Australia Poem
An island continent
Surrounded by sea
The land we call Australia
Steeped in history
An indigenous culture
Of science and story
A welcoming place
To live in glory
A civilised country
With a fair democracy
A curious collective
Still willing to see
A better, kinder way
Inclusive and friendly
Nevertheless still learning
How to truly be
So much to enjoy
And explore for free
So long as we continue
To do it respectfully
As we reflect
And cherish with such glee
Australia, thank you
For receiving us so greatly
In the lead up to 26 January 2024, there has been a lot of discussion about ‘Australia Day’ and what this means to our current society.
People with an Indigenous heritage have shared their concerns about celebrating the anniversary of the 1788 landing of the ‘First Fleet’ of ships. They see it as an ‘invasion’ of their land.
I do not wish to enter the debate on this topic.
However, as a third generation Australian born individual, I do want to recognise the country where I live and acknowledge how precious and sacred it is to me.
After a two week trip overseas in 2010 and two very short trips overseas in 1984 and 1985, I haven’t seen much of the ‘rest of the world’ except via film, television and the internet.
But I do feel blessed to have been born here and call it home and to have been able to welcome new arrivals here since 2001.
If I was to put forward an alternative date, I would suggest the 25th of January – the day ‘before.’ With love, Sue Ellson 🙂
Photo is of the internationally recognised Edithvale – Seaford Wetlands in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia on 3 January 2024.
#trulybe #australia #australiapoem #SueEllson #SueEllsonPoem #poem #poetry
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