American Lisa Jenkins will today become the first person in nearly two years to become an Australian citizen on remote King Island.

Lisa arrived on this tiny speck midway between Victoria and Tasmania in May to be with her partner, new King Island Council general manager Mark Goode.

Mayor Charles Arnold will preside at this sunset citizenship ceremony for one at the historic Boathouse overlooking Currie Harbour.

Twenty guests from a population of 1800 permanent residents will welcome her in true Aussie style: a barbecue with famous King Island beef and cheese.

Lisa is originally from New Mexico in the US but said she lived “all over” there.

“I’ve lived in Australia for 12 years, including in Alice Springs, from where until May I commuted here to be with Mark after he started his new job,” Lisa said.

“So, yes, I’m used to isolation but have never lived in this small a community. There’s an incredibly wholesome lifestyle here. Locals have been incredibly welcoming and supportive. It’s a truly friendly place that epitomises the warm Aussie spirit and hospitality.”

With a master’s degree in financial management, Lisa will start her King Island Business Services on the 64km by 27km island, which has a rugged coastline said to have been the site of more shipwrecks than any other part of Australia.

A Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) spokesperson said. Australians look to the past and future as part of Constitution Day festivities.

“Constitution Day is the occasion that marks Australia’s creation as a nation, the day in 1900 when Queen Victoria gave royal assent to the Constitution. It is also a fitting time to welcome new citizens who will contribute to our future.”

In coming days, about 500 new Australians from about 70 countries will be welcomed at citizenship ceremonies across the nation. Ceremonies will also be staged in Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney, Perth, Brisbane and Canberra.

Lisa Jenkins becomes an Australian at 5.30pm today at the Boathouse in Wharf Road, Currie. Lisa and partner Mark Goode (mobile 0428 621 204) are available for media interviews and pictures following the ceremony. King Island Courier newspaper (0409 778 733) is available for pictures.

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