Gold FM host Christian O’Connell’s new move to prove love for Australia

British radio host Christian O’Connell says mateship is one of the best things about his new home. Now he’s proving his commitment to his adopted country.

Gold FM host Christian O’Connell with his wife Sarah and daughters Ruby, 16, and Lois, 13 with dogs Reggie and Nisha. Picture: Tony Gough

Five years after packing up and moving to Australia, British radio host Christian O’Connell is formally adopting his new country.

O’Connell, his wife, Sarah, and their daughters, Ruby and Lois, will officially become Australian citizens on Thursday at Brighton Town Hall.

“All the family are becoming Aussies and we are honoured,’’ said Gold FM breakfast host O’Connell.

“We love our adopted country and are proud to be part of it. It is a beautiful country with so much to see and explore, the real attraction is you guys.

Gold FM breakfast host Christian O’Connell is becoming an Australian. Picture: Jake Nowakowski

“You are friendly, positive and love a laugh. It has changed us since moving here five years ago.”

O’Connell said the mateship was what he fell in love with.

“I came here and stumbled on the radio as a complete unknown and outsider and, after some initial trepidation, you were kind enough to give me a go,’’ he said.

“That has meant we can live here and build a new life here. It has changed my family’s life. My eldest daughter has just started university and my mother-in-law came here on a holiday a year ago and liked it so much, she moved here at 75.”

But his allegiance hasn’t changed completely when it comes to sport. “I will be supporting England in the Ashes but reserve the right to review that should we start losing!”