Ever wondered where the international flags that cast a reflection on the central basin of Lake Burley Griffin came from? Well, here’s your answer.
While visiting Questacon and the National Library of Australia, I caught a glimpse of the flags and wondered why they were there.
I did a bit of digging and it turns out the display celebrated its 25th anniversary earlier this year.
The Australian Government’s National Capital Authority (NCA) stated the International Flag Display at Commonwealth Place, at the centre of the National Triangle, acknowledges the international presence in the nation’s capital.
The NCA said the flags were positioned alphabetically, starting with Afghanistan closest to the High Court of Australia and ending with Zimbabwe.
The government department, which plans, promotes, enhances and maintains Canberra, stated the International Flag Display was launched by then-Governor General, the Honourable Sir William Deane in 1999.
A revitalised display, which saw 10 more flags added, was officially opened in 2018 by then-minister for Regional Development, Territories and Local Government, the Honourable Dr John McVeigh.
The more than 100 flags, including those of the European Union and the United Nations, represent the missions with a diplomatic presence in Canberra.
The diplomatic missions, most of which are embassies, are peppered around the ACT in Barton, Kingston, Forrest, Griffith, Yarralumla, Deakin, O’Malley, Red Hill, Turner and New Acton, and the city.
Activities carried out by the diplomats include trade, information, cultural affairs, defence and immigration.
The NCA encourages foreign governments to design their missions to reflect their country’s national architectural style.
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