Bollards
by Kate-Me
These decorative poles are called Bollards. Originally they were old telephone/electricity poles, but now have a new lease of life as wonderful outdoor artworks.
A local artist started painting these Bollards in a nearby warehouse...and they've now spread in groups right along the waterfront, on the lawns, in the Botanical gardens...and goodness knows where else.
They really add a nice, unique charm to the waterfront.
Most highlight people of the area depicted in past decade styles. I really like the sea-theme Life-Saver ones.
Surf life savers have long been part of the Australian culture.
The Juice!
by Marpessa
The latest craze to hit Geelong is... Juice bars! Yes! Geelong is going healthy (or at least this is our attempt at being healthy). Juice bars are popping up more frequently there are 5 or 6 in central Geelong alone. There is a 'Juicy Stuff' in Moorabool St and another in High St. Belmont. You will also find a 'Boost' juice bar in Market Square.
I love Boost juices - try their 'Tropical Storm' or 'Pure Passion' smoothies!!
Public Holidays
by Marpessa
Just in case you are unfamiliar with Australia's Public holidays they are all (for 2006) listed here for you. Just note that if the 'day' is on a weekend the public holiday will be on a weekday instead (ie: New Year's Day holiday being on the 2nd instead of the 1st).
Also unless it has a specific State or Territory in brackets afterwards it applies to all of Australia.
January
2nd - New Year's Day
26th - Australia Day
March
13th - Labour Day (Victoria)
13th - Adelaide Cup Day (South Australia)
13th - Eight Hours Day (Tasmania)
20th - Canberra Day (ACT)
April
14th - Good Friday
17th - Easter Monday
18th - Easter Tuesday (Tasmania)
25th - ANZAC Day
May
1st - May Day (Northern Territory)
1st - Labour Day (Queensland)
June
5th - Foundation Day (Western Australia)
12th - Queen's Birthday (except Western Australia)
August
7th - Picnic Day (Northern Territory)
16th - Royal Queensland Show Day (Queensland - Brisbane metro only)
October
2nd - Queen's Birthday (Western Australia)
2nd - Labour day (Western Australia/South Australia/New South Wales)
November
7th - Melbourne Cup day (Victoria - Melbourne Metro only)
December
25th - Christmas Day
26th - Boxing Day (except South Australia)
26th - Proclamation Day (South Australia)
We also celebrate Remembrance Day (WWII) on November 11th, but it is not a public holiday.
From the website: http://www.oztourism.com.au/ozhols.htm#public06
Saying hello
by Marpessa
If you are just walking along a local road, and you pass someone walking the other way, if eye contact is made, a nod or 'hello', 'good morning/afternoon/evening' is appropriate (although some may not reply in turn, but it is considered polite).
In the city centre where there is more people, usually you only speak to someone if you accidently bump into them, then a 'sorry' or 'excuse me' is appropriate.
Polish Community
by Sweetberry1
The Polish/Australian community.. in their lovely traditional costumes.
Many of these people have special schools operating, in the hope that their children will not forget their heritage, language and culture. These classes usually take place once a week, for a couple of hours.
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Part of the cacti exhibit
GEELONG RESIDENTS?
Hot summer sunsets - Nov. 06
The new Skilled Stadium
