Happy Australia Day!

Today, Monday the 26th, was Australia Day.  It's the official national day of Australia, and commemorates the arrival of the First Fleet of British Ships arriving at Port Jackson, New South Wales, and the raising of the Flag of Great Britain.
As we've experienced with everything Australian, it all feels very familiar, with just enough differences to keep us confused.  As it seems, this holiday is similar to our 4th of July (Independence Day), with the differences being a little less patriotism, and a lot more alcohol.  (Hard to believe, I know)
A colleague at the hospital told me it's "just an excuse for everyone to party and get pissed".  That's drunk for you "Yanks", as we're known.
Honestly, though, all we saw were big groups of families having a good time, celebrating, picnicking, relaxing, and enjoying good company.

Our day started lazily, as this was my first day off in 7 days.  Not complaining, as work is becoming quite fun, and I told Tricia "I could just as easily go to work again today".
So we eased out of the house about 10:30 and headed to Yeppoon's main beach, where there was an all day beach party.  And although hot, the weather was great for summer.

It felt very similar to the "4th on Broadway" celebrations in Lubbock, as there were booths, goods for sale, carnival rides, face painting, carnival-type food including Fairy Floss (cotton candy), and a main stage with acts going on all day.

Again, though, a few differences...
We made it just in time to see the judging of the sand castle competition.  None of that in West Texas, unless it's lake mud.

 We watched the progress of the chalk-art competition.










We saw the rowing competition just off the beach.

And we saw the parade of sailboats from the marina.

After walking along the beach and dipping our feet in the ocean, we moved on up to the amphitheater where we watched a few bands, ate an Icy (slush), and had some lunch.  Will had a corn dog, of course (called a "Dagwood Dog"), and the rest of us had Thai food from a food truck.
The afternoon was really hot (38 degrees today!), so after lunch, we headed back to the house to swim in the pool for a while, then take a nap.

After resting, we loaded back in our "wagon", and made our way back to the main beach just in time for the magic and juggling acts on the main stage. 

After the "magic", there was a great band called Club 28.  From James Brown to AC/DC, they were really entertaining, and kept our toes tapping.  Some braver people danced, but the kids told us we were forbidden.  Wouldn't want to embarrass them!  The band even played a song some might recognize.

Next was the Australian National Anthem.  It's a bit surreal to be in another country when they sing the national anthem.  But I must admit I'm growing to love this country.
After that, the countdown to the fireworks.

I believe we've had a proper Australia Day!

Now it's off to bed, because tomorrow is the kids' first day of school.  Uniforms and backpacks are ready!

So, in Aussie style, three cheers for the country that has taken us in as visitors, "aliens", and adventurers!
Hip Hip... Hooray!
Hip Hip... Hooray!
Hip Hip... Hooray!