It’s become a universal if unofficial catch cry for tourism Down Under.

The Nelson Bay Australia Day committee has followed suit with a free reptile show designed to capture the imagination of the area’s youngest citizens.

“It’s the idea of danger, I think, that kids like,” committee member Doug Cross said.

“It’s all very safe, of course, the animal handlers are very experienced, they even help educate children on how to avoid danger in the bush.

“In reality, the bacteria on your hands is more dangerous.”

In past years there’s been a crocodile or two on display at Fly Point for the Australia Day celebration in Nelson Bay.

This year it’s snakes, lizards and even an alligator, courtesy of first time visitors, Australian Reptile Park.

The alligator obviously isn’t Australian. But it fits the ‘scaly and dangerous’ bill.

“The display is certainly bigger and better than previous years,” Mr Cross said.

“If you’ve never smiled at a crocodile this is your chance to hug an alligator.”

Mr Cross said the reptile show was but one of many attractions this year which is the 20^th anniversary of celebrations at Fly Point.

“As in previous years, the day will kick off at 9am with a parade from Nelson Bay’s Laman Street to Fly Point, where the huge range of family friendly activities will proceed,” Mr Cross said.

“Throughout the day we will have entertainment and official proceedings on the stage, while the younger ones will be treated to fun times with free jumping castles, pony rides and giveaways.”

In addition to his welcome address, the mayor of Port Stephens, Cr Bruce MacKenzie, will perform a citizenship ceremony, and following on from the success of last year’s event locals will be invited to reaffirm their allegiance to this great nation.

Port Stephens ambassador Leisl Tesch, a paralympian and gold medal winner from the 2012 Games, will give the Australia Day address.

The day’s activities will conclude about 4pm following the Robyn Yvette School of Dance grand finale.

A car park will operate at the top end of Neill Carroll Park for a gold coin donation.

For more on what’s happening, at what time this Australia Day, in Karuah, Lemon Tree Passage, Raymond Terrace and Nelson Bay, turn to Page 28.