The Mace

The Mace is the symbol of the authority of Senate.

It is of wrought silver with a shaft of polished hardwood. Emblazoned in gold on the head are the Royal Coat of Arms, the Arms of the Colony of New South Wales and those of the University of Sydney, with decorative motifs employing the rose, the thistle and the shamrock filling the intervening spaces.

The surrounding feature is a Royal Crown, below which is the motto DOCTRINA PARET VIRTUTEM (may teaching promote virtue).

The Mace, which was made in NSW by Brush and McDonnell, was acquired in the name and on behalf of Queen Victoria through the Governor of New South Wales, Sir Charles Fitz Roy, in 1854. Senate met the cost of the Mace out of the revenue derived from student fees.

On official occasions it is normally carried in procession before the Chancellor by the Esquire Bedell.

The Mace, photo, University of Sydney Archives.

Click here for photos of the Mace in academic processions.