The Hefer family have been embracing life by the beaches of Bargara for the past few years and now, they’ve officially become part of the Australian community.
Reg, Doret and baby Rue Hefer marked the milestone at this week’s Citizenship Ceremony at the Bundaberg Multiplex as part of a group of almost 90 new citizens.
The pair came to Australia from South Africa five years ago, originally settling in Victoria before craving a warmer lifestyle.
“It was way too cold down there so we decided to move somewhere a bit warmer – Bundaberg was the first option that came up,” Reg said.
The duo both found work – Doret as an occupational therapist and Reg running his own software business.
They said between travelling the country and welcoming baby Rue, their naturalisation process had quietly crept up on them.
“It was our plan from the start to get citizenship as soon as possible, to open up other opportunities,” Doret said.
“We have been here and have enjoyed living around Australia so the whole process has come about really quickly,” Reg added.
When asked what they loved most about their life in Bundaberg, the pair were quick to share their passion for the region’s beaches.
“We love going to the beach, Bargara Beach….Kelly’s beach and the lagoon, even the main beach and Christsen Park,” Reg said.
“We are excited for Rue to grow up here too.”
The family were joined by a full house at this month’s Citizenship Ceremony, which welcomed new residents from all over the world including Argentina, India, Japan, Samoa and more.
Bundaberg Regional Council holds approximately six Citizenship Ceremonies per year.
More information can be found here.
