Kieran Gelfand

Story

Travelling has always been a part of my life, having backpacked to 28 countries on five continents. On a trip through SE Asia I met a fellow traveller from the UK who was always extolling the virtues of Australia. All I could imagine was that big, empty country with all those folks who spoke with that funny accent! No way, I thought…not Australia! Then I landed in Bali….hated it…having come through Sumatra with its rainforests and orangutans and Java, with its culture, art and arcitecture, Bali was too touristy, too hyped, too trashy. I had to get out quickly and got a flight to Darwin. I ended up staying in the N.T. for six months and was loath to return to Canada when my visa ran out.

Back at home, I couldn’t stop dreaming about returning to Australia and seeing more of this amazing country. After many visits over the years (five in all), I decided to save myself the airfare and make my move permanent. With the support of many friends here, I was able to secure an employer sponsorship and immigrate on the skilled migrant visa. After fulfilling my sponsorship committments I started my own small business, became an Australian citizen in 2008, and my partner Warren and I just celebrated our second anniversary! (He thinks I’m the one with the funny accent!

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