School unveils symbol of peace

MAY peace prevail on earth.

These words are written on a newly unveiled peace pole installed in the yard of Phoenix P-12 Community College’s grade 5-6 village.

The pole has been donated by Let’s Talk Peace Ballarat with the Rotary Club of Ballarat South, and Compassionate Ballarat steering group member Dr Lynne Reeder said it’s symbolic of a school-wide and broader community commitment to local and global peace.

Grade 6 pupil, David, was one Phoenix’s speakers, who shared his perspective on the meaning of peace and harmony.

“Peace is not fighting with your classmates, and always being kind to others,” he said.

“It can also be helping others when they are in need. In peaceful places we feel safe, and we can commit to being peaceful by respecting others’ ideas.

“We can also bring peace in the community by doing the right thing. If we speak nicely to others and include them in our lives, we will be peaceful people.”

Phoenix College principal Karen Snibson said the meaning behind the pole complements the caring nature of the next generation, particularly the school’s junior leaders, who have been part of the project.

“I could not think of a more important time to say that the custodians of peace in our society are absolutely sitting here; our young people,” she said.

“It gives me great faith and great hope knowing we have young people like you dedicated to promoting peace and harmony in our community, not just here in Sebastopol, Redan, Delacombe, and Ballarat, but beyond.

“People like you are going to leave the world in a better place. We are proud of you.”

Alongside English, the Wadawurrung, Mandarin and Ukrainian languages are also featured on the pole.