The calendar might be trying to tell us that summer is over, but anyone who’s lived in Australia for more than a season knows that the warm weather doesn’t disappear overnight.
March, in particular, while technically autumn, often delivers some of the nicest weather of the whole year. It’s not so hot that you’d prefer to be indoors, but warm enough to spend the day by the beach and get home with enough time and light left for a barbecue with your friends.
Here are some last-minute ways to make the most of the lingering Aussie warmth.
Make the most of the quieter season
In much of Australia, early autumn still feels like summer, but the difference is that most people are back to work or school, so it’s way more peaceful!
If your timetable allows, take advantage of quieter beaches, less crowded national parks and slightly cooler (but still swimmable) ocean temperatures. Grab a group of friends after class and head to your local beach or green space for an impromptu picnic dinner or game of beach cricket. These low-cost outings are often the ones you’ll remember most, especially if this is your first time experiencing seasons opposite to home.
Plan a spontaneous day trip
You don’t need a big budget or weeks of planning to feel like you’ve escaped routine. Look at what’s within one or two hours of where you live. Rainforests, waterfalls, coastal walks and interesting small towns full of local history are often closer than you think.
If you’re studying in Queensland, for example, the hinterland behind the Gold Coast offers cooler air and incredible views. In New South Wales, the Blue Mountains are a must-see. In Tasmania, why not head down south to the Huon Valley and enjoy the beginning of the apple season while the sun’s still shining.
Host a ‘Taste of Home’ summer potluck
For many international students, food is one of the strongest links to identity and belonging. Why not invite your friends over for a summer-themed dinner, where everyone brings their favourite dish or snack to eat during the hot season of their home country?
You could set up picnic style at the park, or even in some on-campus greenspace! Not only does this stretch the summer vibe a little longer, but it also gives everyone a chance to share some of the stories behind the food they brought and their favourite summer memories.
Go to outdoor events
Outdoor cinemas, twilight markets and music festivals often run into early autumn, if not all year. Keep an eye on local council pages and community Facebook groups for free or low-cost events in your area.
Organised events are also great if you’re trying to meet new people outside your course.
Take your study-routine outdoors
If you’re reading this and thinking, ‘well, that sounds great, but I have a million assignments due, so I can’t just drop everything for a picnic in the park,’ then don’t worry, this one’s for you!
Grab your laptop, a notepad and pen, and maybe just one or two of the million assignments, and find a shady spot in a park, or a cafe with outdoor seating to set up at. When you get through your school work, treat yourself to an evening stroll, or take a book (one you actually want to read) and stretch out under a tree. You deserve it!
Revisit your favourites one more time
Maybe summer in Australia introduced you to ocean swims, mango season or backyard cricket. Choose your favourite thing from the summer and do it one more time before the weather changes.
Print out photos of your favourite moments from the summer and spend half an hour printing them and putting them into a scrapbook or journal. Next year, you can look back at all the fun things you did!
