Our newest member to QWaLC is the Queensland Wattle Association Inc. (QWA) who are dedicated to the celebration of wattle in Queensland.
Wattle is more than just a tree with blossom – Wattle blooms across all Queensland regions and is strongly linked to Queensland’s unique history. Wattle is the Green and Gold of our national sports teams and our National Floral Emblem -it is a unifying symbol for all Australians.
QWA began as an informal group six years ago auspiced by Open Minds (formerly the Queensland Wattle Day League (QWDL) established in 1912) and the Wattle Day Association. Having decided it was time to’ go on their own’, they became incorporated in Feb 2025. On the recommendation of Sue Akeroyd Chair of Myall Park Botanic Garden Ltd – another QWaLC member – they joined QWaLC for insurance and support.
In the past, QWDL raised funds primarily by selling sprigs of wattle in city and town streets. Today the QWDL is known as Open Minds, a specialist provider of mental health and disability services, which is very proud of its wattle history. When soldiers returned from World War one, the QWDL diverted it fundraising to the building or an orthopaedic ward at the Rosemount Hospital (now a part of the Royal Brisbane and Women’s) and the provision of artificial limbs.
The key aspirations of today’s Queensland Wattle Association Inc. are to:
- To promote the Australian National Floral Emblem, the Golden Wattle (Acacia pycnantha), as a symbol that celebrates and unifies all Australians
- Promote the celebration of National Wattle Day – 1 September each year
- To promote the celebration of wattle (Acacia) by the people of Queensland and across wider Australia
- To promote public appreciation of wattle varieties, as well as scientific, horticultural, artistic, literary, educational and historical interest throughout Queensland and wider Australia
- To promote the planting and cultivation of a wide range of wattle varieties in gardens, parks, botanic gardens for the enjoyment of all Queenslanders and the wider Australian communities.
QWA is encouraging people to plant wattles in parks, gardens and streets NOW to ensure green and gold displays for 2032 Brisbane Olympics!
In 2025 Queensland Water and Land Carers celebrate 21 years on August 30 https://qwalc.org.au/qwalc-21st-celebrations/