Wattle is for hope

This is the time of year when the wattle starts to flower, in the bush, along the roadsides and in our gardens. It’s Australia’s national flower, and it features on our national crest. It reflects the national colours, green and gold. Dr Google tells us that there are nearly 1000 species of wattle growing in Australia. Also that the Queen owns a spectacular diamond wattle brooch (we gave it to her in 1954), and wattle flowers featured on her coronation dress.
 
All that aside, it’s always cheering when the wattle appears. It's a symbol of hope, which the world seems to need right now.