…if you’re in Australia (and I guess there’s no reason why everyone else can’t join in the spirit of the day!).

The anniversary of the arrival of the First Fleet in 1788, this is a day of barbecues, family get-togethers, fireworks and celebrations of all things Australian.

Originally, I was not terribly impressed with the words of the Australian National Anthem.  But over the years, “Advance Australia Fair” has grown on me.

So here it is, in full…

Australians all let us rejoice,

For we are young and free;

We’ve golden soil and wealth for toil;

Our home is girt by sea;

Our land abounds in nature’s gifts

Of beauty rich and rare;

In history’s page, let every stage

Advance Australia Fair.

In joyful strains then let us sing,

Advance Australia Fair.

Beneath our radiant Southern Cross

We’ll toil with hands and hearts,

To make this Commonwealth of ours

Renowned of all the lands,

For those who’ve come across the seas

We’ve boundless plains to share

With courage let us all combine

To Advance Australia Fair,

In joyful strains then let us sing

Advance Australia Fair.