Celebrated annually on January 26, Australia Day is the official national day of Australia. It marks the anniversary of the arrival of the First Fleet of British ships at Port Jackson in the year 1788. In present-day Australia, the celebrations reflect the diverse society and landscape of the nation and are marked by community and family events.
Like all national days, the implication attached to Australia Day has evolved. It was only after 1994 that there has been a consistent holiday on January 26, every year in all states and territories of Australia. It is marked by the presentation of the Australian of the Year Awards, an announcement of the Australia Day honours list and addresses from the Governor General and the Prime Minister. It is an official public holiday in all states and territories and marked by celebrations at a large scale including community festivals, concerts and citizenship ceremonies, community barbecues, sports competitions and fireworks across Australia.
This Australia Day, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the national capital of Canberra including an Australia Day barbecue breakfast, kids’ entertainment, the National Flag Raising, Citizenship Ceremony and an evening concert followed by fireworks. You can sit back and relax with the perfect live soundtrack at Regatta Point. Live entertainment will start at 4 pm with a huge line-up for family and friendly tunes. If you are looking forward to going for a picnic this Australia Day, you can enjoy a sunny day with family and friends at Patrick White Lawns where there will be plenty of activities for children.
If you are a foodie, visit the marketplace featuring delicious, local food followed by an impressive pyrotechnic display lights up the night sky at 9 PM. Don’t forget to carry your camera to capture the breathtaking view of the fireworks reflecting off Lake Burley Griffin. It is a sight you would not want to miss. Enjoy the day with friends and family to celebrate the spirit of being an Australian.
In modern day Australia, it is much more than just a national holiday. Four out of five Australians see it as a lot more than a day off, and every year over 16,000 people choose this day to become a citizen of this nation. Australia Day is all about reflecting on being an Australian irrespective of where one comes from and celebrate contemporary Australia and recognise and acknowledge the history and diversity of the country.
McIntyre Team strongly believes in supporting our community and wish you all Happy Australia Day 2019.