THERE are plenty of reasons why people seek out Australia as a place to call home.
But while our sandy beaches, climate and wide expanses rank highly for some, it was fresh opportunity that ensured Thomas Thompumkuzhiyil Kurien and wife Ansu Abraham were keen to set foundations here.
Dr Thompumkuzhiyil Kurien, a physician based in Armadale, and Dr Abraham, a radiologist working in Cockburn Central, brought daughters Suzanne (11) and Michelle (8) when they moved ‘down under’ in 2011 following time working in the Middle East.
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READ NOWThe Mt Pleasant pair said relocating to a place where they could work in their chosen careers and provide their children with a quality education meant Australia was a great choice.
“It was a new opportunity,” Dr Thompumkuzhiyil Kurien, originally from India, said.
“We thought to move to Australia because it was a better environment to work and for the future of the kids’ education and their upbringing.”
He said his family loved the beaches, river and fresh air, although he is yet to learn how to swim.
“The kids know swimming. I basically don’t know swimming,” he joked.
“I want to learn. One day I will do that. It’s in my bucket list.”
The local family is among about 16,000 people who have chosen Australia Day to become a citizen and will make the pledge Friday.
Dr Abraham said she was very excited.
“When we came to this country we were not sure whether we would stay or not,” she said.
“During the first six months I actually felt I needed to go back.
“Now I’m much more comfortable (and) identify myself more as an Australian and a part of this country.”
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