One familiar face who received his citizenship and is officially calling Australia home was Fr. Stephen Onyekwere, the Parochial Administrator for Catholic Parishes of Finley and Tocumwal.
The ceremony was carried out by Berrigan Shire mayor Matt Hansen and NSW Senator Perin Davey who represented the Commonwealth of Australia, councillors, families and friends were also in attendance.
"Receiving the citizenship certificate was a happy experience and it engendered a sense of responsibility to share in the Australian Dream, such a great heritage," Ft. Stephen said.
Fr. Stephen was very appreciative of the support he received at the ceremony and is looking forward to his future in Finley.
"I was thrilled with the presence and support of few family and friends from Wagga, Albury and Nigerian born priests, Frs. Henry Ibe and Tony Mario Oboshi," he said.
"I have lived in Finley for 14 months and I find the community very welcoming and friendly, it’s now home."
The Berrigan Shire also welcomed Miss Tanachporn Ruanthai (Thailand), Ms Daisy Bodey (Phillipines) and Mrs Thi Hue Tran (Vietnam) as new citizens of the Commonwealth.