On January 26, everyone gets together to commemorate everything that is Australian. We participate in the celebrations held by the 26,000,000 Australians to mark the anniversary of the country’s colonization in 1788. Australia is regarded as a premier tourism and living destination. The oldest, harshest, and flattest populated region on the planet has a lot to teach us and give us something to admire. Continue reading to learn a little history and get some great tips for celebrating Australia Day!
History of Australia Day
Australia’s official national day is observed every year on January 26 in remembrance of the British ships that first brought European settlers to Australia around 1788. Over 750 convicts who’d been tried and sentenced in Great Britain for relatively minor offenses were transferred on all these 11 ships to British prison colonies that had been set up around the globe, notably North America and the Pacific. A further 300 people with military and medical expertise traveled to Australia to inaugurate the new colony.
In 1818, the first anniversary of British rule over Australia’s east coast was celebrated. The dates of this significant event have also been referred to as “Anniversary Day,” “Foundation Day,” and “Australian Natives’ Association” (ANA) Day over the years. The term “Australia Day” was accepted by all Australian states and territories in 1935, and on January 26 of that year, it became a recognized public holiday. Australia Day is a day of solidarity for the country and the biggest civic celebration of the year. It features a wide range of family and community customs, the awarding of national honors, and the inauguration of new Australian citizens.
It’s not like all Australians, though, share similar sentiments regarding the day. In outrage at the entrance of the British people, indigenous Australians have generally alluded to this day as “Invasion Day” or “National Day of Mourning.” The holiday has caused a divisive controversy and some people still participate in counter celebrations. A representative of the Aboriginal Progressive Association named it a “Day of Mourning” in 1938, referring to the yearly commemoration of Phillip’s arrival. William Cooper made the declaration. Many Aboriginal people express their sorrow on Australia Day for their ancestors who died or struggled during colonization.
Currently, there is also a strong feeling of reverence for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage throughout the day. There are also demonstrations calling for the date of Australia Day to be changed to honor the Indigenous Australians. In order to encourage Australians from all origins to join together and embrace Australia as a multicultural nation, the Australian government has honored the native owners of the lands where Australia Day is celebrated.
Initiator of Australia Day
A national day was first proposed in 1915 by Ellen “Ellie” Wharton Kirke MBE, née Clements, mother of 4 servicemen, with the express goal of collecting money for injured soldiers. The name “national day” was created to arouse sense of patriotism.
How to Celebrate Australia Day
- Comment the Australian of the Year.
The Australian of the Year Awards has been given out in connection with Australia Day since the 1960s as a means of recognizing outstanding individuals across the nation. The winners are picked for exemplifying brilliance in their fields, making major contributions to their communities and countries, and acting as role models for Australian residents. Offer a holler to all the victors on social media because the ceremony will be broadcast!
- Place a shrimp on the grill.
Australia Day, which falls in the middle of summer, is frequently observed by barbecuing. The most typical foods are lamb chops, beef steaks, and sausages, however, Australian lingo is also often used. Australians will generally suggest to a “shrimp on the barbie” if they come across one. Additional slang terms comprise of “g’day” for greeting, “thongs” for flip-flops, “brekky” for breakfast, “bogan” for rednecks, and “bloody oath” for “yep” or “true.”
- Observe the Ferrython.
At 11 a.m., Sydney, one of Australia’s largest cities, offers a very unique sight. February 26. Visit the renowned Sydney Harbor to witness the yearly ferry race that starts at Barangaroo Wharf and ends at the Sydney Harbour Bridge. One of the most celebrated events in the nation, this renowned event features breathtaking views. Even though it’s complimentary, you may attempt to secure a seat on one of the ferries for an amazing adventure.
Why We Love Australia Day
Most tend to associate Australia, where kangaroos and koalas originated, with these creatures. Folks enjoy seeing these animals because they are cute and interesting, and they expect to encounter them when they travel to the country. In Australia, there are more than 50 million kangaroos. Two kangaroos are there for each individual. Koala numbers are substantially lower, at around 43,000. More than 80% of Australians reside 50 kilometers or less from the coast. If you toured one new beach every day, this would require you 27 years to explore all 10,000+ beaches in the nation.
Yeah, we all seem to be envious, however, this is only one of the reasons Australia is a great place to travel. Australian beaches have already been highlighted, however, did you also know that the country has 550 national parks? 15 other wonders that are listed on the World Heritage list? Australia has a plethora of outdoor adventure opportunities. Nevertheless, experiencing modern city life is also not too far away; cities like Melbourne have consistently been ranked among the most pleasant places in the world.
Upcoming Celebratory Dates for Australia Day
| Year | Date | Day |
| 2023 | January 26 | Thursday |
| 2024 | January 26 | Friday |
| 2025 | January 26 | Sunday |
| 2026 | January 26 | Monday |
| 2027 | January 26 | Tuesday |
