Similar Yet Different

This post discusses the differences between the United States and Australian public holidays, specifically Easter. There is no intention to provide a religious lesson or promote one country over another. It's simply written to note our first experience with an Australian public holiday.

Most of Australia celebrates Easter with four public holidays: Good Friday, Easter Saturday, Easter Sunday, and Easter Monday. Tasmania and Western Australia are exceptions with the first having Good Friday, Easter Monday, and Easter Tuesday as public holidays, and the latter Good Friday, Easter Sunday, and Easter Monday.

What we noticed.

• Surcharge for dining out during the public holiday (15%)

• Stores were likely closed on Good Friday and Easter Sunday

• Beaches were busy

• Miles and miles of caravans (RV/Campers) on the roads

What we did.

The plant Kevin works at shuts down for a week during Easter, giving employees time to rejuvenate and celebrate with family. However, maintenance and contractors work during the shutdown to complete general upkeep, repairs, and plant modifications. To thank the crew working during the holiday shutdown, a steak sandwich lunch was served. Kevin and I joined the cooking and serving team. They have a fabulous system, and we learned a lot. It's been a few months since we served others, as with the move we have not had the opportunity to cook for family and friends. Serving others fills my bucket and it felt good to serve food to this hardworking crew.

Though Kevin was at the plant most days, we took time to relax at the beach for an hour and explore Montville. No pics, just memories.

Until Next Time,

Dana