Americans in Bunbury celebrate 4th July

One arrived in Bunbury 23 years ago and never left.

Others are filing paperwork to extend their stay while two more headed back home in April after three years in the South West.

Whatever their circumstances, Americans around the region will pause to reflect on their homeland today — the Independence Day holiday that commemorates the signing of the Declaration of Independence from Britain in 1776.

For James Fitch, who came to Bunbury in 1990 to play basketball and never left, the day is particularly special.

“I still base my holidays around it,” he said.

“Don’t get me wrong I love Christmas but I love Independence Day that little bit better.

“For me it’s a time of reflection.”

American couple Julie Blair and her husband Ben Toothaker lived and worked in Bunbury for three years before making the tough decision to return to their home in Maine earlier this year.

“We’re celebrating the fourth with some friends with beers, barbecue, and fireworks it’s pretty much like Australia Day,” Mrs Blair said.

“We’ve been home about three months now, it’s been great to be with family and friends again.

“But I miss the empty beaches in Bunbury. It’s summer here and you can‘t find a parking spot for the beach, never mind a place to lay your towel.”

South West Slammer Ty Harrelson relocated to Australia three years ago and is hoping to apply for Australian citizenship when he becomes eligible next year.

“I’ll try to see some of family on Skype after they’ve been to the fireworks and parade and see if they had fun,” he said.

“It’s a great holiday in the United States, anytime you have someone in your family who has served in the military it’s a big day.”

Californian Valerie Ogoke arrived last year and is also hoping to extend her stay in the South West.

“Because I’m from LA everyone always asks me if it’s been difficult to live in Bunbury which is a lot smaller,” she said.

“But I like the small-town feel here. I like the community vibe.

“It’s a huge celebration back home but now I’m hoping to be in WA for Australia Day and do something big then.”