There were many announcements during the Games telling people to turn off their cell phones. Still, most people who had cell phones kept them on. For this last report, I asked my fellow Australian workers what they wanted me to report on besides the Games. A vote was taken and they wanted me to tell you about their holidays. October 2nd was Labor Day in Australia.
Small stores are closed, but shopping malls are open.
Christmas in the land down under is in the middle of summer. When I left, stores were putting up Christmas decorations, complete with Santa and fake snow. Most Australians open their presents on Christmas morning as we do, but instead of turkey for dinner they usually have a barbecue with their families. December 26, the day after Christmas, is called Boxing Day. This holiday dates back to England when wealthy families had servants.