A special ceremony was hosted by Murrumbidgee Council last week, in Jerilderie.
Family, friends and invited guests joined Mayor Cr Ruth McRae OAM in celebrating this significant milestone as the new citizens made the Australian Citizenship Pledge.
Cr McRae congratulated the seven new citizens, Finau Hiko and members of the Mabulac family, and welcomed them to the Murrumbidgee community.
“Becoming an Australian citizen is a significant milestone, and it is a privilege to share this special occasion with our newest citizens," Cr McRae said.
“We are proud to officially welcome our newest citizens and celebrate the diverse experiences, cultures and perspectives they bring to our community,” she said.
Dennis Kit Mabulac said it was a big day for the family.
“We woke up Tuesday morning, and we were all very excited to get dressed for the ceremony and to finally become citizens,” he said.
“Becoming Australian citizens is something we've been looking forward to for a long time.
“I was so happy to share this day with my wife and our children."
“I've lived in Australia since 2016, and my family joined me in 2021.
“Coleambally has become our home, and we're so glad we can celebrate this special occasion with our family and friends.”
Originally from Manilla in the Philippines, Mr Mabulac said he and his family love the contrast of the Murrumbidgee region.
“It is a quiet community and people are so friendly here.
“Where I’m from is so crowded, it is too noisy and there are lots of cars.
“The company Freedom Foods hired me as a flour miller and I have been there since. The original company sold to Darlington Point Grains and Milling.
“I really like my work, I’m so happy and still at the same factory.”
Five of Dennis’ six children also officially became Australian citizens last week, with the whole family connected to the area.
“They really enjoyed the citizenship ceremony, all of them, and love to be a part of the community.
“My wife Maribel and son David Kit Mabulac are still waiting for the examination.
“My wife is working in aged care at Cypress View Lodge, and our eldest daughter Ellen also works there as a carer.
“The eldest son, David, is also in milling and works in the office.
“Our next eldest daughter, Gabrielle, works as a preschool teacher in Coleambally.
“The youngest kids, they’re enjoying school at Coleambally Central School.
“Kyllie is in Year 7, Anna is in Year 6 and Shem is in Year 4.”
Ms Hiko was unavailable to speak with the Southern Riverina News about her journey to the Murrumbidgee region.
The Australian citizenship ceremony is among the final steps in the journey to becoming an Australian citizen and recognises the importance of citizenship within the local community.
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