years after her move to Australia and has been based in Leongatha for a year, quickly developing an affinity for South Gippsland.
“I love Australia and it has made my life much better,” she said adding that Australian people are kind and friendly.
She was inspired to venture to the land-down-under after being captivated when she saw it on television in her youth.
Rocel Sheker arrived in 2012 from the Philippines to pursue her studies in nursing, relocating to Poowong with her partner after they purchased their first property, embracing a simpler and more peaceful lifestyle.
Lan Le migrated with her mother and brother at an early age. She enjoys the South Gippsland countryside, finding it a refreshing change from the crowded city she was used to, but it is the kindness of the people that stands out the most.
Mai Dang arrived from Vietnam in 2017 to visit her sister’s family, meeting her now husband Richard during the trip. Having previously lived in a fast-paced city, she was drawn to the slower pace of life in South Gippsland.
Kyle De Graaff ventured from New Zealand in search of better work opportunities and new adventures.
Deputy Mayor Sarah Gilligan ran the conferees through their pledges, each new Aussie then being presented with a native plant and their citizenship certificate.
In the lead-up to formalities, Member for Monash Russell Broadbent told the group Australia is one of just eight truly democratic countries in the world. He spoke of a particular Aussie quirk.
“We like to think, ‘She’ll be right mate’,” he said, before noting something that currently isn’t right.
Russell spoke of being heartbroken over planned demonstrations against Australia Day, asking a poignant question. “Why are we always looking back and fighting about our past when we have this great opportunity to plan our future?”
He congratulated the new citizens, clearly believing that despite some recent turbulence Australia is still a great choice.
