In December 1965, just two months before the introduction of decimal currency in Australia, a teacher in Mangerton kept their 5th class students occupied with a long division problem involving the old money system. Despite the students complaining about the pointlessness of the exercise, the teacher insisted that they might need to use the process again in the future. Bronwyn Bryceson reflects on this memory 58 years later, acknowledging the teacher’s foresight and urging patience.
The transition to decimal currency in Australia had some quirky implications for common sayings, as noted by Don Bain from Port Macquarie. Sayings such as “a penny for my thoughts” and “in for a cent, in for two dollars” no longer made sense or had the same impact in the new currency system. The adjustment to the new currency brought about changes in language and cultural references, highlighting the deeper impact of such a seemingly simple change.
A light-hearted inquiry from William Galton of Hurstville Grove about an allegedly swallowed one-cent coin raises questions about the value and retrieval of such a coin. Jo Rainbow of Orange humorously suggests a method for extracting the coin, while also noting the potential collector’s value of an uncirculated 1971 one-cent coin. This playful exchange adds a touch of whimsy to the discussion of currency and its everyday implications.
An observation by Michael Fox of Taigum (Qld) humorously points out the frequent disappearances of ABC News Breakfast presenters, hinting at possible chronic gastrointestinal or urological ailments among the staff. The comical suggestion that rapid exits are made for urgent bathroom breaks adds a humorous element to the discussion of the daily routines and challenges faced by television presenters. The mention of immune presenters Michael and Lisa adds a final touch of levity to the observation.
Lyn Langtry of East Ryde recalls her experience working on buses while studying at university, particularly the task of counting and organizing coins at the end of each shift. The challenges of handling stacks of coins and the potential embarrassment of dropping them is humorously recounted, adding a relatable anecdote to the discussion of currency and daily tasks. Peter Miniutti of Ashbury reminisces about a visit to the Czech Republic where he found beer cheaper than water, highlighting the unique experiences and surprises that travel can bring in encountering different currency systems and cultural norms.
Overall, these anecdotes and observations from readers highlight the quirky, practical, and humorous aspects of dealing with currency and everyday tasks in different contexts. From nostalgic reflections on old money systems to playful musings on lost coins and unexpected encounters with cheap beer, these stories offer a glimpse into the everyday experiences and challenges that come with navigating the world of currency and its implications on language, culture, and daily life.
