On the 26th of January, 1788, the Eora people watched as the first fleet, a group of 11 ships carrying convicts and supplies landed in Sydney Cove. In 1818, the founding of the colony's 30th anniversary, the first official celebration for foundation day, as it was called, was held. The government ordered a 30-gun salute at Dawes Point. In 1837 the first running of the Australia Day regatta was held in Sydney Harbour. Happy with the success of the regatta, the organizers resolved to make it an annual event. As part of the celebrations, Australia day was first declared to be a public holiday on its 50th anniversary in 1838. 4 in 5 Australians believing it has a bigger meaning beyond being just a day off. Half of all Australians participate
