Another day begins... and another morning radio interview, as Pushpendra, Noivedya and Becky chat about the World Harmony Run with ABC Northern Tasmania presenter Penny Terry.

We started on the road today from Scottsdale...

...and another meeting with the Mayor of Dorset Shire, Barry Jarvis, who ran with the Torch (but not very far - he had too much work to do).

The road to Launceston, like so much of Tasmania, is utterly beautiful, with green dairy farms on all sides.

Atul, our Indian runner, enjoyed his last day on the World Harmony Run before returning home.

Even in the sparsely populated farming regions, we meet some interested (and interesting) people.

We visited one of the more unusual farms of the region: the Bridestowe Estate Lavender Farm.

We all speak of olive branches and roses, but what plant would make a better symbol of world harmony than lavender? A flower whose scent and essential oils are known to bring calmness and inner peace. Though the plantation is not currently in peak season - and hence, the ground does not reveal the wondrous lavender hue - it is still a sight to behold.

Michelle, of the Bridestowe Lavender Farm, revealed to us the secrets of the many lavender products available, from natural food flavours to massage oil.

We are sworn to secrecy (mainly because the process is too complicated for us to explain)!

Bridestowe lavender is widely regarded as some of the best in the world - perhaps the very best outside France.

Suitably peaceful after enjoying some of the world's best lavender, we were back out on the road. Noivedya was at peace after trying some of the lavender-scented fudge at the farm's cafe. (The coffee, strangely, didn't have any lavender in it - but he insists that it also gave him a sense of peace.)

As we ran into Lilydale, we were joined by one of the locals... as far as the milk bar. "You should run to Launceston!" he challenged us. (The challenge, of course, had already been accepted.)

We ran through the streets with some international flags, knowing that we would be greeted by a display of more flags when we entered the school.

Kallola again taught the actions of the World Harmony Run theme song, composed by Sri Chinmoy. The action of holding the Harmony Torch fittingly resembles a sign of victory and solidarity.

Uddyogini presented Helen Peart, the teacher who arranged the visit, with a Certificate of Appreciation.

Then, once again, the children took turns holding the Torch, offering a wish for world harmony.

The stickers make a great souvenir. Already, many thousands have been given to the children of Tasmania.

Then we were back on the road... to Rocherlea.

Granantan met with the gardener who tends to the beautiful gardens near Rocherlea Primary School.

 

At Rocherlea Primary School, we picked up a new teammate (for one school only). This was Albert van Zetten, Mayor of Launceston - and a keen runner. So keen, in fact, that he was willing to run in his suit!

The unofficial World Harmony Run greeting: high fives!

Mayor von Zetten had a true understanding of the goals and ideals of the World Harmony Run, and was able to talk about the event to the fascinated group of schoolchildren.

They also demonstrated an understanding of the Run, meditating on peace and harmony. To them, the Torch is more than simply a relay baton; it is a symbol of our hopes and dreams.

The Principal of Rocherlea Primary School, Malcolm Hails, is also a keen runner - but as he only revealed this to us after the ceremony, we hadn't invited him to join us (and the Mayor) as we ran into the school. Next time for sure...

We ran the final 8 kilometres into lovely Launceston. Though it is known as Tasmania's "second city" (after Hobart), it has a colonial charm of its own.

We set out to explore. Unfortunately, it was late in the day, so most of the shops had closed. Still, it was intriguing to catch a glimpse of a small but thriving city.

Quietly located in one of the malls, here is one of Australia's most poignant monuments to peace and reconciliation, acknowledging the meeting of two cultures: Tasmanian Aboriginal people and white settlers. Many believe that the original Tasmanians have now passed away. In truth, many are still with us, retaining their culture for posterity.

Our accommodation is just across the road from one of Launceston's most remarkable churches (and most remarkable pieces of architecture).

Thanks to the Arthouse Hostel for generously providing us with accommodation for the night!

– Noivedya Juddery

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Team Members:
Apaguha Vesely (Czech Republic), Ashadeep Volkhardt (Australia), Atul Arora (India), Becky Xerri (Wales), Granantan Boyle (Australia), John Harris (Australia), Kallola Brown (New Zealand), Noivedya Juddery (Australia), Pushpendra Uppal (Australia), Uddyogini Hall (Australia), Veeraja Uppal (Australia)

Harmonemail:
You can send a message to the runners or read the messages.

Gallery: See more images!

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