Dear Department of Deportment,

Hooray! Australia Day is this weekend. How should I prepare for my friend’s backyard party in the modern age?

Thanks,

Ozzie Cossie.

__________________________________________

Dear Aussie Cossie,

Great question! While 20 years ago it might have meant turning up in your swimmers armed with a bottle of unwooded Chardonnay and a plate of pork snags from Coles, we’ve all moved along a bit.

Still, we can’t have you getting your bikini knickers in a knot, so here are our top tips for our national day.

Rule Number One – There are no rules

This is really important. What is an Aussie anyway? Be it by boat, ship or plane, the overwhelming majority of us came from somewhere else in the years following 1788. Because of that, kangaroo sausages are as welcome on the barbeque as chickpea patties, teriyaki chicken skewers or buffalo wings.

Take some cuisine that represents your history, or take along something you’ve always wanted to try. A good Australia Day barbie should contain all the wonderful flavours and styles that make up our population. Delicious!

Rule Number Two – Ignore Rule One, But Be Flexible

Whatever it is that your host decides to do to mark the occasion, remember that this is their take on Australia Day. Don’t like having the cricket on? Go out and jump in the pool. Can’t stand the Hottest 100? Start a discussion about your favourite filmclips from Pop Asia last year. Not fan of pork bau? Stick to whatever it is you brought along on a plate.

Be careful though, you might be missing out on a chance to learn something – it’s all part of the complex weave of our national fabric!

Rule Number Three – Be Cool

Living in Australia is awesome. We all know that. While we might complain about politicians, think that houses are too expensive, or simply dream of travelling the world, there can be no doubt there are few places to be.

If you love your country, there’s no need to wave a flag in people’s face. Similarly, it’s not really the day to go around saying how much better public transport was when you backpacked Europe. Celebrate Australia for what it is, and we can spend the rest of the year working on what ‘s not… together!

Rule Number Four – Take it easy

Really, this could be our national slogan. However, it’s even more important to abide on Australia Day. With the heady mix of sun, booze and, probably, water, there are plenty of opportunities to do yourself some damage.

Be sure to Slip-Slop-Slap, drink plenty of water, and make sure you stay away from the ocean/river/pool if you’ve had a few too many drinks. Keep an eye on your friends, and we’ll all get through what is typically a pretty big day.

Remember, just like the ads say: Australia Day Your Way!

Have fun!

DoD

__________________________________________

For more on what to do this Long Weekend, check out our handy Australia Day Guide!