General News
31 July, 2023
Central Goldfields welcomes new citizens
The Central Goldfields Shire has gained a dozen new Australian citizens following last week’s citizenship ceremony in Maryborough. Coming in from all four corners of the world, the 12 residents originally hail from Sweden, the United Kingdom...
The Central Goldfields Shire has gained a dozen new Australian citizens following last week’s citizenship ceremony in Maryborough.
Coming in from all four corners of the world, the 12 residents originally hail from Sweden, the United Kingdom, India, the Philippines and Vietnam.
Central Goldfields Shire mayor Grace La Vella, who officiated the ceremony on July 27, said citizenship was the common bond uniting all Australians.
“Choosing to become a citizen is a very significant expression of [the residents’] pride in being part of Australia’s dynamic and diverse society,” she said.
“All of a sudden, they truly feel part of [our country] and united with us.
“It’s beautiful and very exciting. Watching their faces, one can see that sense of belonging and sense of being integrated into the community.”
Strengthening his commitment to Australia for around eight years, for former Indian national and current Maryborough local, Kushal Khamar, becoming a citizen has been a long time dream.
“This is a big moment for me — I’ve waited for many years to get this and it’s been a long ride,” he said.
“It means a lot to me. It means that now I can stay here for the rest of my life and contribute to the betterment of the country.
“I moved here because of the diversity, the culture and the country itself which is one of the best in the world.”
Receiving her citizenship on the same day, Michelle Marzan also echoed the sentiment — she said for her Australia was the place to be.
“I’m ecstatic. I moved to Maryborough from the Philippines almost five years ago. It was such a big step for me as I immigrated alone,” she said.
“I’m working at the hospital as a registered nurse and I love the staff, the workplace and the people I'm helping.
“I came here because of the opportunities Australia gives its citizens. Everyone has a fair go at things — doesn’t matter whether you’re a man or a woman.
“My family back home are very happy for me and it’s been a hard journey but worth it because I wanted a brighter future for myself, as well as freedom, and Australia gave me that.”
