Macedon Ranges council recently welcomed 29 new citizens at a Kyneton Town Hall citizenship ceremony, gifting them with a native plant and an ‘Aussie Pride Badge’.
Proudly wearing the badge combining the Australian flag and the Golden Wattle, new citizen Steven Blackburn said he moved from Canada, and has lived in the Macedon Ranges for almost three years.
“Australia generally is fantastic, it’s just amazing,” he said, “it feels a lot like Canada but with a much preferable climate.
“The Macedon Ranges is spectacular, it’s such a beautiful region. It has fabulous towns, with the mountains and vineyards and outdoor activities, I think everyone should know about.
“The citizenship ceremony was also incredibly charming, and [felt] warm and familiar.”
Mr Blackburn, who moved with his husband Tino Corsetti, said he loves the warmth and sunshine, and while he hasn’t acquired a taste for vegemite yet, the Macedon Ranges feels like home.
“We’ve found the closest thing to paradise for us, we’ll absolutely stay, we’ll love it, it feels like home.
“One thing I love about Australian food is the approach to Christmas dinner, it’s very different to Canada.
“However, vegemite I think is an acquired taste, and one that I am yet to acquire.”
Other new citizens at the ceremony came from Canada, Philippines, Ireland, New Zealand, Thailand, Poland, United States, Vietnam, Bermuda, Netherlands, United Kingdom, Czech Republic and Belgium.
The night was complete with a performance by the Kyneton Municipal Band, and many councillors were present to welcome the new citizens.
Zoe Moffatt
