On 11th November, Loreto Mandeville Hall held a beautifully organised Peace Pole planting ceremony initiated by the Rotary Club of Glenferrie. Despite the inclement weather, the atmosphere remained calm, respectful, and inspiring.
Over 60 students attended, with 17 taking part in delivering key texts as part of the dedication ceremony, led by School Captain Amelia Noonan. School Principal Angela O’Dwyer and Rotary Club of Glenferrie President Helena Wimpole shared prayers and powerful messages of hope for a more peaceful world. The peace pole, which carries the universal message " May Peace Prevail on Earth" inscribed in six languages, is a special gift from the Rotary Club of Glenferrie to Loreto Mandeville Hall as part of the club’s 50th anniversary celebrations. It is a symbol carrying deep significance for both the school community and the broader mission of global peace.
Remarkably, this Peace Pole is the 482nd Peace Pole installed by Rotary in schools and communities throughout Australia - an extraordinary effort to spread the message of
peace, understanding, and compassion across generations. It is now part of a network of more than 300,000 peace pole installed in schools and public places throughout the world. Its presence on campus serves not only as a physical landmark but also as a daily reminder of the values the school strives to instil: respect, kindness, and global citizenship.
The ceremony itself was heartfelt and inspiring. Students, staff and Rotarians gathered to honour the moment, reflect on the meaning of peace, and stand together in hope for a more harmonious world. The event also highlighted the long-standing commitment of Rotary to the pursuit of Peace and Conflict Resolution worldwide.
As the Peace Pole now stands proudly on the grounds of Loreto Mandeville Hall, it represents the school's ongoing commitment for fostering peace — not just in words, but through action, education, and shared values.
Joanne Shentu
Foundation Director
