General News
29 January, 2026
Surprise proposal delights the crowd
THERE wasn’t a dry eye in the Panmure Community Hall when the elation of earning citizenship became the surprise of a proposal in front of family and friends.
Port Fairy’s Tony McIlroy acknowledged his heart was racing as he snuck to the front of the stage while his partner of nine years, Konwika ‘Anne’ Sermram, completed the process of becoming an Australian citizen during Moyne Shire’s 2026 Australia Day ceremony.
While she was reciting the pledge, he had carefully pulled an engagement ring from his pocket and strode up the stairs to position himself to ask the question which carries a pledge of its own.
“It’s been a long time coming,” Mr McIlroy told Western District Newspapers.
“It’s been on the cards for a while but I was waiting for the right time, I guess.
“I have no idea what was going through my mind – I was nervous.”
As Ms Sermram turned to exit the stage, Mr McIlroy knelt down on one knee and asked his now-fiancé to spend the rest of their lives together.
The question itself could not be heard over the roar of the packed house in attendance.
The rows of the hall were filled with smiles and applause, and no shortage of tears.
Mr McIlroy made sure he’d invited as many family and friends as possible, knowing the importance of citizenship to Ms Sermram – but also the importance of the step he was about to take.
“It was all so stressful that it’s all a bit of a blur,” he said.
“I just had to look at her and not the crowd.”
Ms Sermram has been in Australia for the past 17 years, and following her recognition as an Australian – in addition to becoming engaged – was ready to celebrate.
“I made sure as many people as possible could be here,” Mr McIlroy said.
“Then we’ve got a pretty good Aussie Day party back at home with everything set up.
“Hay bales, a band coming – a real Aussie party.”
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