Murrumbidgee Council welcomes two new citizens

Published on 30 October 2024

Murrumbidgee Council officially welcomed the area’s newest citizens, Helette Ferreira and Gabriel Garcia, at a Citizenship Ceremony held in Jerilderie on Friday 25 October 2024.

Murrumbidgee Council Mayor Ruth McRae officiated on behalf of the Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs, the Hon Tony Burke MP.

The ceremony was a momentous occasion for both Mrs Ferreira and Mr Garcia.

Both conferees have chosen to make Darlington Point their home, with Mrs Ferreira originally from South Africa and Mr Garcia from Uruguay. 

In a heart-warming speech, Mr Garcia said he had been waiting more than seven years for this day.

“Since the moment I arrived in Australia I wanted to stay; it hasn’t been an easy journey but I am proud of myself and I thank all the people who accompanied me,” he said.

Mrs Ferreira described receiving her citizenship as really exciting.   

“It is always a good feeling to feel part of my community, but receiving Australian Citizenship does make those of us that were born in a different country, feel like we belong and are a part of this great nation,” Mrs Ferreira said. 

“The fact that Australia allows us to share citizenship with our birth country, is an honour and a true testament of the multicultural facet of Australia and its people. I am happy to call Australia my country of choice,” she said.

She thanked the mayor Ruth McRae and her team for making the ceremony a truly special occasion. 

Cr McRae expressed her pleasure in conferring Australian citizenship on both Mrs Ferreira and Mr Garcia and congratulated them on becoming Australian citizens. She also conveyed her gratitude for being able to perform such a significant role, which she considers a great honour and a privilege. 

“On behalf of Murrumbidgee Council, I warmly congratulate you both for officially becoming Australian citizens and wish you all the very best for the future,” Cr McRae said. 

Murrumbidgee Council holds several citizenship ceremonies throughout the year, providing an opportunity for individuals to pledge their loyalty to Australia and become an Australian citizen. 

The ceremonies are a celebration of diversity and multiculturalism and serve as a reminder of the importance of inclusion and acceptance in our society.