Honouring 60 Years of Generosity: A Lasting Tribute to the NextSense Lantern Clubs

There are some thank yous that call for something more permanent. For 60 years, the Lantern Clubs have been part of the NextSense story, helping children, adults and families who are deaf, hard of hearing, blind or have low vision.

To recognise this remarkable legacy of generosity, service and community spirit, NextSense recently commissioned us to design, manufacture and install a permanent sandstone plinth at its school as a lasting tribute to the thousands of members across generations who have given so much over so many decades.

At Globe Memorial Company, creating a memorial is about understanding what matters to the people behind it and finding the right way to give that meaning physical form.

Our team collaborated with NextSense throughout the design phase and production process to really understand the significance of the project and ensure the final piece met their expectations.

Every last element, from the proportions and finish of the sandstone through to the placement and presentation of the commemorative plaque, required meticulous consideration.

With the unveiling date already scheduled, the project also needed to be completed within a fairly tight timeframe. We coordinated the design, manufacture and installation so the sandstone plinth was in place ahead of this important occasion.

Projects like this are a special part of what we do at Globe Memorial. Our traditional monumental craftsmanship can be used well beyond the cemetery to create commemorative pieces for schools, churches, community organisations and other public spaces.

It’s not just a case of manufacturing monuments. It’s listening to the story behind them and creating something that can carry its meaning through to future generations.

We were also grateful to receive this feedback from NextSense:

“Globe Memorial worked closely with NextSense to create a lasting tribute that honours the legacy of our most important community groups, the Lantern Clubs. Their professionalism, attention to detail and quality craftsmanship ensured the finished memorial reflects the significance of the people it commemorates and will be appreciated by our community for many years to come.”

The sandstone plinth was unveiled at NextSense School as part of a special celebration marking the 60-year partnership. It was a wonderful turnout, with around 120 members from 26 Lantern Clubs joining students and staff for the occasion.

Guests were also treated to a moving performance by the school’s Auslan Choir before hearing from the NextSense Chief Executive, who reflected on the significant impact the Lantern Clubs have had on the organisation and the communities it serves.

The unveiling was also a chance to acknowledge today’s members and those who came before them, whose dedication has helped make the Lantern Clubs what they are today.

After the ceremony, guests enjoyed high tea together, with plenty of time to share memories, catch up with friends and celebrate the milestone and long-term partnership.

There’s something powerful about giving people’s contributions a physical place in the world.

For NextSense, the new sandstone plinth provides a lasting connection between past, present and future. Its place at the school feels especially fitting, given the Lantern Clubs’ connection has always been with the children. It will now be part of the everyday environment for students, families, staff and visitors for many years to come.

Six decades of generosity. Thousands of Lantern Club members. It’s an incredible legacy, and we’re proud to have played a part in recognising and celebrating it.

There are many ways to honour the people, groups and events that matter to us. If you’re considering a commemorative project for your organisation or community, we’d love to discuss your vision and what’s possible.

Contact us to start the conversation.