Thursday signalled a new beginning for four Moira Shire residents.
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Hailing from different backgrounds, each arrived in Australia with a similar dream — a dream that came true last week.
Muckatah’s Gunasegaran Nadarajah, Invergordon’s Perlita Prossor, Cobram’s Pahalanayake Jayarathne and Nanayakkara Nanayakkara can now call themselves Australian citizens following a ceremony held at Cobram Civic Hall on Thursday.
Although the ceremony differed to its usual structure due to COVID-19 restrictions, it was just as monumental for the new residents according to officiator and Moira Shire Mayor Libro Mustica.
“The ceremony was streamed live on Facebook for the first time with family, friends and indeed the whole community able to watch and be a part of this significant event,” Cr Mustica said.
“Our new citizens have already become integral members of our local towns and are active members of organisations and community groups.
“Through our Australian citizenship we all share a commitment to values including mutual respect, equality, freedom of speech and religion, the rule of law, and democracy.
“Our citizenship means we all belong to the Australian family and we can all enjoy the responsibilities and privileges of living in this country and having a say in its future.”
For the Malaysian-born Mr Nadarajah, being able to identify as an Australian means the world to him.
Reaching our shores eight years ago, he accredits his start in life Down Under to the people who have helped him carve out a place in Cobram.
“I am very happy, for me this is a dream come true,” he said.
“I feel like I have finally found my feet here in Cobram. The people are very good, everything that I have now is all thanks to the people.”
● Those wishing to become an Australian citizen can apply at www.citizenship.gov.au
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