A special ceremony was held at Port Macquarie-Hastings Council.

Mayor Peter Besseling called upon uncle Bill O’Brien for the Welcome to Country.

“In the past four years uncle Bill has been to every citizenship ceremony bar one. Sharing his uniquely, incredible way of paying respect to the custodians of this land. We thank him for his dedication,” he said.

The new Australian citizens hail from all corners of the world including England, United Kingdom, India, South Africa, Republic of Ireland, Britain, United States and Nepal. 

The following made their final pledge: Stephen Burton, Gail Davis, Owen Davis, Amelia Davis, Harpal Singh Dhaliwal, Dustin Gover, Jessica Hersee, Dependra Rai, Eshneha Rai, Marvin Rai, Yamuna Thapa, Malcolm Robertson, Thomas Schaefer and James Tierney.

Gail, Owen and Amelia Davis were overwhelmed to confirm their loyalty to Australia.

“It’s a lot more exciting than what I thought it would be. We’ve been in Australia for almost eight years but to finalise all the paperwork and be here today just makes you realise how great this is,” Gail said.

Gail was offered a sponsored migration from England in nursing when Amelia and Owen were just five and seven years old.

“Now the two are in high school. We thought it was finally time to become duel citizens,” she said.

Amelia said the beaches were one of her favourite things about Port Macquarie, along with the friendly people.

“The weather is a bit nicer than England,” Owen laughed.

The family found Aussie life to be “more easy going and relaxed”.