Children play inside an Australian Army forces vehicle that was expedited to help with the recovery of the town following the bushfires, during a gathering at the town’s pub to commemorate the loss of three members of the community and honour the efforts of the local firefighters in Cobargo, New South Wales, January 12, 2020. — Reuters pic
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said Australia Day was a time to acknowledge the country’s stories, both ancient and recent. Australia Day marks the anniversary of the 1788 arrival of the “First Fleet” of British ships at Sydney Cove. Britain claimed Australia, declaring it an empty land, but indigenous Australians trace their lineage back 50,000 years.
Protesters rallied today carrying red, black and yellow indigenous flags and signs “No Pride in Genocide”. Morrison announced The National Emergency Medal will be awarded to emergency responders battling the 2019-20 bushfires.