Christmas celebrated the Aussie way

It's been a difficult year for many, but millions of Australians across the nation have paused to celebrate Christmas. The spirit of giving was felt right across the country from churches and charities to living rooms, where children delighted in their presents from the Big Man in Red. In Bondi, a sea of red Santa hats filled the sand as thousands flocked to Australia's most famous beach to celebrate the "Australian way". British and Irish backpackers and expats welcomed the change from their usual celebrations. This Christmas also marked the 48th year of Mission Australia’s Christmas lunch which provides joy and hope to those doing it tough. About 1,500 people and more than 300 volunteers turned up for Australia’s largest lunch of its kind on Christmas Day.