East Gippsland Shire proudly welcomed 32 new Australians at a citizenship ceremony held at St Mary’s Parish in Bairnsdale on Friday 23 January.  

Mayor Cr Jodie Ashworth led the proceedings, officially welcoming new citizens from 14 different countries, including Bangladesh, Brazil, China, Egypt, England, Germany, India, Indonesia, New Zealand, Philippines, Scotland, South Africa, United Kingdom and Vietnam. 

Mayor Cr Jodie Ashworth said Australia's strength lies in its people.  

“Our citizens have shaped this nation into a vibrant, open, and diverse society we can all be proud of,” Cr Ashworth said.  

“We celebrate the contributions of everyone who calls East Gippsland home. Today is more than a ceremony, it’s a celebration of our shared spirit and achievements.

“We warmly congratulate all our new citizens and wish them every success as they begin this exciting new chapter in their lives.” 

Among those conferred citizenship was Jagpreet Singh, originally from India, whose journey to East Gippsland began with a scholarship to study a Master of Accounting at La Trobe University in Melbourne, following the completion of a Bachelor of Commerce in India.

Arriving in Australia in February 2019, he lived in several locations around Melbourne before settling in East Gippsland in 2021, drawn by a sense of familiarity.

“Life here is surprisingly similar to home, which is one of the reasons I settled here,” Jagpreet said.

“The people are very kind, and the lifestyle is very good. It reminds me of my village back in India, good people, small-town joy and a straightforward attitude where people look after others.”

While special occasions can bring thoughts of family and friends back in India, strong family values remain central.

“My family traditions are about working hard and doing religious and community service, which I continue to practise here,” he said.

Like many new arrivals, the early period of settling in Australia came with challenges.

“It was difficult at the start and getting my first job was very hard, but eventually everything worked out,” Jagpreet said.

Integrating into the local community was made easier through shared values and involvement with the local CFA, where lasting friendships were formed.

Reflecting on becoming an Australian citizen, Jagpreet said it was not something he had anticipated when first arriving.

“I would never have predicted I’d be attending a citizenship ceremony in Bairnsdale. I have great admiration for Australia, where my efforts have been rewarded, and I’m grateful to everyone who has supported me since I first arrived. Becoming a citizen of this wonderful nation means a great deal to me.”

East Gippsland Shire Council will host the next citizenship ceremony in July.  

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