The Australia Day speeches of two schoolgirls from the northern Victorian town of Nhill are signposts to the inspiring and exemplar story of a community that had embraced diversity and forged close bonds which mean everyone is valued, and social cohesion is cherished.

In 2011 Nhill welcomed Karen refugees into their community to take up jobs in a local processing plant.

Over a decade around 230 Karen settled in the town, making cultural and social contributions while adding $105 million to Nhill’s economy.

The introduction of a large number of young Karen adults has reduced the average age of Nhill’s workforce; and the 79 children among the Karen population have boosted numbers in local schools.

The two teenagers spoke at an Australian Day event earlier this year.

Charand Messi is Captain of Nhill College and member of the town’s Karen community and Charlotte Donnell is Sports Captain at the school.

Charlotte’s speech

“When I’m asked what Australia Day means to me, my mind instantly goes to community. It’s sharing a smile with a stranger, lending a hand when things get tough, and knowing that there is a place for everyone. It’s the quiet understanding between neighbours, the way we show up for each other without being asked.

Australia is built on stories- stories of resilience, of mateship, of people coming together in times of hardship and celebrating together in times of joy. From small country towns like Nhill to the busy city streets, community is what turns a place into a home. It’s found in local sporting clubs, school fundraisers and local community groups.

Australia has so many different cultures, beliefs, backgrounds but above all we still find a way to come together. I have been a part of the Nhill and District Sporting club for most of my life from playing netball to volunteering in the canteen or scoring games and now coaching the modified netballers I know the importance of people coming together to make things happen.

Because we’re a small-town club, it can sometimes be difficult to fill junior teams. Over the years we have been fortunate to welcome many Karen kids to come and play for our club.

Last year, a number of Karen boys joined our under 14 footy side. At the start of the season, they had never played Aussie rules before, and many of them didn’t have a strong grasp of English. So, the coach kept things simple. He told them see the ball, get the ball and kick it far. And that’s what they did.

As the season went on, they grew stronger and stronger. Beating teams that we hadn’t won a game against in 20 years. Against all expectations, they made it all the way to the grand final. Without those boys being welcomed into our town, we may not have even been able to field a team- let alone make a grand final. Their involvement didn’t just strengthen our side; it strengthened our club and our community.

That experience shows what Australia means to me. When we open our arms, when we give people a chance, and when we come together despite our differences, incredible things happen.”

Messi’s speech

“Good afternoon, everyone. My name is Messi, and I am proud to represent Nhill College as school captain. It’s an honour to stand here today as both a student and a human being, sharing my thoughts on what Australia Day means to me.

Australia Day means to me a reminder of why I am grateful to live in a place that gives people hope, opportunity and a sense of belonging. Australia has become a home for many people from around the world who have come here to start new lives. It is a country with many cultures and stories.

Migrants and refugees bring their stories, their food, their traditions and together, we make Australia stronger and more colourful. My parents came to Australia to give my siblings and me a safer and more accessible life, as well as to live free from danger.

They left behind everything and the place they once called home. They made sacrifices and escaped dangers to find peace and safety. Arriving in a country where they didn’t know the language, the culture, or anyone around them, they had to rebuild their lives from the very beginning.

It wasn’t easy, but the support and opportunities Australia offered helped them continue. My mum quoted ‘It changed our lives in ways we never imagined’, This opportunity is something I never take for granted, it is a privilege, and it reminds me how fortunate I am to call Australia home, a place where my family found safety, hope, and the chance to create a new future.

Overall, Australia Day means to me a moment of reflection. It is about recognising the journeys of others and appreciating the diversity that makes this country special. Australia is built from millions of stories coming together and taking the time to understand and support one another. This unity is what makes Australia feel like home to me.

Thank you.”