80 Years Since Hiroshima and Nagasaki
The Oliphant Science Awards in partnership with The Rotary Club of Adelaide and The Graham F Smith Peace Foundation, present a special commemorative Science Writing Topic reflecting on the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
2025 Commemorative Science Writing Topic:
“If It Happened Here: The Impact of a Nuclear Bomb on Adelaide”
Students will harness scientific modelling to explore the devastating effects a nuclear explosion could have on Adelaide, examining the blast radius, radiation fallout, and long-term consequences for survivors and the environment.
Beyond scientific understanding, this category encourages thoughtful reflection on the ethical responsibilities of scientists and the importance of peace in our modern world.
Through this topic, we invite students to investigate the science, reflect on ethics, and inspire action for peace.
Special Prize
The winning student's school will receive a Rotary Adelaide Peace Pole donated in honour of the student, along with a copy of Art for Peace – The Story of The Graham F Smith Peace Foundation.
Peace Poles
Peace Poles are internationally recognised monuments that stand as a symbol of unity, hope, and a commitment to peace. Each pole is inscribed with the message “May Peace Prevail on Earth” in multiple languages, serving as a reminder of our shared responsibility to create a more peaceful world. With over 250,000 Peace Poles installed in 180 countries, they can be found in schools, parks, and public spaces—bringing communities together in a global movement for peace. Learn more at worldpeace.org.
Art for Peace: The Story of The Graham F Smith Peace Foundation
Art for Peace celebrates the artists, activists, and grassroots supporters who have helped drive change through the Graham F. Smith Peace Foundation. Written by Mark Street and Terry Cantwell, this visually stunning book highlights powerful stories of human rights, social justice, environmental sustainability, and Indigenous reconciliation. Featuring inspiring case studies—such as the ‘Tree of Life: Gift of Peace’ sculpture in Nagasaki Peace Park—it showcases how ordinary people can take extraordinary action to create a more just and peaceful world.
Our Partners in Peace
For over a century, the Rotary Club of Adelaide has been making a difference locally and globally. As South Australia's oldest Rotary club, its members are dedicated to peace-building, goodwill, and creating lasting change. From supporting local initiatives like the Hutt Street Centre to funding international projects such as water treatment plants in Sri Lanka, the club tackles key social and environmental challenges with a focus on service and integrity.
Find out more at adelaiderotary.com.au
The Graham F. Smith Peace Foundation believes in the power of the arts to inspire change. For over 30 years, this South Australian not-for-profit has been supporting artists who use their creativity to champion human rights, social justice, environmental sustainability, and Aboriginal reconciliation. Entirely volunteer-run, the Foundation funds impactful projects that spark conversation, challenge perspectives, and promote a more peaceful and just world.
Find out more at artspeacefoundation.org.