Celebrating Wattle Day
At Open Minds
Monday, 1 September 2025
As the golden blooms of the wattle begin to brighten our landscapes, we at Open Minds are proud to celebrate National Wattle Day, a day that symbolises unity, resilience, and renewal. More than just a beautiful and vibrant flower, the wattle is a powerful symbol of the Australian spirit and a timely reminder of the values we hold dear in our work and community.
What is National Wattle Day?
National Wattle Day is celebrated annually on 1 September, marking the beginning of spring in Australia. It was officially proclaimed in 1992, but its roots go back much further, with various states celebrating the day as early as the late 1800s. The golden wattle (Acacia pycnantha), Australia’s national flower, was chosen for its hardiness, adaptability, and vibrant beauty, qualities that reflect the strength and diversity of our nation.
The day is about more than just flowers, it’s a celebration of Australian identity, community spirit, and optimism. The wattle’s ability to thrive in tough conditions and regenerate after bushfires makes it a symbol of resilience and hope—values that resonate deeply with the work we do at Open Minds.
Why Wattle Day Matters to Open Minds
At Open Minds, we support people living with mental illness and disability to live the life they choose. The symbolism of the wattle—resilience, renewal, and unity—aligns beautifully with our mission. Just as the wattle blooms after adversity, we believe in the potential for growth and recovery in every individual.
Wattle Day is also a reminder of the importance of connection and community. Whether it’s through our services, advocacy, or partnerships, we strive to build inclusive environments where everyone feels valued and supported. Celebrating Wattle Day is a way for us to reflect on our shared purpose and the strength we find in working together.
How You Can Celebrate Wattle Day
There are many ways to get involved and bring the spirit of Wattle Day to life—whether at work, at home, or in your community. Here are some ideas to inspire you:
At Work
- Wear a splash of yellow or green to show your support.
- Decorate your workspace with wattle-themed art or fresh blooms.
- Host a morning tea with wattle-inspired treats and share stories of resilience and hope.
- Start a conversation about what resilience means to you and your team.
In the Community
- Plant a wattle tree in your garden or local park.
- Support local artists or florists who feature wattle in their work.
- Join a community clean-up or tree-planting event to give back to the environment.
For more ideas, check out the Top 100 Ways to Celebrate National Wattle Day.
Happy Wattle Day from all of us at Open Minds!