Mosman Historical Society presents:
Slippery Symbols of Australia by Richard White
Associate Professor Richard White will discuss symbols that shape how Australians see themselves as a nation. From Uluru to the Australian flag, the rainbow serpent to the FJ Holden, the southern cross to the democracy sausage, the Akubra to the Great Barrier Reef, these symbols are often inspiring, occasionally embarrassing, always revealing. Yet while we often think of them as fixed, it is surprising how much they have changed over time – capturing everything from our national dignity to our everyday dagginess.
About the speaker
Richard taught Australian history and the history of travel and tourism at the University of Sydney for 23 years. He is well known as an authority on national identity, tourism and popular culture. His publications include the books Inventing Australia, The Oxford Book of Australian Travel Writing, Cultural History in Australia, On Holidays: A History of Getting Away in Australia and Symbols of Australia: Imagining a Nation (co-edited with Melissa Harper). He is also a RAHS Councillor.
Event details
When: Wednesday, 8 April 2026 at 7.00 pm. Please arrive promptly.
Where: Mosman Library, 605 Military Rd, Mosman NSW 2088.
Admission: Members Free | Visitors $5 donation.
RSVP: Email davidcarment@me.com by Monday, 6 April 2026.
Please join members of the Mosman Historical Society for refreshments and a chat after the talk.
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