 Eureka flag (courtesy of Ballarat Tourism) |
A motley band of many nationalities, the gold diggers had in vain protested against taxation without representation. The Eureka Stockade, Australia’s only organised insurrection, paved the way for true democracy and the rebels’ tattered blue-and-white Southern Cross flag remains a potent symbol of protest for all Australians. In the words of Mark Twain, “It was a revolution… a victory won by a lost battle”
Continuing to prosper from gold, the city of Ballarat boasts a rich lode of historic lore. At the Sovereign Hill pioneer township, the gold rush era has been faithfully recreated. Stage coaches clatter down a main street lined with weatherboard storefronts, taverns and workshops, all fully operational; at midday, the redcoats march in formation to present arms.
Continuing to prosper from gold, the city of Ballarat boasts a rich lode of historic lore.
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