History

IOQ Motto & Crest

Terram Autem Filiis Hominum (in Latin) means the earth hath He (God) given to the children of men.

The Motto reminds quarry operators of their responsibilities to preserve and optimise the usage of the land given by God and the need to protect the environment surrounding the land.

The Institute’s Coat of Arms was designed at the College of Arms in London and granted in 1958. The College is part of the royal household and it is responsible for both issuing and controlling the use of all armorial bearings through the Laws of Arms.

A Coat of Arms is comprised of three basic elements – a shield, crest (the emblem on top) and motto. More elaborate designs may also have what is known as supporters which are usually either figures, or animals, positioned either side of the shield. Arms of high status, such as may have been granted to a member of the royal family, may have more than one crest.

The Institute’s Coat of Arms is now considered to be a fine example of the period and it is meant to symbolise the origin, aims and scope of the organisation.

Our Crest

	The octagonal stone tower on the shield is in the style of Caernarfon castle (pictured right), the town of the Institute’s birth.
	The two hammers or jads represent the ancient tools of the trade
	The coronet in between is composed of wattle flowers to reflect the link with Australia and the trefoil, or shamrock, with Ireland.
	On top of the helmet is the crest – a quarry face with green-topped overburden surmounted by the Lion of Scotland and in its paws is the key which is recorded as symbolising knowledge and freedom, although it has been advised that it is also representative of the Institute’s commitment to safety.
	A back issue of the Journal records that the latin motto Terram autem filiis hominum was inspired by a quotation from Psalm 115 which reads: “The heaven, even the heavens, are the Lord’s, but the earth he hath given to the children of men.” Latin scholars advise, however, a more meaningful translation is: “The fruits of the earth for the children of men.”