New Australian citizens welcomed at Geraldton’s Australia Day citizenship ceremony

Twenty-one immigrants officially began their lives as Australian citizens in Geraldton on Australia Day, with all excited about the future in their adopted country.

Danele Ferreira, 21, said becoming a citizen lifted the weight off her shoulders and she felt “the struggle is over” after the citizenship ceremony at Stow Gardens on Thursday.

“It’s a great country, I’m loving it, it’s amazing. I get a new start and countless opportunities and I can’t wait,” she said.

Ms Ferreira said she had been in Geraldton for three months after moving to Australia in 2018 from South Africa, and was looking forward to starting university in Perth studying cybersecurity.

Her father, Riaan Ferreira, said the family had gone through tough times, unable to see each other for long lengths.

“We only saw each other for 10 days in three years due to the financial strain and immigration, but finally we are here,” he said.

Another new citizen, Marie Oliver, 42, from the Philippines, said it was a privilege to have the right to vote and “be a big part of Australia”.

“I’m now here with my daughter. I already moved her from the Philippines, but for me in general it’s good to live here,” she said.

Last year, Geraldton welcomed 32 new citizens on Australia Day, and 26 people were welcomed in 2021.