What are sunnies in Australia?
Sunnies is Australian slang for sunglasses. Because Australia has some of the strongest ultraviolet radiation in the world, sunnies are an everyday essential, not just a fashion item.
The word follows the Australian habit of shortening words and adding ie, like brekkie and barbie. People say don't forget your sunnies or I left my sunnies in the car.
Australia's high UV levels are due to its clear skies, latitude and outdoor lifestyle. Strong UV can damage eyes, causing conditions such as cataracts and pterygium.
Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, Slide
The famous Slip, Slop, Slap campaign, launched in 1981, told Australians to slip on a shirt, slop on sunscreen and slap on a hat. It was later expanded to include seek shade and slide on sunglasses.
Sunglasses sold in Australia must meet a national standard that rates their protection against UV light, and labels show their category. Wraparound styles offer extra protection by blocking light from the sides.
The campaign's mascot, Sid the Seagull, became a well-known figure in Australian advertising. Schools often have no hat, no play rules, and many children wear sunnies and hats at outdoor sport. Cancer Council Australia continues to run sun safety campaigns every summer.
Did You Know?
Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world.