Herald Federal Flag
1900
In 1900 the Melbourne Evening Herald conducted the first public competition for a “federal” or national flag for Australia. Prize money of £25 sterling was awarded to Mr F. Thompson of Melbourne. The red stripes represent the federation of the six states of Australia. The constellation of the Southern Cross is placed in the fly of the flag. The popularity of the Herald’s competition led to the launching of another competition resulting in the design of Australia’s National Flag.