Even many in Maroochydore agree. January 26, the date marking the start of Australia's colonisation in 1788, isn't the date for the national day.
As well as the official Australia Day events up and down the country, there were a host of Invasion Day counter-events today. Even Maroochydore managed a good turnout, with a gathering at the new city centre's Foundation Square. There were speeches, a smoking ceremony, traditional dancing and music. Then we marched down to the Cotton Tree holiday strip, with obligatory stops at the police HQ and the courthouse along the way.
The big message was around 'Change the Date'. Most Australians aren't yet persuaded, but the logic is irrefutable: If a date is contentious, then it's just not the date for a day of national unity. So I predict it won't be long now till it's fixed.
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