AT A time when global conflict and uncertainty are dominating headlines, a small group in the Coffs Harbour hinterland has taken a different approach – walking quietly for peace.
Around 20 people attended a Walk for World Peace held as part of a retreat at the Dhammaduta Meditation Centre in Upper Orara.
The event was organised in response to growing community concern about world events, with many locals expressing a sense of helplessness and a desire to do something constructive.
The walk was inspired by a recent international peace journey in the United States, where ordained monks walked 3,700kms (2,300 miles) from Texas to Washington DC, calling for non-violence and compassion.
While the Coffs Harbour walk was much smaller in scale, organisers said it captured the same intention: creating peace through mindful action.
Visiting Thai monk Ven. Udomsak Kittidharo, known locally as Dr Louis, led participants on the short but meaningful walk from the meditation hall, up the driveway to the Temple, and circling the Pagoda as a traditional gesture of respect and reflection.
The theme of the retreat, “Loving kindness: be the change”, reflected the belief that peace in the world begins with peace within individuals.
Dr Louis said practices such as mindful walking and meditation can offer a constructive response when people feel distressed by events beyond their control.
“Loving kindness can bring peace and be the catalyst for change when many parts of the world are experiencing uncertainty and suffering,” he said.
“Recent events affecting people remind us how fragile life can be.”
Michelle Richards, a long-term supporter of the Centre, said the walk was a simple but meaningful way to channel concern into positive action.
“Walking for World Peace teaches that mindful steps, grounded in loving kindness, can become a powerful path towards peace within oneself, and reconciliation and peace in society,” she said.
One participant, Amy Moon, said she joined the walk because it “seemed like a good idea with everything that’s going on at the moment – something positive to do for the world”.
“When we focus on walking and what your feet are doing, it helps to feel a sense of calm and peace and of sending love and goodwill to the world,” she said.
The Coffs Harbour Dhammaduta Meditation Centre has its roots in the work of local Burmese refugees who began inviting monks to give talks in 2003.
The land was purchased in 2006 and gradually developed through donations, with dormitories added in 2010 to support overnight retreats.
Construction on a Pagoda in 2019 was interrupted by COVID-19 but it is expected to open to the public soon following final approvals, with a formal ceremony planned for early 2027.
While grounded in Theravada Buddhist traditions, the centre welcomes people of all backgrounds, with a focus on meditation and wellbeing.
By Leigh WATSON
You can help your local paper.
Make a small once-off, or (if you can) a regular donation.
We are an independent family owned business and our newspapers are free to collect and our news stories are free online.
Help support us into the future.