Why Is It Called Possum Blossom?

Every name has a story, and the story behind Possum Blossom is close to my heart. It’s a
name that carries with it a sprinkle of nostalgia, a deep passion for Australian culture, and a personal
connection to creativity and resilience. If you’re wondering where the inspiration came from, settle
in as I share the story behind the name and everything it represents.

A Book That Shaped a Generation

Back in 1983, a delightful children’s book called Possum Magic by Mem Fox and ARTIST Julie Vivas
was published. It’s not just any book—Possum Magic captured the imagination of countless
Australian children. The story follows two wonderful possums, Hush and Grandma Poss, on a
heartwarming adventure filled with mischief, magic, and some very typically Australian moments.

Julie Vivas’ exquisite watercolour illustrations brought the characters to life in a way that felt so
familiar to anyone growing up in Australia. The soft greens OF eucalyptus leaves, the warm tones of
the landscapes, and the pretty pinks and lilacs of the wildflowers were so different to the usual harsh
colours that had traditionally represented Australia. It’s no wonder Possum Magic went on to
become the best-selling picture book in Australian history, a title it still holds today. Remarkably, it’s
also remained in hardback since its release, something you don’t see with most books that transition
to paperback after a year.

I loved Possum Magic for its whimsy and warmth, but also for its ability to weave Australian culture
into every page. And of course, there’s the delicious part of the book—Hush’s gastronomical tour
around Australia, featuring iconic treats like ANZAC biscuits, lamingtons, and pavlovas. The recipes
tied to those foods have lasted just as long as the story itself. Who wouldn’t want another excuse to
bake some ANZAC biscuits?

Sharing Recipes, Keeping Traditions Alive

The recipes from Possum Magic are more than just instructions for creating sweet treats. They’re a
slice of tradition, passed down from generation to generation. My personal favourite has always
been ANZAC biscuits—an oat-filled delight that’s crisp on the outside and chewy in the middle.

Why Possum Blossom?

When it came to finding a name for my designs, Possum Magic immediately came to mind. The
name Possum Blossom felt like the perfect encapsulation of what I wanted to create—designs that
are unapologetically Australian, filled with vibrancy and joy, overlayed with a little humour courtesy
of Dame Edna, and steeped in a sense of nostalgia. WHETHER’S PINK KANGAROOS OR PALE BLUE
WATTLE – I WANTED A LITTLE MAGIC TOO!

But more than that, Possum Magic inspired me with its storytelling. The two possums in the book,
Grandma Poss and Hush embody resilience and creativity. Whether it’s invisibility spells gone awry
or finding the magic in everyday food, they always find their way through the twists and turns of life.
That spirit of finding solutions, no matter how unconventional they may seem, is something I’ve
always carried with me on my creative journeys.

A Story About Resilience (and a Cat in a Nappy)

Resilience has always been a huge part of my life and work. You learn to deal with the ups and
downs, even when things don’t go as planned. One of my most memorable experiences while
working on the Possum Blossom range is, in hindsight, a little funny—but at the time, it was anything
but.

During this particularly busy period of designing, my 4 YR OLD cat had an unfortunate run-in with a
car and ended up needing my full attention. It involved vet visits, sleepless nights, and—believe it or
not—a cat wearing a nappy. Yes, my furry little friend had to endure what I can only describe as a denim nappy situation while recovering.

There wasn’t a vet on the planet who thought he would reach 10 years old … 16 years later, we celebrated his 20th birthday!

At first, it felt like everything was falling apart. But as I looked after my bedraggled but determined
cat, it hit me—life isn’t about life being perfect; it’s about finding joy in the imperfections. That’s
resilience.

I’ve always wanted to pass on that lesson to my nieces and nephews. I tell them, “Even if life doesn’t
go to plan, if you’re the kid at school with glasses or sticky-out ears, or if you’re a little munted like
my cat, you can still be happy and achieve amazing things.” THAT’S RESILIENCE

That silly but heartwarming experience of learning to adjust and find joy despite challenges is at the
core of Possum Blossom’s message. We celebrate the quirks, the creativity, and the small wins that
make life wonderful.

The Legacy of a Name

Naming my designs Possum Blossom wasn’t just a choice; it was a way to honour the things that
shaped me and my creative spirit. From the magic of childhood stories in Possum Magic to the
lessons learned from life’s unexpected twists, the name encapsulates everything I want my work to
stand for.

When you pick up a Possum Blossom piece—whether it’s a fine bone translucent china mug that
glows in the light or a brightly coloured neoprene drink cooler—you’re not just holding a product.
You’re holding a little slice of Australia, a dash of creativity, and a story of resilience and joy.