FROM Hyderabad, Telangana, in the southern part of India, to the black-soil plains in north-western New South Wales, Australia – the journey has been exciting and at-times daunting for Moree’s newest citizens, Mirza and Arshia Baig.

For Mirza and Arshia, and their five-year-old son, also named Mirza, the final step of that journey took place at Jellicoe Park on Sunday when they pledged their loyalty to Australia.

The family proudly recited the Australian Citizenship Pledge, faultlessly sang Advance Australia Fair and received citizenship certificates and gifts from Moree Plains Shire mayor, Susannah Pearse.

Mirza, an Ampol store manager in Moree, and Arshia, a customer banking specialist at the Moree CBA branch, arrived in Australia nearly 10 years ago.

“We started in Sydney, where Arshia pursued her master’s degree,” Mirza said.

“We moved to Warialda in 2018 and both found employment, and now we are in Moree.

“We’re both passionate about our careers and feel fortunate to have found opportunities in Moree that align with our skills and interests.

“Moree’s strong agricultural industry and growing healthcare sector have created a range of job opportunities, and we feel lucky to be a part of this vibrant community.

“It’s great to be able to find opportunities and build a life in regional Australia,” he said.

Moree’s new citizens, Mirza Liaquat Baig and Arshia Nazia Baig, recite the Australian Citizenship Pledge at the Australia Day ceremony on Sunday.

In India, Mirza worked in his family’s business while Arshia studied.

They relocated to Australia for personal and professional reasons – and the great southern land’s shimmering reputation as a welcoming country was the magnet.

“We were attracted to Australia’s reputation for being a welcoming and multicultural society, as well as its strong economy, high standard of living, and excellent education system,” Mirza said.

“We were also drawn to Australia’s unique lifestyle, stunning natural beauty, and diverse cultural landscape.

“The opportunity to experience a new way of life, challenge ourselves and broaden our horizons was too exciting to pass up,” he smiled.

Ultimately, Mirza and Arshia’s decision to move to Australia was driven by a desire to create a better life for themselves, and to become part of a vibrant and inclusive community.

Their son, Mirza, will start at Moree Public School next week.

“We decided to move to Moree primarily for family reasons, as we don’t have any extended family members in the area,” Mirza said.

“We were drawn to Moree’s smaller, close-knit community and its range of childcare options.

“The move has allowed us to provide a stable and nurturing environment for our son, which is our top priority.”

After 10 years on Australian soil as residents, Mirza and Arshia decided to dig their toes in a little deeper.

“We felt a deep sense of connection and belonging to this country,” Mirza said.

“We’ve built a life here, made friends, and became active members of the community. We realised –and embraced – that becoming an Australian citizen was naturally the next step.”

Arshia said citizenship was the foundation to formally express commitment to Australia, and embrace its values, and its people.

“We are drawn to the idea of being active in Australian society, having a say in its future, and contributing to its growth and prosperity,” Arshia said.

“Citizenship represents a sense of permanence, security, and belonging, and we’re excited to take on the responsibilities and privileges that come with it.”

Mirza Liaquat Baig and Arshia Nazia Baig, their son Mirza Adnan Baig, with Moree Plains mayor Susannah Pearse at Jellicoe Park on Australia Day.

Mirza and Arshia both warmly agreed Australian citizenship was “an incredible feeling”.

“Being called an Australian for the first time after the citizenship ceremony was a moment I’ll always treasure,” Mirza smiled.

“It’s a sense of pride, belonging, and acceptance. I feel like I’ve finally found my home, and that this country has welcomed me with open arms.

“I feel grateful, humbled, and honoured to be a part of this amazing country,” he said.

Arshia said being an Australian was not just about being given a new title.

“It’s a sense of identity, and I’m thrilled to embrace it,” she said proudly.

As newly-minted Australians, Mirza and Arshia look forward to continuing their contribution to the Moree community.

“We are excited about the future and the possibilities it holds,” Mirsha said.

“Professionally, we hope to grow and develop our careers, and take on new challenges and responsibilities.”

Personally, Mirza and Arshia look forward to spending more time with loved ones, exploring the beauty of Australia, and pursuing hobbies and interests.

Long-term, they plan to build a happy and fulfilling life in Australia, surrounded by the people and things they love.

“We’re excited to see what the future holds, and to make the most of every opportunity that comes our way,” Mirza said.