How do we mark January 26? Photos: Michelle Kroll.
The Hoot podcast has returned for its second season, with Ross Solly and Genevieve Jacobs discussing matters large and small, serious and otherwise.
This week, it’s time to consider changing social beliefs and expectations around January 26 and what it represents to the community.
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Polling indicates that the younger generation of Australians are less attached to commemorating the day Arthur Phillip claimed the eastern seaboard for King George III, but controversy rages around what to do about it.
The date has only been dedicated as a national public holiday since 1994, although it’s been marked in some form for many decades before this.
Could we change the day’s meaning and turn it into a more reflective event that takes into account the full meaning of the day? But January 26 is the day one people claimed ownership of another’s home, so is the day permanently tainted? And if so, what can we do about it?
It’s a vital conversation as the Voice referendum campaign begins ahead of the vote later this year. Vigorous argument is emerging about whether there’s enough detail to make an informed decision on constitutional change.
The Calma/Langton report tabled for the Federal Government in 2021 provides much of that detail in a lengthy document, but communications on the issue have been mainly absent, and in a vacuum, dissent thrives.
What do we need to know about the proposal, and where should that information come from?
If it’s beach construction information you’re after, however, Ross is all over it.
The Solly family delegated responsibility to him for erecting the cabana on their beach holidays.
He was initially dubious, but armed with not only the instruction leaflet but also all the information he could source on YouTube, Ross is now both a pro and a cabana convert – so much so that his father-in-law began offering his services to other, less proficient, nearby beach-goers.
But Genevieve’s crucial question is: should your beach structure have sides to protect you from blowing sand? Does a cabana fly in the face of reality on a chilly day down the coast?
The Hoot appears every week on Riotact and wherever you get your podcasts, including Apple and Spotify. Have a listen, tell us what you think and rate us.
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