Toowoomba was named Queensland’s first official International City of Peace at an awards ceremony at St Patrick’s Cathedral on Saturday.
Toowoomba Region Mayor, Geoff McDonald said he was excited to join the International Cities of Peace movement alongside 452 other international communities.
“Toowoomba is the second city in Australia to carry the International City of Peace title which is something to be very proud of,” Mayor McDonald said.
“This will be our community’s legacy to building peace and it will represent our ongoing efforts towards social inclusion and cultural understanding.”
“As a Refugee Welcome Zone for over a decade, it is only fitting we are also designated as an International City of Peace.”
Becoming the state’s first icon of peace has been a community-led initiative.
“I’m delighted this is something our community has pursued it makes this accomplishment even more special. It shows our community has a true desire for peace,” Mayor McDonald said.
Mr Haniff Abdul Razak of Pure Land Learning College Association and Dr Uma Kumar of the Toowoomba branch of Heartfulness Institute Australia applied to the International Cities of Peace Board demonstrating Toowoomba’s eligibility for becoming an International City of Peace.
Pure Land Learning College, which teaches local and international students the practice of Buddhism, have been instrumental in establishing the Toowoomba Youth Peace Group, the Goodwill Committee and the Toowoomba Interfaith Working Group.
The Toowoomba branch of Heartfulness Institution Australia have been an equal supporter of these programs which have advocated for social cohesion and stronger intercultural relationships.
Mr Haniff and Dr Uma’s joint application successfully demonstrated Toowoomba’s past and current community initiatives which promote practical peace building.
Dr Kumar said becoming an International City of Peace was more than a 20-year-old vision.
“Venerable Master Chin Kung, AM [President of Pure Land College Association] decided to start a centre in Toowoomba in 2001. He created the vision that Toowoomba would become a ‘Model City of Peace and Harmony’,” Dr Uma said.
“Receiving this award was an extraordinary honour. Peace is something we strive towards in our everyday lives and now we have a title which proves our dedication. We couldn’t be happier.”
Mayor McDonald thanked Mr Haniff and Dr Uma for their role in Toowoomba being named an International City of Peace.
