More than half of Australia’s 24 million people are celebrating Australia Day today by attending either an organised community event or a family get together.
Like other people, “Proudly Australian” Starfish Lane Kids on January 25 observed the day by celebrating with the children at their three nurseries in Doha. The children are also hosting a shared outdoor lunch with the theme “Home among the Gum Trees” and putting on an Australian anthem song performance today.
Australia Day on January 26, is the anniversary of the arrival of the first fleet of 11 ships from Great Britain, and the raising of the Union Jack at Sydney Cove by its commander Captain Arthur Phillip, 230 years ago in 1788.
Leading up to the day’s festivities, the Starfish Lane Kids children have been involved in creating scene items such as Koalas in Gum Trees, Kangaroos, Wombats, Australian flags and dot-art on Boomerangs or surfboards.
Some classes will be “feeding” the koalas or fishing for sharks! The children will also rehearse the lyrics to Home Among the Gum Trees and practising to perform the Australian National Anthem.
“We are even converting our large sandpit into a beach scene,” says Kimberley Sheedy, owner and operations manager of Starfish Lane Kids. “We will have sand and shovels, but will paint waves on the walls with the red and yellow life-guard flags. We also made Lamingtons and will deliver some to the Australian embassy.”
Today, Australia Day celebrations reflect contemporary Australia, a diverse society and landscape, their remarkable achievements and a bright future. It also hosts citizenship ceremonies welcoming new immigrants into the Australian community and it is recognised as an opportunity for Australians to reflect on their nation’s eventful and progressive history.
“Celebrating our nationality exposes these young children to a different culture, traditions, games and foods. We want them to grow and learn in a fun, playful setting. Even with the Australia Day celebrations, we will continue with our play ball and yoga classes, and the Kids-in-the-Kitchen healthy eating programme. We hope that we can harvest some baby tomatoes from our “Let it Grow” kitchen garden, so children can see where food is coming from and appreciate fresh ingredients,” says Sheedy.
Doha-based Australians will be celebrating their national day in small private gatherings with family and friends and posting pictures and well-wishes on social media. The Australian embassy in Doha, with Ambassador Dr Axel Wabenhorst will celebrate on February 7.