Sunday, 18 May 2.00 pm, join the Melbourne Estonian Society Women’s Choir for an afternoon concert and fundraiser celebrating the songs of Laulupidu 2025 at the Estonian House in Melbourne.
The Melbourne Estonian Society Women’s Choir invites you to a special Laulupidu 2025 Repertoire Concert, featuring the beautiful songs they will perform at Estonia’s iconic song festival, Laulupidu 2025. This is your only chance to hear the choir’s mesmerising voices echo through the halls of the Estonian House before the ladies leave to take part in the grand festival in Estonia.
Pencil this special day into your calendars: Sunday, 18 May 2025 at 2 pm, at the Estonian House, 43 Melville Road, Brunswick West VIC 3055.
Laulupidu, first held in 1869, is one of the largest and most cherished choral festivals in the world. This year, the XXVIII Song and XXI Dance Celebration, titled Iseoma (Kinship), will take place from 3–6 July 2025 and feature more than 40,000 choir singers, folk dancers and musicians.
The women’s choir is excited and honoured to have been selected to be part of this remarkable cultural event.
Concert highlights
Adding to the celebration, the choir is delighted to welcome on stage the incredible trio Vardos as special guests.
Known for their dynamic and passionate performances of Eastern European Romany music, Vardos will bring an extra burst of energy to the stage.
Food and refreshments
Enjoy alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, savoury treats (including pirukad and sandwiches) as well as a variety of homemade cakes available for purchase.
Tickets
$25 – General admission $20 – Melbourne Estonian Society members $5 – Children 12 years and under
Melbourne Estonian Women’s Choir performs at the Independence Day celebrations at the Estonian House in Melbourne, 23 February 2025. Photo by Kristel Alla.
Acknowledgements
We thank Kristina Roots for the information about this exciting event and for co-writing this article.
As May approaches, it’s time to celebrate Mother’s Day around Australia. Of course, mums deserve our love and appreciation every day, but every now and then, it’s nice to set aside a special moment just for them.
Why we celebrate Mother’s Day
Mother’s Day is a time to thank the women who have nurtured, supported and loved us – whether they are mothers, grandmothers or anyone who has shown us motherly care. It’s a day to recognise the quiet strength, endless encouragement and small everyday acts that shaped our lives.
By celebrating Mother’s Day, we honour that love – whether with a hug, a call, a card or a shared moment – and remind them just how much they are valued. It’s about letting the mothers, grandmothers and mother-figures in our lives know: we see you, we appreciate you and we are grateful for all you do.
Check out the list below to find a Mother’s Day event near you!
Perth
Pancake Morning with EstWest
Date: Sunday, 4 May 2025 Time: 9.00 am Location: Hillview Intercultural Community Centre, 1-3 Hill View Place, Bentley WA 6103 Tickets: Trybooking
EstWest is rolling out the good vibes early with a Pancake Morning to celebrate mums in their community. It’s all happening on Sunday, 4 May from 9.00 AM to 12.00 PM – giving you the actual Mother’s Day free to kick back at home!
Program highlights
👧 LEGO Build & Bash for the kids 🌸 Build Your Own Village creative workshop for mums 💃 Folk dance performances 🥞 Pancakes for all!
Entry: $5 per person or $10 per family. Food: $15 per person (must be pre-ordered – no extras available on the day) 👉 Bring your picnic blankets for a cosy seat on the rgass. Bookings are essential.
Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea with Melbourne Estonian Society
Date: Sunday, 4 May 2025 Time: 2.00 PM Location: Estonian House, 43 Melville Road, Brunswick West VIC 3055 Tickets: Free event – RSVP encouraged
Join the Melbourne Estonian Society for a joyful afternoon of tea, bubbles and community spirit. Everyone is welcome – mums, dads, kids, grandparents – and you don’t need to bring a mum to be part of the fun!
Program highlights
🥞Performances by young singers and dancers 🎭Fun games for all ages 👧Creative activities using forest materials 🎤Open mic – talents of all ages welcome!
Mother’s Day Concert and Picnic with Brisbane Estonian Playgroup
Date: Saturday, 10 May 2025 Time: 2.00 pm Location: Minnippi Parkland, 139 Stanton Road, Tingalpa QLD 4173 Tickets: Bank transfer, see below.
Join the Brisbane Estonian Playgroup for an afternoon of music, games and celebration under the open sky.
Program highlights
🌹 Folk dance performance by Folkroos 🎻 Children’s string ensemble 🤸♀️ Singing and games 💐 Gifts for mums!
Tickets
Family ticket: $25 Single ticket: $15
Please RSVP by 7 May to maili.andre[at]gmail.com. 👉 Payment via bank transfer to Brisbane Estonian Playgroup (BSB 633000, ACC 151875358).
Additional information
Please bring a plate to share. Picnicware and drinks (morss) provided. All proceeds support the Estonian language and culture program at the Brisbane Estonian Playgroup.
We love hearing about community events around Australia! If you know of other Mother’s Day celebrations that may be of interest to Estonians in Australia, please email us at news(at)eesti.org.au.
Young Australians with Estonian heritage have an exciting opportunity to attend a week-long Summer School in Estonia this August – with local expenses covered. Applications close 5 May 2025.
The Estonian Institute of Historical Memory is inviting high school and undergraduate students to apply for a five-day summer school in Estonia, running from 3 to 8 August 2025. The program combines history, cultural exploration and the chance to meet other young people from around the world who share Estonian ancestry.
Applications are open until 5 May 2025.
A program rich in history and culture
The Summer School offers participants the chance to learn about Estonia’s complex 20th-century history through lectures, workshops and guided visits to significant historical and cultural sites. The program begins and ends in Tallinn, with trips to Tartu and Viljandi, allowing students to explore a range of locations across the country.
Highlights of the itinerary include visits to the Estonian National Museum, the Memorial to the Victims of Communism, the Ennuksemäe Forest Brothers’ bunker, and guided tours of Tallinn’s Old Town. Students will also have the opportunity to meet representatives from Estonia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and enjoy a private tour of the historic Estonian Knighthood House.
All activities will be conducted in English and are designed to be engaging and interactive, helping participants to gain a deeper understanding of Estonia’s history and culture.
Travel costs covered within Estonia
One of the key advantages of the Summer School is that all local expenses – including accommodation, meals, transport and guided tours – are covered by the organisers. Students are responsible only for arranging and funding their travel to and from Tallinn.
Who can apply?
The Summer School is open to high school and university students with Estonian heritage. Applicants must submit their application by 5 May 2025 at 11:59 PM Estonian time.
Successful candidates will be notified by 12 May 2025.
Photo of the AESL 2024 meeting, from the private collection of Sirje Rivers
The Board of the Council of Estonian Societies in Australia (AESL) has held a few meetings this year. The direction of the discussions seems consistent: visibility and action from the cities. Each meeting starts with city-by-city updates, hearing from every city representative, followed by reports on language, finances and the Eesti Päevad festival. Each report sparks further discussion.
This raises a question: does only the Board have access to this information and these ideas, or should it be shared more broadly – for greater visibility?
Two Board members manage the social media side – Marissa and Esmée. Marissa has chosen a specific niche, sharing information about selected events, including via Instagram. Esmée publishes events for all cities on Facebook pages.
But the question remains: is this enough? Is this truly AESL Board’s visibility?
We have tried to set up a timeline – one article per month by each AESL Board member.
So far, AESL President Juho publishes a speech for each major event – Independence Day, Victory Day, Commemoration of Deportation, and Restoration of Independence.
Vice President Sirje regularly publishes articles on the webpage – eesti.org.au/aesl. These articles cover everything AESL is today – the Board, the Constitution, Donations, Recognitions, and News. AESL’s support areas are introduced – language, Eesti Päevad, Sõrve camp, the archive, and media. The AGM section features articles from annual meetings and the annual booklets.
Taking all this into account, AESL’s information is available. Those who seek it, will find it.
Still, it would be good to publish regular articles from Board members – not everyone goes looking for updates on the website.
We could send out news updates about AESL’s support areas. For example: – Martin: what was your experience of Adelaide’s Eesti Päevad? – Ave: what new things will the next Sydney Eesti Päevad bring? – Marissa: are camps planned in various cities? And quo vadis, Sõrve camp? – Iti: language programs seem strong all over Australia – what’s next? – Ingrid: how are AESL’s funds holding up? (We do sometimes discuss ways to grow them.)
So far, the “one article per month” idea hasn’t taken off. We’ll see how that shapes our future.
But for now, let’s not overlook what we do have – the eesti.org.au/aesl page – thanks to the Australian Estonian Media Project.
This is not said lightly. You’ll understand the BIG THANK YOU owed to the Media Project once you read the section under AESL – support areas/media. Kristi Barrow is the most powerful person in Estonian society in Australia today. (Not to be taken literally. It’s Kristi’s actions – her service to Estonianism in Australia – that are powerful. Her consistency has achieved something remarkable.)
Over the years – from pen and paper to AI – Kristi has carried, and continues to carry, our news and media on her shoulders. When others let go, when the newspaper Meie Kodu closed, Kristi continued. It’s so good to know the work is still in progress – more is ahead.
How could we be impatient? When Meie Kodu closed, it felt like we had NOTHING. Or more precisely – NO ONE. But it never truly disappeared in the background. We are all volunteers, and often our strongest volunteers are also those with heavy work commitments elsewhere. Do we pause to realise what it means to have a media network uniting Estonians across Australia?
News is being sent out. Pages exist with updated info. And now – the power is in our hands. The Media Project has sent out an invitation to BE READY. Once the space is fully set up, each city will have a representative to upload their city’s information. (AESL included.)
The Media Project is working for the future – the programs are chosen for ease of use. Once the system is running, anyone can step in, and the next person can easily take over. Power to us – all we need is willpower.
Media makes us a society. It holds us together.
Each city already has its own Facebook page where Estonians can ask and answer questions – but a shared, united space will make us one community across Australia.
Never underestimate the role of media. GET INVOLVED if you feel called!
April 2025 –Lest we forget. In memoriamLembit Marder ❤
AGM 2024. Photo from the private collection of Sirje Rivers
Council of Estonian Societies in Australia (AESL) holds an annual general meeting (AGM) each year to discuss how Estonians are doing in Australia – where we are headed and how we’re getting there. Leaders of societies (based on cities or activities) attend and contribute. In fact, city representatives are also AESL Board members, which means each city has a voice.
In 2024, in addition to the annual meeting on 31 December, we also sought input from a wider audience. AESL held monthly Zoom gatherings and a face-to-face Bush “Non-conference” (Mõttetalgud), where we explored AESL’s history and shared ideas for the future. We didn’t shy away from discussing the differences between newer and more established Estonians in Australia. We also heard from a “new” Estonian – her search for belonging and her inspiring story of how she now contributes to the Estonian community in Australia.
This is how AESL moves with the times. We gather thoughts from our members and try to implement them together.
AESL has regular activities that remain consistent each year. This overview does not cover the full range of AESL’s activities, but you can read more at eesti.org.au/aesl.
Here, we focus on one key output – the AESL ANNUAL BOOKLET 2024.
In my view, even if AESL did nothing else but collect information for this annual booklet – which includes ALL our Estonian societies and activities, year after year – that alone would be a valuable contribution. It’s information you cannot find anywhere else. Stretch that idea across decades, and the significance becomes clear.
Maybe you’re wondering: why haven’t I seen this booklet? Maybe it really is good? (You can find it at eesti.org.au/aesl/agm and download below.)
As I write this, I’m not overly concerned whether you’ve read it. It’s long – over 100 pages. You don’t need to read the AESL ANNUAL BOOKLET 2024 – because you’re already living it. But maybe you do want to know how other cities are doing, what you can learn from them, and what ideas you might adopt.
The value of the booklet lies in its consistency – in the idea behind it. And that’s what AESL is about too. We hold it together. We rise above our small selves into a greater Estonian presence in Australia, united under one umbrella.
Year after year, we collect data from across Australia and turn it into this booklet. It can be revisited at any time. Even the language used in these articles speaks volumes about the times we are living in.
These days, the booklet also includes photos – a record of our history. It shows, for example, what kinds of handicrafts we made in 2024. As you flip through the annual booklets, you’ll discover how our societies begun, evolved, and moved through different times and stages.
Here’s a brief look at 2024 – as outlined in the booklet.
AUSTRAALIA EESTI SELTSIDE LIIT COUNCIL OF ESTONIAN SOCIETIES IN AUSTRALIA Inc. ABN 34 579 619 788
The most recent annual meeting was held by Zoom and in person in Adelaide on Tuesday, 31 December 2024.
The booklet includes: – Speeches made during 2024 – Chairman’s report (Juho Looveer) – Vice Chairman’s report (Sirje Rivers) – Financial report (Ingrid Provan) – Board member publications – Eesti Päevad Festival report (Martin Kurvits) – Estonian language report (Iti Connor) – Communications report (Marissa Pikkat) – Media Project update (Kristi Barrow, Johanna Rivers) – Cultural Foundation update (Juho Looveer) – Archive report (Terry Kass) – Reports from city organisations
The names in brackets are those who wrote the reports. The word “wrote” may sound neutral, but behind it lies value, commitment, and contribution – the giving of oneself. It reflects the recognition of unity’s importance and the desire to leave a mark in history – a record of thoughts preserved in an annual booklet.
How many member organisations does AESL unite in 2024?
All the ones mentioned above. We also have Estonians in Canberra, Tasmania, Western Australia, and Queensland – small or large groups who gather occasionally for Estonian events. Some are not yet formally part of the Council (AESL) but are considering the value of being united under one Estonian society in Australia.
Reflections
Sometimes I wonder – is it also questionable: miks Eesti riik? Why a government for Estonians in Australia? Or does questioning the purpose of AESL simply reflect a feeling that formal unity isn’t needed among Estonians who have left Estonia?
Why does an Estonian seek out another Estonian after moving to a new country? Why might they not – until they have children? Why gather on 24 February? Why dance around the fire on Jaanipäev? Why feel joy when children sing in Estonian to Santa on 24 December?
How do I explain this? It’s what our minds and hearts need. This is how we support our own. This is where our strength lies – and from where it spreads.
Of course, we can live without it. We can expand our sense of belonging beyond our immediate community. But aren’t we like leaves from the same tree – perhaps even branches from the same root – helping the tree grow, helping it stand strong through storms?
Eestlane olla on uhke ja hää (“It’s proud and good to be Estonian”) – know that song? Love it? Why? What does it mean to you? While one sings, another reflects, and a third continues publishing booklets, collecting our stories.
Saturday, 17 May @ 3 PM. Join us for an unforgettable afternoon and evening of music, joy, and community, as the Kooskõlas Choir presents a special Concert and Celebration Party in Sydney – raising funds for our journey to Laulupidu 2025 in Estonia! ✨🎵✨🇪🇪
Whether you come for the music, the party – or both – we promise good vibes, beautiful harmonies, and a warm Estonian welcome.
Concert Highlights 🎶
Our concert begins at 3 PM and showcases the powerful and poetic songs of Laulupidu 2025, centred around the theme “Iseoma” – a celebration of music deeply rooted in the Estonian language and its connection to the land.
✨ This is more than a concert – it’s a heartfelt homage to our culture and heritage. ✨
After Party Fun 🥳
Stick around for the Celebration Party right after the concert! The Sydney Estonian Society will be opening the bar, and your ticket includes: • Delicious nibbles • Dinner – with a Gluten-Free option available • Dessert, plus coffee and tea.
It’s a relaxed and festive way to come together and support the Kooskõlas Choir’s big dream!
Your support helps us bring the spirit of Kooskõlas to the world stage at Laulupidu 2025. Come celebrate with us – every voice, every ticket, and every donation counts!
Estonian-speaking children living outside Estonia are invited to take part in an inspiring international creative contest “Minu raamatud” (“My Books”), where they can express their love for books by writing stories, drawing pictures and making videos.
For Estonian children living in Australia, this is a brilliant excuse to get creative in Estonian, impress the grandparents, and share how books have made them think, laugh, dream – or fall asleep after three pages.
Taking part can do wonders: it strengthens Estonian language skills, boosts confidence, encourages storytelling superpowers, and deepens kids’ connection to their roots – all while having fun. And let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want an excuse to draw a dragon, write about grandma’s favourite cookbook, or recommend that weirdly amazing book they read last summer (that put everyone else asleep after three pages)?
Let’s celebrate the joy of storytelling – it’s time for young Estonians in Australia to shine, smile, and maybe win a little something for their bookshelf too.
The theme “Minu raamatud” can be tailored to suit every child’s personality – whether they’re a bookworm, a budding poet, or someone who just likes the smell of new books. Some ideas:
“Our Family’s Favourite Books”
“My Favourite Book”
“My Teddy Bear’s Favourite Book”
“A Book I Recommend to Everyone”
“This Book Taught Me Something New”
What can you create? Absolutely anything (within reason) that ties into books and reading:
Typed stories, fairy tales, poems, interviews or essays in Estonian
Handwritten pieces (snap a photo!) or illustrations (extra points for doodles!…Well, probably not, but we’ll love them!)
Digital posters or imaginative book covers
Short videos or animations for future TikTok directors
How to submit?
🕐 Deadline: 15 June 2025 📧 Email: info@yleilmakool.ee (Subject: LOOVTÖÖ)
Just make sure to include:
Full name, age and country of residence
Optional: school and class, contact email (parent or child), and teacher’s name
Parent’s permission to share the work on Üleilmakool’s website or elsewhere – yes, we need the grown-ups’ blessing!
Can I win a prize?
Of course! The best works will be showcased at the Üleilmakooli Family Day on 2 August 2025 at the AHHAA Science Centre in Tartu, Estonia. Can’t make it to Estonia? No worries – prizes will be sent by post (and no, it won’t be a book about stamp collecting – unless you ask nicely).
Who’s responsible?
This contest has been organised by Üleilmakool. Since 2013, Üleilmakool has been teaching Estonian children living around the world – over 300 students in 37 countries so far! Even if you’re living in the Aussie outback or the middle of Melbourne, you can still learn Estonian language, literature, history and more through online lessons and courses.
Read more
🖱️ More info about the contest in Estonian here. 📩 Questions? Contact Helja Kirber at info[at]yleilmakool.ee
P.S. While the little ones are busy being bookish geniuses, sneak off to the Southern Hemisphere Estonian Book Club – it’s your turn to talk about your favourite reads without anyone interrupting for snacks.
Yes, seriously. Estonia wants your wild ideas for 2050.
Have you ever sat in the Aussie sun, munching on a kohuke, and thought, “You know what Estonia needs? A national karaoke holiday.” Or perhaps something more sensible, like climate-resilient cities, flying saunas, or universal free chocolate Fridays?
Well, now’s your chance to make it count. Estonia has launched a project that’s asking people to imagine what Estonia could look like in the year 2050. Yes, we’re looking at you, dreamers with sand between your toes and Eesti in your hearts.
Wait, what is this?
Hakkab Looma (Estonian for “start creating” not “start sneezing”) is a nationwide dream-gathering project. Not the sleep kind although if you did dream of Estonia having teleportation booths at every train station, they probably still want to hear about it.
Estonia wants you to submit your vision of what life could be like in 2050. The twist? You don’t have to live there to participate. Estonians across the world – including us sun-kissed ones Down Under – are invited to drop our dreams into the digital time capsule.
Big dreams, small dreams – as long as they’re yours, they matter.
Image by ChatGPT
🤖 What happens to my dream?
It doesn’t get stuffed in a shoebox under someone’s bed. Instead, your dream is whisked off to a team of Estonian researchers (and some AI magic) who’ll scan, sort and make sense of what Estonians hope for. It’s a bit like group therapy for a nation – but with data visualisations.
The goal? To gather enough insights to help build policies, plans and possibilities that reflect what people really want for Estonia’s future. Because apparently, democracy can be dreamy, too.
Who can submit?
Everyone with an Estonian connection. Dual citizens, cultural enthusiasts, your grandmother, your Estonian-Aussie kids, or even your friend who just really loves this year’s Estonian Eurovision song “Espresso Macchiato”. You don’t need to be a writer or a philosopher. Just be someone who cares (and dreams).
But why?
Because change starts with imagination. And Estonia’s future is too important to leave solely to politicians, spreadsheets and overly cautious planning committees.
Plus, how cool would it be if in 25 years, you see an Estonian innovation or new national policy and think, “Hey – I dreamed that!”
📝 How to get involved
Just go to hakkablooma.ee and type out your dream by 20 May 2025. It’s anonymous, easy and oddly therapeutic.
Do it solo with a cup of coffee or tea. Or with your Australian Estonian community group (group dreaming = team bonding). Or turn it into a family activity over Sunday dinner, “Okay kids, what do you want Estonia to be when you’re 50?”
Final words of advice
Estonia gave you sauna, Skype and sült. Now it wants your ideas. Drop your dream in the Eesti time capsule. Who knows? It might just come true!
Lembit Marder at his Kyneton home. Image: Midland Express
Former Honorary Consul of the Republic of Estonia in Melbourne
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Mr. Lembit Marder, who served with dedication as the Honorary Consul of the Republic of Estonia in Melbourne from 2016 to 2025.
Lembit was a beloved figure in the Melbourne Estonian community, providing unwavering support and guidance to Estonian citizens and fostering a strong connection between Estonia and Victoria. His commitment to helping individuals, promoting Estonian culture, and strengthening community ties in Melbourne made a lasting impact.
Earlier this year, we had the privilege of presenting Lembit with letters of appreciation from the President of the Republic of Estonia and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, recognizing his many years of exemplary service. It was a heartfelt tribute to his contribution, and we are grateful that he was able to receive this recognition.
On behalf of the Embassy of Estonia, we extend our deepest condolences to Lembit’s partner Jo, his daughter Ingrid, and to all those who knew and worked with him in the Melbourne community.
Lembit’s legacy will continue to resonate within the Melbourne Estonian community, and his work will not be forgotten.
May he rest in peace. Jaan Reinhold
Ambassador of the Republic of Estonia to the Commonwealth of Australia
Yes, we’re in Australia. Yes, we have cuddly koalas. But no – that’s not all we do! We also read books, speak beautiful Estonian, and enjoy a good dose of culture. And now, thanks to the brand-new Southern Hemisphere Estonian Book Club (Lõunapoolkera Lugemisklubi), Estonian book lovers from all across the Southern Hemisphere (and beyond) are invited to come together – virtually – to share their love of literature.
We’re kicking things off with a bang: our very first virtual book event will feature none other than Kristiina Ehin, who will join us to present her award-winning prose book “Behind the Dams of the Heart” (Südametammide taga).
Lõunapoolkera Lugemisklubi meets Kristiina Ehin
Date: Sunday, 25 May 2025 Time: 5.00 PM (Sydney/Canberra/Melbourne) | 3:00 PM (Perth) | 7:00 PM (New Zealand) Where: Zoom link here – Meeting ID 863 1425 0167 and Passcode 419471 Language: this event will be held in Estonian.
This year marks a very special milestone: 500 years of written Estonian. Back home in Estonia, it’s being celebrated as the Year of the Estonian Book, with literary events, book launches, and cultural gatherings happening all over the country. So, we thought – why not celebrate it here too? After all, for us down under, an Estonian book is more than just pages and print. It’s a lifeline to language, culture, and that nostalgic little ache we call homesickness.
Let’s just say: if this book were a person, it would be the life of every Estonian literary party right now. It’s on nightstands across the country, being talked about at book clubs and nominated for (and winning!) some very impressive awards:
🏆 Winner of the Eduard Vilde Literary Prize 🏆 Nominee for Estonia’s first-ever Women’s Literature Award 🏆 Nominated for Language Act of the Year 2024 🏆 Nominated for the Estonian Cultural Endowment’s Prose Award.
And here’s the kicker – Kristiina Ehin recently visited Australia and New Zealand, and she left such a glowing impression on us all that we couldn’t help but invite her back (via Zoom this time). Trust us, she’s unforgettable.
Who can join?
Anyone and everyone, no matter where you are in the Southern Hemisphere – Australia, New Zealand and beyond! Whether you’re tuning in solo from your living room, setting up in your local Eesti Maja, or getting a few friends together for a cosy watch party (wine and cheese encouraged) – we’d love to have you.
No need to register – just click the Zoom link on 25 May at 5:00 PM (or your local time, see above) and you’re in! 👉
Kristiina Ehin will join us live to present her novel “Behind the Dams of the Heart” (Südametammide taga). We’ll hear directly from her about the inspiration behind the book, followed by an open discussion with questions and reflections. Expect thoughtful insights, a few laughs, and maybe even a tear or two.
Kristiina Ehin is an Estonian poet, prose writer and singer whose work has received many Estonian and international literary awards. She has published ten poetry collections (such as “Thirst Is the Same for Everyone”, Janu on kõikidel üks) and “Thirst Is the Same for Everyone II”, Janu on kõikidel kaks) and half a dozen prose books, the most well-known of which is “The Diary of a Paleontologist” (Paleontoloogi päevik). Kristiina is the author of many song lyrics and sings in the popular band “Women in the Kitchen” (Naised köögis).
What’s the book about?
Readers and literary critics say the following about Kristiina Ehin’s book “Behind the Dams of the Heart”.
“Ehin’s storytelling is so masterful, the linguistic atmosphere she creates so immersive, that the book is finished before you even realize it. It’s a characteristically clever piece of work from Ehin – seemingly light, yet ultimately compelling the reader to wonder whether this might in fact be one of the long-awaited great novels of our time. Even a superficial read reveals that amid all the laughter, the reader is subtly led to tears – and vice versa – from the present to the past, even to eternity, from the personal to the universal.”
“This is a valuable and educational work for readers of all ages… Through Ehin’s captivating and life-affirming novel, the message of preserving the Estonian language and culture reaches a wide and diverse audience. For readers of other nationalities, the book also offers insight into Estonian identity. By consistently valuing the Estonian language in her work and addressing many topics important to modern Estonians, Ehin helps strengthen social cohesion and a sense of security in our fragmented information age and tense security environment.”
So, grab your book, mark your calendar and come join us! Whether you’re a lifelong reader or just Estonian at heart, you’re warmly welcome in the Southern Hemisphere Estonian Book Club.
Books. Banter. A touch of homesickness. And a whole lot of heart. That’s the Southern Hemisphere Estonian Book Club for you!
Useful links
📖 Order the book (in Estonian) in Australia: link here. 📝 Read more about Kristiina Ehin: link here. 📚 Year of the Estonian Book information: link here.
Acknowledgement
This book club event is made possible thanks to the joint contribution and support of the Estonian societies of Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane and the Gold Coast.
Read in Estonian below.
Lõunapoolkera Lugemisklubi avab hooaja kirjandustähega – Kristiina Ehin liitub meiega Zoomis 25. mail!
Jah, me elame Austraalias. Jah, siin on koaalad. Aga ei – me ei veeda kogu oma aega puu otsas! Me loeme, räägime eesti keeles ja naudime kultuuri. Ja nüüd, tänu uuele Lõunapoolkera Lugemisklubile, saavad eesti kirjanduse sõbrad kõikjalt lõunapoolkeralt (ja kaugemaltki!) kokku tulla, et jagada lugemiselamusi.
Meie esimesele kohtumisele annab hoo sisse Kristiina Ehin, kes tutvustab oma auhinnatud raamatut “Südametammide taga”.
Lõunapoolkera Lugemisklubi kohtub Kristiina Ehiniga
Kuupäev: Pühapäev, 25. mail 2025 Kellaaeg: 17:00 (Sydney/Canberra/Melbourne) | 15:00 (Perth) | 19:00 (Uus-Meremaa) Kus: Zoom link siin – Meeting ID 863 1425 0167 and Passcode 419471 Keel: Üritus toimub eesti keeles.
Tänavu möödub 500 aastat eesti kirjakeele sünnist. Eestis tähistatakse seda Eesti Raamatu Aastana. Aga miks mitte tähistada seda ka siin, lõunapoolkeral? Eesti raamat on meile rohkem kui lihtsalt raamat – see on keele, kultuuri ja koduigatsuse kandja.
Rohkem infot Eesti Raamatu Aasta kohta leiad siit: 👉 raamatuaasta.ee
Miks just see raamat?
Kui see raamat oleks inimene, oleks ta praegu iga kirjandusseltskonna staar. See romaan on praegu öökappidel üle kogu riigi, sellest räägitakse raamatuklubides ning see on kandideerinud (ja võitnud!) mitmeid muljetavaldavaid kirjandusauhindu.
🏆 Eduard Vilde kirjandusauhind 🏆 Eesti esimese naiskirjanduse auhinna nominatsioon 🏆 Keeletegu 2024 nominent 🏆 Eesti Kultuurkapitali proosa aastapreemia nominent.
Lisaks – Kristiina käis hiljuti Austraalias ja Uus-Meremaal, jättes meile sügava mulje. Me tahame teda veel kuulda!
Kes võib osaleda?
Kõik – ükskõik kus lõunapoolkera nurgas sa elad. Tule üksinda või kutsu sõbrannad külla, haara tass teed või kalla klaasike veini ja tee sellest eriline sündmus.
Lihtsalt kliki Zoomi lingile 25. mail kell 17:00 (või oma kohaliku aja järgi) – ja oledki klubis! 👉 Zoom link – Meeting ID: 863 1425 0167 Passcode: 419471
Kristiina Ehin on Eesti luuletaja, proosakirjanik ja laulja kelle looming on pälvinud mitmeid Eesti ja rahvusvahelisi kirjanduspreemiaid. Tema sulest on ilmunud kümme luulekogu (näiteks „Janu on kõikidel üks“ ja „Janu on kõikidel kaks“) ning pool tosinat proosaraamatut, millest tuntuim „Paleontoloogi päevaraamat“. Kristiina on paljude laulusõnade autor ja ta laulab ansamblis „Naised Köögis“.
Raamatust “Südametammide taga”
Lugejad ja kirjanduskriitikud ütlevad Kristiina Ehini raamatu „Südametammide taga“ kohta järgmiselt.
“Ehini jutustamisviis on nii meisterlik, tema loodud keeleolu sedavõrd kaasahaarav, et ei jõua silmagi sügada, kui juba raamat läbi loetud. See on ehtehinlikult kaval raamat, mis lubaks nagu kergust, aga sunnib lõpuks juurdlema, kas tegu pole äkki mitte ühe meie aja paljuigatsetud suure romaaniga. Pealiskaudnegi tutvus näitab, et läbi ohtra naeru juhatatakse lugeja märkamatult pisarateni ja vastupidi, tänapäeva kaudu minevikuni, isegi igavikuni, isiklikust üldiseni.”
“See on igaealisele lugejale väärt ja hariv teos… Ehini haarava ja elurõõmsa romaani kaudu jõuab eesti keele ja kultuuri hoidmise sõnum väga laia ja kirju publikuni. Muu rahvuse esindajatele pakub teos ühtlasi sissevaate eestlaste identiteeti. Oma loomingus eesti keele järjepideva väärtustamise ning paljude teiste tänapäeva Eesti inimestele oluliste teemade käsitlemisega suurendab Ehin killustunud infoajastul ja pingelises julgeolekukeskkonnas ühiskonna sidusust ja turvatunnet.”
Tule osale! Võta kaasa raamat, tass teed või pokaal veini ja naudi koos meiega eesti tippkirjandust – siin, lõunapoolkeral.
Kultuuri, kodutunde ja kirjanduse kohtumispaik – Lõunapoolkera Lugemisklubi.
Kasulikud lingid
📗 Telli raamat Austraalias: siit. 📙 Loe veel “Südametammide taga” kohta siit. 📒 Raamatuarvustuse ajakirjas “Looming” leiad siit. 📚 Eesti Raamatu Aasta kohta info on siin.
Täname
See raamatuklubi üritus saab teoks tänu Sydney, Melbourne’i, Perthi, Brisbane’i ja Gold Coast’i Eesti seltside ühisele panusele ja toetusele.
Anniversary of the Republic of Estonia reception hosted by the Embassy in Canberra
Dear Fellow Estonians in Australia,
As autumn descends upon Australia and the first signs of spring emerge in Estonia—despite the temperamental weather—this season brings with it a period of intense activity and renewed purpose on both sides of the world.
The beginning of the year has introduced new dynamics both domestically in Australia, where the federal election campaign is gathering momentum, and globally, where the international landscape continues to be shaped by a series of complex crises. These include the ongoing war of aggression by Russia in Ukraine, China’s increasing assertiveness in the Asia-Pacific region, and evolving trends in transatlantic relations.
Estonia and Australia have long shared a close alignment in their foreign policy outlooks, driven by a mutual commitment to upholding the rules-based international order and the security architecture that has underpinned global stability for the past eight decades. This shared understanding was further reaffirmed at the Senior Officials’ consultations held in Tallinn at the end of March, where mutual interests were confirmed, and future directions for cooperation were set in navigating the challenges ahead.
Australia Day with the Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese
A reminder of the complexity of modern hybrid threats came on Christmas Day last year, when the oil tanker Eagle S, sailing under the flag of the Cook Islands, damaged the Estlink 2 submarine power cable between Estonia and Finland. This incident underscored the vulnerabilities associated with critical infrastructure and the increasingly blurred lines between conventional and non-conventional threats. In response, the Embassy initiated a broader dialogue with Australian counterparts on safeguarding subsea infrastructure and mitigating related risks. While the incident had a short-term effect on electricity pricing in Estonia, it did not compromise energy security. Importantly, in February this year, the Baltic states completed their desynchronisation from the Russian electricity grid—an act likened to the withdrawal of Soviet army forces three decades ago. Our energy system is now fully independent and self-sufficient. Nevertheless, the Eagle S incident illustrated the interconnectedness of crises and the global imperative to cooperate on the protection of undersea cables—both in the Baltic Sea and off the coast of Australia. I am pleased to note that information exchange and dialogue between Estonia and Australia on this matter have been active and productive in recent months.
Celebrating Estonia’s Anniversary with the Kiviväli family in Melbourne
Regrettably, for the past three years, 24 February has also marked the beginning of Russia’s unprovoked aggression against Ukraine. This sombre anniversary inevitably casts a shadow over our national day celebrations, while also reinforcing the critical importance of independence and the shared responsibility to defend it. Estonia continues to stand firmly with Ukraine, which is sacrificing immensely in its defence of not only its own sovereignty but also the broader cause of a just international order. Estonia remains the leading contributor to Ukraine on a per capita basis, and Australia, notably, stands among the foremost non-NATO supporters. I would like to thank all Estonians across Australia who participated in rallies supporting Ukraine and condemning Russian aggression. In Canberra, with the support of Senators Debbie O’Neill and Linda Reynolds, we hosted a parliamentary roundtable on Ukraine, where I joined my colleagues from Latvia, Lithuania, and Ukraine in expressing collective solidarity. This initiative was warmly received by Australian Members of Parliament and representatives of the government. On 24 February, I also took part in a diplomatic memorial service at the Ukrainian church in Canberra.
Anniversary of the Republic of Estonia reception hosted by the Embassy in Canberra
February is a month of national significance for Estonians, as we mark the anniversary of the Republic of Estonia. In celebration, the Embassy hosted a reception in Canberra for the Estonian community and friends of Estonia, providing a welcome opportunity to reconnect with familiar faces and forge new friendships. I am sincerely grateful to the Estonian community organisations across Australia for their invitations to participate in their festivities. Regrettably, due to time constraints and travel requirements, I was unable to attend more than one. However, I had the pleasure of celebrating the anniversary in Melbourne, where I had the opportunity to meet the local community and present a Certificate of Appreciation from Estonia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs to Mr Matti Kiviväli in recognition of his longstanding commitment to preserving the Melbourne Estonian House. I was also delighted to attend a performance of Tõll, a stage production by Andrus Kivirähk, brought to Australia by a talented team of visiting Estonian actors. I am glad that the production was staged in multiple cities across Australia and hope that such cultural exchanges will continue and flourish. I extend my sincere thanks to all those who contributed to the success of Tõll’s tour in Australia.
In terms of consular work, the Embassy has been actively conducting missions throughout the region. This year, we have already held missions in Wellington and Auckland in February and in Sydney at the end of March. Our next consular mission will take place in Brisbane in May, and we plan to continue these visits regularly to ensure that Estonian citizens have consistent and convenient access to consular services. Many public services related to document applications have also moved online, significantly reducing the need for in-person visits to the Embassy or Honorary Consuls.
We will continue to develop these digital solutions and will inform the community of further updates in due course. I would also like to express heartfelt thanks to Mr Lembit Marder, our long-serving Honorary Consul in Melbourne and the state of Victoria, who retired from his post on 25 February. He was awarded a Certificate of Appreciation from the Estonian Foreign Minister in recognition of his exemplary service. During the interim period, consular duties in Melbourne will continue to be ably handled by Mrs Bernadette Pilli, whose dedication and professionalism are greatly appreciated.
with Giles Parker and Hillar Ranniko at Sydney Estonian House
It is also encouraging to witness the continued vitality of the Estonian diaspora in Australia. We are pleased to see progress in the renovation plans of the Sydney Estonian House and wish to commend Mr Hillar Ranniko, Mr Grahame Reinthal, and all those who are contributing to this important initiative. Everything that Estonians have built in Australia is worthy of preservation. I would also like to extend a call to those in possession of materials, artworks, or memorabilia related to Estonia and the Estonian-Australian community: please let us know about them. By documenting and displaying these valuable items, we can ensure that younger generations of Estonians have the opportunity to connect with their roots via this heritage, understand their cultural legacy, and contribute to its preservation. Visiting the Sõrve youth camp earlier this year, I was moved by the enthusiasm of young participants engaging with the Estonian language and traditions. And during a recent visit to Thirlmere, I was reminded of the deep historical roots of the Estonian community in Australia. My sincere thanks to Mrs Krista Ford and her family, as well as Mr Mart Rampe, for their warm welcome and for facilitating my visit.
Visiting Thirlmere
Much work has been happening behind the scenes with the Australian Estonian Media Project and the website eesti.org.au. It’s great to see so many Estonian organisations and groups promoting and keeping our Estonian culture alive. I would like to encourage all organisations to share their details so you can be part of the new website launch. You can list your organisation by filling out this online form, https://wkf.ms/3XOwC3F
Finally, I would like to extend warm congratulations to the Estonian cultural groups in Australia who have successfully qualified to participate in the XXVIII Song and XXI Dance Celebration in Tallinn this July. I thank all the singers and dancers involved—and especially the leaders of these groups—for their tireless dedication to preserving and promoting Estonian cultural heritage abroad.
This year’s festival, titled “Iseoma” (“Our Own”), serves as a poignant reminder of the uniqueness of our culture and the importance of carrying forward what is inherently and distinctly Estonian. Through music, dance, and tradition, we continue to celebrate and share what it means to be part of our remarkable nation.
Estonian – Australians are well used to long haul flights – it takes roughly a full day to get from the small cold northern country to the large hot southern country. A harrowing trip, but one mitigated by the ability to binge an entire season of the latest streaming morsel offered by your carrier of choice.
One such offering is the recent incarnation of the The Day of the Jackal – a ten-part 2024 series starring Eddie Redmayne. A key character within is fictional tech entrepreneur, the Estonian/Palestinian, Ulle Dag Charles – an anagram for Charles de Gaulle who was the principal target in the original 1971 novel. Why is the character Estonian? Maybe because Ulle is an Estonian first name (though typically female) but also because it allows the movie to feature Tallinn as a key location.
A critical construct of espionage genre thrillers is the use of exotic locations. Think of every Bond movie, the Bourne series and Mission Impossible. The more historical, yet paradoxically modern, the city, the better. Add in a dose of current geopolitical tension, an overcast atmosphere and a stylish populace (think long swishing overcoats) and the city picks itself. No surprise, Australian cities rarely feature in such movies – limited history and too sunny!
Whilst Tallinn is prominent in The Day of the Jackal narrative, the actual filming of the Estonian sequences took place in other European cities. Cities like Rijeka and Split in Croatia were used to represent Estonian urban environments and the central “Tallinn” theatre scene was shot in Müpa in Budapest, Hungary. Many of the Estonian characters are accordingly played by actors with no Estonian connection, complete with questionable accents (but at least one rings true).
In contrast, Christopher Nolan’s 2020 thriller starring Australian Elizabeth Debicki, Tenet, took a different approach to Estonia’s cinematic presence. Tallinn provided a backdrop for some of the film’s most memorable sequences, notably the car chase on Laagna Road and the approximation of the Kyiv Opera House in Linnahall. Estonia’s crisp modernity and Northern historical charm were front and centre, helping ground Tenet’s labyrinth like narrative in a recognizable, tangible world. Although Tenet includes Tallinn in its story line, most of the Estonian shot scenes are representations of other cities.
These two productions illustrate the varied ways filmmakers use geography to serve storytelling. While The Day of the Jackal leverages other cities adaptability to recreate Estonia, Tenet immerses itself in the genuine locales of Tallinn, as well as providing a canvas to represent other European cities. Such decisions reveal the dance between practical constraints, creative vision, and the audience’s suspension of disbelief.
They also help shape Tallinn’s brand as a cool place to visit!
