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working holiday Australia

4 tips to get a job in Australia

The article and cover photo by Paola Bianchi

There are no magic formulas to excel in looking, applying and getting a job in Australia, nor in any place in the world. Is not just about having lucky neither. There is a famous phrase that says: ‘success is where preparation and opportunity meet’. To be successful in getting a job offer we need to get prepared, so when the opportunity arises we are ready to jump right in.

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How are your fine-tuning skills doing? Here are 4 tips to tune-up:

POLISH YOUR RESUME

The resume is your first presentation. It showcases who you are, your work and studies history and your skills. Try to make it different from other boring resumes. Avoid dull designs and focus on a clean structure and refine your grammar. Do not add a photo nor personal details like age or marital status. This does not matter at all. Adding a summery at the beginning is a brilliant way the employer can make a clear idea of who you are and what to expect to read. Also, list two to three referees that can be contacted (one can be personal). Don’t forget to specify keywords on your skill checklist. It Is also a good idea to display a ‘interests’ section that shows a little bit more about you on a personal level. After all, you are a human, not just a resume. Two to three pages are the standard as is expected to be included detailed info about each work or study experience, highlighting responsibilities and achievements.

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REVIEW YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA

Nowadays, everyone has at least one social media account to share content…and to check out others! Potential hiring managers can (and will) check your Instagram or Facebook to analyse your behaviour and lifestyle. Do you just have photos showing you as a party animal? Not that you cannot have fun but be careful with your content and comments.

LinkedIn is also a social platform and very popular in Australia. Networking can get you far. Update your profile with your resume info and stay open for potential opportunities. Make sure your profile photo looks professional. If keen, share content and write your own articles. There are free workshops available in the Learning section that can be really helpful.

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ALWAYS CUSTOMISE

Quite often the job Ad will ask for a Cover Letter. The hiring manager wants to know why you are the perfect fit for the role. Identify what the role needs and how you can contribute to that. This is an enormous opportunity to add info that your resume does not have and link transferable skills that can attract the hiring manager. Even though you may have a base, is important to customise the application letter for each job. If you are sending the same letter every time, you are probably not separating yourself from others, and, what is worse, wasting your chance to express more about your personality and what makes you unique. ONE page is enough.

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POPULAR WEBSITES

When all the above is on point, is time to do the work ‘of looking for work’. It can be time-consuming, I know. To make things easier for you, here is a list of the most popular websites to start your search for opportunities in Australia:

https://www.seek.com.au/
https://au.indeed.com/
http://www.ethicaljobs.com.au/
https://www.pedestrian.tv/jobs/
https://www.careerone.com.au/
https://scoutjobs.com.au/
https://www.coffeejobs.com/
https://au.jora.com/

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Australian Movies and Chill?

The article is written by Rebecca Todesco

It’s winter and nothing sounds better than snuggling in with a bunch of pals with some popcorn and a movie. We’re a long way from Hollywood but we do make our fair share of quality films Down Under.
There’s a long list of Australian movies and if we were to sit here and go through them all we would be here for longer than we want. So instead I’ve got a list of my favourites (don’t worry: no spoilers are included).

Gallipoli (1981):

IMDB: 7.5
Running time: 1 hour, 50 minutes
Gallipoli is a war drama that follows two young sprinters after they enlist during World War I.

Although not entirely historically accurate, the film does provide some insight into the events surrounding the ANZAC landing at Gallipoli.

Some may argue that the film has a slow start, but I urge you to stick with it: you won’t regret it.

The Babadook (2014):

IMDB rating: 6.8
Running time: 1 hour, 33 minutes
This psychological thriller follows the story of an exhausted widow as she tries to raise her six-year-old son alone.

While she’s busy convincing her son there are no monsters in the house she becomes aware of a sinister presence, seemingly stemming from a mysterious book her son finds.

The Babadook has just enough suspense and jump scares to keep you wide awake and glued to your screen (and have you checking under your bed before you go to sleep).

Muriel’s Wedding (1994):

IMDB rating: 7.2
Running time: 1 hour, 46 minutes

Most little girls dream of getting married and what their wedding day will be like but few will go as far as the daggy and slightly desperate Muriel Heslop to make it happen.

Muriel will stop at nothing to get what she wants and, accompanied by a cracking soundtrack, she’ll learn a bit about friendship and herself along the way.

Get together with a few of your girls and have a good laugh at Muriel’s antics throughout this feel-good comedy. You’ll be saying “you’re terrible, Muriel” in no time!

The Castle (1997):
IMDB rating: 7.7
Running time: 1 hour, 25 minutes

When an Aussie family, the Kerrigans, are told they need to sell their house and leave, they decide to take on city hall to keep their home.

They team up with a loveable bunch of neighbours and a shoddy lawyer in court in the battle of a century to protect their castle.

The Castle is a wholesome family movie and well worth the watch.

Australia (2008):

IMDB rating: 6.6

Running time: 2 hours, 45 minutes

What could be more Australian than Hugh Jackman and Nicole Kidman together in the Australian desert?

The main thing I took away from this movie was the beautiful shots of the Australian scenery: it’s enough to convince anyone to tour the country.

Australia is set before World War II and sees a British aristocrat move to Australia when she inherits a ranch. There’s plenty happening in the movie to keep you entertained, including an agreement with a stockman and the bombing of Darwin by the Japanese forces.

Take a deep breath, grab some food and make sure you hit the toilet before starting this movie: it’s a long one.

Crocodile Dundee (1986):
IMDB rating: 6.5
Running time: 1 hour, 37 minutes

An American reporter travels to the Australian outback to meet a famous crocodile hunter and comes face to face with the most stereotypical, over the top Aussie bloke that ever existed.

When she invites him back to New York with her you’re in for plenty of entertainment.

If nothing else, this film beautifully showcases some of Australia’s spectacular scenery.

In all of my travels, this was the movie most people spoke to me about when they found out I was Australian.

Picnic at Hanging Rock (1975):
IMDB rating: 7.6
Running time: 1 hour, 55 minutes

A school trip to Hanging Rock by an elite girls school goes horribly wrong when three students and a teacher vanish without a trace.

The remaining classmates are haunted by the events surrounding their missing peers, especially as time goes by and new information comes to light.

The school and the town begin to unravel in the subsequent weeks as searches for the missing girls continue.

Although the events depicted in the film are false, the author of the original book was deliberately cryptic about whether the events actually took place.

If you’re left wanting more, there is a television series which aired in May 2018 on Foxtel’s Showcase based on the book and film. Or if you’re in Victoria, you can make the journey to Hanging Rock yourself. Just make sure you don’t stray too far from your group.

Strictly Ballroom (1992):

IMDB rating: 7.2
Running time: 1 hour, 34 minutes

Strictly Ballroom follows Scott, a ballroom dancer, as he fights to dance his own personal way in competition.
Just when it looks like Scott is out of luck an unlikely hero swoops in to help Scott two-step his way to his dream.

With enough fake tan, glitter and flashy dance routines to make everyone happy, Strictly Ballroom will have you hurrying to the nearest phonebook to look up ballroom dancing lessons.

Wolf Creek (1995):

IMDB rating: 6.3
Running time: 1 hour, 39 minutes

What do you get when you cross three backpackers stranded in the outback with a deranged and sadistic local? A whole lot of terror!

The film is not for the faint hearted and includes a healthy dose of torture, screams and scares.

I wouldn’t recommend watching this before embarking on any hitchhiking or backpacking tours of the country because there’s a good chance you’ll be permanently scared off the idea.

The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert (1994):

IMDB rating: 7.5

Running time: 1 hour, 44 minutes

A Sydney-based drag queen is set to perform at a casino in a rural town in Central Australia. He manages to rope his friends – a fellow drag performer and a transgender woman – into accompanying him and the three set out on a road trip.

Their journey is not without its complications but the film itself is chock-full of fantastic music and brilliant costumes.

And who exactly is Priscilla? You’ll have to watch the movie to find out that one.

Australian Snack Guide

The article is written by Rebecca Todesco

One of the best parts about travelling is the chance to indulge in the delicious cuisine countries have to offer. What’s even better is that when you’re on exchange, there’s absolutely no hurry! You can take your time, sampling everything from the weird and wacky to the strange and obscure.

Australia has plenty to offer the foodies of the world, with restaurants offering every cuisine under the sun. Believe it or not: we actually eat more than kangaroo, crocodile and emu.

So if you want to try some true blue, ridgy didge Australian goodies then here’s a couple for you to try.:

Tim Tams

Tim Tams

I know many Australians will agree with me: Tim Tams are as close to heaven on earth as one can get.
Tim Tams were gifted to the world in the sixties by the Australian biscuit company, Arnotts. According to their website, Tim Tams are described as “delicious smooth cream sandwiched between two crunchy biscuits, coated in Tim Tam chocolate and white choc.”
Tim Tams are the perfect snack in summer, winter, dipped in tea or coffee, dipped in milk, when you’re sad, when you’re hungry, during a Tim Tam Slam and just about any other time.

Vegemite

Vegemite

As Australia’s most infamous snack food, Vegemite is a thick black paste consisting of leftover brewer’s yeast and some vegetable additives. It has a very strong salty and bitter taste.

When foreigners try Vegemite for the first time they mistakenly scoop it out of the jar and eat it off the spoon. It’s no wonder Vegemite gets such a bad rap!

The correct way to eat Vegemite is to spread a small amount on a piece of buttered toast, successfully balancing the salty taste with the melted butter.

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Fairy Bread

What started as a staple at kids’ parties has now become one of Australia’s favourite snack foods.
The greatest thing about fairy bread is that it’s so easy to prepare, you can make it at home. It involves three ingredients: white bread (cut into triangles), butter and hundreds and thousands (sprinkles).

Voila!

ANZAC biscuits

Anzac Biscuits
Anzac biscuits share their name with the Australia and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) which were established in World War I.

These biscuits were sent over by soldiers’ wives and women’s groups because the main ingredients were able to keep for a long period of time, even when travelling by boat.
These biscuits are sold in abundance around Anzac Day (April 25^th) and are relatively easy to make at home.

Meat pie

Meat Pie
If someone claims to be Australian but hasn’t eaten a meat pie then they’re probably a liar.

If it’s cold and you’re on the go then a meat pie is the perfect snack option for you. It’s a hand-sized pie usually containing minced meat and gravy, wrapped in a delightfully flaky pastry.

Some meat pie variations also include cheese, potatoes and other vegetables as well as bacon and sometimes even egg.

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Fish and chips

There is no better way to finish off a day at the beach than with a stack of steaming hot fish and chips. It’s filling, it’s cheap and it is absolutely scrumptious.

The menu at a fish and chippery can sometimes be overwhelming: fish, calamari rings, chips, potato cakes, dim sims, Chiko rolls, pineapple fritters, Dagwood Dog, the list goes on.

You’ve got time to work your way through the menu but if you’re new to the game then let me help eliminate some of the confusion and offer a safe and delicious option for your first fish and chips order:

-Fried fish: You can usually pick your own fish but if you want to be adventurous choose flake: it’s shark (and it’s delicious!)
-A potato cake: This is essentially a large chunk of fried potato.

-A fried Dim Sim: Also available steamed, this is a vegetable and meat filling partially wrapped in pastry.

-A minimum of chips

Finish off the order with a request to have it all coated in an excessive amount of chicken salt. You’ll thank me later.
Australia has so much deliciousness to offer. Take your time and enjoy it!

7 ideas to Keep Fit on a budget

The article and cover photo by Paola Bianchi

When I arrived in Australia one of the first things that captured my attention was how well were exercise and fitness integrated into the Aussie lifestyle. People were waking up (ridiculously) early to train or spending their time off doing exercise (and having brunch afterwards obviously). I immediately felt inspired to implement a healthy routine.

Keeping your body in movement and your mind oxygenated has so many benefits for everyone, and students should not dismiss this from their lifestyle. I got to know first-hand that doing exercise, especially during exam periods, helps me focus and release tension. Not to mention the overall increased on my good mood and the opportunity to meet new friends.

As a student on a budget, getting fit does not need to be a big issue. There are many free or low-cost options to give a try and to maintain your favourites exercises in the long term.
RUNNING or WALKING

Once you have a good pair of running shoes, there are no excuses not to run regularly or walk at a good pace. You do not need fancy clothes nor expensive gadgets. Running and walking can be done almost ANYWHERE and it’s FREE!

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Photo by aquachara on Unsplash

APP WORKOUT

There are free and paid apps to help you with a fitness plan. Those exercises can be done not just at the gym but also at home or in a park as they require little equipment. Maybe you need a mat, a bench, a skipping rope or some dumbbells. Even on YouTube, you can find good classes but the app gives you a proper program, a schedule and tracks your progression.

3 App Photo by Bence ▲ Boros on Unsplash

FITNESS TRAILS

It’s like an outdoor gym that has stations for different types of exercise. Sometimes it’s called Parcourse, often have explanation signs and is used as a complement of other activity like running. They are FREE and can be found in parks or biking/running paths.

4 outdoor gym Photo by GMB Monkey on Unsplash

MEETUP ACTIVITIES

Again, technology is on our side. The Meetup app is great to find events, classes and regular meetups for diverse activities. This is a FREE app, although some meetups require a small contribution. The most popular fitness groups in Australia are for Hiking, Bushwalking, Biking, Yoga and even beach Volleyball.

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SKATING

This is also a FREE activity. Just need to practice your balance and get a nice skate. Then find a skate park and have fun! There are plenty of YouTube videos with tips and tricks. Of course, you can also skate to commute on a daily basis!

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If keen on investing on yourself without breaking your wallet, the following is for you:

INDOOR BOULDERING & INDOOR CLIMBING

This is by far one of the trendiest yet misunderstood fitness activity. It is by no means an ‘impossible mission’ just for fearless people. Climbing will challenge you in a physical and mental level, but because it’s such personal training each one can climb at their own level.

Bouldering is climbing in small rock walls without any ropes, as the maximum high is usually safe. Plus, there are lots of mattresses to fall onto. You just need a pair of climbing shoes to get started. And maybe some chalk to have a better grip in your hands.

Indoor Climbing is more well known by the general public than Bouldering because it’s Rock Climbing first offspring. The walls are pretty high so you definitely need to hang from your harness attached to the rope.

If never tried any before, I strongly suggest that you do an introductory course first. They are usually given for free in any indoor climbing gym. They also rent all the equipment you need but If you really like this sport, it’s better to get your own gear. Always get the most quality gear you can get as it can last for years. Shoes and harness are the basics to keep you climbing for a long time.

Even though it requires some investment in the beginning, later you can get monthly or yearly passes and each visit to the climbing gym will be less expensive than just paying for the day. Students usually can get discount by proving your ‘student condition’.

The benefits are countless. Because it’s required to be %100 immerse at the moment, it has some of the meditation benefits – stress reduction, improved concentration, increase self-awareness and boost your immune system. It also has some therapeutic effects and that’s why it has been recommended for depression patients! I would say it’s perfect for anyone. You can actually be fully present, overcome your fears and get so much confidence!

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It is easy to get caught up with climbing, sure I did! You can get more gear, a professional rope and even get outdoors. Rock climbing is IN-CRE-DI-BLE empowering!

Three Epic Foodie Hubs in Brisbane

The article is written by Nina Sudnitsin

Whether you’re a self-declared foodie or a hungry student, Brisbane has three epic locations for food that can satisfy any craving. So, calling all gourmands and connoisseurs to grab some mates and head to these hubs whenever there is a need for a foodie intervention (goodbye instant noodles) or salvation for hungry stomachs.

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Eat Street Northshore

180 colourful shipping containers light up at dusk and open to provide the best foodie experience you could ever imagine. Fairy lights line the walkways and dangle from high roofs as countless bustling bodies shuffle around the enclosed area that serves THE best street food in Brisbane on weekend nights.

With live music playing as a soundtrack for diners, people hungrily order their next plate of honey puffs or their last few oysters. Different food regions present endless options to choose from, so deciding what you want, whether it’s Italian or Mexican, will be a struggle.

Entry: $3 per person

Address: 221D Macarthur Avenue, Hamilton 4007

Opening hours: Fri and Sat 4pm to 10pm and Sunday 12 noon to 8pm

Check their website for more information!

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Eagle Street Pier

Located in the heart of Brisbane city and right on the river, Eagle Street Pier is a bustling area that is filled with hungry visitors looking for the ultimate wine and dine experience. With over 15 restaurants concentrated in one sweet spot and with an unrivalled view of the Story Bridge, it’s the best of Brisbane’s classy food on one riverside precinct.

If you’re not shy to spend your earned dollars, head to George’s Paragon and the Jade Buddha, which are highly recommended, and be prepared to leave the night with an extra few kilos under your belt…

Address: 45 Eagle Street, Brisbane 4000

Opening hours: dependant on individual restaurants

Check their website for more restaurants!

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Welcome to Bowen Hills

Welcome to Bowen Hills is a newly opened outdoor space that hosts the best food trucks Brisbane has to offer. Street eats and international deliciousness grace this new precinct since the visiting food trucks rotate daily, no one visit will ever be the same! A new addition to the Brisbane food scene, it has made a splash so head over, and grab a tiki cocktail!

Address: 631 Gregory Terrace, Bowen Hills, QLD 4006
Opening hours: Wed & Thurs – 5PM to late and Fri-Sun – 12PM to late

Check their website for daily food truck schedules!

Top 5 YouTube Vids By Expats About Life in Australia

The article is written by Bernadette Sanfilippo

They say experience is the greatest teacher of all so, in this list, we’re counting down 5 outstanding YouTube videos made by expats residing in Australia, that are certain to help prepare you for a move to the land down under.

#5. Adjustments as an American in Australia – Brittany Bryant

In this video, Brittany Bryant is a relatively new arrival to Australian shores. As she recounts her initial 12 days in the land down under, she exhibits that relatable twang of nervousness that typically accompanies any foreigner adjusting to life in a foreign land. Her observations about life in Australia are not necessarily atypical or groundbreaking, but her retellings are sympathetically honest and sentimental, and her skittish nature serves to remind us that, no matter how abnormal we may feel in an unfamiliar cultural setting, we are not alone.

#4. 6 Things I Wish I Knew About Australia Before Moving Here – Ashley Kristina

If what you’re seeking is the emotional realities of living abroad, then look no further. Ashley Kristina delivers a video that summarises a number of hard truths, coupling her worded experiences with the utmost of careful sensitivity. Choosing to steer away from debunking Australian stereotypes, she discusses the difficulties of living vast distances from family, carving out new interpersonal relationships in a contrasting culture and the hefty price tag that accompanies the Australian way of life. Be warned, Ashley shatters any illusions you may have of Australia’s iconic landmarks, kindly pointing out that most pictures are usually given the heavy Photoshop treatment.

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#3. 5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Moving To Sydney, Australia! – Lauren Meisner

Lauren Meisner’s almost 17-minute long video offers highly detailed depictions on subjects such as the housing market, working conditions and the national health care system. While her advice is practical and noteworthy, it should be noted that, as the title of the video suggests, significant portions of the content are specific to the metropolitan areas of Sydney and do not necessarily reflect life in neighbouring states or wider Australia. This is particularly true of the rental price figures she quotes, as these really are only a reflection of what you could expect to pay living in the central suburbs of Sydney, not in the greater suburban areas. That being said, this is a wonderfully insightful, well-researched video, highly beneficial to anyone looking to live long-term in New South Wales.

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#2. 10 Things I Wish I Knew Before…Moving To Australia – Elizabeth Beemer

Elizabeth Beemer proves she is a well-versed, seasoned traveller in this humorously light-hearted, entertaining video. Elizabeth exhibits a relaxed, laid-back level of honesty as she provides practical guidance and cleverly debunks several Australian stereotypes. At one point, she ingeniously describes the country as the lovechild between the USA and UK and makes some compelling statements regarding weather, social habits and the general cost of living in the land down under. Though this video was filmed and uploaded on April 1^st, rest assured that the content is sincere, genuine and a highly reliable account of life in Australia!

#1. 11 things I didn’t expect about Australia – Mai’s Journey

Kicking things off with a brief dance number, Mai’s video tops this list, due primarily to its laugh-out-loud humour, honesty, integrity and Mai’s ability to capture the quintessential Australian spirit. While the content speaks specifically about Melbourne, the vast majority can easily be associated with surrounding states, broader Australia and the national way of living. Mai’s persona is fun and relatable and her counsel is offbeat, quirky and totally amusing. This video offers a fantastic insight into Australia’s worded slang, verbal anomalies, cultural diversity and daily realities, with a delightful dose of foreign observation and reflection.

Fun Indoor Activities to try in Sydney this Winter!

This article is written by Sachithri Kodagoda

Look, in all honesty, I am the biggest advocate for staying indoors and binge-watching cooking shows for all of winter, because let’s be honest winter really and truly is the worst. However, getting outside and being meeting your friends really is the better option for both your social life and your mental health. So here are 5 fun INDOOR activities that you can do during the winter time to try and stay warm, while also making sure your social calendar isn’t looking like a great big sandy desert with tumble-weed rolling across.

1. Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq (Alexandria)

This cool little fun house is jam-packed with cool activities that’ll keep you and your buddies entertained for hours. It’s got bowling, dodgem cars, laser tag and all kinds of arcade games. Bonus there’s cute little cocktail bar that is designed after a carnival where you can get the most extravagant boozy milkshakes.

2. Sky Zone (Miranda and Alexandria)

Sky Zone will have you bouncing off its walls. Literally. This indoor trampoline park is filled with over 100 interconnected trampolines that’ll leap all over the place. It’s also got a pretty neat little climbing area, for you to live your mountaineering dreams. So, grab your bestie and bounce away!

3. Ice Zoo (Alexandria)

Okay, this one is a little cold. But get yourself all rugged up because it’s definitely worth a visit. This indoor skating is open 7 days a week and focuses on entertainment, fun and safety. You can choose to go for a full-on ice skating class or join in during the public skating hours. Bonus tip makes sure to check the timetable to see when the ‘Ice Disco’ sessions are on to have a fun boogie with your pals on the ice.

4. Break the Code Escape Room (Sydney CBD)

This venue has 4 super cool themed rooms to choose from so you and your buddies can play detective. You and your team are locked in a room with just 60 minutes to figure out all the clues to find your escape, so channel your inner Indiana Jones and set the clock, you got this!
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5. Spitfire – Indoor Paintball & Go Karts (Concord West)

If you’re an adrenaline junkie this is the perfect indoor activity for you. Fire up some healthy competition and race against your mates, through wide lanes, long straights and tight bends. This venue also has some epic paintball fields to plan strategic attacks with state of the art equipment, so get you and your pals a session to get that blood pumping!

GOLD COAST BUCKET LIST: A LOCAL STUDENT PERSPECTIVE

The article is written by Jane Churchill

DO/VISIT

Take a stroll at Springbrook Natural Bridge: Springbrook is nestled in the Hinterland and home to some of the states most spectacular bush walks and scenery. For a unique experience, head out at night and you can check out the glow worms.
Swim at Tallebudgera or Currumbin Alley: If you’re not a huge fan of swimming in the surf or if you are just after a more relaxing experience, Tallebudgera Creek and Currumbin Alley are patrolled swim areas with picturesque aqua water and no waves!
Have a Sunset Picnic at Burleigh Headland: Every single weekend Burleigh Hill is packed with young people having a drink and nibbles with friends whilst the sun sets over the city. It is the perfect spot to capture the most incredible Gold Coast view.
Check out local artists, creatives, boutiques, foodies, small businesses and designers at The Village Markets at Burleigh: Held on the first and third Sunday of every month at Burleigh Heads State School between 8:30AM and 2PM.
Buy Fresh Produce at the weekly Miami Organic Farmers Market: Held every Sunday at Miami State High School from 6AM to 12PM.
Have a drink at Melbas on the Park: A popular student bar & nightclub located in Surfers Paradise.
Swim at Curtis Falls on Tamborine Mountain: Being only a 30-minute drive from the city, swimming in a waterfall is ultimate city escape.
Relax at Currumbin Valley Rock Pools: Natural swimming pools with rope swings, picnic tables and toilet facilities. However be wary about going during school holidays!
Elsewhere Nightclub: An alternative dance club with a focus on European deep house DJs. Free Entry on Sundays before 11PM.
Catch a gig at Mo’s Desert Clubhouse in Burleigh: One of the few, but great, music venues on the Gold Coast.

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EAT

Niche & Co or BlendLove: Voted the best Acai bowls on the coast.
Justin Lane: Italian Pizzeria and Rooftop Bar in Burleigh Heads, with a view of the ocean.
Paddock Bakery: A local breakfast hotspot that bakes their own bread on site.
The Night Quarter: A weekly street food market (and live music venue) at Helensvale, opposite the tram/train station. Open every Friday night.
The Collective Palm Beach: A more upscale but unique Dinner Destination (Reservations Essential).
BSKT Cafe: Have a healthy brunch and then attend a Yoga Class upstairs.
The Yard Cafe: Local Cuisine & Live Music in Nobby Beach.
Randy Wallhole: Hipster cafe in close proximity to Griffith University.
The Burleigh Social: Famous for its Smashed Avocado.
Mandala: Vegan Restaurant and Bar with live music every Thursday. And on Tuesday, it’s unlimited Pizza night!

8 Australian Customs You Might Find Strange

The article is written by Jane Churchill

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Macca’s Run
This is perhaps the most famous tradition among young Australians. A ‘Macca’s Run’ is a late night ritual where a group of friends head to the nearest McDonalds drive thru (Macca’s). The tradition is so popular that Buzzfeed wrote an article about the 24 Different Ways to Do a Maccas Run.

Bunnings Sausage Sizzle
Every Australian has become obsessed with the Bunnings Sausage Sizzle. Bunnings Warehouse is Australia’s most popular Hardware & Garden store and every weekend, all year round, a different local charity, club or organisation runs a sausage sizzle (a BBQ). In reality, it’s just a tent where they serve a sausage with a piece of white bread, grilled onions, tomato sauce and a can of soft drink (soda).

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Schoolies
Schoolies is an annual event held on the Gold Coast that attracts year 12 graduates from across the country. It occurs the following week after high school graduation and is basically 7 days of celebrating, drinking and partying with no adult supervision. Many hotels close to the general public during this week to cater for the thousands of ‘schoolies’ in town.

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Drinking Wine in a Bag, also known as, Goon
Goon is the slang term given to wine that comes in a shiny silver plastic bag, commonly known as a ‘Goon Sack.’ It is most popular among teenagers and university students due to its high alcohol percentage and low price. You can drink it straight from the bag and when it’s empty people will blow it up and use it as a pillow. True Story!

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Wearing Thongs Everywhere
Thongs, known to non-Australians as ‘flip-flops,’ are a vital piece of the Australian wardrobe. Australians will wear thongs to a café, to the shopping centre or even to a party. There is a thong hierarchy here, with Havaianas being on the top. A pair of Havaianas can cost between $30.00 and $45.00.

Using Chicken salt instead of Regular Salt
Don’t be surprised if you are asked “Would you like regular salt or chicken salt” by a cashier when ordering hot chips. Chicken Salt was originally created for the purpose of seasoning chicken, however, now it is a staple food seasoning at any takeaway restaurant. It contains regular salt and a mixture of different spices and is bright yellow in colour.

Calling Ketchup ‘Tomato Sauce’
To the rest of the world, that sweet tomato flavoured condiment is known as Ketchup. But nope, not in Australia. Here, it is simply, “Tomato Sauce.” Ah, but what do you call the sauce that goes with pasta then? Pasta Sauce. Simple.

Adding Beetroot to Burgers
On the topic of food, don’t be surprised if you order a burger and it comes with a large slice of beetroot on it. Many Australians would not consider this to be bizarre, but apparently, the rest of the world does!

Australian TV Shows explained

The article is written by Rachel Ganczarczyk

Understanding Australian culture and lifestyle are difficult for any foreigner, especially upon the first arrival. So it’s always a good idea to immerse yourself in the Australian culture, lifestyle activities and traditions in society. One way you can do this is by watching popular Australian TV shows, where you can understand more about the way of life in Australia as well as maybe even end up discovering a new favourite TV show! Below is a list of some of Australia’s most popular TV shows, so be sure to check them out.

MasterChef Australia – Channel 10

If you’re a foodie or love to be creative in the kitchen, then be sure to watch MasterChef Australia for some unique blends of flavour, thrilling team challenges and spectacular dishes that look more like artwork than food! Watch how everyday Australians cook up a storm in the kitchen and take the ultimate test to be crowned Australia’s MasterChef.

Home & Away – Channel 7

If you’re one for drama and deep storylines, then Home & Away may be the perfect show to tune into and follow. It’s Australia’s most popular soap-opera that’s known for its setting in fictional beach town Summer Bay. Watch and follow the lives of residents and the drama that unfolds in each of their unique storylines.

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House Rules – Channel 7

Are you hands-on, practical, passionate about interior design or have a creative flair? Watch how six teams of everyday Australians taken on the incredible challenge of renovating each other’s homes to outstand the judges, score points and win the ultimate prize. Judge for yourself each house reveal and see what if your favourite team can make it to the top of the leaderboard.

The Project – Channel 10

If talking about current affairs, politics and relevant social issues interest you, then tune into The Project. It’s a panel-discussion show that delivers news differently, with celebrity guest appearances and comedic segments and punchlines to keep you amused throughout the program. Watch how debating interviews, controversial opinions and current social issues are put to the stage and delivered to the everyday Australian in a way that is unique and engaging.

The Voice Australia – Channel 9

Good tunes and blasting hits are what you’ll be in for if you tune into The Voice Australia. See how everyday Australians take on the incredible challenge of singing their way to the top to become Australia’s The Voice winner. See how judges coach them, critique them and motivate them to become professional performers, world-class rockstars and talented artists who want nothing more but than to sing their hearts out.

For more details, episode recaps and some behind-the-scenes footage, be sure to check out the website for each program.

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