Flower Power

A rose by any other name would smell as sweet, goes the quote from Shakespeare, but a bouquet’s fragrance fades somewhat when you consider that the majority of flowers sold here are imported from developing countries where working conditions are less than ideal. That’s no reason to stop buying blooms, but you may like to do a bit of digging about where your favourite flowers are sourced. As part of Fair Trade Fortnight, you can find out more about Australia’s first Fairtrade certified blooms, Instant Karma Roses, via an exhibition at Melbourne’s Federation Square. Power of the Social Flower takes place from May 5-12 at the Fracture Gallery and offers consumers a chance to stop and smell the roses while learning more about Fair Trade. Other events during the Fortnight in Melbourne include a market and Mother’s Day high tea, while Sydneysiders are invited to celebrate ethical trading with a fair trade pop-up shop in Oxford St, Paddington May 3-19. Check the Fair Trade Fortnight website for other events happening right around the country!