Easter in Australia: what does it mean to you?
Although traditionally a religious celebration, these days our thoughts tend to stray towards chocolate, bunnies and Easter eggs, camping, beaches, and getting away for the long weekend.
But for many Aussies, Easter is synonymous with a booze up. There might be restricted trading on alcohol, particularly on Good Friday, but don’t let that fool you.
A quick surf of the ‘net reveals that alcohol consumption at home doubles over Easter, while pubs and bars rub their hands in glee, as it is one of their busiest periods. They rake in the revenue ($65 million in 2014) – yes, even despite the restrictions (1)!
A Nation of Boozers?
It saddens me that we have become a nation of boozers. I’m no teetotaller – I don’t mind the odd drop now and then – but I just can’t understand our national obsession with getting blotto. Especially when I think about the high cost of excessive drinking: our horrifying road toll, alcohol-fuelled violence, damaged relationships, and ruined lives.
So I’m all for any campaign that makes Australians reconsider their options, and their drinking habits. You can have just as much fun with a lemon, lime and bitters, believe me – and it’s a hell of a lot cheaper!
When it comes to the actual financial cost of drinking – just think what that money could be better spent on!
Whatever you are doing this Easter, I hope you stay safe, enjoy the time off – and remember that like most things in life, alcohol is best consumed in moderation.
Cheers! (With a lemon lime and bitters in hand 😉 of course)
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Great infographic! And I couldn’t agree more. I tend not to drink at all anymore. It just doesn’t agree with my digestive system. And I feel so much better for it. Sadly it’s really entrenched here in our society.
I know right – what’s that about?! I thought it would be just young people that drink, that people grow out of it, but sadly I am finding it is all too common in my age group too 🙁 .