If we fixate on past, we’ll be blind to future potential

THE 26th of January is when we traditionally celebrate Australia Day.

The Byron Bay Council took it upon itself and decided to move it to January 25.

For a raft of reasons, the logic let alone the arrogance of such a decision escapes me.

There are those who call January 26 Invasion Day and seek to change it.

“Change it to what?” you may ask because the celebration remains the same.

Show me any nation, country or society that has not been invaded by force, culture or economics at some time in history and I would be happy to debate the outcome. Regrettable in some circumstances, certainly, but this is now and although we may harbour regrets and strive to do better, we are not responsible for the sins of our fathers.

With the benefit of DNA we have discovered that we come from a mix of ethnic origins.

If we have an issue with some part of history where a branch of our forefathers invaded our land, which part of ourselves should we blame and seek recompense from?

Even the racial purity of many of this generation’s indigenous Australians has been diluted.

From my perspective, unites, not divides us. that

Like most of us I understand the angst within parts of our indigenous community.

They have a proud heritage. Challenged by a hostile environment, they have persevered for more than 50,000 years by finding balance and harmony with the rhythm of this land and the natural resources it provides.

I know of no other culture that has exhibited the same tenacity.

Were they mistreated in the past and is there more we can do?

You will get no argument from me. But we cannot change the past, only the future.

Australians are a generous society, inclusive and embracing, we have demonstrated that time and time again. If we fixate on the past, we are blinded to the potential of the future.

Sure, we should learn from the past so that we can proudly walk together as a cohesive nation under the banner of equality.

January 26, November 11, December 25… are all traditional days of celebration, each for a different reason.

If my council took it upon itself to change any of them I would have something to say about it in the strongest possible terms. BOB JANSSEN PRESIDENT GOLD COAST & HINTERLAND BUSINESS ALLIANCE