Australia is a land of symbols. The Southern Cross. The Sydney Opera House. The kangaroo. Vegemite. But what do they actually mean? Where do national symbols come from and what makes them popular? Why are some symbols so hotly contested? Does Australia have more than its fair share? Symbols of Australia offers illuminating and unexpected insights into the nation's culture, as leading historians uncover the stories behind the symbols that surround us in our daily lives: from Uluru to the Australian flag, the rainbow serpent to Holden cars, the democracy sausage to the Great Barrier Reef. They also challenge some long-held myths - what flag did Anzacs fight under? Who invented the pavlova? Where did the lifesaver come from? How rational is the fear of sharks? How revered was the baggy green? Entertaining, provocative, informative, and often surprising, Symbols of Australia reveals a great deal about the ways nations are imagined - and how they imagine themselves.

Australians have always loved to step out in nature, whether off-track or along a marked route. Bushwalking - an organised long-distance walk in rugged terrain that requires maps and camping equipment, or a family day out - is one of our most popular pastimes. This landmark book, now updated, was the first to delve into its rich and sometimes quirky history. From the earliest days of European settlement, colonists found pleasure in leisurely strolls through the bush, collecting flowers, sketching, bird watching and picnicking. Yet over time, walking for the sake of walking became the dominant motive. Walking clubs proliferated, railways organised mystery hikes attended by thousands, and Paddy Pallin established his equipment business. Bushwalking - serious walking - was invented. Whether you are inclined to put on your walking boots and pack your sleeping bag, or would rather stay in luxury hut, this sure-footed and witty book reveals how the ordinary act of walking can become extraordinary. A blend of nature writing, social history and environmental history- this landmark book, now fully updated from the 2007 edition,delves into its rich and sometimes quirky history of bushwalkingand looks down the track to the future. Bushwalking remains an extremely popular pastime and itspopularity is increasing - now one of Australia's top-ten mostparticipated sports. Historical photos included throughout. Reveals that more than ever, governments - often in collaborationwith commercial developers - are investing in bushwalking tracksfor multiday walks.