“The wattle is our only authentic national symbol
– totally, unambiguously of this land. It is not
conflicted or qualified in its identity or loyalty.
It is eloquently, elegantly and undoubtedly
Australian“
– Terry Fewtrell, President, Wattle day association.
Although the Aussie bush doesn’t have the same extent of seasonal flora as Europe or the Americas, it still displays dramatic changes as the warmer months approach – my favourite time of year.
It is the last month of winter for the year and bursts of vibrant yellow light up the whole canopy. Thanks to the humble wattle tree, my back paddock and every crevice of the town glow with golden light, despite the cold weather.
The charming and soulful wattle flowers all year round in many areas of the country; from the misty winters, to the harsh, dry summers, you can find this flower making its presence known. Although they’ve always been a personal favourite of mine, the alluring native blossom is seen as an icon with an abundance of meaning.
The wattle is a symbol in Australian culture, in fact it’s our national flower; representing resilience, remembrance and reflection.
Our first nations people saw the golden wattle as a seasonal marker as a source of food, medicine and raw material. In fact even the original boomerang was fashioned from the plant.
In the first world war, Australian soldiers on service abroad were sent sprigs of wattle accompanied with letters as a reminder of home. There are records of boxes being filled to the brim with wattle and being distributed to wounded ANZACS as far as Egypt, France and England to influence hope and healing.
The wattle has inspired our Australian national colours; green and gold. Worn by fierce and talented sports men and women who some how manage to always finish toward the top of the leader board despite our comparatively small population.
In more recent years, i’ve witnessed the golden wattle be one of the first plants to germinate after a bush fire, showing its ability to renew and have resilience after experiencing adversity.
To me the the wattle means a lot of things; a symbol for when spring is coming, a calling for hope, reminders of childhood and colours that bring happiness. A contagious plant that I sit amongst in the afternoons in my own backyard and observe the bees as they pollinate the ample branches which sets the scene as the sun sets.
But most of all, it is a reminder of what it means to call Australia home. A uniqueness and beauty that brings me much pleasure to be apart of.
What does the iconic golden wattle mean to you?
Wander Mak 
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