I realise that her actual birthday is in April, but she has two and the other one is in June. And in Australia they have the Monday off to celebrate. There has been much confusion when I explain quietly that we don't actually do that in the UK.
Also, it should be noted that it is the Queen's birthday holiday here in Canberra, but other states may have other birthdays. In Western Australia, for example, it is the Queen's birthday public holiday at the end of September. Presumably because the weather is nicer or something. Its a very moveable feast and I expect that if she came to Australia she could pick up a fresh piece of birthday cake most days.
So, anyway, the university is closed and I have been working at home. However, this afternoon I thought I would wander into town and find out what happens on the Queen's birthday.
Well, what happens is that people go shopping. It is obvious really. The weather is not that great and so you head to the mall, where every shop is holding a special Queen's Birthday sale. Because that's what she would want.
I used the opportunity to go to what is fast becoming one of my favourite places - the food hall. Here there are many different restaurants, the vast majority of them serving Asian cuisine. This is very exciting for someone from North-East Aberdeenshire. Last time I was here I went to the Indonesian 'home-style' counter and had something so hot that I mostly ate the rice. So today I opted for Japan and had a lovely chicken dish for six dollars (around £3).
On my way home, I dropped into the Bottle-O, which turned out, despite the name, to be a really interesting wine merchants. I now have a bottle of rose Riesling, which I have never heard of before. I was told that it is rare even in Australia and that only Brown Brothers produce it.
So, out of courtesy, I will raise a glass to her Majesty tonight and try a rose Riesling!
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