How Can I  Describe my “Journey to Australia”?

Words alone just couldn’t do justice in communicating how beautiful this place is. This video is my attempt at sharing with you what I’ve seen, the experiences I’ve had, the impressions stamped in my brain from the places I’ve been so far.

Obviously I’m not the only one who’s felt the need to express how their journey to this great land of OZ has impressed them since the song I found perfect for my video was another GutZy Woman, Rita MacNeil’s response to her own trip here. I’m sure you’ll find it inspiring, as I did.

Much of the photo’s in this video were taken around Nelson Bay at Port Stephens. An old ski buddy of my husband’s invited us to come to his condo there to join him and his family and friends in celebration of Australia Day.

While there, we spent time on his AWESOME yacht, drove fast on his HOT SkiDoo, ate tons of fresh shrimp, oysters and catch of the day, swam in the pool on the roof of the condo building and watched some of the most incredible skies from that birds eye view.

Did you see the lightening shot? The night before Australia Day, the evening sky was a symphony of God’s fireworks shooting across the sky from one end to the other. The next night were the towns fireworks as seen from the roof as well. It was a toss up as to which night was more impressive.

What exactly is Australia Day?

As one Ozzie put it, “Traditionally January 26, Australia Day, conjures up images of faded blue singlets, British racing green stubbies, sweltering hot days, icy cold beers, snags on the barbie and, of course, the beach.” 

Each year as people around the nation celebrate what makes this country great, there are some very special Aussies being recognized for their great work. These awards are known as the Australia Day Australian of the Year Awards. The awards profile leading citizens who are role models and who inspire through their achievements, and challenging others to make their own contributions to creating a better Australia.

Here are some Aussie facts to dazzle your friends with:

• The Australian national flag features the stars of the Southern Cross, the Union Jack and Commonwealth or Federation Star.
• The floral emblem is the golden wattle.
• Although most people associate green and gold with the Olympic sporting heroes, the colors actually come from the landscapes: Gold symbolizing Australia’s beaches, grain harvests and the fleece of Aussie wool and Green from the forests, eucalyptus trees and rolling  pastures.
• Australia’s national gemstone is the opal.
• In 1977 three million Aussies voted in a referendum for Advance Australia Fair to become the national anthem and that it was officially proclaimed in 1984.

Hope you enjoy your new found knowledge and my Tribute to this beautiful country!

To learn more about GutZy Women or to see previous “Grand Australian Journey” videos CLICK HERE