Sydney was awash with red, white and blue as the Australian flag became the ‘must-have’ accessory for the thousands of people who attended celebrations across the city and across New South Wales on 26 January.

NSW has the most extensive program of Australia Day events in the country, from the Best Dressed Esky Competition at Hunters Hill and the Watermelon Eating in Narromine through to the Billy-Can Derby in Nelson Bay and the Rolling Pin Toss at Tomingley, the Australian spirit was in abundance everywhere!

See images from Australia Day 2008

Everyone was out and about in their colourful best!

See images from Australia Day 2008!

What's the best thing about being an Aussie?

Have your say and tell us what is the best thing about being an Aussie. How did you celebrate Australia Day? Share your thoughts withothers on the Australia Day website.

Australia Day 2008 Address

Read or listen to the Australia Day 2008 Address delivered by The Honourable James Jacob Spigelman AC.

Have your say on the Address and tell us who you think should deliver the Australia Day 2009 Address.

Australia Day 2008 Winners

There were lots of competitions and races taking place on Australia Day across the state. Here are the winners of the Sydney events -

Arrive Alive Motor Accidents Authority Summer Down Under Oz Day 10K
* Men’s - Kurt Fearnley (Australia) 20:32 (equal course record) – This is the 4th time Kurt has won this event
* Women’s – Edith Hunkeler (Switzerland) 25:15 – new course record

Tall Ships Race winner was Svanen

Best Dressed Vessels winners
* Best Dressed Overall - Sea Dragon: Small Pirate boat 
* Most Original Theme - Sea Dragon: Small Pirate boat 
* Best Dressed Charter Vessel - River Princess: The Great Aussie Barbie
* Best Flag Display - Rainbow
* Best Dressed Small Boat - Sea Dragon : Small Pirate boat
* Best Dressed Working Boat - Throsby: Tugboat, Aussie animal and outback theme 

Rural Press Sydney Experience for a Family of 4 winner is - Maddison from Bathurst.