Peace Pole creates lasting legacy on Bundaberg campus

By Jayde Redgen

A new Peace Pole has been unveiled at CQUniversity's Bundaberg campus, creating a lasting symbol of peace, respect and unity while connecting local Year 8 students to a community-led legacy project.

The installation formed part of the University's Year 8 Day and was made possible through the support of Rotary Club of Bundaberg Sunrise, which sponsored the Peace Pole and revitalisation of the campus memorial garden.

Students joined community volunteers to help revitalise the space by planting native species and contributing to a project that will continue to grow for future students and visitors.

The site has a long history on campus. Originally established by the Rotary Club of Bundaberg East as an international friendship project, the garden recognised relationships between Bundaberg's sister city, Settsu in Japan, and Seoul Namdaemun in South Korea.

The recent revitalisation brought together Rotary Club of Bundaberg Sunrise, Burnett Catchment Care Association (Landcare), local schools and CQUniversity to create a space celebrating environmental stewardship, cultural understanding and community collaboration.

The project also continues the legacy of the original friendship garden, which was established as a memorial to Peter Zielke and as a symbol of international friendship.

Rotary Bundaberg Sunrise President Richard Williams said the Peace Pole was a fitting addition to the revitalised garden and an opportunity to build on the site's history.

"When CQUniversity approached us about restoring the Rotary garden, we saw an opportunity to build on its history while creating something meaningful for future generations," Mr Williams said.

"With local Year 8 students helping to establish the garden, the project reinforces the idea that today's young people are tomorrow's leaders and that peace is a value that should be nurtured from an early age.

The Peace Pole serves as a symbol of peace and unity, while the broader project highlights the value of community partnerships. Schools, Rotary, Landcare and CQUniversity worked together to restore the site and create a lasting legacy for future generations.

CQUniversity Future Students Coordinator Shelley Pisani said unveiling the Peace Pole during Year 8 Day added a deeper sense of meaning to the event.

"Unveiling the Peace Pole during Year 8 Day sends a powerful message to our future students," Ms Pisani said.

"We want young people to feel welcome on campus and to see themselves as part of a community that values respect, inclusivity and making a positive contribution to the world around them.

"This project is a wonderful example of what can be achieved when schools, community organisations and the University come together around a shared purpose. It helps foster a sense of belonging while encouraging young people to recognise the positive impact they can have in their local communities."

Ms Pisani said the project was also about helping students build a lasting connection with CQUniversity and the Bundaberg region.

"Many of these students will return to campus in future years through programs in Years 10 and 12, and some may eventually return as CQUniversity students," she said.

"By contributing to a project that will continue to grow and flourish, they're encouraged to see this as their university and a place where they belong."

The Peace Pole Project brings together schools, community organisations and CQUniversity around a shared commitment to peace, respect and belonging, creating a legacy that future students and visitors can continue to enjoy for years to come.