TILLIGERRY Lions Club and community members gathered to celebrate the completion of the Peace Garden and the installation of the region’s first Peace Pole — a project years in the making and now unveiled in a moving dedication on Saturday, 26 September.
Under clear skies and a high tide that made the foreshore look spectacular, Worimi Elder Aunty Lorraine Lilley opened the ceremony with a heartfelt Welcome to Country, described as “very personal … connecting with everyone that was there.”
Councillor Jason Wells attended on behalf of Port Stephens Council, reading the 2026 International Message of Peace from the United Nations Secretary‑General.
Lions members were joined by residents, families, and Year 10 students from Hunter River High School, who helped construct the garden bed and install the pole with teacher Ben Howard.
The Peace Pole — sourced from Adelaide and freighted to Tilligerry free of charge by a member’s son — carries the message May Peace Prevail On Earth in English, Cantonese and Gathang (Worimi).
Peace Poles form part of an international movement dating back to the aftermath of WWII, and Tilligerry’s installation is believed to be one of only three in NSW.
Project Manager Lew Laing, assisted by Lions Kevin Colman, Rod Starr and president Pat Gaffney, oversaw the works, with all native plants supplied by the council’s Ngoika Nursery.
The site will soon connect to a new ‘Walk of Peace’ funded by the Port Stephens Family History Group, with sandstone seating to be added in the coming weeks.
“It’s a focal point for reflection — on peace, and on life,” a Lions Club spokesman said.
“TEAM: Together Everyone Achieves More.”
By Ruby van de WIJGAART
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