Anthony Albanese wished Australians a happy Easter on Sunday, saying the religious holiday showed the nation’s diversity.
In his official message, the prime minister said Easter Sunday was a holy day marking the resurrection and a celebration of faith, hope and renewal for many.
“Our nation is home to Christians drawn from all parts of the world and from all traditions,” Albanese said.
“The variety of services, vigils and ceremonies across the Easter period speaks for our nation’s diversity.”
He thanked those working through the public holidays, saying it was only possible for others to enjoy the long weekend because of their efforts.
He also urged drivers to take caution through the holiday.
“Please take care on the roads at this busy time for travel,” Albanese said. “Have a safe, happy and holy Easter.”
The opposition leader, Peter Dutton, also wished Australians a happy Easter, saying it was a time for Christians everywhere to reflect on Christ’s ultimate sacrifice and the profound impact of his teachings.
“As we enjoy these great traditions together, let us remember the true meaning of Easter and the message of hope and renewal that it brings,” he said. “The messages of Easter – atonement, forgiveness, love, and hope – have meaning for all of us.”
The Queensland premier, Annastacia Palaszczuk, wished her state a happy Easter on Twitter on Sunday.
Below below-average temperatures and scattered showers were tipped for much of the country.
Melbourne, Darwin and Hobart were all forecast to get rain, while Sydney and nearby cities were expected to have strong winds, but a mostly sunny day.
Canberra was predicted to be overcast but dry, and sunshine was forecast for Brisbane and Perth.
Most capital cities expected to see minimum temperatures in the mid to low teens, with Canberra tipped to record a low of 5C and a top of just 15C.
Melbourne was forecast to have its coldest Easter Sunday in decades, tipped for a top of 15C and a low of 11C.
Easter masses were planned at churches and cathedrals across the country including Melbourne’s St Paul’s Cathedral.
In Sydney about 2,000 people were expected to attend a 10.30am mass at St Mary’s Cathedral.
Police urged drivers to slow down and obey the law after several people lost their lives on the roads on Friday and Saturday.
“The message is pretty simple: drive to the speed limit, drive to the conditions, don’t drive while under the influence of drugs and alcohol, [and] certainly have a plan B if you are intending to drink,” NSW police acting assistant commissioner Tracy Chapman said on Friday.
“Focus on the road and not your phones. That is the message we need motorists to heed to make sure that we have an incident-free weekend.”
#Anthony #Albanese #public #holiday #workers #Easter #Sunday #belowaverage #temperatures #tipped #Australia #Australia #news
Leave a Reply