The Wattle tree, or Acacia, was one of the first building materials used in colonial Australia, because its stems were found to be perfect for use in wattle-and-daub construction. It has since become a national symbol of unity and resilience, and we can all use some of that right now!
Wattle Festivals around the country have had to be cancelled, but other events are happening, in a different way. For instance, you can now ‘grab your partners’ for Wattle Day Folk dancing online with the Victorian Folk Music Club or view artworks created for the ‘The Acacia Project’ (also online).
National institutions and city councils are also exploring other ways to celebrate this national day. For the first time, landmarks will be lighting up in shades of yellow, while others such as the National Gallery of Australia, Parliament House and the National Portrait Gallery in Canberra are opening their national collections via Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Among the iconic landmarks to be ‘wattled’ are the Story and Victoria Bridges in Brisbane, and Questacon and the Royal Australian Mint in Canberra.
For more information and links to events, visit the Wattle Day Association website http://www.wattleday.asn.au/
