Remember the days of football, meat pies, kangaroos and Holden cars? No? Neither can I. I was born a generation too late for that, however my father and grandfather said they were some of the greatest Australian years. Richmond were winning premierships, Melbourne had no Rugby teams, the A league was just a thought. (Sports is my favourite past time, and yes, I'm a tragic Tigers supporter.)
Here we were, a foreign nation tucked away in our little corner with our 'Larriken' status and obscure slang that even the best English speakers couldn't understand. And we had something called mateship. Countries envy the 'she'll be right' attitude and a barbie on the weekend was a family occasion. How things have changed.
Watching State of Origin II has compelled me to write this. Im a lover of all things sports. Im a lover of experiencing the world and different cultures. Ive learnt along the way two things about Australians: The stereotypical, Simpsons portrayal that most people think we are and the embarrassment the actual nationals bring to our country.
Lets forward to the State of Origin. One of our greatest athletes, a true gentleman that symbolises what Australia is all about passed away. Ron Clarke is, and always will be remembered a legend. 19 World Records is nothing to sneeze at. Proud achievements of a fellow countryman we should all celebrate and respect. Or at least i thought. Come 8.20pm, June 17. 90,000 excited Victorians, nay Australians, are crammed into the M.C.G to watch a titanic sporting contest between two rivals. The Australian anthem is sung. Then, proceeds to be a minute of silence for Ron Clarke,
However there was no minute if silence.
To the few idiots that were shouting, cheering and just being plain disrespectful, you ruined what should have been a genuine moment of honour for a legend of this country. Instead, you turned our nation into a disgrace, showcasing just how selfish, vain and disrespectful Australians have become in this new social media age.
Through this, one person is heard shouting 'Show some respect' which seem to encourage these muppets. I hope they are banned for life from all sporting events. This is another scratch on the true Australian identity that is starting to build, and the perception from others is starting to take notice.
We have become self centred as a nation. There is no such thing as mateship anymore, its all about the individual. The ANZAC spirit has disappeared. But sadly, how has it come to a point where grown men are shouting during a minute of silence for someone who probably deserves two?
I am embarrassed by Australians if this is the way our nation is heading.
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