Institutions Close to Home

Mowing one’s grandmother’s lawn on a warm Autumn’s afternoon is not generally the situation that evokes an analysis of an institution’s impact on a culture’s development. However, as my gaze lowered I began  to realise that the piece of equipment I was using formed a prominent pillar in Australian  culture: the Victa lawnmower.

The Victa lawnmower was conceived in 1952 by Mervyn Victor Richardson out of spare parts and a peach tin.  It was not the first petrol lawnmower, but it was the smallest and most usable of its time.

Victor’s invention became engrained in Australian culture. In the Sydney 2000 Olympics,  an  entire segment of the opening ceremony was devoted to the Victa.

When the term ‘institution’ is used, a certain sense of distrust is evoked  at these often  impassionate entities. However, the fact remains, institutions; be they companies, belief systems or laws can become a beloved part of culture.

Nostalgia plays a prominent role in this phenomenon.

Take, for example, the ABC. In recent years, the shows that aired during the late 90s and early 2000s have developed a  huge fan  base in older viewers who hold such programming close to their hearts. The institution of the ABC has managed to become an integral part of their upbringing.