Letter to the Editor: No change of flag

DEAR News Of The Area,

I REFER to Margaret England’s letter (6 February) about changing the date of Australia Day and the flag.

Recent polling about such change found that almost 80 percent of those surveyed wanted to retain the status quo.

I think with the flag it is not the actual components (Union Jack etc) most people see, but the whole comforting vision.

My father, as a young guy, like many others, fought under this flag in New Guinea.

He went as a carpenter then quickly transferred to Artillery and finished as a Paramedic.

In situations like this, how comforting to have mates and a visual symbol as encouragement under horrific circumstances.

I have convict ancestors, one of whom was a 14-year-old girl who was transported to Australia after stealing money to buy food (there was a drought in England at the time and no food for commoners).

Margaret, don’t you think people like me would want a new flag etc?

My husband’s family lived under occupation in Holland for many years before migrating to Australia.

They loved Australia then, and still do, and all that goes with it, like the flag.

Many things have happened in the past, good and bad, but we all must move on.

Try to live peacefully but without forgetting, and learn from mistakes but be proud of all the good things.

Most Aussies are such wonderful people – helping out, generous and courageous.

Let’s stick with the flag and date.

Warm regards,
Merrin VAN DARTEL,
Sawtell.