As one who has always wanted to travel in Australia, I often spend time making lists of things I want to do or see. The most recent list I have made is of the symbols I most associate with a trip to Australia.

First has to be the kangaroo, that quintessential symbol of down under. My childhood is full of memories of Skippy and when I do finally make it there, I hope to see them in the wild. Another animal-related symbol is the Great White Shark, but I hope that I do not run into one of those!

Secondly it has to be Ayers Rock or Uluru as they call it locally. Most countries have landmarks, but this has got to be one of the most atmospheric of them all, rising majestically over the Northern Territory and best viewed at sunset.

Then there is Rolf Harris – love him or hate him, he is an Australian icon – together with his didgeridoo and his song ‘Waltzing Matilda’! Not forgetting the humble boomerang, which is designed to always return to the person who threw it. Originally a weapon, it is now a fun past-time.

All this writing is thirsty work, so I think I will go and crack open a can of that other famous Australian symbol – a can of lager. VB or Tooheys? …. mine is a Coopers sparkling!