News
Australia Day
Here's a bit of history on Australia Day written by Chenda Goldfinch (thanks Chenda!)
From the earliest white settlement at the end of the 18th century, Australians have striven to celebrate a national day to define what it means to be Australian. January 26 marks the landing of Captain Arthur Phillip at Port Jackson in present-day Sydney, thereby claiming Australia for the British Empire. Early settlers, perhaps naturally, marked the anniversary.
On 13 May 1787, a fleet of 11 ships, which came to be known as the First Fleet, was sent by the British Admiralty from England to Australia. Under the command of Captain Arthur Phillip, the fleet sought to establish a penal colony at Botany Bay on the coast of New South Wales, which had been explored by Captain James Cook in 1770. Captain Phillip found Botany Bay unsuitable and with two ships proceeded a short distance northwards to Port Jackson, which he declared "the finest harbour in the world". By 26 January 1788, the fleet was at anchor in Sydney Cove, the male convicts were unshipped and the flag was raised in the name of King George III.
Australia Day has evolved into a major national celebration. It remains the most inclusive celebration of a national day in Australia, expressing the diversity which has become such an important part of the Australian character. Australia Day today celebrates diversity and tolerance in Australian society and embraces multicultural Australia, including all ethnic backgrounds, racial differences and political viewpoints.
Australia Day has been an official public holiday since 1994. Civic celebrations such as the Order of Australia awards are a feature of the day around the country. Parades are held, the Australia Day Achievement Medallion is awarded to citizens based on excellence in both government and non-government organisations. Air Force aerial displays are held in some capital cities, and firework displays are common. Citizenship ceremonies are also commonly held on Australia Day. The Prime Minister makes an address to the nation.
On the eve of Australia Day each year, the Prime Minister announces the winner of the Australian of the Year award, presented to an Australian citizen who has shown a "significant contribution to the Australian community and nation", and is an "inspirational role model for the Australian community". Subcategories of the award include Young and Senior Australian of the Year, and an award for Australia's Local Hero.
In the Shire of Ravensthorpe Australia Day is celebrated with an awards ceremony for people within the shire who have made a special contribution to the community in three categories; individual, organisation and youth. This ceremony has traditionally taken place on alternate years, in Ravensthorpe and Hopetoun. The recipients of the awards have been nominated by residents of the shire in November.
In Hopetoun an Australia Day breakfast is organized by the Progress Assc and often the Hopetoun Choir sing a few songs of Australia.
SEE YOU THERE!
RG
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