When was the First Australia Day celebrated
Australia Day is a significant and sometimes contentious day for Australians. It serves as a time of celebration, reflection, and understanding of the country’s complex history. But how did this national holiday begin? When was the first Australia Day actually celebrated, and how has its meaning evolved over time?
This post explores the origins of Australia Day, tracing its history back to the colonial era to understand how it became a key date on the Australian calendar.
A Look Back at the Origins of Australia Day
The origins of Australia Day date back to January 26, 1788. On this day, Captain Arthur Phillip, commander of the First Fleet, raised the British Flag at Sydney Cove, marking the establishment of the colony of New South Wales. This event symbolized the beginning of British settlement in Australia and served as a foundational moment for the modern Australian nation.
However, while 1788 is a vital historical turning point, it’s essential to recognize that the day carried vastly different implications for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, who had been living on the continent for over 65,000 years. For Indigenous Australians, the arrival of the First Fleet was a time of invasion, dispossession, and the start of systemic inequalities that persist in many ways today.
Early Commemorations of January 26
The earliest recorded observance of January 26 as a significant date occurred in 1808, just 20 years after the First Fleet’s arrival. On this day, New South Wales officials and settlers in the colony celebrated what they called “Foundation Day.” This inaugural event included dinners, drinks, and festivities, focusing on the establishment of the colony and its growing European population.
The celebration of Foundation Day over the years often involved military parades, regattas, and social gatherings, underscoring its association with the British colonial identity. It was a day marked by settlers and their descendants, excluding Indigenous voices and perspectives.
When Did It Become More Widespread?
January 26 wasn’t uniformly recognized across the Australian colonies for much of the 19th century. The development of railways and improved communication made it easier to align celebrations over time, though most colonies celebrated their own founding dates.
It wasn’t until 1888, the centenary of British settlement, that the day began to gain more national traction. For the occasion, the colony of New South Wales organized larger-scale activities, such as commemorative events and public gatherings, to mark 100 years since the First Fleet’s arrival. By this point, the name “Anniversary Day” was also used in some circles.
The day’s significance gained further ground in 1935 when all Australian states and territories officially adopted January 26 as “Australia Day.” However, it remained, in practicality, a public holiday largely celebrated by non-Indigenous Australians, with perspectives of First Nations peoples routinely overlooked.
Modern Australia Day and The Push for Change
It wasn’t until the 20th century that Australia Day began to take shape as the national holiday we recognize today. January 26 was first celebrated as a public holiday throughout all Australian states in 1946. Since then, it has developed into a day for barbecues, fireworks, and various community events.
Yet, the meaning of the day has continued to evolve. Since the 1988 Bicentennial celebrations—marking 200 years since the British arrival—Indigenous Australians and allies have used the date to draw attention to the historical injustices of colonization.
For many, January 26 is not a day of celebration but one of mourning and remembrance. It is often referred to as “Survival Day” or “Invasion Day,” highlighting the resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the face of significant adversity.
Understanding the Debate Around January 26
The ongoing debate surrounding Australia Day highlights a divided perspective on its meaning. For some, the current date represents national identity and unity. For others, particularly First Nations peoples, it signifies loss and the need for a truthful reckoning with Australia’s history.
Increasingly, there have been calls for the date of Australia Day to be reconsidered. Advocates argue that moving the day would create an opportunity to develop a more inclusive celebration, one that acknowledges Indigenous perspectives and fosters reconciliation. Alternatives such as May 8, chosen for its playful association with “mate,” or other significant dates in Australian history have been suggested.
Why Understanding Australia Day’s History Matters
Australia Day is more than just a day on the calendar. It’s a lens through which we can reflect on the country’s past, present, and future. Examining its origins and evolution sheds light on the varied experiences of Australia’s people, highlighting historical achievements while acknowledging ongoing challenges.
Learning and understanding the history of Australia Day allows us to participate in meaningful conversations about national identity, historical recognition, and reconciliation. These discussions are integral to building a future that values the diversity and contributions of all Australians.
