“What does peace look like?” Standing here at the Israel 75 Peace Garden, perhaps we can begin to understand. This garden is located at the northwest corner of Glen Eira Town Hall. You’ll find it at the intersection of Glen Eira Road and Hartley Avenue.
The Israel 75 Peace Garden wasn’t just planted. It was carefully considered. Zionism Victoria gifted it to the City of Glen Eira and its residents. It marks Israel’s 75th anniversary. Glen Eira is home to one of Australia’s largest Jewish communities. Around 23,600 Jewish people call it home.
Glen Eira Councillors voted unanimously for its creation. This was part of their Philanthropic Partnership Policy. The garden symbolizes the friendship between the Jewish community and Glen Eira. It also represents the historic bonds between Israel and Australia.
The Israel 75 Peace Garden features native Israeli flora. But it also includes some native Australian plants.
At the garden’s heart stands an Almond Tree. This tree carries special significance in Judaism. The Hebrew word for almond is “shaked”. It shares a root with “shakad” meaning “to watch”. In the Bible, God tells Jeremiah that the almond tree vision signifies that He watches to fulfill His word. Aaron’s staff was also made from an almond branch. It blossomed to show God chose him. The Menorah’s branches also feature almond blossom decorations.
Other Israeli natives include the Poppy Anemone. This is Israel’s national flower. You’ll also spot the Bunch-flowered Daffodil. The Black Pearl Lily and the Garden Star-of-Bethlehem are also present. Shrubs like Cistus salviifolius and Salvia fruticose add to the landscape. Don’t miss the Rosa x damascena ‘Kazanlik’.
Australian natives include the Grey Cottonhead. The Scaly Phebalium and Rose-tipped Mulla Mulla are present too.
Back on Wednesday, May 24, the garden was officially opened. Zionism Victoria President Yossi Goldfarb and Mayor Jim Magee presided. Magee said Glen Eira recognizes Israel as the home of the Jewish people. He welcomed Israelis to the City of Glen Eira. Goldfarb spoke of peace representing harmony and happiness. He called the garden a testament to the bond between the Jewish and Glen Eira communities. Zionism Victoria Executive Director Zeddy Lawrence expressed gratitude for the council’s support. He called the garden a symbolic and lasting way to mark Israel’s anniversary.
Consider this Israel 75 Peace Garden a place of reflection. Think about the ties that bind communities. Ponder the shared dedication to peace and the environment.