June 1st 2012 heralds Western Australia’s first WA Day. Formerly known as Foundation Day, this historic day has been renamed to recognise and commemorate the rich history and diversity of cultures that form the Western Australia we know today.
WA Day is inclusive – it recognises the State’s Indigenous history, early European settlers, and the many people from all over the world who have made WA their home.
By introducing WA Day, Western Australia has done something no other State has – introduced a public holiday in the State’s name.
WA Day represents a dramatic social evolution for the State; it is Western Australia’s first official public holiday name change. It is symbolic of how WA is growing and developing, and gaining confidence about its future, whilst also commemorating the diversity of its history and formation.
Foundation Day History
Foundation Day, 1 June, marked a significant date in the history of Western Australia. On this day in 1829 the State’s first European free settlers completed their long sea journey from Britain to the Swan River Colony. They arrived onboard the Parmelia under the command of Captain James Stirling and enjoyed their first view of mainland Western Australia. Although wintry conditions prevented them from stepping ashore until some time later, Foundation Day was always recognised on this date.
Foundation Day commemorated the date in 1829 when there was a meeting of cultures; one that has evolved in this land over tens of thousands of years, another brought to this land from across the waters by free settlers seeking a new land to call home. Over the subsequent years, these two groups of people have been joined by further arrivals from all corners of the world. Each group contributes elements of its rich heritage to forge our unique, vibrant Western Australian identity and culture.
Together, these people laid the foundation of our State. From the traditional custodians of the land, to the British colonists, to the waves of immigrants who followed, they were exceptional people, farsighted and determined in their belief in the viable, free, prosperous, democratic State we all share and enjoy today.
WA Day Today
Foundation Day was, and WA Day now is, a time when we pay tribute to all those who came before us and to the citizens of today who are building our future. It is also a time when we exhibit our pride and appreciation for the efforts and achievements of our fellow citizens, past and present.
WA Day is a day of significance and pride to all who call Western Australia home.作者: bluemntn 时间: 4-6-2012 00:00
