From the office of the Hon Chris Bowen MP
Posted on Thursday 29th September 2011
Minister for Immigration and Citizenship. He’s not a terribly popular chap with many members of Australian society right now, especially those residing at Her Majesty’s pleasure in various detention facilities. However I think he’s a stand-up bloke, mainly because he’s just written me a letter. And I quote:
On behalf of the Government and people of Australia, I am delighted to advise that your application for Australian citizenship has been approved
Technically speaking I’m not a citizen proper as I still need to swear allegiance to beer, cricket and Holden at a ceremony next Australia Day (26th of Jan incidentally … one of the many Bradmanisms necessary to pass “the test” ). Then I’ll be a true-blue Strayan.
The only conflict I can foresee is working out which country to support in various international sporting events. It shouldn’t be too hard though, as I’ve decided that it will always be England in the Ashes. When it comes to (soccer) football or rugby I’m not that fussed given I don’t follow either. Thereafter Australia and England don’t compete against one another in that many competitions. The Olympics will be an interesting dilemma next year. Perhaps I’ll be the worst fan of all … the fair weather supporter. So it’s St George for the sailing and cycling and then I’m behind the Aussie boys for the swimming. Who knows, Australand/Englasia might win rather a lot of medals that way. Well, as long as one of them beats the bloody Yanks.
So, regardless of the other negative things I might say about them, the incumbent government has at least made one good decision this year.
Congrats Rick.
You’re certainly going to have to speak “Strine” now, and walk on your hands – isn’t that what they do down there on the bottom of the world? Congrats mate.
Fair dinkum, bonza etc..
And as long as you acquire a better Ozzie accent than Meryl Streep “A deengo stoile moi baybee!”
GOODONYA MATE….