Top 10 Beach Cultures in Australia
Australia’s stunning coastline gives rise to an enthusiastic beach culture. You’ll often see people relaxing by the water’s edge with friends while kicking off their shoes or engaging in beach cricket games.
Australians place great value in loyalty, and will go the extra mile to support those they care for – something which might surprise visitors from cultures where titles, achievements, or credentials are revered more highly.
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Beach culture
One of the ultimate Aussie experiences is taking a trip out to Bondi Beach. Not only can it provide stunning views and plenty of sunbathing opportunities, but beachgoing is also a form of self-care, offering healing and rejuvenation benefits.
Australian beaches are an integral part of culture, offering many recreational and social activities and events throughout the year. You can go for a coastal walk, take part in surfing lessons or simply soak up the atmosphere along a beachfront location.
Sausage sizzles
A sausage sizzle is an iconic food and community event in Australia and New Zealand, featuring freshly-grilled or barbecued sausages on bread with condiments such as ketchup or mustard for dipping as well as fried onions for topping off this delectable treat.
“Democracy sausage” became internationally famous during 2013 and 2016 Australian elections when food stalls were set up near polling places offering it. Since then, it has also become a favorite at Bunnings Hardware stores that allow community groups to use their barbecue areas.
Sausage sizzles are popular fundraising events held by public schools, bush fire brigades, and surf lifesaving clubs in their local communities. You’re likely to encounter them at school fetes, sporting events and community markets alike!
Slipper lobster
Also referred to as a ‘bug’ or flat lobster and sometimes known by its scientific name of locust lobster, this clawless species from Australia inhabits shallow muddy waters in shallow areas and is an alternative choice to spiny lobster. Wild-caught Balmain bugs offer sweet flesh with firm textures, strong garlic-seaweed flavor notes.
These nocturnal creatures can be found across the Indo-West Pacific in sandy areas or crevices along reefs. Their flattened shape helps them hide during the day while also enabling them to quickly retreat when threatened, propelling themselves backward by flapping their tails backward.
Vegemite
Vegemite has played an instrumental role in shaping Australia’s cultural identity for more than 80 years. A nutritious spread made of leftover brewer’s yeast extract combined with various vegetable and spice additives, Vegemite has long been part of Australians’ lives and the nation’s culinary landscape.
One teaspoon contains half the recommended daily allowance for vitamin B. Furthermore, it has very few fat or sugar components and provides high amounts of protein.
Australians adore Vegemite and can often be found enjoying it as a breakfast spread on toast or crackers or as an accompaniment with meals. One jar can usually be found in nine out of ten pantries in Australia.
Iced VoVos
Australian nostalgia is something everyone can get behind, and many have fallen for an Iced Vovo from our childhoods – but unfortunately many have fallen prey to its Mandela Effect, as it never actually contained pink marshmallows on top!
Arnott’s has been crafting its famous Arnott’s cookies since 1906 and sales experienced an enormous boost when then-Prime Minister Kevin Rudd mentioned them during his victory speech during 2007.
Rumor has it that Arnott’s biscuit recipe has changed throughout its existence, but Arnott’s has always maintained that their cookie consists of just icing with raspberry jam strip down its center and remains unchanged to this day.
SAO
SAO biscuits have long been beloved treats among generations of Australians, beloved due to their small holes and distinct light bubbly texture. Produced by seven layers of flaky pastry according to manufacturer claims, some people believe that “SAO” stands for Salvation Army Officer and commemorate William Arnott’s son Arthur joining Salvation Army after joining up.
As a scholarship recipient, Sothea was able to attend the international Tropical Agriculture Conference in Brisbane, learning about Cambodian agribusiness’s vast potential. She networked with industry leaders from fields crops, livestock farming, food and nutrition industries, as well as horticulture.
Cherry Ripe
Cherry Ripe chocolate bars were first produced in 1924, making them one of Australia’s oldest chocolate bars. Crafted by MacRobertson’s before their sale to Cadbury in 1967. They combine sweet cherries with coconut covered in dark chocolate – perfect for an indulgent treat.
No one knows exactly why Mr. Robertson named his candy bar Cherry Ripe; there have been various speculations. One possibility suggests it was inspired by an old English song.
Roy Morgan Research revealed in 2013 that Cherry Ripe was Australia’s favorite chocolate bar, consumed by 10% of Australians; younger Australians preferred Cadbury Boost bars over it.
