3rd November 2006 - Tom Keneally's launch of John's new book - Remembering Aboriginal Heroes at Kincoppal.
Coauthored with Christopher Mooney (left of photo). John Ramsland presenting Russell Saunders' work of Stingray and babies (Belarn eoori) to the principal of Kinkoppal Mrs Hilary Johnston-Croke.
Stephen Berry's Sunburnt Flag is a most evocative and eloquent expression of symbols central to Australia's history, aptly demonstrating that the past is never dead and, indeed, part and parcel of our future. It draws together the many logos of the rising sun found scattered throughout our society, expressing the idea that Australia is an interesting refreshing place where everything is before it - and yet of working together towards a better future.
The rising yellow sun reminds me particularly of the famous hat badge of the AIF and the banner logo of the Sydney Sun - the chariot riding towards us out of the flaming sun, designed just after the Great War by the paper's resident artist, a Scot who had served and survived on the western front.
The red symbolizes the vastness and mystery of the continent and tells us that the Aborigines were the original custodians of the soil, that we are all custodians together as Australians. The deep blue is both the dawning night sky and the deep oceans that surround our shores. The vibrant Southern Cross emphasizes our sense of place in the Southern Hemisphere, the clearness of our skies. The red and yellow, as well as being the colours of our amateur life-saving movement, symbolize our commitment to community and the safety of everyone.
Above all, the flag evokes the joy of belonging.
John Ramsland, OAM. Emeritus Professor of History