While the Mother's Day movement may have started with Anna Jarvis in the US, it was in Australia where the tradition of giving gifts first began. Janet Heyden was the pioneer for Mother's Day celebrations in Australia, where she first campaigned for its recognition in 1923 by fundraising to give gifts to the mothers in Sydney's Newington Hospital.
The celebration of Mother's Day is now a worldwide phenomenon. On May 10 this year, mums across Australia will receive flowers, chocolates and cards and maybe even breakfast in bed, but for those who would like to show their love and appreciation for their mums in a way they'll definitely remember, why not surprise them with a meal out in one of Australia's most beautiful destinations?
Lunch cruise in Melbourne
Melbourne River Cruises has rustled up some Mother's Day magic this year, with their scenic Mother's Day cruise along the Victorian capital's Yarra River. The cruise includes a sit down two course lunch, as well as tea, coffee and a selection of premium wine and beers.
The two and a half hour cruise departs from the Southgate Arts and Leisure Precinct, an easy ten minute walk from Federation Square in central Melbourne.
High tea in Brisbane
For an afternoon of sophistication in Queensland, Brisbane's Bacchus Restaurant is holding a Mother's Day champagne high tea. You and your mum will receive a glass of bubbles on arrival, before you indulge in the range of beautifully delicate sweets and savouries.
Explore the city in the morning before settling down to tea at one of the restaurant's three Mother's day sittings with a jazz pianist, fine bone china and a special gift courtesy of Bacchus. The restaurant is located in the city's West End, a five minute drive from the Queen St Mall.
Dine in the sky in Perth
For a unique Mother's Day experience, C Restaurant in Perth is the city's very own revolving restaurant, providing breathtaking 360 degree views over the city. Perched on the 33rd floor of St Martins Tower, C Restaurant is dishing out a little Mother's Day magic, whether you're in for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
C's take on modern Australian and European cuisine and the stunning view over the capital of Western Australia is sure to make any mum smile.
See the city from Sydney Harbour
Rather than some eggs on dry toast, treat your mum to different sort of Mother's Day in New South Wales.
Cameron Mackintosh’s acclaimed new production of Les Misérables is playing to standing ovations and glowing reviews at Sydney’s Capitol Theatre for a limited season. Completely re-imagined with incredible new designs, and an astonishing cast – this is Les Misérables like you have never seen it before.
Wherever you're planning to be this Mother's Day, you can make it a special one in any of Australia's beautiful cities – the memories of her day will far outlast any old card and chocolates.
