Boxing Kangaroo

The boxing kangaroo was the symbol for the successful 1983 Australian challenge for the America's Cup. The Boxing Kangaroo flag, a red-gloved golden kangaroo on a green background, was flown from Australia II. Alan Bond (owner of the Australia II yacht) owned the image and licensed it for mass production.

The image was bought by the Australian Olympic Committee and the Australian Olympic Team carried a boxing kangaroo toy at the Opening ceremony of the 2000 Sydney Olympics. The mascot was also used by the 2004 Australian Olympic team.

The boxing kangaroo symbol was first used in the airforce. The design was inspired by a travelling boxing show which had kangaroos boxing with men. During 1941 boxing kangaroos were stencilled on Australian fighter aeroplanes of the 21st squadron based in Singapore and Malaya.

External references

• Australia Post: stamp history of Boxoing Kangaroo character
• July 2004 article in The Age on the use of the symbol for 2004 Australian Olympic Team
• cached article stating the flag's designer was an airman
• Australian airforce – history of no. 21 squadron