Dr Suzette Searle ‘Wattle days are here again’

Abstract

Beginning with the first wattle day celebrated 1 September 1910 and the rise in popularity of the day as a fundraiser during the First World War, Wattle Day went on to become a happy nature day that was celebrated in primary schools for decades. Its popularity declined over time, however, until advocates such as Maria Hitchcock, Ian McNamara (ABC Radio National broadcaster) and the Australian Native Plants Society, petitioned successfully for the official proclamation of National Wattle Day in 1992.

Since then a small number of people and organisations have worked to invigorate and grow this national day. They include the Australian National Botanic Gardens, the Wattle Day Association, the National Arboretum Canberra, Southern Tablelands Ecosystems Park (STEP), the ACT government and the National Capital Authority.

This talk gives a brief overview of initiatives and activities undertaken this century to establish National Wattle Day as a unifying celebration for all Australians when 'we share the love we have for this magnificent country and the joy and privilege of being part of it' (Dawn Waterhouse 2020).

Biography

Dr Suzette Searle is President of the Wattle Day Association, an organisation she joined in 2004 after attending a Wattle Day speakers’ program here in this very theatrette organised by the ANBG. Suzette was a scientist with CSIRO Forest Research, specialising in the genetic variation and utilisation of the larger Australian acacias, and a researcher with the ANU Centre for the Public Awareness of Science where she focused on scientist's communication with the general public.

Booking

Lunchtime talks are held at 12.30 pm every Thursday from February to November. Talks last for 1 hour. We welcome donations by gold coins, notes, or electronically. The Friends use donations received at each talk to support Gardens’ programs and development, and thank all those who have donated. 

Unless otherwise indicated, talks are held in the ANBG Theatrette.

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