This Wednesday will see Australians across the world celebrate their nation with huge enthusiasm and gusto. There will be parties on the beaches, music, BBQs, and flag waving galore – down under and wherever else in the world Aussies happen to be at the time.
Why? Because 26th January is Australia Day. This national public holiday marks the day the British fleet first sailed into Sydney Cove in 1788 and hoisted the Union Jack. First known as Anniversary Day, the celebration has evolved over the past 234 years and is now seen as a time to be proud of an extraordinary country that has achieved so much in its history.
Since that fateful day in 1788, Australia has been a popular choice among Brits looking to put down roots in another corner of the world. Its hot climate, abundance of sandy beaches, and outdoors lifestyle is a huge pull, and the number of people moving their lives to this diverse country is still growing. Many choose to become fully fledged Aussies, and gain citizenship. This bewitching island, on the other side of the world has much to offer, and to celebrate.
Australians are, quite rightly, hugely patriotic and need no excuse to show the world what they think of their country.
But there is a growing undertone, with many of the nation’s indigenous inhabitants calling for the excessive nationalistic celebrations to be toned down, or to be more inclusive. In truth, the wonderful story of Australia began 60,000 years ago – not 234 years.
Many are calling for Australia Day to be moved to another date in the year – one that doesn’t mark the invasion of a country already occupied by the indigenous Aboriginal inhabitants. It would a chance for all to revel in this incredibly diverse nation that is the envy of many others across the world. For now, though, the fireworks are being primed, the beers are in the cooler and the BBQs are being lit – ready for a party like no other.
As leading international removals specialists, our team at John Mason International is well versed in helping people move their lives down under. We have many years’ experience overcoming the challenges involved in international relocations – from handling our customers’ treasured belongings, and making sure they arrive in their new location safe and sound, to dealing with visas and work permits that meet the requirements of any given destination country.
But, aside from all this, we have tremendous local knowledge of Australia’s culture and customs. Getting in with the locals and understanding what makes a different country tick can go a long way to making a new place feel like home. Moving to Australia is an exciting prospect for many Brits but, despite a common language, there are many differences between our two nations. It pays to do your homework and understand the country’s rich history – both good and bad. Once you’re in the thick of it, you’ll likely get carried along in the exuberant celebrations on Australia Day – but be sure to appreciate why some might not be so enthusiastic.
Equipping yourself with knowledge about your new home, its history and its culture will go a long way to making your move a successful one and, with years of experience and expertise at our fingertips, we at John Mason International are here to help you do just that.
