The search has begun for a new floral emblem that perfectly represents Brisbane almost 100 years after the city council was first formed.
Lord Mayor, Adrian Schrinner said the current emblem – the red poinsettia – was first chosen in 1930, but it was now time to look for a native species that embodies the city of Brisbane.
“Brisbane is the best place to live, work and relax and we are well known for our fantastic outdoor lifestyle,” Cr Schrinner said.
“This year I am calling on all budding floral enthusiasts to help select Brisbane a new native floral emblem to sit alongside the poinsettia.”
The red poinsettia was chosen in 1930, but it is native to Mexico.
“While it adds a splash of colour and grows well in our climate I think we can do better about find a plant that reflects Brisbane’s local environment,” the Lord Mayor said.
“As Brisbane continues to evolve and prepare for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, it’s the perfect time for residents to have their say and introduce a second native floral emblem.”
Cr Schrinner said while some residents may be quick to suggest the jacaranda as the new emblem, it is in fact not native.
“While the Jacaranda is beautiful, it is not a native species and I think the new emblem must be native,” he said.
“The poinsettia was chosen almost 100 years ago, and I want the residents of our city today to help choose the native floral emblem that will represent us going forward.”
The first step in this process will be community consultation with input from residents and local gardening groups to put forward suggestions on Brisbane’s second floral emblem.
After that a shortlist of native species will be put to residents to vote for what the species they think best represents the city.
“I’m looking forward to seeing what the community comes up with and introducing a new native floral emblem to represent our city for many years to come,” Cr Schrinner said.
To have your say and submit your favourite native species for consideration visit www.brisbane.qld.gov.au or call Council on (07) 3403 8888.
The second floral emblem will join Brisbane’s coat of arms, Council logo, flag and faunal emblems as official symbols used by Council to represent the City of Brisbane. In 2019, the iconic koala joined the tree frog as an additional faunal emblem, with both animals representing Brisbane’s local environment and wildlife.
