MEDIA RELEASE

Peace Takes Root at Rosebud Primary School

Rosebud Primary School marked a significant milestone in community spirit and global harmony on Tuesday 31^st March 2026 with the official opening of its newly “planted” Rotary Peace Pole Garden during the school’s annual Open Day. Developed as a joint project between the Rotary Club of Rosebud-Rye and the school, the garden has been developed over 18 months and includes a refreshed garden planted with 150 native shrubs and grasses, which frame the school entrance and a separate area dedicated to the Peace Poles.

The ceremony opened with a special Acknowledgement of Country by the school choir and brought together students, families, educators and distinguished guests, including Past Rotary International World Presidents Jennifer Jones from Canada and more locally, Ian Riseley AM, who jointly unveiled a commemorative plaque to mark the occasion. Their presence underscored the importance of grassroots peace initiatives and the enduring partnership between education and service organisations.

Acting Principal Rhiannon Birkill, Rotarian Gael Traa, Jennifer Jones and her husband Rotary Past District Governor Nick described the extended garden as “a living space for reflection and learning” noting the active involvement of students in its planting and ongoing care and maintenance.

The project, part funded by a Rotary District 9815 grant, features Peace Poles #440 and #441. These symbolic monuments, part of a worldwide movement, carry localised messages as well as a single, repetitive homage for peace, “May peace prevail on earth” serving as a daily reminder of unity, respect and hope for future generations.

The three School Captains shared their thoughts, further commenting that “This garden is more than a physical space, it’s a commitment by our students to be ambassadors of peace in our community and beyond”.

Ian Riseley echoed this sentiment, highlighting Rotary’s long-standing dedication to peacebuilding initiatives worldwide. “Projects like this demonstrate how local communities can contribute to a global vision,” he remarked.

During the ceremony, Jennifer Jones spoke about the power of small actions to create global impact. “Every Peace Pole represents a promise,” she said. “A promise that peace begins with each of us and grows when we work together.”

Attendees were invited to explore the Peace Pole Garden following the unveiling of the plaque with students proudly explaining the meaning behind the inscriptions, some of which were attributed to the school values and others to Rotary and the project.

The Peace Pole Garden is also now officially registered on the global Peace Pole map, allowing people around the world to locate and learn about Rosebud’s contribution to the movement. Click on this link to view our Peace Poles on the Global Map, https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/ac5b03ad46e340cc9298f7509db042fb/page/Page-1 then click on "More info" so that it will zoom in to Rosebud, Victoria.

The event concluded with a sense of optimism and shared purpose, as the school community celebrated not only the success of the project but also the values it represents.

As Rosebud Primary School continues to nurture young minds, its Peace Pole Garden will stand as a lasting symbol of harmony, rooted locally, yet reaching globally.

Contact: Gael Traa – 0417 549 451

Gael.traa@rotary9815.org.au