by Heather Christie
Ever since I saw the movie Australia, with Hugh “the jacked man” Jackman, I have been obsessed with Oz. I mean, the scenery in that flick was just breathtaking– soooo easy on the eyes–and the sweeping Aussie landscapes weren’t all that bad either. Delicious gents aside, the country boasts more than its fair share of delights. It’s a perfect inspiration either for a getaway to the real deal or a themed fiesta in the comfort of your own abode.

And in these recessionary times, such a getaway doesn’t even have to bite you in your wallet, which—if it’s anything like mine–is most likely limper than a drunk kangaroo. With the one-year work and holiday visa the Aussie government is pushing to Canadian students and recent grads between the ages of 18 and 30, you can head Down Under, see the sites and live the life whilst concurrently raking in the cash. Hellllo, yesplease! For more info on living the dream, check out G’Day Toronto’s Aussie travel night happening on Thursday, May 14 at the St. Lawrence Centre from 6-9pm. Oh yeah, and there will be delightful refreshments.

If making the trek halfway around the world to live the Pacific dream isn’t your shtick, bring the dream to you. Get the party started with a Cloud 9 and apple juice— it has been declared the 2009 poolside drink. Move into a really fresh white wine like the “mind blowing” sauvignon blanc -–as stated by the delightful gentleman who topped up my glass—by Stella Bella from Western Australia’s Margaret River region, and then finish off the night with some Coopers sparkling ale. All are available at your local, friendly LCBO. Suggested fare for the barbie? Kangaroo, obvi! It is such a lean variety of meat and juicy as any cow slab, but far more environmentally friendly than the uber-industrialized beef industry. A win-win-win!

If you’re taking the night to epic proportions, you’re going to need some epic makeup. Try Livinia’s pure mineral makeup, a great brand unavailable in Canada, but probably gives the most natural glam I have ever seen. It’s all cruelty free—even their brushes—and made with pure minerals sans additives. Perfect for picking up a delicious Aussie man on the subway after your walkabout on the town. Not that that happened. (Hey Matt, call me!)

To get in better touch with all things Oz, check out more G’Day Toronto events which run until Saturday at Australia.com/gdaytoronto