It was a very proud moment for Melissa Nioko and Lucia Gurciullo, who officially took the Pledge of Commitment to become Australian citizens.
Murrumbidgee Mayor Ruth McRae officiated on behalf of the Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs, Andrew Giles.
Cr McRae described officiating at citizenship ceremonies as one of her greatest honours, and said it was truly a privilege to welcome individuals as citizens to this wonderful country.
“I warmly congratulate both conferees for officially becoming an Australian and wish them all the very best for the future,” Cr McRae said.
In expressing her happiness, Ms Nioko described moving to Australia as a life-changing decision.
Ms Nioko said looking back now, “I think it was one of the best decisions I have ever made“.
“Being able to raise our family here is a privilege in itself,” she said.
“Australia is a beautiful country with even more beautiful people and we are thankful to have become a part of it.”
Mrs Gurciullo said she was also “really happy” to be receiving her Australian citizenship.
She said it was a proud moment, and wonderful that her family could be present at the ceremony.
She has lived in Australia for 61 years after migrating from Italy, with 45 of those years in Jerilderie.
Murrumbidgee Council holds a number of citizenship ceremonies throughout the year.
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