So the Irish national made it official last week, and was inducted as an Australian citizen.
A special ceremony was hosted by Tuesday, July 8, with Murrumbidgee Mayor Ruth McRae OAM officiating.
Ms Doherty took the pledge of commitment to Australia in front of family, friends and council staff.
Cr McRae said it was an honour to conduct the ceremony and witness such a meaningful milestone.
“Welcoming new citizens is one of the most rewarding parts of my role,” Cr McRae said.
“It was a pleasure to formally welcome Ms Doherty as an Australian.
“Our community is stronger for the diversity and shared values that citizenship represents.”
Ms Doherty said becoming an Australian citizen was a deeply personal and proud moment.
“I have been a member of the Coleambally community since 2011, which is almost half of my life.
“To now become a citizen of Australia is an extremely proud moment for me.
“Even though I have considered Australia my home for quite some time, today has solidified that title for me,” she said following the ceremony.
The citizenship ceremony was conducted in accordance with the Australian Citizenship Act 2007 and the Australian Citizenship Ceremonies Code.