Beechworth’s Zhengyi Feng was one of 11 residents from around Indigo Shire who took a pledge in becoming a new Australian citizen at a moving citizenship ceremony last week.
Mayor Sophie Price presided over the ceremony held by Indigo Shire Council at the historic Beechworth Town Hall.
The residents originally hailed from Canada, China, Indonesia, Italy, Netherlands, New Zealand, Thailand and the United Kingdom.
Proud to become an Australian, Ms Feng said she has lived in the country for more than 10 years.
“I respect Australian values and the country’s democracy and that’s why we have loved to settle here," she said.
Latest Stories
For Chiltern’s Lisa Venola becoming an Australian citizen has meant a greater connection to the country.
“I can vote and I can feel I'm more part of the community now too,” she said.
“I’m originally from the UK, met my Australian husband when on a holiday staying with a friend and the rest is history.
“I was very impressed with the ceremony, because I didn't know what to expect.”
Becoming an Australian citizen had been a wonderful confirmation of being part of the community for Beechworth’s Elroy Bos.
Mr Bos said he has lived in Australia for some years as a permanent resident.
“At small practical levels, sometimes you are confronted with the fact that you're not Australian, and I can also now vote,” he said.
“It’s also confirms a long-term commitment to the country as my Australian wife and kids are here.”
Cr Price said it had been an exciting day for the shire to warmly welcome the new citizens touched by the ceremony.
“We're so pleased that people want to come and be part of our beautiful Indigo Shire and to enjoy the privilege and the responsibility of living here,” she said.
“It takes a long time to get to this end of the process, and we're also pleased to conduct the ceremony in the beautiful Beechworth Town Hall for their welcome to Australia.
“Our new Australians are already making valuable contributions to their community and are already a big part of our community.
“The big step from today is they have now become part of the shared story of Australia."
Deputy mayor Jane Dowsley said taking part in the ceremony for the first time and presenting certificates had been exciting to welcome the 11 new citizens.
“It has reminded me of the wealth and value of having such a diverse community, and how Australia really envelops and welcomes people,” she said.
“I found the ceremony heartwarming and has been more important than ever in the current economic and geopolitical climate.”
