Proclamation Day in Australia ― Date, History, and Details
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History of Proclamation Day in Australia and How to Celebrate/ Observe It
Proclamation Day is commemorated annually in Australia on 26 January. It marks the anniversary of the formal proclamation of British sovereignty over the eastern seaboard of Australia at Sydney Cove by Governor Arthur Phillip in 1788.
In some states and territories, Proclamation Day is a public holiday. In New South Wales, it is celebrated as Australia Day. In Victoria, it is known as Foundation Day.
The day is an opportunity to reflect on Australia’s history and cultural diversity. It is also a time to celebrate our country’s achievements and to look to the future with hope and optimism.
On 26 January 1788, Captain Arthur Phillip led a fleet of 11 ships carrying convicts and soldiers from England to establish a penal colony in Australia. The fleet arrived in Botany Bay but found it unsuitable for settlement. They then moved to Port Jackson and anchored in Sydney Cove.
Governor Phillip raised the Union Jack and proclaimed British sovereignty over the eastern seaboard of Australia. This event is commemorated annually as Proclamation Day.
In 1818, Governor Lachlan Macquarie held a ceremony to mark the 30th anniversary of the proclamation. This was the first official celebration of the event and it became an annual tradition.
Today, Proclamation Day is celebrated with a range of events and activities across Australia. These include flag-raising ceremonies, wreath-laying ceremonies, community festivals and concerts.