Anniversary Day

Today, the 26th of January, is Australia Day, also known as Anniversary Day and Foundation Day. It is the official national day of Australia, celebrated annually on 26 January.

On the other hand, due to the international date line, they are already into Tuesday and have gone back to work.

Why do we care? Because Australia has been a staunch friend and ally of ours since Pearl Harbor day. We should help our friends celebrate their birthdays.

The day itself commemorates the arrival of the First Fleet in 1788, the unfurling of the British flag at Sydney Cove and the proclamation of British sovereignty over
the eastern seaboard of Australia. Australia Day is an official public holiday in every state and territory of Australia, and is marked by the Order of Australia and Australian of the Year awards, along with an address from the Prime Minister.

But, for the average Aussie it is celebrated much as we would do. As one Aussie put it:

Thanks for pointing this out. As with much of our sophisticated culture, Australia Day is steeped in ancient tradition and ceremony. It consists primarily of a day off work, a barbecue with mates and drinking more than one should, all while enjoying the glory of summer. The general goal is to do as little as humanly possible while relaxing to the greatest possible extant - it's a great and highly appropriate holiday.

And here are some photos showing the day. If you click over to photo nine you will see, passing in front of the Sydney Opera House, the Aussie version of the famous Boston "Duck" Boats.

Happy Anniversary Day, Aussies.

Regards  --  Cliff