Resurrected Icons: Australia’s Last Flamingos Shine as Symbols of Pride

In a stunning display of restoration and homage, Australia’s last two flamingos have been revived to take center stage as symbols of pride.

Once thought lost to time, Chile and Greater, the last of their kind in Australia, have been meticulously brought back to life through the artistry of taxidermists. Their vibrant presence will grace the halls of the SA Museum as part of the esteemed Feast festival.

Australia’s affinity with these majestic creatures dates back to the days when flamingos roamed the outback, their pink plumage a striking contrast against the vast landscapes. However, the passage of time and the chill of the last ice age brought an end to their wild existence, relegating them to the confines of zoos.

Greater, a resilient soul who arrived on Australian shores in the 1930s, captured hearts with his longevity, surviving not only the ravages of time but also the cruelty of human hands. Despite a brutal attack that left him injured and blind, he endured, becoming a beloved figure in his own right.

Chile, the last flamingo standing, gracefully navigated her twilight years until her recent passing in 2018, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and grace.

With a ban on importing flamingos due to biosecurity concerns, the SA Museum took on the monumental task of preserving these iconic birds for future generations. Under the skilled hands of taxidermy specialist Jo Bain, Chile and Greater were transformed, their delicate features and vibrant hues meticulously recreated.

The decision to feature these restored treasures at the Feast festival not only celebrates their beauty but also honors their significance as symbols of resilience and inclusion. Adopted by the LGBTQIA+ community as emblems of pride, their presence serves as a reminder of the power of unity in the face of adversity.

As Flinders University vertebrate paleontologist Trevor Worthy reflects on the ancient history of these creatures, their legacy echoes through the ages. From the vast expanses of Lake Eyre to the winding riverbeds, flamingos once thrived in harmony with their surroundings, their presence a testament to the enduring spirit of Australia’s natural world.