And today is .......

[tiger_one]

International Waffle Day sweetens our calendars each March 25.

We all have our fav waffle recipes, but the basic concept never varies beyond the traditional.

Waffles are made from a mix called a batter, which usually has flour, water, baking powder, oil, and eggs. Waffles get their special grid look because they are cooked between two hot metal plates in a machine called a waffle iron. They are cooked until they turn golden-brown and become crispy on the outside, but still soft inside. People often eat waffles for breakfast or as a dessert, usually with sweet sauces or toppings.

Australian waffles range from artisanal café creations to nostalgic local treats. While European styles like Belgian Liège and Brussels waffles are highly popular in Australian cafes, and not to forget every home kitchen which turns out their own mean yummy versions.

Wherever you have your waffles, they are meant to be light and crispy yet still with a light bite. Just YUMM!!

Waffle preferences throughout Australia vary by state, with Belgian-style waffles dominating in New South Wales and Victoria, while classic waffles are more popular in Queensland. The market features a mix of Liege, Brussels, and American styles, often found in dessert cafes and major retailers.

New South Wales: City-based cafes and suburban areas frequently feature Belgian waffles, often with gourmet toppings, particularly around Sydney and the Blue Mountains. The trendy Belgian cafes to dessert bars like Max Brenner favour modern, topping-heavy Belgian waffles.

Victoria: Known for a strong café culture, with favorites such as The Hatter And The Hare and specialized dessert spots in Melbourne offering high-end Liege and Belgian waffles.

Queensland: Classic waffles have a slight lead in popularity here. Brisbane features diverse options from cafes like Rogue Bistro and dessert-centric places like Cowch Dessert Cocktail Bar. Queensland is also home to the Australian Waffle Company in Caboolture, a major waffle manufacturer.

• South Australia: Famous for roadside Liege waffles at [This word has been automatically removed]alpyn and modern "Biscoff" loaded waffles in Adelaide, and it is the home of the resurrected Polly Waffle.
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• Western Australia: Features specialized spots such as Freo Waffles & Icecream and Belgian options like Pitcher and Iron.
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• Australian Capital Territory: Canberra cafes such as Space Kitchen are noted for high-end, artistic dessert waffles.

Beyond the classic maple syrup and butter, Australians often enjoy waffles with:

• Violet Crumble Topping: A hard-set chocolate topping inspired by the famous honeycomb bar.
• Native Fruits & Compotes: Poached rhubarb, fresh berries, or apple and rose compote.
• Savoury Twists: Fried chicken, maple bacon, or even confit duck and foie gras for a high-end brunch experience.

The always-popular waffles have become a go-to café brunch item and dessert treat, particularly in cities like Melbourne, Sydney, and Perth. While traditionally not a staple breakfast, they are now widely available as gourmet, sweet, or savory options, often featuring indulgent toppings like Nutella, Biscoff, or fresh fruit.

• Belgian Liège Waffles: A staple in many Australian dessert bars, these are made with a dense, brioche-like dough and pearl sugar that caramelises to create a crunchy exterior.
• Brussels Style: Known for being lighter and airier with deeper grids, often served with extravagant toppings like fresh berries, ice cream, and melted Belgian chocolate.
• Aussie Café Variations: Cafes often put a local twist on waffles, such as savoury waffles with fried chicken or duck, or healthy versions using wholemeal flour and native fruit dust.
• Australian Bubble Waffles: Based on the Hong Kong style, these chewy waffles with large spherical pockets are a popular "Instagrammable" street food in Australian cities.

Fun Facts about Waffles:

• While not a traditional breakfast waffle, the Polly Waffle is an iconic Australian chocolate treat consisting of a waffle wafer tube filled with marshmallow. Its production is currently a major industry point in South Australia , following its acquisition from Nestlé by Menz Confectionery.
• Waffles inspired Nike’s first pair of sneakers. Appropriately enough, they were called the Waffle Trainer. Bill Bowerman was watching his wife use their waffle iron one morning in 1971 when he was suddenly struck by the honeycomb shape of the waffle. He realized it would be the perfect shape for the sole of an athletic sneaker. Then, Bowerman used a waffle iron to create the first Nike sneaker sole.
• Pandan Waffles come from Vietnam. Their batter includes pandan flavouring and coconut milk. The pandan gives the batter a bright green colour. When cooked, the outside turns brown and crispy, while the inside stays green and chewy. Unlike many other waffles, pandan waffles are usually eaten plain.

“I’ve waffled before. I’ll waffle again”

"Dare to be a waffle in a world full of pancakes."

"Every waffle feels like my first."

"Weekends are for sleeping in and making waffles."

 

[tiger_one]

Spinach Day leafs its way onto our calendar each March 26.

Packed with nutrients such as Iron, Vitamin A and Calcium, spinach is known for being a healthy part of a balanced diet – but do we eat enough of it? Well, that’s what National Spinach Day is all about!

Spinach is a popular, fast-growing cool-season leafy green in Australia, largely grown as a hybrid crop for baby leaf spinach, with peak production in winter. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil, thriving in autumn and winter, while often bolting in warmer weather. Common types include English spinach and native varieties like warrigal greens.

Spinach production has grown over 20% in recent years due to high demand for baby spinach. It is often harvested at night using machinery, with farms in Gippsland, Victoria, being key producers. Still, the crop is tricky to harvest, requiring precise cutting near the soil.

Spinach is a nutrient-dense leafy green widely available in Australia, offering significant health benefits including improved heart health, stronger bones, and better digestion. It is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, iron, folate, and antioxidants like lutein, which support eye health and reduce inflammation.

BUT WOW!! We love our spinach!

Aussies typically consume spinach through pre-prepared salad mixes and versatile home cooking: while the average Australian household buys 8–10 bags of spinach a year, consumption is projected to rise, with the market expected to reach 6.7k tons by 2035.

While English spinach is a cool-season favourite, many Australians are embracing Warrigal Greens, a hardy native spinach that thrives in warmer, sandy coastal areas; although by volume, we use the baby spinach variety in popular salad choices.

Spinach is a staple in both fresh and cooked forms across Australian kitchens:

• Fresh & Salads: Most consumed in pre-packaged baby leaf salad mixes or green smoothies.
• Baking & Savoury Slices: A "go-to" for many is the Spinach and Feta Slice/Pie, a quick bake involving eggs, cheese, and flour. Other popular baked goods include spinach and ricotta cannelloni, savoury muffins, and quiches.
• And no matter what type of cuisine, spinach invariably is found almost everywhere as a staple of many vegetarian meals.

And it’s so good for us too:

• Boosts Heart Health & Blood Pressure: Spinach is rich in nitrates, which help regulate blood pressure and promote heart health.
• Enhances Eye Health: High levels of antioxidants, specifically lutein and zeaxanthin, protect eyes from sunlight damage and reduce the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration.
• Strengthens Bones: Rich in vitamin K1, essential for bone density and strength.
• Improves Digestion & Weight Management: High insoluble fiber content aids digestion and promotes bowel regularity.
• Boosts Immunity & Energy: Packed with vitamin C, iron, and folate, which boost the immune system and help prevent anemia.
• Promotes Skin and Hair Health: High in vitamin A and C, essential for collagen production and maintaining skin moisture.
• It's nutrient-dense. Spinach may seem light, but it packs serious nutritional power.
• It supports gut health.
• It protects your heart.
• It strengthens bones.
• It boosts eye health with antioxidants.
• It's versatile and easy to add to meals.

No wonder Popeye became the strong representation of health and manhood all those years ago ……



Fun Facts about Spinach:

• Confusion with Silverbeet: In NSW and Queensland, silverbeet is often incorrectly called "spinach," despite having different tastes and textures.
• Aussie Gardener's Tip: To ensure high iron absorption, pair spinach with Vitamin C-rich foods (like citrus).

“Eat green feel clean.”

“When in doubt add spinach.”

“Choose green choose good”

“Good things come to those who eat greens”

 

[tiger_one]

March 27 and March 28 - Lakeside Stadium, Melbourne, will host global superstars and homegrown heroes at the Maurie Plant Meet – Melbourne; Australia’s premier one-day athletics meeting and Oceania's only World Athletics Continental Tour Gold meet.

With some of the biggest names in global athletics to be announced imminently, gather your friends and family and secure your tickets for what is set to be an unforgettable night at Melbourne’s Lakeside Stadium.

27 March - Friday Gates Open: 4:30pm

28 March - Saturday Night Gates Open: 4:00pm

Watch the 2026 Maurie Plant Meet in Melbourne live and free on Seven (Channel 7) and 7plus Sport on Saturday, 28 March 2026, starting at 7:00 pm AEDT. The premier athletics event, featuring international and Australian athletes at Lakeside Stadium, is streamed live – so we can all see the action as it happens.

Since 1896, Australia has sent athletes to every Olympics, with our first gold medallist Edwin Flack, paving the way for generations to come. In 2024, it was Nina Kennedy’s awe-inspiring pole vault in Paris that once again brought athletics to the forefront, helping Australia set a record for the most medals won at a single Games.

The legends of our past— Edwin Flack, Betty Cuthbert, Shirly Strickland, Marlene Matthews, Herb Elliott and John Landy —are immortalised in the archives of Australian sport. Their spirit endures, carried forward by modern icons like Raylene Boyle, Rob de Castella, Steve Moneghetti, Louise Sauvage, Kurt Fearnley, Sally Pearson, and Steve Hooker.

Today, a new generation is writing their own stories: Nina Kennedy, Madison de Rozario, Nicola Olyslagers, James Turner, Matthew Denny, Jessica Hull, and Vanessa Low to name a few. And then there is Catherine Freeman—a name that transcends sport itself, symbolising the heart and soul of Australian athletics.

Athletics isn’t just a sport; it’s a universal language. It is the most-watched sport at the Olympics, captivating global audiences. Here in Australia, it holds a special place.

Yet athletics is more than just an elite pursuit—it’s one of the most accessible sports in the world. It’s the foundation of movement, something we’ve all experienced. Whether it was a school sports day, a park run, or a fun run, most Australians have felt the thrill of running, jumping, or throwing.

Athletics invites everyone in—no stopwatch needed, no track required. It’s about the joy of movement, the rhythm of the body in motion, and the unparalleled benefits to physical and mental well-being.

The transition to Australian Athletics marks the start of a new journey. One where we unite the elite and the everyday, inspire future generations, and remind Australians that athletics is for everyone—whether on the world stage or in their local park. Together, we will create a brand that truly reflects the spirit of our sport and the limitless possibilities it holds.

Central to the rebrand is a bold and dynamic logo, designed to reflect the energy, inclusivity and progression that defines Australian athletics. The logo’s elements weave together the sport’s diverse disciplines while honouring its past and looking to the future.

Key features of the design include:

• Four Core Colours: Grey for road, green for field, yellow for track, and ochre for cross country and trail. These vibrant shades represent the breadth of the sport and its inclusivity.
• Green and Gold: Sitting next to each other in the colour spectrum, the green and gold reflecting the pride and unity of Team Australia, with the iconic national sporting colours central to the design.
• Abstract Map of Australia: Subtle breaks in the map’s design symbolize the connection between trails, roads, and cross-country paths, highlighting the sport’s reach across the nation, both in and beyond the athletics stadium.
• Lines: Representing lane markings, roadways, finish lines, and take-off boards, these elements create a pathway concept, emphasizing progress and movement.
• Modern Typography: Bold, sleek, and contemporary, the typography aligns with the themes of precision and dynamism that are synonymous with athletics.

Together, these elements tell the story of a sport with a deep heritage but with its eyes firmly on the future.

And of course, there’s our Aussie competitors including sprint sensation Gout Gout facing rival Lachlan Kennedy in the 200m, Cameron Myers (1500m), Adam Spencer (1500m), Torrie Lewis, Nicola Olyslagers (high jump), Matthew Denny (discus), and Rohan Browning (100m). And many others …….

C’mon Aussies – do us proud!





“Athletics taught me how to pace myself in life.”

“Find your stride.”

“Miles of effort, inches of progress.”

“The pain of discipline is far less than the pain of regret.”

 

[tiger_one]

Lights! Action! Camera!
Or maybe, scratch the lights, because …….

March 28 in Australia features Earth Hour, a global event originating in Sydney where lights are switched off at 8.30pm.

This global initiative urges individuals, businesses, and communities to switch off non-essential lights and electronics for one hour - typically at 8:30 pm local time on the last Saturday of March - to symbolize commitment to protecting the planet.

Historically, Earth Hour began in Sydney, Australia, on March 31, 2007, when over 2.2 million people switched off lights to fight climate change, and it was the first time the Sydney Harbour Bridge lights went dark for the environment.

Now a global, annual grassroots movement, it takes place on the last Saturday of March from 8:30–9:30 p.m. local time, involving over 190 countries and famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower to promote sustainability.

This year, for Earth Hour 2026, people across Australia will raise funds to combat climate change and biodiversity loss by taking part in Challenge 60 (refer https://www.earthhour.org.au)

The Goal: The aim is to create "The Biggest Hour for Earth" by dedicating 60 minutes to positive actions for nature, raising funds, and sparking action against climate change.

When: The next major activation is on Saturday, 28 March 2026.

How to Participate: Beyond switching off lights, participants are encouraged to dedicate their hour to nature-friendly activities, such as going for a walk, cooking a plant-based meal, watching an environmental documentary, or participating in tree planting.

Global Impact: Over 190 countries and territories participate, with iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Colosseum, and Sydney Opera House going dark.

Beyond the Hour: It serves as a reminder to live sustainably and protect the environment throughout the entire year, encouraging long-term action.

Not Just Lights: While switching off is the primary action, people participate by stargazing, taking candle-lit walks, playing games, or attending acoustic concerts.

A Global "Pause": It acts as a moment for people worldwide to pause and reflect on how to protect the planet’s biodiversity and reduce their environmental footprint. R

For the 2026 20th anniversary, the focus is on celebrating two decades of collective action and accelerating efforts to "Regenerate Nature by 2030".

It is easy to be part of Earth Hour this year:

• Switch to energy-efficient CFL or LED lights instead of traditional incandescent bulbs.
• If you’re not using it – unplug it! Your computer, television, cell-phone charger, microwave oven, and other appliances and electrical devices consume energy even when on standby.
• Turn off the lights when you leave a room.
• Only heat the rooms you use regularly and adjust the thermostat to keep your home a little cooler in winter and a little warmer in summer.
• Use less hot water. This will not only save you water, it will also reduce the amount of electricity (or natural gas) you use to keep water hot, thus cutting down on your energy bills.
• Lights Out Party: Turn off all non-essential lights and use candles or flashlights for a fun "dark party".
• Stargazing & Camping: With city lights off, it's the perfect time for backyard camping or looking at stars.
• Switch off your lights, TV, and computers for one hour to show you care about the Earth!

Turn off, so we can all turn on later and longer!!



"Give an hour for Earth"

"Switch off the lights, light up the future"

“One hour, one planet, one home.”

“60 minutes for the planet, a lifetime for our future.”

 

[tiger_one]

World Piano Day tunes onto our calendars each March 29.

It’s an annual international event celebrated on the 88th day of the year – March 29 - to honour the 88 keys on a standard piano. This very special day promotes the joy of playing and listening to piano music through worldwide concerts and events, and via streaming, radios, and any audio/visual means where the beauty of piano music can be heard and enjoyed.

Australia's relationship with the piano dates to its early colonial history. The country's first piano arrived on the First Fleet's HMS Sirius in early 1788. It was owned by surgeon George Worgan and later gifted to Elizabeth Macarthur.

In Australia, this global event features various recitals, public performances, and social media collaborations, often highlighting local talents and institutions.

Today is an opportunity to recall and reflect on the more famous Australian pianists including (among others) David Helfgott, Andrea Lam, and Simon Tedeschi, alongside celebrated contemporary artists such as Van-Anh Nguyen and Hoang Pham. These artists are recognized for their technical virtuosity, extensive recordings, and performances with major orchestras, spanning classical and modern repertoire.

And the part of the piano in iconic Australian pop music featuring notable piano-driven anthems, including Cold Chisel's "Choirgirl" and "When The War Is Over," John Farnham's "You’re The Voice" and "Burn For You," and Missy Higgins' "Scar".

Other famous examples include Wendy Matthews' "The Day You Went Away" and Daryl Braithwaite's "The Horses," showcasing the instrument's key role in Australian rock-pop.

Great music, unforgettable melodies – all with the majesty of the piano at its core!

Events celebrating World Piano Day in Australia include:

• Performances: Special recitals, such as those at Lucas Parklands in Montville or Opera Australia in Melbourne.
• Community Events: Public, non-stop piano events in venues like Sandringham Village Square.
• Partnerships: Kawai Australia frequently collaborates with The Australian Ballet for special online performances.

Or simply listen to whichever audio provider you like – just get lost in the sounds that take you where you need to be ……


Fun Facts about Pianos:

• The original First Fleet piano was "rediscovered" in 1965 in a farmhouse laundry room in Windsor, NSW, where it was being used to store soap powders. It now resides at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA).
• Australian piano manufacturer Stuart & Sons often uses rare, ancient Tasmanian Huon pine to craft their high-end instruments, some of which take up to 18 months to complete.
• Sadly, due to space constraints and high moving costs, thousands of older, unused pianos are being listed for free on Facebook and Gumtree yearly, often ending up in landfills.

"Life is like a piano. What you get out of it depends on how you play it”

"The piano keys are black and white but they sound like a million colours in your mind"

"The music is not in the notes, but in the silence between"

"The piano is a mirror to the soul; it expresses what you are feeling at the moment”

 

[tiger_one]

World Bipolar Day is observed annually on March 30th to raise global awareness of bipolar disorders, combat social stigma, and provide education to improve sensitivity toward the condition. Today is a day for connection, outreach and coming together in solidarity around the goal of increasing awareness, acceptance and funding for bipolar disorder.

Bipolar disorder is a serious mental health condition marked by intense shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels, diagnosed as :

Manic Episodes: High energy, reduced need for sleep, and "bubbly" or impulsive behaviour.

Depressive Episodes: Intense sadness, lack of interest, and low energy.

Bipolar 1 vs 2: Bipolar 1 involves more severe manic episodes, while Bipolar 2 is characterised by less severe "hypomania" and major depressive episodes.

Key aspects of World Bipolar Day include:

Significance of the Date: March 30th was chosen because it is the birthday of the famous Dutch painter Vincent Van Gogh, who was posthumously diagnosed as having probably had a bipolar condition. Van Gogh was posthumously diagnosed as likely having a bipolar condition, and the day serves as a reminder that individuals with the disorder are capable of achieving great things.

Goal: The primary aim is to bring world awareness to bipolar disorders and eliminate social stigma and discrimination, fostering better understanding and support.

Partnership: The initiative is led by the International Society for Bipolar Disorders (ISBD) in collaboration with the International Bipolar Foundation (IBPF) and the Asian Network of Bipolar Disorder (ANBD).

Raising Awareness: Organizations like Bipolar Australia often promote activities such as "Blow Bubbles for Bipolar" to encourage conversation and community support.

Education and Support: The day highlights the importance of access to treatment and research, aiming to educate the public on the realities of the disorder.

World Bipolar Day is an opportunity to share resources, stories of resilience, and information about the condition, which affects millions globally. The primary goals are to foster global education, encourage open discussion, and improve sensitivity towards the condition, which affects an estimated 2.8% to 5% of the global population.

Initiatives here in Australia encourage:

Wear the Ribbon: The official ribbon is black-and-white striped, representing the two extremes of mania and depression.

Blow Bubbles: In Australia, the Bipolar Australia initiative "Blow Bubbles for Bipolar" uses bubbles to symbolise the "bubbly" manic phase and the way they burst to represent the depressive phase. This bubble-blowing gives everyone affected by the condition a fun and easy activity that can be used to celebrate the occasion with colleagues, friends, and family.

Bubbles reflect people with bipolar who become manic who are often described as “bubbly” personalities, while watching the bubbles crash back down represents the depressive phase of the condition. The recovery journey that people embark upon when they get help is symbolised by the rainbow that can be seen when a group blows enough bubbles together.

Bi-Polar Disorder is so easily hidden until the swings downwards (or upwards) happen, so today really is about awareness and empathy required to assist and support those with the disorder.

Be open. Be kind. Be patient.


Facts about Bipolar Disorder:

• Many people don’t realize that bipolar disorder can run in families
• When bipolar disorder isn’t treated, it can disrupt daily life in major ways, negatively stressing finances and relationships
• If you get evaluated and are diagnosed with bipolar disorder, the next step is treatment. Treatment for bipolar disorder can take several forms. It may include medication, talk therapy and lifestyle changes such as exercise, he explains. Treatment for bipolar disorder is individualized.

"One second I'm perfectly fine and the next it's like a volcano erupts inside me”

“Bipolar disorder can be a great teacher”

"My recovery from manic depression has been an evolution, not a sudden miracle"

“I could walk through fire if it meant making my dreams come true. That is the gift being bipolar gave me”

 

[tiger_one]

World Backup Day on March 31st reminds us to protect our precious digital documents as we've become more reliant on technology.

There’s always that one photo, video or memory that you took the time to save, yet for some reason, it’s not yours anymore. Whether it was a lost or broken phone, a faulty hard drive or some other technological mishap, it can feel impossible to keep all your files in one piece.

Thankfully, the day before April Fools is World Backup Day, which saves us from being the punchline of a joke played by our own devices. It is the day when we finally stop saying, "I'll do it tomorrow," and make sure all our precious files find a safe space.

Each day we depend more on data to serve our lives. Although it may be difficult to imagine a future where our precious files aren’t as accessible as they are today, it’s not our job to take digital memories for granted. Now put your foot down take a stand, and back that thing up!

“What is Back-Up?” you might ask:

A backup is a second copy of all your important files - for example, your family photos, home videos, documents, and emails. Instead of storing it all in one place (like your computer), you keep another copy of everything somewhere safe. For more info on this day - go to: www.worldbackupday.com

Data backup is critical in Australia to protect against rising cyber threats like ransomware, combat data loss from frequent natural disasters (floods, fires), ensure business continuity, and meet strict regulatory requirements like the Notifiable Data Breaches (NDB) scheme. Regular backups protect against human error and hardware failures, preventing costly downtime and reputational damage.

With a significant increase in cybercrime, including ransomware that locks systems, backups allow for restoration without paying ransom.

Australia's vulnerability to bushfires and floods makes off-site or cloud backups crucial for preserving data if physical infrastructure is destroyed.

Unplanned downtime can cost Australian businesses immense revenue—sometimes hundreds of thousands per hour—making rapid data restoration essential.

Companies must comply with the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs) and the NDB scheme, requiring secure, recoverable data practices.

Accidental deletion, file overwriting, or lost devices are common, requiring a reliable recovery source.

Back up. Rinse. Repeat. And repeat again …



Fun Facts about Data Back Up:

• More than 30% of Australians would rather fold their laundry than back up their personal data, despite 48% having experienced data loss from device failure
• The 50% Failure Rate: Roughly 50% of tape backups fail to restore, making testing crucial
• Small Biz Struggle: According to the Council of Small Business Organisations of Australia (COSBOA), only 1 in 2 small businesses has a strong backup system in place.
• 3-2-1 Rule: Experts recommend storing 3 copies of data, on 2 different media, with 1 copy offsite.

"Two is one, one is none."

"To go forward, you must backup."

“On a clear disk you can seek forever”

“Redundancy and recovery are very different things”

 

[tiger_one]

Watch out … today is April Fools’ Day which is celebrated around the world with friends, family, businesses and even the media playing pranks on unsuspecting people.

So it's the day for playing pranks on unsuspecting people but it comes with ONE unique cultural "rule":

• The Midday Cutoff: According to local custom, all pranks and jokes must be completed by midday. Anyone who plays a prank after noon is considered the "fool" themselves.

Some of today's best jokes include delivery company Deliveroo announcing it would remove crusts from pizzas due to overwhelming anti-crust feedback, outdoor equipment company Kathmandu launching a waterproof wedding dress with adjustable length that packs into a backpack and audiobook company Audible releasing a three-second audiobook for pet fish to keep them company while we're not at home.

Travel company Wotif launched Emu airlines especially for tall people, the city of Orange in NSW announced it would change its name to Pink, finance company ING offered loans for pet owners to build the house of their dreams for their pets and website Groupon launched the NapDesk 2000, a standing desk for sleeping.

How the April 1 pranking tradition began is a mystery. The most likely origin seems to trace back to 1582 when Pope Gregory XIII decided it would be a good idea to adopt the new Gregorian calendar (named after himself). The year had previously started at the end of March, but under the new Gregorian calendar rules it was moved to January 1.

Even though the news was spread, some people clearly didn’t get the message in time and continued to celebrate the New Year on April 1. Because of this, they were laughed at and branded as “fools”; and that is where the tradition of April Fools’ Day is believed to have begun.

Historians have also linked April Fools’ Day to festivals such as Hilaria, which was celebrated in ancient Rome at the end of March and involved people dressing up in disguises.

Others think April Fools’ Day was tied to the vernal equinox, or first day of spring in the Northern Hemisphere, when Mother Nature fooled people with changing, unpredictable weather.

Then moving into modern day, people have gone to great lengths to create amazing April Fools’ Day hoaxes. Newspapers, radio and TV stations and websites have participated in the April 1 tradition of reporting outrageous* fictional stories that have fooled their audiences.

In Australia, Canada and England, April Fools’ Day jokes are only supposed to be played until noon. It is believed prank victims are only “fools” if they fall for a trick early in the day. After that, the fools become those who try to carry out pranks after noon.

Many people are divided on this issue, however, and some insist on carrying out pranks all day.

We Aussies have “enjoyed” pranks and hoaxes over the years, with Australian news outlets and brands frequently publish fake stories. Famous examples include the 1978 "Great Sydney Harbour Iceberg" hoax by Dick Smith. Then there’s the dubious (but plausible maybe) police "drop bear" alerts, or Virgin Australia's "Emotional Baggage" check, alongside fake news stories about crazy new products.

Anyways, enough of the past pranks, as good/funny as they were.

If you are at work reading this, you shouldn’t be.

April Fools’ Day in Australia is a public holiday.

Go home!

Wait ...... did you believe that? Fooled you!

Happy April Fools’ Day.

 

[tiger_one]

International Children’s Book Day held annually on 2 April celebrates all the books that parents have read and shared with their children to encourage literacy and stimulate the growth of their imagination.

Simply, it’s a day for recognition for spreading awareness about how important reading is to shape young minds, via the magic of books and their stories, and their imagination, and their inspiration.

Giving children books and seeing how they go on an adventure is simply priceless! Spark a sense of wonder and adventure in children with books, stories and old tales. There truly is no other way to the imagination!

(Coincidentally, Hans Christian Anderson, the Dutch author of some of our favourite fairy tales, was born on this day too – and the probable reason that this special day about children’s books marries with his anniversary.)

Reading is one of the most powerful tools we can give our children. It opens doors to new worlds, builds empathy, and lays the foundation for lifelong learning. Finding the time to sit down with a good book can sometimes feel difficult, but dedicating a specific day to this activity helps make it a priority.

International Children’s Book Day offers the perfect moment to pause and celebrate the magic of storytelling. This annual event encourages families, schools, and communities to come together and share the joy of reading. It is a reminder that books provide comfort, spark curiosity, and help children understand the world around them.

The theme for International Children's Book Day (ICBD) 2026 is “The small is big in a book". This year especially the focus of the day is on the profound power of stories, with 2026 events highlighting how small, accessible books can hold immense worlds and big ideas for young readers.

The day celebrates the power of literature to help children discover big ideas, emotions, and adventures through storybooks.

The Goals of International Children's Book Day 2026 are:

• To stimulate interest in reading. This day reminds us of the importance of books in the lives of children and adolescents, as well as how reading develops imagination and creativity.
• Raising awareness of children's literature. This day promotes interest in children's writers and illustrators, as well as the diversity of genres and themes in children's literature.
• Support for reading and literacy. The holiday aims to improve literacy among children, especially in developing countries where access to books may be limited.
• Encourage a love of reading among children.
• Promote children’s literature and storytelling across different cultures.
• Highlight the importance of literacy and imagination.

Some popular ways to celebrate today include dressing up as book characters, book swaps, and creating "book recommendation" walls to encourage reading.

Events in schools and libraries might also include reading marathons, competitions for the best reading, creative workshops and meetings with authors of children's books are held.

Experts and teachers recommend the best works of children's literature and also create lists of books to read - check with your child’s school or champion librarian for recommendations.

In some countries, campaigns are organized to collect books for children, especially in poor regions.

Today is also a great opportunity for authors to present their new works, which may be of interest to young readers; again, check your local library or socials online.

Or personally reading one to one to/with your child/grandchild – just spend the invaluable time and watch the magic of the young reader unfold. We all just need to be on the same page.



Fun Facts about International Children’s Book Day:

• Over 100 Countries: The celebration is global, aiming to promote books and literacy.
• Famous Rejections: Before becoming classics, many famous children's books were rejected. Beatrix Potter’s The Tale of Peter Rabbit was self-published after numerous rejections, and Dr. Seuss’s first book was rejected over 20 times.
• Brain Power: Studies show children who read for pleasure regularly have higher cognitive function and better brain structure for memory and imagination.

“Once you learn to read, you will be forever free.”

“Reading can take you places you have never been before.”

“You can find magic wherever you look. Sit back and relax, all you need is a book.”

“Be awesome! Be a book nut!”

 

[tiger_one]

World Party Day (or P-Day) happens each April 3, a day which encourages a coordinated effort of joyful human celebration around the globe. It’s about enjoying yourself on your terms. Throw on some tunes, bring out the refreshments, hang out with friends, or just relax in your own element. All this is to try and achieve social change and harmony by encouraging people to celebrate life by partying. Sounds right up any Aussie’s street!

The world gathers to celebrate for many reasons and in so many ways. A party often includes food, beverages, music, games, and other festivities. Hosts often create a theme or the theme generates the party. Several common modern-day party themes include bachelor and bachelorette, birthday, retirement, anniversary, graduation and welcome home. Many other party themes focus on specific foods.

In our modern world, parties can also be virtual. We don't always have to gather in the same location to celebrate a specific event or day. Technology brings us together through video and the internet allowing us to connect long-distance and celebrate all our favourite ways.

In 2026, World Party Day falls on Friday, 3 April. In Australia, this date coincides with Good Friday, a significant national public holiday. Because many businesses and venues may have restricted trading hours on Good Friday, many "World Party Day" themed celebrations and major events are scheduled for the Easter Long Weekend (2–6 April 2026).

On the actual date of World Party Day (Friday, 3 April), specific celebrations and parties are scheduled:

• Mr Worldwide - International Boat Party: A themed boat party on Sydney Harbour featuring House, RnB, and Commercial music.
• While many venues may have restricted trading, several "Good Friday Eve" (Thursday, 2 April) events serve as the primary kick-off for the party weekend.

You'll find major parties across Australian cities around this time.

In Sydney:

Remember House: A house music celebration on Friday, 3 April 2026 at the ivy Sydney (330 George St) starting at 1:30 PM.

The ABBA Day Party: A disco-themed event on Saturday, 4 April 2026 at Mansions Potts Point.

FOUL PLAY: A multi-stage day party with DJs at Liberty Hall in Moore Park on Saturday, 4 April 2026.

In Brisbane & on the Gold Coast:

DayClubbers: Over 30s Day Party: Nostalgic 80s, 90s, and 00s hits on Saturday, 4 April 2026 at Mi Casa Nightclub.

FLUFFY Pink Party: A 25th-anniversary celebration on Sunday, 5 April 2026 (Easter Sunday) at The Warehouse.

Sunny Side Up Festival: Featuring Golden Features and Bag Raiders on Saturday, 4 April 2026 at Aussie World.

In Perth:

Bingo Loco: An interactive stage show with rave rounds and dance-offs on Saturday, 4 April 2026 at Bar1 Nightclub.

Mid Semester Wild West Party: A themed event on Thursday, 2 April 2026 (Good Friday Eve) at The Leederville Hotel.

(However, since World Party Day is on Good Friday in 2026, be aware that alcohol service and venue operations are strictly regulated across all Australian states.)



Fun Facts about World Party Day:

• The day is rooted in the 1995 novel Flight by Vanna Bonta, which concludes with a countdown to a worldwide synchronized party for all of humanity.
• It is often called P-Day, with the core philosophy that celebrating life is a peaceful, active alternative to suffering and conflict.
• It is not affiliated with any political or religious groups, allowing it to be celebrated by anyone, anywhere, at any time—including with pets.
• The goal is to bring together people of different cultures to promote unity and a positive future, with social media often used for organizing synchronized efforts.

"Celebrate life, create a better reality, and party your way."

"Bring on the joy, connect the world, one party at a time."

"Eat, sleep, party, repeat—globally".

"2026 resolution: Party like it’s actually 1999, but with better WiFi."

 

[tiger_one]

International Carrot Day is celebrated annually on 4 April. The day is all about humble carrot which is not only a versatile and nutritious vegetable but also holds cultural and historical significance in many parts of the world; and we can reinforce the carrot's health benefits and versatility around the world.

Bake it into a cake, crunch it with a salad, or cook it up in a butter sauce: the versatile carrot is healthy, tasty, and surprisingly easy to grow for your own.

Ahhh, the ubiquitous carrot. A favourite food of rabbits, amazing for the eyesight, and the foundation of what is easily one of the greatest cakes ever conceived. And there’s more: this root vegetable is full of vitamins and nutrition, while being tasty as well!

When people think of a carrot, it’s doubtless that the mind is immediately brought to the bright orange root with the green foliage. The same one that is often found sticking out of the face of a do-it-yourself snowman.

Celebrations for this day have found their way around the globe to several countries on different continents, including France, Sweden, Italy, Russia, Japan, Australia, and the United Kingdom.

There are multiple varieties of this popular vegetable, known as cultivars, that range away from the traditional orange colour people typically think of.

There’s the purple dragon carrot, a lovely form of this root vegetable that has a deliciously complex flavour, slightly spicy with a kid-friendly sweetness. There’s also a lovely yellow carrot that is coloured as bright yellow as a banana but has a wonderful flavour all its own.

Carrots are the foundation of so many meals, from rich and savory stews to sweet cakes and candies. They can serve as almost any part of a meal as well, including a sweet, candied carrot or as the colour to a tray of richly roasted vegetables.

International Carrot Day celebrates this root in all its uses, forms and flavours!

We Aussies love our carrots and this vegetable is also a huge economic plus to our export balance sheet, with Australian carrots (which are produced year-round) being a major agricultural export, with Western Australia leading production, notably supplying markets in Asia and the Middle East. Victoria and Western Australia produce over half of the national output, with significant contributions from Tasmania, Queensland, and South Australia.

Carrots offer significant health benefits, including supporting eye health, boosting the immune system, and improving skin health, primarily due to their high beta-carotene content. Rich in fibre, antioxidants, and vitamins, they are a nutrient-dense choice for improving digestion, reducing cancer risks, and managing healthy blood sugar levels.

And they support eye health, strengthen immunity, aid digestion, promote heart health by lowering cholesterol, and help manage healthy weight due to their low-calorie, high-fibre content. Carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, and contain high amount of fibre. Beta carotene is important for eyesight, skin health, and normal growth. Carrots are a good source of fibre, vitamin C and potassium, as well as vitamin B6, folate, and several minerals including calcium and magnesium. No wonder we love these orange heroes of the kitchen: raw, cooked or any way they come!

Australians absolutely love carrots, often crowning them as a favourite vegetable. Over 90% of Australian households purchase carrots annually, with an average consumption of around 7.4kg to 13.6kg per person. They are considered a staple due to their versatility, affordability, and popularity in raw, cooked, and juiced forms.

So, on International Carrot Day, we need to part and celebrate their favoured part of our diet. And we do. Here are some options :-

This day this year coincides with Easter Saturday, and several local events offer opportunities to celebrate fresh produce or participate in family activities:

Carlton Farmers Market: A great spot to find fresh, seasonal Victorian carrots.
Location: Carlton North, VIC

Easter Family Festival: A food and wine festival with family-friendly activities.
Location: Brown Brothers Winery, Milawa, VIC

Easter in the Park: Includes a coffee van, hot cross buns, and an Easter egg hunt
Location: Leongatha, VIC

Lucas Central Park Easter Egg Hunt: A traditional community egg hunt.

Get along if you can – or make your own fun, carrot-themed of course!


Fun Facts about Carrots:

• The carrot is usually orange in colour although purple, red, white, and yellow varieties also exist.
• Cultivated carrots are usually made up of about 88% water, 7% sugar, 1% protein, 1% fibre, 1% ash, and 0.2% fat.
• The urban legend that 'eating large quantities of carrots helps us to see in the dark' was developed from stories started in World War II. British gunners were shooting down German planes at night and to cover up the fact that it was the effective use of radar technologies that was achieving this, the RAF circulated a story about their pilots' high level of carrot consumption.

“Raw carrots: because adulting requires at least one healthy decision daily”

“Carrot cake: proof that vegetables can throw a party in your mouth”

“Carrot Diem, seize the vegetable and live your best orange life”

“Sometimes you need to be buried before you can bloom beautifully”

 

[Garrry]

Daylight saving ends tonight, 1 hour back