The great Aussie barbecue was one of the big attractions that encouraged South African couple Esme and John De Lange to relocate and call Australia home.

And now the couple hope to formalise their love of the country and officially become Australians at the citizenship ceremony on Australia Day.

Esme and John De Lange will become 'true Aussies' at a citizenship ceremony on Australia Day."It is not hard to become in love with such a wonderful country as Australia," explained Esme, who believes being an Australian is more than just an address.

"Becoming a citizen is more than to say ‘I have moved to Australia', it is becoming part of Australia.

The CQUniversity employees moved to Australia in 2008 in search of a quiet, relaxing region to settle and enjoy life.

"We are not city lovers so John applied for positions that were rural [or regionally] based and accepted a contractual procurement position in beautiful Tasmania. However, as most South Africans would testify, we are not use to Tasmania's cold weather."

After four months, working in Tasmania, CQUniversity offered John a procurement officer position in its supply department and he began working for the institution in December 2008. Within a few months, Esme also secured a contract with the University as an assistant finance officer.

"Since being here, we just like the weather, beautiful coastal area, the people of Rockhampton and the region and CQUniversity," Esme explained.

"It is a real privilege to live in a country with so many open spaces, parks and freedom to relax on a nice sunny day at one of the recreational areas, having a barbecue."

The couple believe South Africa and Australia have much in common including the love of having a barbecue with your mates, cricket and outdoor living, however South Africa's high crime numbers limit outdoor living to security controlled areas.

John and Esme enjoy their coastal lifestyle in Yeppoon on the Capricorn Coast and are members of the local Uniting Church.