The Great Melbourne Armenian Census: Counting Kebabs and Finding Family
Ever wandered through Brunswick and spotted a bakery with an alphabet that looks like squiggly lines escaped from a math textbook? Or maybe you snagged the best lamb kebab of your life from a hidden laneway stall? Chances are, you've brushed shoulders with Melbourne's Armenian community, a vibrant bunch with a talent for delicious food and a history that stretches back, well, a long time. But just how many Armenians are there in this sunburnt paradise? Buckle up, because we're diving into the fascinating, slightly chaotic world of counting Melbournian Armenians.
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| How Many Armenians In Melbourne |
The Census Says What?
The official headcount might leave you scratching your head. The 2011 census, bless its bureaucratic heart, only counted a measly 16,723 people with Armenian ancestry. Now, this number is about as reliable as a politician's promise. Here's why:
QuickTip: Don’t rush through examples.
- The Grandma Factor: How many grandmas do you know who religiously fill out government forms? Armenian grandmas are no exception. Let's just say the census might be missing a few baklava-baking ladies.
- The "Australian by Blood, Armenian by Heart" Phenomenon: Many Armenian-Australians are second or third generation, meaning they might identify more with the land of Vegemite than Mount Ararat.
So, How Many Armenians Are There REALLY?
Here's where things get interesting. Unofficial estimates range from a cool 10,000 to a whopping 20,000. That's a lot of people who can tell you the difference between lahmacun and pide (both delicious, by the way).
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Finding Armenians in the Wild
Forget Tinder, if you're looking for Armenians in Melbourne, head to these hotspots:
- The Inner-East: Head to Brunswick for Armenian cafes, grocery stores, and the occasional game of tavlu (backgammon) on a sunny afternoon.
- South-East: Stretching from Oakleigh to Clayton, you'll find Armenian churches, community centers, and the occasional bakery with suspiciously good baklava.
QuickTip: Slow scrolling helps comprehension.
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How to Spot an Armenian (Probably)
- The Knowing Nod: Walk into an Armenian store and say "Barev!" (hello). If you get a warm smile and a response in Armenian, then bingo!
- The Weekend Wedding Guest Outfit: Think sharp suits, elaborate dresses, and enough gold jewelry to blind a magpie.
Important Disclaimer: These are not scientific methods, and stereotypes can be dangerous! But hey, they might give you a chuckle.
**FAQ
Tip: Reading in short bursts can keep focus high.
How to say hello in Armenian? Easy! Just say "Barev!" (pronounced ba-REV)
How to find an Armenian restaurant? Google is your friend, but also look for places with Armenian writing or the colors of the Armenian flag (red, orange, and blue).
How to make friends with an Armenian? Food is the key! Bring some baklava to a gathering, and you're golden.
How to learn Armenian? There are Armenian community classes in Melbourne. Otherwise, YouTube can be your teacher!
How to appreciate Armenian culture? Attend a cultural event or visit an Armenian church. Just remember to dress modestly!
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