https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-12989487/Bondi-Beach-hold-dawn-ceremony-Australia-Day-considered-day-mourning.htmlASydneycouncil has sparked controversy with its decision to markAustralia Day with an Anzac Day-style 'dawn reflection' ceremony at Bondi Beach.
The service, hosted by Waverley Council, will acknowledge the resilience and survival of Aboriginal people. It will include a Welcome to Country from a traditional custodian and a smoking ceremony.
Australia Day, observed each year on January 26, marks the landing of the First Fleet in 1788 when the first governor of the British colony ofNew South Wales, Arthur Philip, hoisted the Union Jack at Sydney Cove.
But for many First Nations people, it is regarded as 'Invasion Day' or the 'Day of Mourning' because it marks the beginning of Australia's colonisation.
Mayor Paula Masselos said: 'Council understands that January 26 has multiple meanings and it can be a difficult day for many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
"Multiple meanings" ?Here's me thinking it was to honour the establishment of Australia's initial European settlement.
