Australian Aboriginal Flag | Ethos

Aboriginal Flag

Designed and created by artist Harold Thomas in 1971, the Aboriginal flag has become a symbol of representation, solidarity and reflection. The image itself pays homage to the ochre earth – a constant source of nourishment for the world’s oldest civilisation -, the black representing the Aboriginal people, and the yellow sun – the giver of life and protection.

We are proud to fly the flag above Encore. We acknowledge that we meet on unceded sovereign lands of the Boon Wurrung and Woi Wurrung peoples of the Kulin Nation. We thank those before us who nurtured the land and we offer our respect to the Elders of these lands, and to all First Nations people who reside here.

Always was, always will be…

Flag of the Torres Strait Islanders | Ethos

Torres Strait Islander Flag

The late Bernard Namok designed the Torres Strait Islander flag as a symbol of their deep connection to the land, sea and sky. Here we see the colours green – representing the fertile lands -, black for the indigenous peoples, blue for the ocean and its gifts, and white for peace.

The central motif is the Dhari or Dhoeri, the ceremonial headdress of the Torres Strait Islanders, symbolising their identity and unity. The Dhari or Dhoeri crowns a five-pointed star, representing the five island groups within the Torres Strait. The star is also a universal symbol for seafaring people as it is used in navigation.

We pay our respects to Torres Strait Islanders as the traditional custodians of the lands and seas where we live, learn and work. Always was, always will be…

australia flag | Ethos

AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL FLAG

First flown in 1901 following a national design competition, the Australian National Flag represents the shared history, values and evolving identity of our nation. Its elements reflect Australia’s foundations and aspirations: the Union Jack acknowledges our historical ties, the Commonwealth Star symbolises the unity of Australia’s states and territories, and the Southern Cross reflects our place in the world and the skies that guide us.

For many, the Australian flag represents community, resilience and the freedom to live, work and gather together. It stands for the diverse cultures, stories and experiences that shape modern Australia, and the ongoing responsibility we share to build a more inclusive and respectful future.

We fly the Australian flag alongside the Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and Pride Progress flags to recognise that Australia’s identity is layered and living. One that honours the world’s oldest continuing cultures, celebrates diversity and acknowledges that respect, inclusion and reconciliation are essential to who we are and who we strive to be.

pride flag | Ethos

Pride Progress Flag

We proudly display Daniel Quasar’s pride flag as a symbol of our solidarity with our LGBTQI+ family. All MHP venues are proud to be an equal opportunity venue. A haven that welcomes and employs everyone, regardless of race, age, creed, religion, colour, gender or sexuality. The right-facing arrow of Quasar’s flag represents an acknowledgment that there is still progress to be made; a sentiment that resonates deeply with us and our ethos.