Association of Golden Australian Pilipinos Inc

AGAPI marks Australia Day with pride

By Evelyn A. Opilas
Rooty Hill-NSW-Australia
January 31, 2018



Proud Filipino-Australians they are, the almost 100 Association of Golden Australian Pilipinos Inc (AGAPI) members who danced, sang and celebrated Australia Day 27 January at the Rooty Hill School of Arts.

Australia Day, held every 26 January, marks the arrival of the First Fleet of British ships at Port Jackson, New South Wales, and the raising of the British flag at Sydney Cove by Captain Arthur Phillip.

Initially only NSW celebrated the day, known as First Landing Day or Foundation Day. It was declared a public holiday in NSW in 1838.

“… Australia Day as a national holiday on 26 January is a recent one. Not until 1935 did all the Australian states and territories use that name to mark that date. Not until 1994 did they begin to celebrate Australia Day consistently as a public holiday on that date,” according to www.australiaday.com.au.

Earlier, AGAPI president Dorothy del Villar encouraged members to think about how Australia has changed them and to wear Australia-themed outfits on the day, with Sarah Dawson winning the best costume contest.

January-born members including Elvira Gacis, Adelaida Herrera, Mila Martin, Virgie Pineda and Lucy Quinon were feted on the day with greetings, hugs, and a joint cake.

Child performer Zabriel Orayenza, who had a role in the musical play “The Old Woman Who Lives in the Shoe,” entertained the seniors with beautiful songs.

Members enjoyed a light meal including lamingtons, an Australian culinary favourite, rice cakes and pancit. (Photos by Evelyn A. Opilas)