Twenty-five East Gippsland residents officially became Australian citizens at a warm and welcoming ceremony held on Thursday 24 April at St Mary’s Parish in Bairnsdale.

The new citizens, originally from Cambodia, Chile, China, Germany, Nepal, New Zealand, Philippines, Sweden, Switzerland and Vietnam, now proudly call East Gippsland home.

East Gippsland Shire Council Mayor Councillor John White said it was a privilege for Council to host the event on behalf of the Department of Home Affairs.

“We’re incredibly proud to welcome these 25 individuals into the Australian family,” John White said.

“It was a joyful morning of celebration, and we’re honoured they’ve chosen East Gippsland as the place to build their future.”

Among those taking the citizenship pledge was Juan, who first came to Australia from Chile in 2016 on a working holiday, seeking adventure and travel.

“Little did I know I’d meet my partner, now of nine years, and make the decision to stay,” Juan said.

“I chose to make Australia home because I felt safe and welcomed. The people were kind, the culture was new and exciting, and I felt a strong sense of belonging.”

Juan now works as an apprentice chef at the Nicholson General Store, a role he’s held since 2021. He’s also studying Certificate III in Commercial Cookery at TAFE Gippsland.

“There’s a real sense of peace in this area. I’ve found great colleagues, a supportive workplace, and a slower pace of life compared to Melbourne,” Juan said.

“The food and wine are fantastic, and I love the walks by the lakes, rivers and beaches. It’s a beautiful place to live.”

Becoming an Australian citizen marks a meaningful moment in Juan’s journey.

“While I’ll always feel Chilean in many ways, I really connect with Australia’s values. Even before becoming a citizen, this country gave me a fair go, the chance to grow, learn and contribute.”

Cr White said stories like Juan’s highlight the strength of East Gippsland’s growing diversity.

“Our new citizens bring with them a wealth of cultures, perspectives and experiences that enrich the social fabric of our region,” John said.

“Ceremonies like this remind us how vibrant, inclusive and welcoming East Gippsland truly is.”

He also noted that citizenship ceremonies are a key highlight of the Council calendar.

“They give us all an opportunity to reflect on what it means to be Australian – our shared values, our freedoms, and our collective hopes for the future.”

East Gippsland Shire Council is set to host two more citizenship ceremonies this year, on 12June and 17 September.

For more information about becoming an Australian citizen, visit immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/citizenship or call 13 18 80.

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