For Australians, it's the day for acknowledging and celebrating the contribution that every citizen makes to the contemporary and dynamic nation. However, there is another side of the coin. This day marks the anniversary of the arrival of the First Fleet of British ships at Port Jackson, New South Wales, in 1788. On January 26, Captain Arthur Phillip took formal possession of the colony, raising the British flag in Sydney Cove. No wonder, aboriginal people and their supporters call December 26 the Invasion Day or Survival Day, as it's when colonization of the continent started. Hence, you might witness some gatherings reflecting their side of history.
Adelaide carries out Survival Day at the National Aboriginal Cultural Institute. Brisbane usually has an Invasion Day gathering in front of Parliament House along with a protest march. Canberra invites everyone to learn about Aboriginal culture. There are dances and music in the Commonwealth Park and the National Museum of Australia holds Australia Day Festival. There is also "Share the Spirit Festival" in Melbourne's Treasury Gardens, and another Survival Day celebration in Borthwick Park, Belgrave. Sydney has the "Yabun Festival" taking place in Victoria park, which means “song with a beat” in the language of the Eora.c
Despite this controversy, most Australian citizens take advantage of this holiday to display their patriotism and loyalty. On this day there are many ceremonies to welcome new citizens or honor people who put their lives on the line for Australia. Most towns organize BBQs, parades, performances, and fireworks.
