and Sinister, figure on the right representing ‘Prosperity’. The compartment consists of the pink form of the Common Heath (epacris impressa labill), “pink heath” which is situated on a grassy mound. This provides base for both the supporters and the shield. Blazon The first arms authorised by King George V on 6 June 1910 included a formal description, or blazon of the arms. This was as follows: Symbolism The Crux Australis, more commonly known as the Southern Cross is considered to be Australia’s oldest symbol. Although the Southern Cross has had many different meanings, the symbol has been used since 1823 to represent Australia. The symbol is found on the Australian National flag. One of the designers of the flag, Ivor William Evans at age 14, intended for the Southern Cross to represent the four cardinal values by Dante: prudence, temperance, justice and fortitude. This constellation of five stars can only be seen within the southern hemisphere, uniting Australians under the same sky. Supposedly deriving from the customs of ancient Greece, the olive branch held upon by Dexter is a symbol of peace. This symbol is coupled by the word ‘Peace’, hence together symbolising peace. The cornucopia represents the abundance and nourishment that was provided to the ancient Greek god, Zeus, the king of gods during his infant years. This symbol consists of a goat’s horn overflowing with an abundant supply of nourishment. Half of the motto, ‘Prosperity’ is represented through Sinister supporting the horn of plenty. The symbolic languages of flora such as pink heath was originally a reflection of the Enlightenment’s interests in astronomy and natural history. During the meeting of representatives of Victorian government departments, societies, and individuals in 1951, it was declared that the pink heath be adopted as the official floral emblem for the state of Victoria. The desire for the flower to represent the state is a part of colonial habit of deference. Governor Dallas Brooks had made the proclamation 12 November 1958. This was as follows: The Victorian Coat of Arms is composed of colours that correspond to those used in the Victorian State tartan. Historically, tartans were used as an everyday garb which eventually developed into a symbol of clan kinship. The Victorian State tartan is an emblem that officially represents the state. The tartan was designed after the arms by Betty Johnson in November 1998. The colours of the tartan include