Normally, Aussies like to fire up the barbecue on Australia Day, enjoy a sanger or two and a nice, cold beer. But if you feel like doing something a bit different this year, there are plenty of things to entice you out of the backyard. We’ve picked our top events for each state and territory.
Get in/on/near the water, Sydney, New South Wales
It should come as no surprise that the harbour city rises to the occasion on Australia Day. The famous Ferrython sees Sydney’s ferries race from Circular Quay to Shark Island, and back to the finish line of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. You can jump in the water with the Body Science Great Aussie Swim, or for those who prefer to relax next to the water, there’s the Sydney Ports Jazz on the Water concert in Pyrmont.
Eat a meat pie the Australian way, Cairns, Queensland
There are live bands, a jumping castle, face painting and clowns, but the event we’re most excited about is the meat-pie-eating competition. With a prize of $1000 available, you’ll want to have undertaken a fair amount of practice. That shouldn’t be a problem, as after all, meat pies are practically our national dish.
Make castles out of sand, King Island, Tasmania
Looking for even more stunning scenic attractions while touring Tasmania? Then jump over to King Island in the middle of the Bass Strait to watch international sand-sculptor Jim McCauley perform his craft near Naracoopa Esplanade. There are plenty of other attractions, from an aerial lolly drop to a vintage car display.
Spend the day in the Domain, Melbourne, Victoria
Government House is opening its doors for the day, allowing you to peek inside this historic building; the RACV Australia Day picnic and Federation Vehicle Display will see vintage cars, food and music performed by the likes of James Morrison take over the King’s Domain Garden; and an aerial display by the Roulettes, the Royal Australian Air Force’s elite formation team, will be sure to include some wheeling and pirouetting in the air.
Watch a parade, Adelaide, South Australia
A giant echidna walking down the streets of Adelaide may sound strange, but it’s just one indicator that it’s time for a celebration! Adelaide’s Australia Day street parade is one of the biggest in Australia, with over 3000 people involved, and many more lining the streets to cheer them on. The parade ends in a big community festival followed by fireworks. It’s great for those of us who feel like celebrating Australia Day with a bang.
Throw a thong, Broome, Western Australia
For a gold coin donation you can participate in the community breakfast at Town Beach, with free entertainment followed by the local citizenship awards. To top off the event there will be a thong-throwing competition, as people test out their arm strength by tossing this Aussie icon as far as it will go.
Welcome new citizens, Canberra, ACT
Our nation’s capital is a patriotic hub of activity on Australia Day. The Governor-General and Prime Minister will attend the Flag Raising and Citizenship Ceremony in Commonwealth Park, with the PM leading the proceedings. The ceremony is marked by an aerial salute from the air force and the presence of the ceremonial Federation Guard. This is an Australia Day event that makes us all proud to wave our Australian flag high.
Decorate your ute, Darwin, Northern Territory
The focus of the Australia Day Ute Run in Darwin is not so much about being the fastest ute, but about being the best-dressed ute, with prizes given for ‘best feral ute’, among others. The run ends at Winnellie Park Greyhound Club, where the entertainment includes a jumping castle, a push-a-ute competition and throw-a-muffler challenge. Spectators are welcome, so if you haven’t got a ute you can still join in the fun.
What will you be doing this Australia Day?
Images: Australia Day 2010 by Travis_Simon licensed under CC BY 2.0; Government House by Flying Cloud licensed under CC BY 2.0
