Luckily, We haven't reached the proportions New Zealand has... mainly because Melbourne Cup day is next Tuesday and most of us workers are busy getting Lunches (and drinks) organised for that.

I hadn't even heard of 5th November celebrations... Until I saw V FOR VENDETTA...

Australia was a "convict" settlement though. So I guess that means we saved up all our old world holidays for Christmas and Easter in the 1800s thus why none have been big over the last couple of years...

Road Raven, You guys Celebrate ANZAC Day right? that's by FAR the biggest Holiday we have over here from a non-religious, non-commercial point of view.

For the Northern Hemispherians, Australian and New Zealand Army Corps Day, The day when thousands of our fledgling army-men fought and died on Gallipoli's shores because Britain wanted us too! First World War It's the day we remember all the soldiers and honour those still serving our country. A non-denominational dawn service is held, usually on beaches or at the war memorials, under the big Jacuranda trees next to the war memorial, the last post is played many times that day, there's military parades and most people do go out to see the old soldiers and military nurses march. Then there's the Traditional Aussie customs of having barbequed Seafood, (and LAMB) and playing 2 up. Or going down to the local RETIRED SERVICES LEAGUE for a nice counter lunch.