Gloria and Jose are finally set to become Australian citizens. 75886 Picture: DAMJAN JANEVSKI
By Vanessa Chircop
WHEN Gloria Villamizar decided to move to Australia in 2004 she said a tearful goodbye to her boyfriend Jose Estrada Garcia not knowing when she would see him again.
Three months later, unable to live without the love of his life, Jose hopped on a plane after her.
A year later they were married and this Australia Day, after eight long years and mountains of paperwork, the couple will finally become Australian citizens.
And though they admit the journey wasn’t easy they haven’t looked back.
“It was always the plan to become citizens,” Gloria said.
“But it’s a very long process,” Jose added.
They didn’t speak the language, were students and working hard to make ends meet.
Jose admitted at times he wanted to quit and go back but visits to Columbia made him realise where they felt most at home.
“In my family we have 150 people and when we get together it’s hard to say goodbye but you also start missing Australia,” Jose said.
“This is our home where our friends have become family.”
This year the Hobsons Bay couple are finally reaping the rewards of their patience and hard work.
Jose is starting a new job, Gloria has a Masters Degree in accounting and they’re expecting their first baby.
“Everything is happening this year,” Jose said.
Gloria said it’s important that her baby learn about Columbia and their culture but she is also looking forward to raising an Aussie child.
Jose also noted how welcoming Australians are and what a difference it made for them adjusting to their new home.
“People come from everywhere here – Australians are used to it,” he said.
“If you’re here, you’re Australian – if you feel it inside you, you’re Australian.”
Jose and Gloria will become citizens at a special Australia Day ceremony at the Williamstown Town Hall this Thursday.
