Newcastle Jets forward Roy O’Donovan has become the city’s newest Australian Citizen along with his young family, in an online citizenship ceremony on January 26.
Relocating to Australia in 2015, the Irish import and his wife Ellen fell in love with the Newcastle lifestyle soon after the birth of their son Alfie.
“I always had it in the back of my mind that I wanted to play in Australia or America because I fancied the change from living in England,” O’Donovan said.
“We came to Newcastle and really felt like we had found a home here.
“You can’t beat the lifestyle here, especially for raising a family, with so many beautiful parks and beaches at your doorstep.”
O’Donovan said he had travelled and lived elsewhere for his football career but only for more than three years at a time.
“We’re extremely honoured and proud to become Australian citizens and be part of Newcastle’s future,” he said.
The City of Newcastle’s Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony is usually one of the largest in the state but was adapted for the newest citizens in a Covid-19 safe environment.
Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes presided over the ceremony accompanied by Federal Member for Newcastle, Sharon Claydon and Deputy Lord Mayor Councillor Declan Clausen.
“While the COVID-19 pandemic has meant we have had to do things a little differently to keep the community safe, it’s a historic moment as Lord Mayor to welcome City of Newcastle’s newest citizens in a more intimate, one-on-one setting, joining them virtually in their lounge rooms and kitchens,” Cr Nelmes said.
Information Source: Media Release, Jan 25, City of Newcastle
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