Peace Pole Michael Shelley Way, Oxenford, on the Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia.
February 22, 2026
We held our Rotary Peace Pole ceremony on Sunday, February 22nd, so it was as close as possible to Rotary’s anniversary (Feb 23rd). We celebrated the dedication of our Peace Pole on Sunday, 22 February 2026. As our Club President, Gareth Hunt, mentioned in his opening comments, we gathered in a place that already carries deep meaning. Damian Leeding Memorial Park is named in honour of a local police officer who gave his life in the line of duty protecting others. His courage, service, and sacrifice are woven into the spirit of our community.
A Peace Pole is simple in its form, yet powerful in its message – May Peace Prevail On Earth. To reflect the diversity of our community, this peace pole is inscribed in 6 languages: English, Yugambeh, Maori, Mandarin, Braille, and Auslan. It stands in a park where families gather, where children play, where people walk, reflect and remember. It stands as a quiet but enduring call for all of us to choose respect over division, dialogue over anger and unity over fear.
We are now asking our community to let us know what languages they would like to see on our next Peace Pole. Thanks to the support of our local council, we have the opportunity to create another space for peace in our community.
Kind regards
Lisa Hunt
District Foundation Chair 2025-2028
Rotary International District 9640