ANZAC DAY - LEST WE FORGET

potatocato wrote:
Well said!

Just of of curiosity, what do Americans think of us Aussies? Because in all the movies when there is an Australian, they have such a strong accent that doesn't even sound like us! Also about 10 years ago, I had a nanny come from Texas, we picked her up from the airport, and when we got home the first thing she asked was 'where are the kangaroos??' Expecting to see them in the backyard! I don know if its the same these days, but I get the feeling you guys think we're all from the outback! I'm guessing because in the movies they're always the stereotypical country Aussie :)

G'day mate! Crickey! Shrimp on the barbie (we don't even call it shrimp, they're prawns) Etc etc :P

I think it depends on how and how much they're exposed to Australia and Australians. Some people are more cosmopolitan so they've either traveled or they live in cities or went to universities where they've bumped into one or two Australians at least while others basically just have the Australia tourism commercials and Crocodile Dundee movies to rely on for 'knowledge.' As with any ethnicity, country, race, religion, etc., if your knowledge of them comes solely from movies and television shows then you better question what you know and go read a reputable history book or ask someone who could actually inform you (in a respectful and sensitive way, of course.)

I forgot to add that the "shrimp on the barbie" thing is from a tourism commercial that Paul Hogan participated in. You can blame him for that. Well, I'm sure he didn't write it but he did participate in it. Also, the stupid Foster's beer commercials "Fosters: Australian for Beer" (no real Australian would ever drink)