​G'day mates! If you've ever found yourself down under and felt like you were speaking a different language, fear not! You've just stumbled upon the land of Aussie slang, where the lingo (language) is as unique as the wildlife (kangaroos  and koalas).  So, chuck on your thongs, grab a cold stubby, and let's dive into the dinkum world of Australian slang. 

G'day, Mate! - The quintessential Aussie greeting, "G'day" is short for "good day." It's a laid-back way to say hello, whether you're meeting a friend or just passing by.  And "mate"? Well, that's your buddy, your pal, your cobber. Aussies throw it around like confetti.

Fair Dinkum - If something is fair dinkum, it's genuine, real, and true. Aussies use it to vouch for the authenticity of a statement or to express disbelief. "You caught a fish this big?  Fair dinkum?" 

Arvo - We love to shorten words.  Afternoon becomes "arvo." So, if someone asks to catch up in the arvo, it means they're suggesting a meet-up later in the day. 

There seems to be a lot of confusion surrounding which fork to use...This is the first question that students will ask when learning about dining etiquette.  The choice of which fork to use depends on the dining situation and the etiquette you wish to follow. Here are some general guidelines for choosing the right fork:  
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Main Fork - This fork is typically used for the main course in a formal dining setting. It's larger and has a broader shape than other forks. When in doubt, it's often safe to use the dinner fork for your main course.   

Entrée Fork - If there are multiple courses, and an entrée or small dish is served before the main course, use the the  smaller fork which will be placed next to the (large) dinner fork to it's left.

Fish Fork - In a formal setting where fish is served, you might find a fish fork. It's designed with a special shape for flaking fish. This fork is placed to the left of the dinner fork.  

The correct way of setting the table with forks: entrée fork is set first, then the main fork is second.

Dessert Fork - Dessert forks are usually the size of an entrée fork. These are used for eating desserts and are often brought out with the dessert or pudding course.  

Fruit Fork - In some formal settings, you might come across a small fork specifically for eating fruit. It's usually placed on the table with the dessert utensils and is smaller in size, smaller than an entrée fork.

Cake Fork - A cake fork is similar in size and shape to a dessert fork, but it might have a wider edge for cutting through cake. It's often used for British afternoon tea or French pâtisserie.

Oyster Fork - This small fork is designed for eating oysters and can be recognised by its unique shape. It's usually placed to the right of the dinner fork in a formal setting where oysters are served.  

I hope this has helped you!  Remember that table settings can vary depending on the country and the formality of the event.  If you're unsure which fork to use, observe what others are doing, and follow suit. ​

Fish fork and knife

 Protocol
“The word protocol conjures up the idea of tedious rules.  Conversely, protocol is so important as it allows all parts of lives proceed with clarity, consistency and order.” - Elizabeth Soós
 
Diplomacy
“There is a diplomat in all of us; we are all communicators, we are all nurturers, we all create relationships and negotiate daily.  We don’t all have to be Winston Churchill to be the ultimate diplomat.” - Elizabeth Soós
 
Intercultural Communication
“Intercultural communication is like the Mona Lisa. Today we have become a globally connected than ever before in human history. Now it’s imperative to read between the lines, take a deep breath, research a little as communicating internationally is a fine art.” - Elizabeth Soós
 
Etiquette
“Practising etiquette could be likened to searching for buried treasure. There will be twists and turns, heartache and failure. When you are persistent and self-aware, you will be rewarded. - Elizabeth Soós
 
“Etiquette is for everyone. It is easy, repeatable, and never goes old. Here are three tips you can use every day: Smile, Acknowledge, Talk.” - Elizabeth Soós
 
Business Etiquette
“Make it your business to use etiquette.” - Elizabeth Soós
 
“Business has always been about people doing business with people (although we are in the digital age). People will do business with those they know, like, trust. Part of using the know, like, trust principle is business etiquette. Why not take a course in business etiquette? Remind and re-fresh your etiquette skills continually.” - Elizabeth Soós