Historical information

This artwork was found among items associated with the Ballarat School of Mines. Although its purpose remains unknown, it was possibly painted by a staff member or student for use on Wattle Day.

Wattle Day originated in October 1889 by the Wattle Blossom League, and was associated with the Australian Natives Association during the lead up to the Federation of Australian States. The first 'national' Wattle Day was celebrated on 1 September 1910. Early Wattle Days involved planting wattle trees in school grounds, street decorations of wattle blossom, and wearing sprigs of wattle.

As public support for Wattle Day peaked, World War I broke out. Wattle took on a new significance during the war years, symbolising home for military personnel serving overseas. Beautifully designed Wattle Day badges, as well as wattle sprigs, were sold as a means of raising money for organisations such as the Red Cross.


This item is part of the Federation University Art Collection. The Art Collection features over 1000 works and was listed as a 'Ballarat Treasure' in 2007.

Physical description

The Australian coat of arms with wattle, painted onto canvas.