Except for Queenslanders and Western Australians, most people have just enjoyed [or endured] the Queen’s Birthday long weekend. West Australians will have to wait until September 24th before their turn comes around, and Queenslanders have an even longer wait – until October 1st. Commonwealth countries only celebrate the birthday – on whichever day, and yet Great Britain does not. First celebrated in 1788 Governor Arthur Phillip declared a holiday to mark King George III’s birthday. For many years the actual birthday date was celebrated, but after the death of King George V in 1936, the date has largely been kept close to his date.
Queen Elizabeth II’s real birthday is April 21st, 1926. On the second Monday in June the Australian government releases the names of the new members of the Order of Australia and other honours issued by the Australian government, or the Queen, for exceptional service to Australians, Australia or mankind. It is the first time, [but not before time] that women have outnumbered the men for the top award Companion of the Order of Australia. However you choose to use the holiday, I know that there were a lot of travellers on the road through Jugiong, from Friday to Monday.
Perhaps our economy takes a slump generally over long weekends, especially given that so many choose to include the Friday, but the boost to our small town’s economy is terrific. What is not so terrific is the amount of traffic, the lack of care and courtesy when entering and leaving parking spaces, the overwhelming sense of privilege drivers and pedestrians display, defies belief. The situation is always bad but added traffic over holiday times exacerbates the problem. The closing date for submissions relating to the new streetscape design has passed and it is only to be hoped that that work is in place before lives are lost.
The Twin Town Times Remains Free Online. Why Pay For An Online Subscription When You Can Get It Here Free. Our Print Edition is Available at 14 outlets every Thursday.
Talk To Us about advertising your business both online and in our weekly print edition, with a special package. 0408 00 4975 or editorial@twintowntimes.com.au
Don’t Hide Your Business Behind a Paywall.
