Planting of R “In Perpetuity” at Peace Park, Kiama. Lest we forget.

Jan Bartlett, a member of the Northern Sydney Region, played an instrumental role in introducing the beautiful sunset-coloured floribunda rose, “In Perpetuity”, to members at the region’s ANZAC-themed meeting in April this year. Jan, who also serves as Executive Assistant to the Director of War Graves, shared the story behind this special rose.

Symbolising both dawn and dusk, “In Perpetuity” is a living tribute to remembrance and the enduring legacy of those who have served our nation. To mark the 50th anniversary of the Office of Australian War Graves (OAWG), the rose was released through Swane’s Nurseries to defence and veteran organisations, free of charge, for planting in public parks and memorial gardens. The rose commemorates the OAWG’s 50 years of service and honours its work in remembering more than 334,000 Australian servicemen and women. It stands as a lasting tribute to their sacrifice and reflects the Office’s commitment to preserving their memory in perpetuity.

The OAWG’s mission is to ensure those who served and died in wars and post-war service are commemorated with dignity through the perpetual care of war cemeteries, graves and places of individual remembrance throughout Australia and the region. The name “In Perpetuity” perfectly reflects both the enduring nature of remembrance and the Office’s commitment to caring for these places of honour for future generations.

In the spirit of ANZAC Day, two “In Perpetuity” rose bushes were presented to our President, Colin Hollis, for planting in the Peace Park Public Garden at Kiama. On 24 April 2026, in a ceremony reflecting the solemn significance of the occasion, the roses were planted by the Mayor of Kiama Municipal Council, Cameron McDonald, and the President of the Kiama-Jamberoo RSL, Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) Gary McKay. The ceremony was attended by members of Friends of Peace Park Kiama, the Illawarra Rose Society and ex-service personnel.

“They shall not grow old, as we that are left grow old. Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. We will remember them.” Lest we forget.

Please note: At the time of planting, “In Perpetuity” had not been registered and was not commercially available. The rose may only be made available for commemorative plantings through application to the OAWG.