Jan 26

Jan 26 Australia Day

Australia is vast in size and the 6th largest country in the world. It has a lot of amazing wildlife, some that aren't seen anywhere else in the world. It has cuddly Koala Bears, Great White Sharks, Kangaroos and lethal spiders and snakes., to name but a few of their critters.

Australia Day is held annually on 26th January, as it marks the anniversary in 1788 of the first fleet of British ships arriving at New South Wales, and the raising of the British Flag at that location.

It seems that nowadays their celebrations are focused more on the diverse society and landscape of their country. There are many different events on that day including fireworks, sports competitions, outdoor concerts, and of course the great Aussie Barbie. As the country is a young country, as federation occurred just over 100 years ago, Australia Day was not celebrated until 1935.

If you live down under its easy to celebrate the day: go and watch a parade, go to a party or just go to the beach!

If you aren't from Australia you could learn something different about them. Read about their fascinating history.
It was originally a penal colony, but it has developed very quickly to become one of the wealthiest counties in the world and ranks very high for the quality of health and education. It is an expensive place to live though, so I am informed by my cousin who now lives over here.

It is considered to be one of the top 3 countries to live in, and that is in just over 100 years. You could also read about their food, as authentic Australian food is among the most interesting foods in the world. The bushfoods eaten by the native Australians combined with the European and Asian influences make their cuisine unique. Is also the 4th largest wine exporter.

You could also learn some of their phrases and sayings. You will all have heard an Australian say G'Day. They have a lot of fun phrases: a barbeque is a Barbie, and to say goodbye they say Hooroo. Fair Dinkum is another favourite which means genuine. And if somebody makes you laugh call them a dag.

There are a lot of famous Australian people as well: Steve Irwin, the late zookeeper who was nicknamed Crocodile Hunter, Nicole Kidman, Mel Gibson, Russel Crowe and the list is endless and not forgetting good old Kylie.