Summary

Wattle Day badge created to raise awareness and funds for child care in Australia.

The first 'national' Wattle Day was celebrated in Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide on 1 September 1910. Wattle had become a symbol of Australia with the approach of Federation. Public support for Wattle Day peaked during World War I; Wattle Day badges and wattle sprigs were sold as a means of raising money for social organisation, such as the Red Cross. The importance of Wattle Day waned as the 20th century progressed, but in 1992 the Governor-General re-confirmed that a national Wattle Day would be held every 1 September.

This badge belonged to Amy Turner, a member of the Uniting Church. Amy had a strong commitment to social justice. Her small collection of badges and mementos captures some of the campaigns she championed, as well as other events that took place in Melbourne during her lifetime.

Physical Description

Round metal badge with plasticized cover printed with a sprig of wattle against a purple background. Text printed in yellow and white.

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