Australia Day in the sun

Docklands Art

Yesterday, Australia celebrated its National Day with a public holiday. Much was written about Australian values and acclaimed actor, Geoffrey Rush was feted as the Australian of the Year.
Charlie Teo's speech earlier in the week was replayed where he asked Australians to celebrate migrants and had a not so subtle dig at the Tall Poppy syndrome and how it has impacted on his career as neuro-scientist.

Themes of the day included racism in Australian society, compassion to migrants and the endless replay of the Prime Minister, stumbling and losing her shoe, whilst being unceremoniously thrust into her car while Aboriginal activitists intimidated her party in Canberra.

Pavement Art

Yet when I visited downtown Melbourne yesterday, wearing my New Zealand cap, most people were happy and enjoying the beautiful sunshine and activities. People of all races and colours were out and about chatting to everyone. Even the security guards were looking happy and relaxed.
So in spite of what happened to Julia and Tony, the rest of us enjoyed the day. But it is important to discuss these issues and, although this debate is endless, enjoy the role migrants have played in the development of the Australia we live in now.
And now the PM's shoe will be auctioned off to raise funds for the Aboriginal Tent Embassy - perhaps a fitting end to a rather disgraceful incident. Australian's taking the mickey perhaps!