A DAY FOR ALL AUSTRALIANS

TODAY the Gold Coast joins the rest of Australia in our national day of celebration.

January 26 has long been celebrated as Australia Day, the anniversary of the arrival of the First Fleet and beginning of the European era of colonisation of this great nation.

This year, perhaps more than ever, the lead up to the day has given way to an increasingly heated debate about the meaning of the day and whether the date should be changed.

NRL hero Jonathan Thurston said late yesterday a change of date in the future was “inevitable“.

Perhaps he is right but in these politically charged times, it easy to get lost on the rhetoric of both sides of the argument over whether it should be Australia Day or “Invasion Day” and forget that we are all lucky to be Australians.

There is an important and ongoing conversation being had on the historic injustices perpetrated upon our indigenous people, many of who have mixed emotions about the day.

But at the same time, the bitterness and acrimony which has been generated should not overshadow the great things we all love about Australia, including mateship and family, as well as the real achievements of famous and everyday people.

The honours list, announced today, features well-deserved gongs for Gold Coasters such as Dr Peggy Brown for her work in medicine, iconic Australian singer Russell Morris and Michael Kyle for services to the community.

Theses stories show the true meaning of Australia Day – that love of the community and service to others which is resplendent in all those who are recognised today.

No matter what you feel about January 26, there must be mutual respect for all people.

It’s the Australian way and we are all part of the story of our great nation which has grown and matured into the global leader of today, 230 years after the First Fleet’s arrival.