This morning began with an early start as the Peace Run made its way back to Charters Towers, reconnecting with its continuous journey around Australia.
The team was warmly welcomed by Mayor Liz Schmidt, who officially received the Peace Torch into Charters Towers.
The welcome ceremony took place at the Country Women’s Association Hall, where the community, including stallholders from the Sunday market, gathered to take part in the celebration.
A highlight of the event was the presentation of the Peace Torch-Bearer Award to Lorraine Robertson—a truly inspiring figure whose selfless dedication and community spirit have touched many lives. For over 26 years, Lorraine has volunteered at the Charters Towers Visitor Information Centre.
Her legacy of service began in her teaching career, where she nurtured and guided others with care. That same compassion continues through her volunteer work. Known for her practical and down-to-earth personality, Lorraine has a rare gift for making visitors feel welcome and at ease. Her warmth leaves a lasting impression on everyone she meets, helping ensure that time spent in Charters Towers is both memorable and meaningful.
Despite her remarkable contributions, Lorraine is someone who never seeks the spotlight. She works quietly behind the scenes, making sure everything runs smoothly. While many in the community may not fully grasp the depth of her efforts, those who do are deeply inspired by her example. As Mayor Schmidt aptly put it, "Lorraine is an icon in Charters Towers."
The official ceremony concluded with Jenny Potter taking the stage to read a poem by Peace Run founder Sri Chinmoy, drawing a beautiful connection between his message and the creed of the CWA. Jenny, an accomplished sportsperson herself, had just completed a remarkable 30-day ride from Port Augusta to Karumba—from south to north—covering up to 120 km a day.
During our meeting in Charters Towers we met Jenny Potter who did G2G route on her bike. We were impressed because she was able to cover 1860 km in 21 days.
After the ceremony, everyone present was invited to hold the Peace Torch and make their own heartfelt wish for peace.
It was also a chance for the Peace Runners to hear the stories of the incredible people who make up this vibrant country town.
Wherever the Peace Torch travels, it seems to find those quiet heroes who give so much to their communities. In Charters Towers, the spirit of community shone brightly for all to see.
Following a lovely morning tea, Amalendu relit the Peace Torch and carried it the first 5 km out of Charters Towers, beginning the next leg of the journey. The rest of the team bid a fond farewell to our new friends and family, heading south once more. Back on the open road, we found ourselves embracing the rhythm of the day—the stillness, the solitude, and the quiet power of the Peace Torch on its journey of hope.
In townsville we have got new additions to the team. One of them is Peteris from Latvia.
If we want the Torch to lighten our way towards our goal we need to fill it up. This physical torch with the oil, while Torch in our hearts with peace.
On the way to our destination.
Throughout the run from Charters Towers to Belyando Crossing Roadhouse we were running in shade due to cloudy weather.
A message from our zoom ceremony in Japan:
Hi Peace Run Team Australia!!
My name is Soichiro Ueda. My group was the Roast Beef Team. For me, peace is when people can live together with smiles and without fighting-physically or with words. I believe peace is not only about the absent of war, but also about small happiness and kindness in daily life. Through this project, I learned that peace needs not only thoughts, but also actions. I respect your actions and efforts in running and spreading the meaning of peace. Please continue your wonderful activities! I support you from Japan. Let's make a peaceful world together. Good luck and enjoy running in Australia and spreading your massage!
Another message from Japan:
Dear Peace Run Team Australia,
I think peace means trying to see things from another person’s perspective and avoiding things that might upset them. I learned a lot from your video. I didn’t know that so many people were part of the Peace Run and hoping for peace. It was interesting to see so many people from different countries coming together for peace. I hope the Peace Run becomes even more popular and helps bring peace to the world. I believe that even small actions can help make the world a better place. Thank you for taking the time to talk with us, even though you must have been very tired. I hope your Australia Run will be a great success.
From Japan:
Hi, Peace Run Team Australia！
My name is Shota. I realized that, for me, peace means just spending normal days safely , without major worries. For example, it means waking up in the morning, talking with my friends and family, doing my part-time job and enjoying my hobbies. Watching this meeting, I learned that people from different countries can work together if they have the same goal. Nationality or language doesn’t really matter. From now on, I will try to find my own peace. So please keep running towards your own peace, too. Let's move forward together towards a better future. I support you wholeheartedly!
From Japan:
Hi Peace Run Team Australia、
My name is Remma , and I am a member of Shiba. I was so excited in the Zoom meeting because I completely agree with your thought on peace. For me, peace is one state of mind, and it can be changed easily by a small problem. So, I think enjoying today and not being afraid of tomorrow is the best way to peace and it is the peace. When I watched Peace Run’s videos, I remembered the excellence of warmth of people every time. I love your activities and respect you. Thank you for the meeting.
Arrival place is Belyando Crossing Roadhouse, where we take rest before tomorrow's adventure. Thank you so much for hosting the team!
