McGrath - we do have occasional Christmas-in-July celebrations. Sydney's Blue Mountains (100? miles west) can get snow in winter & some of the establishments there offer the traditional British festivities.

Winter in Sydney is not too cold or grey so we don't have the need for cheering-up festivities.

As I've never lived in the colder bits of Oz (ie where folks need an efficient heater/central heating & very thick clothing), I can't say any more.

This winter in my bit of Sydney (near the Harbour) I didn't even use my little blower heater, & was warm enough when I went out in silk shirt, fleecy waistcoat, medium jacket, and cotton knee socks under a long velvety rayon skirt. People in Sydney's West & South need stronger heaters & thicker outer clothes.

Aussies from colder climates, please reply to McGrath.

Hey, it's 12.07 on Christmas Day & I'm going to open my Secret Santa pressie.

sandra