Hi Fester,

Love me - great.
Hate me - even better.
Don't know me - then don't judge.
Think you know me?
You have no idea.

Enjoy what's left of your day.

Fester,

As for writing fantasy histories?

That's something we all grew up with in this
country. It's only relatively recently that
we're finally learning the truth.

But still, of course there are people who
prefer the fantasy they were taught for ages.

But lets face it - life is not a fantasy.
If you lose your shoe at midnight - you're drunk!
(smile).

I support the idea of 'Federation Day' 1st January each year. A more appropriate day to celebrate Australia's nationhood. Agree? BTW just leave out the Chinese made flip-fops, stubby holders and ttbn has to stay home if he insists on wearing his big floppy hat which looks like the Aussie flag!

I'll be having a bit of strawberry jam I've just made Paul. Tricky stuff to make as it can boil over if you take your eye off it. I made 10kgs last week and gave it away to some proud Aussies. I think I'll have some on a pancake with some cream and a cuppa to celebrate Australia Day. No paraphernalia needed for me mate.

Fester, the Chinese even make paper plates with the Aussie flag on em', get em' from your local Indian run $2 shop, can't get more Australian than that. Mate, it should be damper and Wombat stew, not Pommy strawberry Jam on pancakes.

Strawberries originated in North America apparently Paul,

https://www.thespruceeats.com/history-of-strawberry-1807668

but anyone can develop a new variety:

https://acitgroup.com.au/most-valuable-fruit-series-sembikiya-queen-strawberries/

An obsession with the "pure" past free of anything foreign/foreign made seems a silly idea to me. The richness and diversity of our lives is from interaction and sharing, not isolation. The arrival of the First Fleet at Port Jackson was the first step in making Australia what it is today, so I think 26th of January a good day to celebrate.