Hello to all Estonians in Australia and welcome to: HEIA — Hello, Estonians in Australia!
The brand spanking new Australia-wide site for Australian Estonians is here! Development has been progressing for over 18 months (volunteer pace😊).
HEIA is available on the same site address eesti.org.au and all the information and historical stories have been transferred — so don’t worry about losing that valuable legacy.
What’s new?
The most obvious change is the look and feel but there is additional functionality under the hood that will make presenting topics of interest simpler and in a more engaging manner. More will be coming with time (there may be a few bugs to iron out in the short term — please let us know if you spot any scurrying around — and also what you like and want to see more of!).
Send any feedback via formheia.life/feedback (preferred) or via email heia@eesti.org.au. Is your organisation or activity missing, or do you need to update the information? Let us know via this form: heia.life/add.
Even further under the hood is the new governance structure that means less reliance on Kristi (the doting sole parent of Estonians in Australia) with more contributors and support to enable HEIA to continue to serve the community for the next 20, 40 or 60+ years.
We can’t give you all the goodies now — too much of a good thing isn’t good for you. We will be working on new features including an impressive events calendar — just wait for it!
Why HEIA?
When seeking suggestions for names for the new platform from the community, a key piece of feedback was provided — “what is wrong with Estonians in Australia?” It was a good question! However, there were issues:
Estonians in Australia wasn’t ‘snappy’ and the acronym EIA doesn’t roll off the tongue;
it would be nice to have the Estonian language represented; and
we wanted a refresh as a welcoming site for all Estonian Australians.
That’s where Hello, Estonians in Australia or HEIA provided the perfect solution. HEIA (pronounced Hey Ya) is a phonetic familiar to both Estonians and Australians, an informal Estonian greeting, the acronym for the name of our platform, whilst also referencing Estonians in Australia in a welcoming manner. A win, win, win, win!
We are excited with the new site and hope you are too!
We’re absolutely delighted to share that Global Estonian has featured our very own Ave Nukki, President of the Estonian Society in Sydney and the lead of the next Eesti Päevad, in their June newsletter – and what an inspirational story it is!
Ave writes about how she keeps her Estonianness alive through music and literature – two lifelong passions that have shaped her journey in Australia. She shares memories of singing harmonies around the kitchen table with her sisters, the joy of being part of the Kooskõlas choir, and the excitement of fulfilling a dream this year: singing under the laulukaar at the Estonian Song Festival.
Ave also opens up about the inspiration behind launching the Southern Hemisphere Book Club that is backed by Estonian societies across Australia. The Southern Hemisphere Book Club is a new initiative bringing together Estonian readers across Australia. With a little spark from her conversations with Estonian writer Kristiina Ehin (who visited Sydney in January), Ave helped bring this idea to life through a virtual book club event featuring Kristiina’s new poetry collection Behind the Dams of the Heart (Südametammide taga). The response? Hunger in our communities to connect through books, language and story.
Ave is not only an exceptionally talented connector – she’s also leading the way as Head of the Organising Committee for the next Eesti Päevad, which will be held in Sydney in April 2027.
Ave Nukki is an inspirational leader. Her dedication, creativity and bright ideas continue to lift up Estonian communities across Australia and beyond – and we couldn’t be prouder.
Books. Banter. A touch of homesickness. And a whole lot of heart. That’s the Southern Hemisphere Estonian Book Club for you!
Also in the June 2025 edition…
Globalestonian.com is an information gateway for nearly 200,000 Estonians living abroad and for globally minded Estonians at home. Global Estonian publishes monthly newsletters and organises virtual forums to keep the community informed of what’s happening with Estonians worldwide.
The June Global Estonian newsletter is full of good reads and global connections – from a video introducing Estonia’s E-residents, Midsummer celebrations across the world, learn who will be travelling to Estonia to perform at Laulu- ja tantsupidu, what is the largest expatriate project ever that Estonia has decided to support, and more. Well worth a read!
Ever felt like you’re the only Estonian woman in your city? You’re not. And now, there’s a global sisterhood to prove it. Welcome, Lydia.
The Lydia is a brand-new initiative calling together Estonian women from all walks of life – wherever you live, whatever your story, and however strong (or rusty!) your connection to Estonia may feel.
Whether you’ve grown up humming Estonian tunes, only just rediscovered you’ve got some Estonian in your DNA, or you’re somewhere in between – this is a safe, supportive space for you to explore what your Estonian identity means now, and where it might take you next.
On Thursday 3 July 2025 at 9.30am, The Lydia is hosting its first in-person event in Tallinn, at the Integration Foundation. It’s the perfect chance for those in Estonia for the Song and Dance Festival to meet face-to-face, share stories, and spark connections.
Here’s the good news: even if you’re not in Estonia, you can still register and be part of what’s to come, including an exciting virtual program starting later this year.
🌿 Participation is free, and women of all ages are encouraged to join 📅 More information here and register here 📧 Where? Integration Foundation, Rävala pst 5, 10143 Tallinn
chat about traditions, recipes, crafts, language, travel or whatever interests you
meet like-minded women of all ages and experiences
be part of a friendly community that gets it – no judgement, just joy.
The Lydia is inspired by Lydia Koidula – a trailblazer of Estonian awakening and cultural expression. This new network honours her legacy by encouraging us to shape our own stories, together.
If you’re of Estonian heritage and feel even a tiny spark of curiosity to explore it further – this is your sign to say yes.
💬 Got questions? Email Lisa Kivirist, Lydia Coordinator, at: lisakivirist[at]gmail.com
We can’t wait to meet you! Your story matters. And this sisterhood is ready to welcome you in.
Heading back to Estonia this summer? Pack light – but bring your appetite. It’s not just the Song and Dance Festival turning up the heat – Estonia’s food scene is officially sizzling. With two Michelin-starred restaurants and 43 spots making the 2025 MICHELIN Guide, your tastebuds are in for a standing ovation.
That’s a lot of fancy forks for a nation of just 1.3 million food lovers!
Star chefs and flame-grilled flavours
At the top, 180° by Matthias Diether retained its prestigious two stars, impressing with precision cooking and slick, U‑shaped kitchens overlooking Noblessner’s harbour. Holding steady at one star is the elegant NOA Chef’s Hall, where seafood meets open-fire flair – and a bay view that whispers “please book ahead”.
Michelin Green Stars
For eco-conscious foodies, Hiis now shines with a Green Star, spotlighting foraged fungi and farmhouse-crafted finesse. Want fine dining without the fine-dining price? The Bib Gourmand–awarded UMA offers a playful “Unorthodox Modern Asian” menu and a buzzing atmosphere.
Why you should bite in
Bottom line: Estonia’s now a serious foodie destination. Between midnight folk songs and mouth-watering tasting menus, there’s a reason to RSVP to both the dance festival and dinner festival. So go ahead – plan your summer trip around that Michelin dinner reservation. Your taste buds – and Instagram (of course you’ll share your food pics!) – will thank you.
What is a Michelin Star? ⭐
A Michelin Star isn’t just a fancy label – it’s the culinary world’s gold medal, given only to restaurants that make inspectors sigh with joy (and possibly loosen their belts). Anonymous food pros from the MICHELIN Guide visit restaurants multiple times and judge them on: the quality of ingredients, the harmony of flavours, the chef’s personality (on the plate, not on Instagram), mastery of cooking techniques and consistency (because one great meal isn’t enough).
One star means “worth a stop,” two means “worth a detour,” and three means “cancel your plans and go now.”
There are also Green Stars for sustainability and Bib Gourmand spots for places that serve top-notch food without breaking the bank. So yes – Estonia’s food scene is flaming hot, fabulously plated and 100% fork-worthy. Enjoy! Head isu!
Kooskõlas choir. Photo from the private collection of Esmée Okamoto.
In July 2025, Estonian Australians will make a meaningful pilgrimage to Tallinn to take part in one of the world’s most powerful expressions of cultural identity – the Estonian Song Festival (Laulupidu) and Dance Festival (Tantsupidu). For these singers and dancers from across Australia, this is more than a performance. It is a journey home.
Representing Australia will be these choirs and folk dance groups.
🎶 Kooskõlas – the Australian Estonian national choir, bringing together singers from across the country, including members from Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney.
🎶 Kodu Kaja – the Melbourne Estonian women’s choir.
💃 Virmalised – the Australian Estonian national folk dance group, with dancers from New South Wales, Australian Capital Territory and South Australia.
💃 FolkRoos – the Brisbane Estonian ladies’ folk dance group.
Together, these groups will join tens of thousands on Tallinn’s Song Festival Grounds and Dance Festival field, lifting their voices and stepping proudly in the traditions of their ancestors.
FolkRoos folk dance group. Photo from the private collection of FolkRoos.
💙 A deeply personal journey for many
For many of the participants, this festival is a powerful reminder of their roots – a connection that bridges generations and continents.
“My grandparents fled Estonia during the war and started over in Australia with nothing but hope. When I sing these songs, I feel their strength and their love for the homeland. Being at Laulupidu is like standing on their shoulders.”
“Dancing at Tantsupidu makes me feel part of something timeless. I think of my ancestors who would have danced these same steps in Estonian villages. Now I’m here, representing our community in Australia, and it fills me with pride.”
“Every time I sing at Laulupidu, I think of my grandmother’s stories of leaving her home in Tõrva. The songs keep me connected to the land she loved.”
“Laulupidu reminds me why I love Estonia –it’s a feeling of unity, history, and home, no matter how far away I am.”
Virmalised Australia folk dance group. Photo from the private collection of Ella Scott.
🌏 A celebration of community across borders
This festival experience reflects the resilience of Australia’s Estonian community – one that has worked for decades to keep language, song, and dance alive far from the Baltic shores.
For some, it will be their first time in Estonia; for others, a return after many years. All will stand together in Tallinn, united with Estonians from around the world in a shared voice and shared steps.
“There is a deep sense of belonging that comes from singing together, working together towards a shared goal, and being part of something bigger than yourself. We carry this spirit not only in Estonia, but in our communities back home.”
“The Singing Revolution showed the power of song. When we sing together, we continue that legacy of strength and unity.”
“When we return to Australia, we bring back renewed energy – not just for our choirs and dance groups, but for our entire community. Laulupidu and Tantsupidu remind us why we work so hard to keep these traditions going.”
Kodu Kaja choir. Photo by Tiina Pilli from the private collection of Hilja Toom.
Perth’s Baltic midsummer celebration, 14 June 2025, was a joyful experience – plain good fun – but also fresh shoots of cultural change.
The event was held at the Latvian Centre in Belmont, a hall proudly hand-built in 1972 by the post-war wave of Latvian immigrants. The building, filled with decades of memorabilia, served as a poignant reminder of how those displaced from their homeland worked to preserve their culture from half a world away.
The story of Perth’s Estonian community is similar. However, the Estonian Centre, Eesti Tare, was sold years ago as the first generation of Estonians aged and their Australian-born children – cut off from their ancestral roots by the Iron Curtain – melded into Australian culture. The Latvian Centre has experienced a similar decline in community but has carried on through dual use as St Paul’s Lutheran Church (a subtle irony, given the day’s pagan origins) and traditional cultural activities like folk dancing.
So it made perfect sense to host a combined midsummer event – Jaanipäev for us – at the last remaining Baltic hall in the city, bringing together the combined force of the Estonian, Latvian, and Lithuanian communities to create a critical mass…
And that’s when it became clear that a change of seasons is upon us.
The event sold out all 350 tickets a week in advance, with a growing waitlist behind. On the day, attendees braved drizzly, wintry weather to stream in from mid-afternoon. An older Latvian told me he had never seen the venue so full.
Anecdotally, around 80% of attendees were Estonian. Western Australia has seen a steadily increasing Estonian population, and it’s showing no signs of slowing. There were very recent arrivals, pale from the (lack of) northern sun, who had yet to experience their first Australian summer. And there were those weathered from working for years in more towns and states than many born-and-bred locals have visited. The common thread was resilience – a willingness (and often necessity) to take on demanding jobs in remote places. Hello WA!
Among the crowd were a handful of descendants from the original post-war Estonian migrants (this author included), but the vast majority of attendees came of age well after Estonia’s re-independence, revelling in their freedom to explore the world. Many travel back to Estonia regularly, which is one reason this celebration was held before the actual solstice – why settle for one midsummer when you can have two?
Australia has been a top destination for young Estonians since the Working Holiday Maker agreement was signed in 2005. Estonia’s annual 417 visa quota is uncapped and well utilised, with over 1,300 visas granted in 23/24. By contrast, Latvia and Lithuania do not currently have access to this arrangement – helping explain the disparity in attendance.
With the growing numbers comes the scale to build a fresh cultural zeitgeist. Perth’s new Estonian Association, EstWest, was the driving force behind this and other events, and it’s clear they have tapped a rich vein of interest.
Anyone who has experimented with sourdough knows that its microbial community needs to be fed. A societal culture is no different. Without a fresh influx of “flour and water,” the culture will die. The Perth Estonian community is a good example of how close it can get. After sustaining community with teaspoon-sized doses over the last couple of decades, the new members of the Estonian community are like a 20-kilo sack of Baker’s Best tipped into a 44-gallon drum – and the culture is bubbling, alive, and growing bigger.
The organic energy was on full display during the day’s activities. Traditional elements were all present – folk dancing, flower crowns, sauna, and of course, the bonfire – but there was a contemporary pulse running through it.
Take the tug of war, for instance. A seemingly unprogrammed wave of momentum led a large group of adults to a dimly lit side alley where it seemed something ritualistic was about to unfold. Men stripped off outer layers, revealing the kind of physical conditioning born of work in WA’s agriculture, mining, and construction sectors, as they lined up astride a rope thick enough to moor a Panamax. The alley, churned with mud from rain and boots, offered a splash of Baltic authenticity. One side was a team of Estonia’s finest; the other, a mixed Baltic crew. Two loud, primal, and fiercely short and sharp rounds later, Estonia had the win over the All-stars. And just as quickly, the crowd dispersed, seeking warmth and shelter. This wasn’t for show. It wasn’t staged for Instagram. It meant something.
Was the evening exactly like a midsummer in Estonia? No. The gum trees, early sunset, and Aussie accents made sure of that. But it was an authentic celebration of Estonian culture in an Australian context. And perhaps most importantly, it wasn’t a relic of a fading past – it was living, breathing, evolving tradition at work.
Fire lighting ceremony in Tartu, Estonia, 15 June 2025. Photo by Rein Leib
TARTU, ESTONIA — 15 June 2025, sunrise. While most of Estonia was still wiping sleep from their eyes (or enjoying their Sunday coffee), something magical happened in the park of the Estonian National Museum: the sacred flame of the Song and Dance Celebration – Laulu- ja Tantsupidu – was lit!
The flame marks the symbolic start of the celebration and now begins its epic 18-day journey across Estonia, visiting counties and culture-rich towns on its way to the grand finale: the XXVIII Song and XXI Dance Celebration “Iseoma“, taking place from 3–6 July in Tallinn.
🔥 One flame, many voices – and a few kangaroo keychains?
Among the tens of thousands preparing for the big event are singers, dancers, supporters – and yes – even a cheerful delegation from Down Under! Australian Estonian performers from all across the continent are heading to Estonia to take part in the historic celebration. They’ll be joining choirs and dance troupes from around the world to represent Estonian spirit with pride (and hopefully with some well-packed throat lozenges, just in case).
From toddlers in traditional skirts to seasoned singers who know all the verses by heart, our diaspora is showing up in style – koala keychains and all.
🌿 Ancient traditions, new footsteps… and probably a few blisters
Since 1969, the lighting of the flame has kicked off the journey to Laulupidu – originally making its way from Tartu to Tallinn to honour 100 years since the very first Song Celebration. Over the decades, it’s been carried by horse, boat, relay runners, and more recently, anything with feet, wheels, or stubborn enthusiasm.
This year, it’s once again hitting the road – creating a glowing, symbolic breadcrumb trail of unity across Estonia. Some call it tradition. Others call it cardio with meaning.
At this year’s sunrise ceremony, the flame was first lit in a joint bonfire and then handed over to the artistic directors of the upcoming celebration: – Heli Jürgenson, Song Celebration Artistic Director – Helena-Mariana Reimann, Dance Celebration Lead Director – Helin Pihlap, Folk Music Celebration Creative Director
And because no Estonian event is complete without some serious musical talent, the ceremony featured moving performances by Celia Roose, Tartu Karlova School’s children’s choir, the Tartu University Mixed Choir, dance group Soveldaja, Andre Maaker, and Margo Kõlar. The celebration was sealed with the planting of an oak tree and the unveiling of a commemorative stone.
Fire lighting ceremony in Tartu, 15 June 2025. Photo by Rein Leib.
🎤 Reporting (a)live, unfiltered and fuelled by kiluvõileib
Also heading to Estonia: the ever-dedicated (and slightly sleep-deprived) team from the Australian Estonian Media Project. Armed with cameras, microphones, umbrellas and questionable pronunciation, we’ll be front and centre – capturing the heart and soul of the Song and Dance Celebration for eesti.org.au.
Expect joy, tears, goosebumps, awkward flag selfies, and possibly a dramatic weather update or two from someone clinging to their kohuke in sideways rain. If nothing else, tune in for live attempts at saying Lauluväljak without spraining a vowel.
Follow the flame
The flame will reach Tallinn on 2 July, just ahead of the start of the main festivities. Each stop along the journey celebrates local traditions, community connection and Estonia’s living culture. You can follow the full route and flame’s progress on the official site: https://2025.laulupidu.ee/tule-tulemine.
Want a sneak peek of the magical sunrise moment when it all began? See the gallery here: Photo Gallery
🧡 See you in Tallinn!
Whether you’re travelling to Estonia, following online, or simply carrying the songs in your heart – this year’s celebration is a reminder of what unites Estonians everywhere. One flame, thousands of hearts and a shared voice that echoes across oceans.
And remember: if you spot someone in a blue-black-white scarf humming “Mu isamaa on minu arm”… they might just be from Melbourne. Or Sydney. Or Brisbane. Or maybe they’re just lost and looking for the nearest place to buy a kohuke. Estonians don’t need an excuse to sing or dance (nor liquid courage, despite popular belief)…
Have a safe trip – and see you at the Song and Dance Celebration!
The Estonian Cultural Foundation in Australia (ECFA) is now inviting applications for funding for the 2025–2026 financial year.
Whether you’re an individual or part of an organisation, if you have a project that promotes Estonian culture – be it literature, music, film, visual arts, crafts, design, radio, performing arts, or community events – this is your opportunity to bring your ideas to life with ECFA’s support.
Expressions of Interest are now open, with a total funding pool of approximately $20,000 to $30,000 available. Projects may receive full or partial funding, depending on merit and the discretion of the ECFA Board.
Projects must align with ECFA’s mission to promote Estonian-origin arts and culture in Australia. Applications are welcome from all Australian states and territories.
What you need to know
To apply, submit the completed application form by 31 July 2025 at 8 pm including details such as:
your name and organisation (if applicable)
contact details and project leader’s information
a detailed project description, including a proposed budget
the amount of funding requested (for the 2025–2026 financial year only)
a program of activities and an implementation timetable
all applications must be in English.
Note: Past recipients of ECFA funding must also apply under this current round if seeking support again.
Successful applicants must also:
provide photos and a short article upon project completion for ECFA’s promotional use
submit half-yearly progress reports (due 1 November and 1 May)
submit an annual report detailing outcomes and expenditure
acknowledge ECFA’s support on websites and social media.
Interested in an info session?
If you would like to attend an online information session about the grant process, please email ecfa[at]eesti.org.au with your name, email address, and affiliated group (if any), using the subject line: ECFA Grant Information.
Attention all little book gobblers, word wizards and page-flipping champions! It’s time to limber up your eyeballs, flex your imagination, and stretch those reading muscles – because the Estonian Reading Marathon is back, and it’s running until 10 May 2026!
No running involved (unless you’re sprinting to the bookshelf). This is a marathon of the mind, where your mission is to read as much Estonian stuff as humanly possible – and have a wildly good time doing it.
And YES – Estonian Aussie kids can totally join! If you live in Australia and know your “sõna” from your “sokk”, this one’s for you!
🏃♂️🏃♀️ Wait… a marathon? With books?
Exactly. No sweaty socks, no medals made of spaghetti – just you, some good books in Estonian, and a whole year to power through a fun reading challenge.
Glad you asked. It’s not about (kilo)metres – it’s about (fun)minutes:
Under 6 years old: 500 minutes (just over 8 hours – that’s like 16 episodes of Peppa Pig, but smarter) Ages 7–11: 2 x 500 minutes (you’re a big kid now) Ages 12 and up: 3 x 500 minutes (superhero status with cape wearing rights… unless you don’t think that’s cool anymore??)
You can read on the couch, in a tree, under a blanket, or in the bath (just don’t drop the book and safety first!). And if you finish early? You can do the whole thing again! Because bookworms never sleep. (Well, they do – especially after reading. A lot. Because even bookworms need a good night’s sleep to stay healthy and keep those imaginations buzzing!).
🏆 What do I get if I finish?
Oh ho ho! Glad you asked. Every child who finishes the marathon receives:
A glorious certificate with your name on it (suitable for bragging to grandparents)
A FREE ticket to one of Estonia’s coolest museums – think mummies, knights, skeletons, stuffed owls, and mysterious 19th-century teaspoons!
You’ll get it all by email, like a very official Estonian owl delivering wisdom digitally.
📝 How to join
Ask your parent/guardian/reading butler to email your name and age to Iti Connor – eestikeel@eesti.org.auby 30 June 2025.
Keep a list of everything you read in Estonian.
When you’ve finished your “reading distance”, email your reading list back to Iti.
Iti Connor is the lovely teacher behind the Brisbane Estonian Playgroup and the Estonian language coordinator for the Council of Estonian Societies in Australia – so you’re in excellent hands!
🧭 Organised by
Estonian Language Institute, with support from some amazing Estonian museums including: the Health Museum, Nature Museum, History Museum, Toy Museum, and more!
This marathon is part of the worldwide celebration of Eesti Raamatu Aasta – the Year of the Estonian Book, which makes it the perfect time to dive into stories, poems and comics that celebrate the beauty of Estonian language and imagination. It’s basically a year-long excuse to read and call it “cultural participation”. Win-win!
Ready to begin?
That’s a whole year of turning pages, exploring magical worlds and discovering just how fun reading in Estonian can be!
Get those books, choose your favourite bookmarks – and ready, set… read!
Estonians around the world are invited to meet up in Tallinn this July for a powerful day of community, connection and conversation at the ESTO 2025 Congress “Our Collective Memory” (Rahvuskongress: Üleilmne eestlus ja ühismälu).
📅 Date: Wednesday, 2 July 2025 🕘 Time: 9.00 AM – 4.30 PM 📍 Venue: Radisson Collection Hotel, Rävala 3, Tallinn, Estonia 💻 Attend in person or online 📝 Register by 22 June 2025: Click here to register
This event organised by the Estonian World Council (ÜEKN) is a rare opportunity to engage with Estonian communities from around the globe and help shape the future of global Estonian life. Everyone is welcome to attend and contribute, no matter where in the world you live.
What to expect
This event will include keynote speakers, panel discussions and three interactive workshops focusing on:
📰 How Estonian communities stay informed through newspapers, newsletters and digital platforms.
🌍 What life looks like for Estonian organisations abroad – challenges, successes and innovations.
🧭 The evolving role of central organisations in supporting diaspora communities.
Speakers include Estonian Minister of Foreign Affairs Margus Tsahkna, Sirle Sööt (Chair, Estonian World Council), literary scholars such as Tiina Kirss and Janika Kronberg, and young people from the global Estonian community reflecting on dual identity and belonging.
🔍 Also on the program: A roundtable discussion with young Estonians abroad, exploring how they relate to Estonian identity today.
Whether you’re active in your local Estonian society, interested in preserving cultural memory, or simply want to stay connected to Estonians in the world – this congress is for you.
You’ll leave with insights, inspiration and new connections across borders and generations.
This Saturday, 14 June 2025 at 12 pm, the Estonian, Latvian and Lithuanian communities of Canberra will come together for a commemoration of the 1941 Soviet deportations to Siberia – a tragic chapter in Baltic history that shaped the lives of many families now living in Australia.
This special occasion will be made even more notable by the presence of representatives from all three Baltic ambassadorial families.
Event details
The commemoration begins at 12 noon at the Polish White Eagle Club, 38 David Street, Turner ACT 2612. Everyone is welcome!
The program includes speakers from each Baltic country. Representing Estonia is Iris Reinhold, a student of International Security Studies at the Australian National University and daughter of Estonian Ambassador Jaan Reinhold and Krista Reinhold.
Also speaking will be the Latvian Ambassador to Australia, Marģers Krams, and the Lithuanian Ambassador, Darius Degutis.
The program is expected to conclude by 1 pm, and will be followed by a relaxed and friendly shared lunch. You are encouraged to bring a plate – something homemade or deli-bought, Estonian or otherwise – to contribute to the meal.
Important information
Please let Rita Brokans know by Friday night if you’re planning to attend: 📧 rita.brokans[at]gmail.com
This event is open to all, whether you have Baltic roots or simply wish to stand in solidarity with the community.
This June marks the 84th anniversary of the first mass deportations from Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania, a solemn chapter in Baltic history. To honour the memory of those affected, Baltic communities in Adelaide, Sydney and Melbourne are hosting public commemorations. All are welcome to attend.
In 13-14 June 1941, approximately 43,000 people were forcibly removed from their homes by Soviet authorities and sent to Siberia. Thousands more were killed or deported in the months that followed. These deportations continued after World War II, and by 1954, nearly 10% of the Baltic population had been affected. Few survived the harsh conditions or were ever able to return home.
🕯️Let us come together to remember, reflect and stand united for peace and freedom.
Adelaide
Baltic Commemoration of Deportation
Date: Saturday, 14 June 2025 Time: 2.00 pm Location: Migration Museum, 82 Kintore Avenue, Adelaide SA 5000 Tickets: Free entry
Image by Thomas Mühl from Pixabay
The South Australian Baltic community will gather at the Migration Museum for a wreath-laying ceremony in remembrance of those who suffered and perished during the deportations. The annual commemoration ceremony will be held on Saturday, 14 June 2025 at 2 pm.
The event will feature a speech by the President of the Baltic Council of South Australia and performances by local choirs.
The ceremony will take place outdoors – attendees are encouraged to bring umbrellas in case of rain.
Commemoration of the Mass Deportations from the Baltic countries
Date: Sunday, 15 June 2025 Time: 2.00 pm Location: Sydney Latvian House, 32 Parnell St, Strathfield NSW 2135 Tickets: Free entry
Hosted by the Joint Baltic Committee, Sydney’s commemorative event on Sunday 15 June 2025 at 2pm reflects on the traumatic legacy of the 1941 deportations and their modern-day relevance. In light of ongoing global conflicts, particularly the war in Ukraine, the program also highlights the shared experience of forced exile.
The event will feature a speech by Olya Olkhovyk, Cultural Director of the Ukrainian Council of New South Wales. There will be performances by Sydney Estonian Choir, Sydney Latvian Male Choir and Lithuanian vocal ensemble Atspindys.
Melbourne’s commemoration will be hosted by the Lithuanian community with contributions by all Baltic countries. Join us to commemorate the mass deportations at the Lithuanian Club in Melbourne on Sunday 15 June at 2 pm. The program reflects on the immense human cost of the 1941 deportations. There will be speeches from special guests, including from Estonia, and performances by Lithuanian and Latvian choirs.
Before the event, you are welcome to book a table for lunch. To make a reservation, email: bookings[at]lithuanianclub.com.
