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MESSAGE: AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL FLAG DAY 2006
Australian National Flag Day, on provides a special opportunity to celebrate
the significance and symbolism of the Australian National Flag. On this day,
we commemorate the occasion on which the flag that became the Australian
National Flag was first flown.
On 3 September 1901, Prime Minister Edmund Barton announced the result of
an open competition to select a flag for our newly federated nation. From more
than 32,000 entries, first prize was awarded to five almost identical designs
submitted by five very different individuals. Since its conception, the
Australian National Flag has captured the imagination of the Australian public.
The symbolism of its design continues to resonate.
In the 105 years since it was first unfurled, the Australian National Flag has
been embraced by the Australian people and has become an expression of
Australian identity. Today, it is flown at community buildings, business
premises and private homes. It is carried in processions, waved at parades and
even worn to sporting events. It acts as a popular focus of pride in times of
celebration and a powerful symbol of unity in times of sorrow.
I warmly encourage my fellow Australians to celebrate our foremost national
symbol and to mark Australian National Flag Day by flying or displaying the
Australian National Flag on 3 September.
(John Howard) |
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Flag Day
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