Townsville celebrates Australian Flag’s 120th birthday at special event
Date published: 3 September 2021
The Australian Flag is a familiar icon which brings people together under a united symbol and Townsville City Council is hosting a ceremonial event today to mark its 120th birthday.
Deputy Mayor Mark Molachino said the Australian National flag had particular significance for the city.
“Many people are not aware that Townsville played a significant role in the nations history as the city who hosted the first Vice-Regal raising of the flag, just 13 days after it was first unveiled,” Cr Molachino said.
“The Australian Flag has become a symbol that brings people together to celebrate who we are as a country.
“The flag brings with it over a century’s worth of history and represents all Australians. It has come to and pay respect to the contributions of past and current generations and Council is proud to recognise this symbol on Australian National Flag Day.”
Cr Molachino said 2021 was also significant for the Australian Aboriginal Flag.
“This year also marks the 50th anniversary for the Australian Aboriginal Flag,” he said.
“The Australian Aboriginal flag also provides a significant symbol of unity, connection to country and resilience for Indigenous Australians.”
Australia was the first country to hold an open public competition to choose the countries National Flag as well as being the only national flag to fly over an entire continent.
At the time of the public competition to design the National Flag, there were more than 32,800 entries to choose from. The final design was flown on the 3 September 1901.
Townsville City Council will hold a Flag Day ceremony on Australian National Flag Day today from 10am.
