JAI and Ekta Sharma’s journey from Amritsar in northern India to the black-soil plains of Moree began 10 years ago.

They left their homeland armed with confidence, hope, plans for a new future in a new land, and quite a few butterflies.

Jai and Ekta completed their journey at Jellicoe Park on Australia Day when they proudly received Australian citizenship certificates from Moree Plains Shire deputy mayor, Wayne Tighe.

“Being called an Australian after our citizenship ceremony feels incredibly meaningful and rewarding,” Ekta smiled.

“It brings a strong sense of belonging and pride, and really acknowledges the journey we’ve taken to make Australia our home.

“This is a moment that makes us feel truly welcomed and connected to the community.”

Jai and Ekta took their citizenship vows with their four-year-old daughter, Aradhya, who this year starts her own journey at Grace Lutheran Pre-School.

They also have three-month-old son, Jayden, waiting in the wings.

Jai and Ekta settled in Parramatta before moving to Moree in October, 2021.

Jai and Ekta Sharma, with children Aradhya and Jayden, and Moree Plains deputy mayor, Wayne Tighe, at Jellicoe Park on Australia Day.

“We decided to move to Australia because it offers a great balance of career opportunities and quality of life,” Ekta said.

“Australia is known for its strong economy, multicultural environment, and high standard of living. “We were also drawn to the lifestyle, work-life balance, and the chance to gain international experience while growing professionally and personally,” she said.

After five years of city life hustle and bustle, they decided to head bush to Moree.

“We came to Moree for the country life, quiet and peaceful environment and good job opportunities,” Ekta said.

Jai works at Cavanagh Bus and Coaches and Ekta is employed at Dipper’s Home Timber and Hardware.

To officially call Australia home, last year they began the process for citizenship.

“After spending several years in Australia, it has truly become our home,” Ekta smiled.

“We have established our life here, formed strong connections within the community, and see our long-term future in Australia.

“Applying for citizenship felt like the appropriate next step to formally commit to the country and contribute fully as a member of society.

“Our hopes for the future are to continue building a stable and fulfilling life in Australia. We want to grow in our careers, stay connected with the community, and create a secure and happy future for ourselves while contributing positively to society,” she said.

Jai, Ekta and Aradhya joined six other new Aussies at Jellicoe Park on Australia Day.

Hannah Berghan and David and William Dyer from the United Kingdom, Cam Nguyen from Vietnam, Paul McDonald from Ireland and Ines Wegner from Germany were also granted citizenship by deputy mayor, Wayne Tighe.

“On behalf of the people of Australia, and the residents of Moree Plains Shire, I congratulate our new citizens for the commitment they have made to being part of Australia’s future,” Cr Tighe said.

“While we embrace and celebrate the diversity of the Australian people, we also aim to build a cohesive and unified nation of people.

“Australian citizenship lies at the heart of a nation founded on all-round equality,” he said.