Australia’s Newest Citizen Calls Cunnamulla Home

Moy Ann Dillon became an Australian citizen at a special ceremony in Cunnamulla today.

Born and raised on the Caribbean island nation of Jamaica, Moy Anne came to Australia in 2014 on a scholarship to do her Masters in Management, majoring in sport at the University of Technology, Sydney.

“When I was little, I loved Crocodile Dundee, and I don’t know how many times I watched it, and I also loved Steve Irwin. One day I pointed to the TV and said I’m going to Australia one day, little did I realise at the time it would happen,” said Moy Ann.

While in Sydney, she met her now husband David and once she returned to Australia in 2018 they moved to the Northern Territory and started their family. They are now the proud parents of three beautiful children. The family came to Cunnamulla to be closer to David’s family. Moy Ann is currently working for the Paroo Shire Council in reception and at the library where she runs the First5Forever program.

Martin Leech, CEO Paroo Shire said this was a special moment for Moy Ann as she pledged her commitment to Australia.

“Today is a great time to demonstrate our shared Australian values of freedom, respect, equality, and a fair go, and to welcome the new citizen joining our Australian family today and every other day of the year,” said Martin.

Mayor, Suzette Beresford said to Moy Ann during the ceremony, “Your Australian citizenship is a symbol of your commitment to Australia and your formal membership of the Australian community. We all understand and appreciate the commitment you are undertaking to adopt the citizenship of your new country. Congratulations, we are proud and happy to welcome you to our beautiful country.”

Moy Ann said jokingly, she is still fascinated by kangaroos, “they make me so happy” and that she has loved living in Australia and is honoured to formally be an Australian citizen.