An Aussie's 25-cent gesture completely confuses McDonald's employee — Find out why!

In a world where digital transactions are swiftly becoming the norm, it seems that the humble art of cash handling and basic arithmetic might be fading into obscurity. This was humorously highlighted in a recent incident at a McDonald's drive-thru, where an Australian mum's attempt at simplifying a transaction with a $5 note and a 25-cent coin left the cashier—and subsequently the manager—perplexed.


The mum's story, which she shared on the 'Meanwhile in Australia' social media page, has since gone viral, sparking a mixture of laughter, disbelief, and a touch of nostalgia among readers. The post has amassed nearly 10,000 likes and over 2,000 comments, igniting conversations about the current state of basic math skills among younger generations.


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A mum shared her experience with a McDonald's cashier at a drive-thru. Image Credit: Shutterstock/rzoze19


The transaction in question was a simple one: the customer's bill came to $4.25, and she handed over a $5 note along with a 25-cent coin. Her logic was straightforward—by providing the extra quarter, she expected to receive a single dollar coin in return, making for a neat and tidy exchange. However, the cashier was baffled by the gesture, responding with, 'You gave me too much money.' Despite the customer's explanation, the cashier called over the manager, who also seemed flummoxed and ultimately returned the 25-cent coin, giving back 75 cents in change instead.


The customer's concluding advice? 'Do not confuse the people at Maccas.'

This incident has not only amused and frustrated many but also raised questions about the current education system and whether it's adequately preparing young people for everyday tasks such as handling cash. Some commenters reminisced about their own experiences working in retail, where such transactions were commonplace and expected. Others defended the cashier, suggesting that the confusion could stem from a lack of experience with cash due to the increasing reliance on electronic payments.

Indeed, the shift towards a cashless society has its benefits, including convenience and security. However, it also means that fewer people are developing the skills to quickly and accurately handle physical currency. This can lead to awkward situations like the one at McDonald's, where the basic act of making change becomes a challenge.


The conversation has also touched on broader themes of generational differences in skill sets. While some lament the perceived decline in practical abilities like cash handling, others point out that each generation has its strengths and weaknesses, shaped by the environment and technology they grow up with.

At the Seniors Discount Club, we understand the importance of keeping traditional skills alive while also embracing the advantages of modern technology. It's essential to find a balance, ensuring that while we enjoy the conveniences of digital advancements, we don't lose the practical know-how that has served us well for so long.
Key Takeaways

  • An Australian mother shared a frustrating encounter at a McDonald's drive-thru when trying to simplify change for a $4.25 transaction with a $5 note and 25 cents.
  • The cashier and their manager were baffled by the customer's request to receive a single dollar coin in return, instead of the expected 75 cent change.
  • The incident sparked discussions about the current state of basic maths skills among younger generations, with many suggesting they are lacking in cash handling abilities.
  • While some criticised the younger generation's counting skills, others defended them by pointing out that less frequent use of cash could be a factor or that there might be other reasons for the confused response.
So, dear members, we'd love to hear your thoughts on this amusing yet thought-provoking tale. Have you encountered similar experiences where basic math skills were lacking? How do you feel about the move towards a cashless society? Share your stories and opinions in the comments below, and let's keep the conversation going!
 
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I migrated as an Anglo-Indian (look that term up if you don’t know what that is) in 1965. Had no problem transitioning from Indian Rupees to Pounds, Shillings & Pence and then to Dollars and Cents. I was properly educated in English, Maths, French, Geography, Biology etc in India.

This age of so-called technology has its good and bad points. However, if you ask young people upto their 20s and 30s to read a clock and ask what time it is so many of them will not know how because all they have to do is look at a digital watch!
In 1961(8 yo) I was in year 3 of school, we not only did standard clock-face but "digital" as well. the teacher would write on the board 10.24 and we would say twenty four minutes past ten, likewise 10.37 (not really thirty seven past ten) but twenty three minutes to eleven, because?, bus and train timetables were written that way!
 
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I was unaware that we had a 25cent coin. I would be confused too. Trying to palm off foreign coins. Wonder where else she has done this.
@MIZMAC, I am surprised you weren't aware that we had a 25c coin, it goes with the $4.99 note, I was shopping in Coles this morning and there were heaps of yellow tags that had $~.25 on them, unfortunately I didn't have any with me because I paid by card.
 
  • Haha
Reactions: Iggydi
Someone needs to get their facts straight.
There is no 25 cent coin in Australian currency.
Also $1 is a note in America and a coin in Australia.
 
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Reactions: Iggydi
I used to do that at Woolworths (overpay to get a precise dollar amount back) thinking I would be making it easy for the cashier;no way, I only do it for amusement now. However, I can still count out 16 ounces on four fingers and 14lbs (1 stone) on two and do multiples thereof on the other hand so there was some benefit from my Primary School education.
If you can find a self serve machine that takes cash, you do get the $1 back
 
  • Wow
Reactions: Iggydi
Neither is servic

They would be totally screwed if they joined the military with the 24 hour clock!
The Australian Government can't tell the time FFS!!! Here is one of many examples: the Bureau of Meteorology reports 2pm in a four figure format, adding "pm"!!! For example 02:00pm!!!!! They and many Australian businesses and other Departments are not alone. They are STOOOOOOPIDO!!!
 

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