Every year they gather to toast one another’s success. Nicole, Keith, Hugh, Elle, Hoges, Rose, Naomi… the gang’s all there. Only one thing distinguishes G’Day USA from any other catch up with friends – it is taxpayers who pick up the tab.
Naturally the PR machine would have us believe that far from being one big party the event is in fact an essential platform in increasing tourism, promoting our culture and generating trade opportunities with the US.
But to those of us left watching the flag-waving festivities from these shores, it’s become a notoriously dull affair with the same old line-up of expats wheeled out year after year.
And for all the spin about promoting homegrown talent, I suspect most Australians are of the view the likes of Miranda Kerr and Nicole Kidman need no further exposure in the local media.
In any event those who watched Kerr showcase the handiwork of international designers (last time I checked Oscar de la Renta didn’t hail from these parts), and listened to MC Elle Macpherson’s peculiar accent might have been confused as to which country they were there to celebrate.
Perhaps it’s just as well that no-one outside of Australia seems to pay any attention to it.
Back home, most Australians take immense pride in the achievements of their fellow citizens and will continue to do so without the taxpayer-funded jingoism of G’Day USA.
This year’s gathering marked its 10th anniversary. Let’s hope there won’t be an 11th.
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