Australia Highlights

We learned a lot about Australia during our time here.  On a serious note:

• The land was colonized through the displacement of indigenous populations and, as in the US, it was not pretty.

• Australia did not become a united nation until 1901 when the six (then British) colonies joined together to form a Federation.

• Those colonies (New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria and Western Australia) are called “states” today.

• Even though Australia is basically the same size as the United States (without Alaska), only 23 million people live here – mostly in the coastal areas.  Almost 1/3 of those people live in Sydney and Melbourne.

We also learned that…

Australians like pie.  A lot.  But, these are the meat and savory types.  “Pie Face” stores (yes, it really is called “Pie Face”) are everywhere.

Even the rocks “heart” Australia.

Australians love their green spaces, art and outdoor fun. 

Modern art is still hard to understand – even in English.  All of the yellow objects are carvings made out of soap.  What?

But, Aboriginal art makes sense – each symbol tells a story.   This one is about a water hole.  Or, a red anthill.  Duh.

Street art is for everyone.

Sometimes there is just no explanation.

And, yes, the Sydney Opera house makes a rather fetching hat! (Thanks, Michael)