Southern Crossed

White Ensign, Anyone?

This size 14, polyester/cotton piece was turned up in the U.S.A. - unusual, we might think, but then again I imagine that the majority of country specific souvenir t-shirts would be intended to ultimately leave the country of origin. Makes sense, right? But I am still left with the question of whether this was a stock standard, run of the mill, Aussie souvenir from the 70's or early 80's. Its World Series Cricket styled 70's bog simplicity makes me think it still could be - its lack of
unashamed 80's hideousness could sway me to t'other side. Some doubt is sown by its striking similarity to the White Ensign...and here's the USA connection.

Royal Assent for the Australian White Ensign (Union Jack and blue stars on a white background) was granted in 1966. In the sixties the Australian Navy had sought permission for a distinctly Australian flag of its own. In part, this was due to Australia's commitment to the Vietnam War - an action significant in it's lack of British involvement and reafirmation of the close Australia-USA alliance. Old ties severed. Out with the monocle, plus fours & tweeds - in with the Ray Ban, Levi's and t's. We gained simple beauties like this t-shirt and lost the Sao, Esky and Ugg. Fair exchange? Well, we do now have 'new' Vegemite so I guess we won that little exchange.