1996 and 2026 Peace Poles
SPECIAL PROJECT 1996 and 2026 Peace Poles
Peace Poles stand in a tradition that began in the years after the Second World War, when Japanese peace advocate and founder of the World Peace Prayer Society. Masahisa Goi created the Peace Pole project in 1955 with the simple but profound message “May Peace Prevail on Earth.”
Rotary has played a significant role in bringing that message of peace into schools and communities across Australia. Today there are over 600 Peace Poles in every state and territory.
Pascoe Vale Rotary is dedicated to community service and promoting peace through the distribution of internationally recognised Peace Poles to local schools and community groups.
To mark 50 years of local and global service, Pascoe Vale Rotary club has now set a goal of planting 50 Peace Poles in schools and community spaces in partnership with local councils, schools, local organisations and Rotary Clubs.
Reference (Abridged) : 2026 Changeover Bulletin, Debrorah D’Aprano
Peace Pole 1996
One of our proudest moments was our acceptance of a Peace Pole from Japan, through David D’Aprano (brother of Bruno) and the Goshin Kendo Organisation. Akinon and Mizzuma of the World Peace Prayer Society, made a lightning visit to Australia to present this highly regarded symbol of peace. Thanks to Bruno for his efforts in securing a prominent place at the Australian Grand Prix in Albert Park, Melbourne, for the Peace Pole. It is hoped that this is the first of many such placements to advertise its message “May Peace Prevail on Earth.
Reference: 1995-1996 Changeover bulletin. International Report, Chair Alex Di Rienzo
Footnote; Following the Australian Grand Prix in 1996 the Peace Pole was located at the entrance to Northern Memorial Park.
Peace Poles, 2025-26
Pascoe Vale Rotary Club is on a mission of peace by installing 50 Peace Poles in 50 schools and community locations. Each Peace Pole shares the message “May Peace Prevail on Earth” in four languages chosen by the participating community, reflecting the diversity and unity of the people it represents.
The Fawkner Primary school proudly embraced the opportunity to affirm their commitment to peace. This initiative was made possible through the generous sponsorship of the Nelson Alexander Foundation represented by Jason Russo. Rotarians gathered alongside Kathleen Mathews Ward. MP for Broadmeadows, and members of the Fawkner Primary school community to stand together in support of peace: at school, throughout the community, and across the world.
Congratulations to Principal Rose Arena, the dedicated staff, students and families who participated in this meaningful event with such pride. May Peace Prevail at Fawkner Primary School and Beyond.
Reference. Rotary Club of Pascoe Website, 3 December 2025
Peace Poles Installed to 1 July 2026
1. Bellevue Park Primary School donated by Broadmeadows Rotary Club
2. St Oliver Plunket Primary School donated by Anthony Cianflone
3. Pascoe Vale North Primary School donated by Nelson Alexander Foundation
4. Fawkner Primary School donated by Nelson Alexander Foundation
5. Glenroy Secondary College donated by Nelson Alexander Foundation
6. St Francis De Salle Primary School donated by Nelson Alexander Foundation
7. St Fidelis Primary School donated by Nelson Alexander Foundation
6 & 9 Merri-bek Interfaith Community donated by Merri-bek City Council
10. Sussex House Community Centre donated Merri-bek City Council
11. Rotary District 9790 Conference Joint Project: Pascoe Vale, Coburg, Moreland
12. Coburg West Primary School donated by Anthony Cianflone
13. Pascoe Vale Primary School donated by Nelson Alexander Foundation
14. Antonine College – Cedar Campus donated by peter Khalil MP
15. Antonine College – St Joseph’s donated by peter Khalil MP
16. Pascoe Vale Girls College donated by C m Residential
17. Rogers Reserve, Pascoe Vale donated by Pascoe Vale rotary Club
18. Rogers Reserve, Pascoe Vale donated by Cameo Memorials