Thank you Ballarat High School

On Thursday I FINALLY became a citizen of this great nation of Australia, and "struth"- what a journey it has been to get here!  I would like to thank all the staff and students who have assisted me on my 7-year long journey.  In particular Anja Tusek and Danijela Bjelanovic.  Michele Kennedy has been a huge support, as was the late James Petrie, who got my whole journey at BHS started.  I feel I must give a shout out to my Year 10 German class of 2022 whose encouragement and very thorough quizzing saw me through my Citizenship test. (Fortunately, no vegemite tasting was required!!)

I would also like to take this opportunity to recognise all the students (and staff) at school whose families, like mine, have a non-Australian background, many of whom I got to know as International Students Liaison.  Your contribution to our community makes it vibrant.  Nearly a third of all people here are born overseas- another reason this country is “bonza”.  Please know that whatever language you speak at home, or whatever culture you celebrate, your diversity makes us great.  Be proud of it. 

I will never forget where I come from- but I am grateful for a people who have made me feel so welcome- Thank you Ballarat High School.

Charlotte Ross-Harris