DR Mani Panat, an Indian doctor working at the Tamworth Hospital, believes that with a little give and take refugees can settle into Tamworth and be productive members of the local community.
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Although only new to Australia and eight weeks into his new job, Indian born nephrologist Dr Mani Panat has already given Tamworth the thumbs up.
Dr Panat, a kidney specialist, was pleasantly surprised by the welcome he received.
"I can only speak from my own experience but people have been absolutely wonderful to me," he said.
"I've been invited to numerous homes over the Christmas period. The company has been
tremendous."
Dr Panat comes from southern India. That was also where he completed his medical training.
"Initially I didn't know what sort of reception awaited me in Tamworth,'' he said.
"I have had no problems whatsoever. Already I have made quite a number of friends.
"And, as well as being invited into their homes, the other doctors working with me at the hospital have been very supportive.''
He believes Tamworth is the prefect mix for a city saying it has the "right balance of a city to live in".
"Tamworth has the ideal balance between city and country along with clean air and environment," he said.
"As you know, India is a very populous country. I was getting very sick of the pollution there. You don't have it here. It is
wonderful.''
Dr Panat enjoys cycling and, since coming to Tamworth, has wasted no time in getting on his bike and cycling around the city.
"I also did a lot of cycling in India but there you have so many people and vehicles all over the place," he said.
"Here there are still vehicles but much more room. People often wave to me as I ride by, which makes me feel very welcome.''
Dr Panat's family will be joining him from India very soon.
"My sons will really love Tamworth. They are very keen on cricket."
