Linda, Malle and Albert Karp c 1944 in Geislingen. Source: The Oaks Historical Society newsletter, February 2026.
Mall Juske (née Karp) was born in Tallinn, Estonia, on 6 August 1935. Passed in Camden, Australia, on 21 January 2026.
We would like to mark the passing of a lady who was very supportive of The Oaks Historical Society in the days when we were installing the exhibition “From Estonia to Thirlmere” and share something of her life with you.
Mall Karp was born in the lovely old merchant city of Tallinn, at a time when Stalin in Russia and Hitler in Germany were fighting over the Baltic countries of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. In 1940 the country was occupied by Russian forces and Estonian political leaders were arrested and sent to Siberia. In 1939 Mall’s parents, Linda and Mall escaped to the rural home of Linda’s mother Lisa when their own home was burnt down. Albert joined the Air Force auxiliary and moved to another part of the country. When Russia invaded again in 1944, Linda and Mall left on a convoy to Latvia and then by a German ship to Frankfurt. Once again, they were threatened by Russian troops but found safety in Bavaria where Albert eventually joined them after the war. He had suffered while he was away and needed nursing.
Responsibility for those who lost their countries and homes was divided between the Allies; Russia, USA and UK. In Germany the town of Geislingen was cleared of people for the American camp and the Karp family shared a house with several other families. They were given rations for food and clothing and schooling was soon organised for the children and cultural activities encouraged. Mall joined the dancing school and Linda, who was a skilled seamstress, managed to make alterations to her National Costume. She hired a sewing machine to do this. The original skirt was made of woven stripes and Linda found coloured wool in the correct colours and sewed it strip by strip onto old cotton on the sewing machine.
Linda sewing Mall’s National Costume. Photo from the private collection of Doreen Lyon.
The family was accepted into Australia and arrived by boat to Fremantle where they were met by the Estonian Relief Committee and sailed to Melbourne and then boarded a train to Sydney. They were sponsored by the church, so Albert was not required to work for a two-year bond, and they settled in Dover Heights. Albert found work with Dunlop Rubber and Mall attended Double Bay Primary and then to Dover Heights school. In 1952 she attended Macquarie Fields Secretarial School and got a job with Lysaght Bros, and then in the office at Hardy’s Rubber. She resumed her interest in folk dancing and met Helmut Juske and they married in 1955. Helmut worked for Michael Nairn Linoleum and moved to Hardy’s Rubber where Mall worked.
Helmut applied for Crown Land in Thirlmere where other Estonians lived and in 1956 he was granted 12½ acres on Michel Road, Thirlmere (next to an old man from Burragorang Valley called Mr. Clive Catt). The land value was £230 and rental of £5/15/- weekly. They came out at weekends to clear the land and took courses in Poultry Breeding at Ultimo Tech. In 1957 they made the move to Thirlmere and built brooder and poultry sheds and their first day old chickens were delivered in 1959. Helmut delivered eggs in his van to local businesses twice a week. Their daughters, Helle and Valli, were born in 1961 and 1962. When the Egg Board imposed egg quotas Helmut decided to convert to intensive egg production in battery cages. He became a Director of the Egg Board and the Thirlmere Farmers Group “Kungla” and was involved with Australian United Farms, the Estonian Choir and “Koit” the Estonian Society. They built a home on Michel Road from a plan Mall saw in the newspaper. In 1982 they sold the business and then the house in 1987.
Source: The Oaks Historical Society newsletter, February 2026.
I remember Mall from the above photo when she donated the egg washing machine and showed us how to use it! Also from the National Costume which Mall loaned for the exhibition!
Acknowledgement
Originally published in The Oaks Historical Society newsletter, February 2026. Thank you to Doreen Lyon, Krista Ford and Mart Rampe for information.
Estonians across Australia are gathering to celebrate the 108th birthday of the Republic of Estonia over the next week or so — and yes, we fully intend to do it properly. Blue, black and white out. Voices warmed up. Cake sliced. Read below to see what’s happening near you.
The communities come together to honour 24 February 1918 — the day Estonia declared itself an independent nation for the first time. That day is a big deal. Fast-forward through occupations, exile and 45 years of Soviet rule, and you realise just how precious and hard-won that freedom is. For many of us, memories of 1990–1991 still sit close to the surface. This is not just history. It’s lived experience.
Celebrations here and there
Whenever I’m in Estonia for Independence Day, I try to catch the parade and then park myself in front of the TV for the President’s reception — affectionately known as the “Parade of Penguins” — where political speeches, state awards and ambitious fashion choices share equal airtime. Over the years, even some prominent Australian Estonians have received that coveted invite. Not bad for a community on the other side of the planet.
And here in Australia? We do it our way — with choirs, folk dancers, theatre, picnics, speeches, anthem-singing that may or may not become competitive, and long tables of shared food. For Estonians in Australia, this day is proof that identity travels. Our stories, traditions, language, songs and friendships bind us together. We celebrate freedom. We celebrate continuity. We celebrate each other.
Brisbane
🗓️ Saturday, 21 February 2026 📍 Latvian Hall (Läti maja), 24 Church Avenue, Woolloongabba QLD 4102 🕠 5.30 pm – Estonian Independence Day celebration (FREE) 🕖 7.00 pm – Mamma Lood theatre performance (in Estonian) | Tickets: https://www.trybooking.com/DICGN 🎟️ Event page: Facebook
Source: Brisbane Estonian Society.
Canberra
🗓️ Sunday, 22 February 2026 | 12.00–2.30pm 📍 Himalayan Cedar Forest, National Arboretum Canberra, Forest Drive ACT 2602 🕠 12.30 pm – Short presentation + national anthem 🥪 Free event – BYO picnic 🎟️ Event page: Facebook
Sydney
🗓️ Sunday, 22 February 2026 📍 The Estonian House in Sydney, 141 Campbell St, Surry Hills NSW 2010 🕠 1.00 pm – Estonian Independence Day celebration | Tickets: https://www.trybooking.com/DHCNM 🕖 4.00 pm – Mamma Lood theatre performance (in Estonian) | Tickets: www.trybooking.com/DICGN 🎟️ Event page: Facebook
🗓️ Sunday, 1 March 2026 📍 The Estonian House in Melbourne, 43 Melville Road, Brunswick West VIC 3055 (upstairs hall) 🕒 Doors open 12.45 pm | 🎤 Show starts 1.00 pm 🥗 Free event – please bring a plate to share 🎟️ Event page: Facebook
Source: Melbourne Estonian Society.
How Estonian Australians are celebrating this year
Across the country, celebrations range from forest picnics in Canberra’s Himalayan Cedar Forest to theatre evening in Brisbane with Mamma Lood and its warm, witty storytelling. Sydney gathers formally at the Estonian House to raise the sinimustvalge flag, enjoy performances and the gorgeous Estonian Book 500 tapestry the ladies have been working on will be on display. Adelaide brings music front and centre with Vikerkaar and Hapu Koor filling the Estonian House with song and cheer.
Melbourne rounds out the celebrations on 1 March with choir performances, folk dancing and a viewing of the President’s speech — because what is Independence Day season without at least one official address and a few thoughtful nods to Tallinn? Whether you prefer anthem-singing in a forest, theatre humour, or a hall full of familiar faces and shared food, there is something beautifully Estonian happening near you.
Wherever you are this Independence Day season, come along. Wear something blue, black or white. Bring a friend. Teach a child to say: “Elagu Eesti!” (Long live Estonia!). Stay for cake and great company. We’ll be glad to see you!
Happy birthday, Estonia!
Editorial note
Our listing includes events with publicly available details at the time of publication; we also understand that Independence Day was marked in Perth earlier in February alongside the Mamma Lood performance.
On 24 February, we celebrate together the 108th anniversary of the Republic of Estonia — the day in 1918 when our beloved Estonian state was proclaimed. 108 years of freedom, resilience, hope and faith in our people.
It is a great joy to see that across Australia — in Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane, Perth, Hobart, and beyond — Estonians and friends of Estonia are gathering to mark this important national day. Every blue-black-white flag, every song sung, and every word spoken in Estonian here in the southern hemisphere affirms: Estonia lives in our hearts.
It is a special honour for me to stand before you today for the first time as President of the Council of Estonian Societies in Australia (Austraalia Eesti Seltside Liit, AESL). I have only recently stepped into this role, and I feel deep gratitude for the trust you have placed in me. This position does not belong to me alone — it belongs to all of us. It is a shared responsibility to preserve and strengthen Estonian identity in Australia, to build connections between our communities, and to pass on our language and culture to the next generations.
Estonia’s history teaches us that freedom is never self-evident. It is born of courage, unity and perseverance. Our forebears carried these values through difficult times — wars, occupations, and exile. Many members of our community, or their parents, arrived in Australia with the hope of building a new life, yet they always carried Estonia in their hearts. Thanks to them, we have strong societies, schools, choirs, and folk dance groups today.
Our task now is as important as ever: to keep the Estonian language alive, to support our young people in their search for identity, and to serve as a bridge between Estonia and Australia. We are not simply a community far from our homeland — we are part of a global Estonian family.
108 years is a venerable age, yet the Estonian state is young at heart. It continues to develop, learn and grow together with its people — both at home and abroad. May our connection to Estonia remain strong and vibrant — visible in our actions, in the eyes of our children, and in our singing together.
May this national day fill us with pride and gratitude. Pride in being Estonian. Gratitude to those who built the Estonian state, and to those who kept Estonian identity alive here in Australia.
Long live Estonia! Long live Estonians around the world! And long live our united community here in Australia!
Thank you.
Ave Nukki President of AESL
Eesti keeles
Head kaasmaalased, armsad sõbrad!
Täna tähistame me üheskoos Eesti Vabariigi 108. aastapäeva – päeva, mil 1918. aastal kuulutati välja meie kallis Eesti riik. 108 aastat vabadust, vastupidavust, lootust ja usku oma rahvasse.
On suur rõõm näha, et üle kogu Austraalia – nii Sydneys, Melbourne’is, Adelaide’is, Brisbane’is, Perthis, Hobartis kui ka mujal – kogunevad eestlased ja Eesti sõbrad, et seda tähtsat pidupäeva tähistada. Iga sinimustvalge lipp, iga lauldud laul ja iga eestikeelne sõna siin kaugel lõunapoolkeral kinnitab: Eesti elab meie südametes.
Mul on eriline au seista täna teie ees esimest korda Austraalia Eesti Seltside Liidu (AESL) presidendina. Olen alles hiljuti sellesse rolli astunud ning tunnen sügavat tänutunnet usalduse eest, mida olete mulle osutanud. See amet ei kuulu ainult mulle – see kuulub meile kõigile. See on ühine vastutus hoida ja arendada eestlust Austraalias, tugevdada sidemeid kogukondade vahel ning kanda edasi meie keelt ja kultuuri järgmistele põlvkondadele.
Eesti ajalugu õpetab meile, et vabadus ei ole iseenesestmõistetav. See sünnib julgusest, ühtsusest ja visadusest. Meie esivanemad kandsid neid väärtusi läbi raskete aegade – sõdade, okupatsioonide ja paguluse. Paljud meie kogukonna liikmed või nende vanemad saabusid Austraaliasse lootusega alustada uut elu, kuid südames kandsid nad alati Eestit. Tänu neile on meil täna tugevad seltsid, koolid, koorid ja rahvatantsurühmad.
Meie ülesanne täna on sama tähtis kui kunagi varem: hoida eesti keel elavana, toetada noori nende identiteedi otsingul ning olla sillaks Eesti ja Austraalia vahel. Me ei ole lihtsalt kogukond kaugel kodumaast – me oleme osa ülemaailmsest eestlaskonnast.
108 aastat on väärikas iga, kuid Eesti riik on oma hingelt noor. Ta areneb, õpib ja kasvab koos oma rahvaga nii kodumaal kui ka võõrsil. Olgu meie side Eestiga tugev ja elav – olgu see nähtav meie tegudes, meie laste silmades ja meie ühislaulmises.
Soovin, et see pidupäev täidaks meid uhkuse ja tänutundega – uhkusega olla eestlane. Tänutundest nende vastu, kes ehitasid Eesti riigi, ja nende vastu, kes hoidsid eestlust elus siin Austraalias.
Elagu vaba Eesti! Elagu eestlased üle kogu maailma! Ja elagu meie ühtehoidev kogukond siin Austraalias!
Aitäh teile.
Ave Nukki Austraalia Eesti Seltside Liidu president
He made Melbourne cry-laugh last year. Now Sander Õigus is back in Australia with a brand-new solo show — and Perth and Sydney, you’re first in line. Melbourne… we’re hearing whispers.
If you remember how he turned Melbourne into a full-scale laughter zone last year (yes, we’re still recovering), you’ll know this is not just “a comedy night”. This is sharp, self-aware, slightly chaotic Estonian humour at its finest — delivered by a man who looks like he’s asking life’s biggest questions while quietly roasting himself.
Perth — you’re up first
🗓️ Sunday, 15 February 2026 🕒 Doors 7.00pm | 🎤 Show 7.30pm 📍 The Leederville Comedy Club, 742 Newcastle St, Perth WA 🎟️ $50 AUD (+ booking fee) | Tickets: Eventbrite link 🎟️ Event page: Perth Facebook 🗣 Language: in Estonian
The new solo hour is titled Üks teist on süüdi (One of You Is Guilty). The premise? Simple. We gather in beautiful halls across Australia to determine… who exactly is responsible for how we ended up here.
How did things go wrong? Is there a way back? Are we all slightly to blame?
Sander says he doesn’t have the answers — but he does have an hour of brand-new jokes where he attempts to find them. Expect existential questions, self-inflicted humiliation, and that very specific Estonian ability to laugh at our own life decisions (mostly his, but we’ll recognise ourselves).
Source: Huumoriklubi.
Sydney — your turn
🗓️ Saturday, 28 February 2026 🕒 Doors 7.00pm | 🎤 Show 7.30pm 📍 The Estonian House in Sydney, 141 Campbell St, Surry Hills NSW 2010 🎟️ $50 AUD (+ booking fee) | Tickets: Eventbrite link 🎟️ Event page: Sydney Facebook 🗣 Language: in Estonian
Sydney, this is your chance to experience a full house of Estonians laughing in unison at slightly uncomfortable truths. It’s bonding. It’s therapy. It’s cheaper than actual therapy.
And Melbourne?
Rumours are circulating that negotiations are underway for a Melbourne show. We are not saying anything definitive. We are, however, crossing fingers, toes, and possibly entire committee structures.
If last year was anything to go by (read our previous story here), you do not want to miss this if it lands in your city.
So Perth and Sydney — gather your friends, your cousins, that one uncle who laughs too loudly and come investigate which one of you is guilty (leave the kids home, this show is for 16+ years). We’ll see you there. Probably laughing at ourselves.
Virmalised at the Embassy in Canberra, February 2026. Photo from the private collection of Jaan Reinhold
Dear Estonians across Australia,
As we settle into 2026, I would like to extend my warmest greetings to you all — wherever you live across this vast and diverse country. The beginning of a new year is always a welcome moment for reflection and renewal, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for the strength, dedication, and unity you continue to bring to Estonian life in Australia.
Supporting the Estonian diaspora remains one of the Embassy’s key priorities. While we do not provide direct financial assistance to community projects, a range of structural support programmes and funds are available through Estonia to support organisations abroad, including here in Australia. I am also pleased that multicultural Australia — at both federal and state levels — offers valuable funding opportunities for community activities. Many Estonian organisations have already made good use of these, and I strongly encourage you to continue doing so. The Embassy is always ready to support such efforts, including by providing letters of endorsement where helpful.
During my visits to different states and territories, I make it a priority to meet with local Estonian community representatives. In my discussions with state governments, I consistently highlight the contribution of Estonians to Australian society and encourage local authorities to support initiatives by Estonian communities. My visits to Queensland and, more recently, to Darwin in mid-November included constructive and encouraging discussions in this regard. I also encourage community members to identify people of Estonian heritage within state governments or parliaments, to build relationships with them, and to invite them to engage with local diaspora activities.
Honorary consuls play a vital role as an extension of the Embassy. Australia and New Zealand are very well covered by our honorary consular network, with seven honorary consuls in Australia and one in Auckland. We are also hopeful to appoint a new honorary consul in Victoria in 2026. In addition to their consular responsibilities, honorary consuls are increasingly involved in economic diplomacy and in strengthening Estonia–Australia relations, including support for diaspora initiatives. I encourage all local organisations to maintain close and active cooperation with their respective honorary consuls, to explore joint opportunities, and to keep them informed and engaged.
Estonia’s Honorary Consuls from across Australia came together in Sydney for our annual conference. Photo from the private collection of Jaan Reinhold
Looking back at 2025, I can say with confidence that it was an exceptionally successful year for Estonia–Australia relations. Strengthening bilateral ties through high-level political contacts, parliamentary exchanges, and business delegations has been a clear Embassy priority.
A highlight on the political front was the visit of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Riigikogu to Australia and New Zealand. The programme was intensive and highly productive, covering both bilateral and global issues. Estonia and Australia demonstrated strong alignment, particularly in their support for Ukraine and their clear condemnation of Russia’s ongoing aggression.
Outside Parliament House with Henn Põlluaas, Marko Mihkelson and Juku-Kalle Raid. Photo from the private collection of Jaan Reinhold
In November, we were pleased to welcome Estonia’s Minister of Education and Research, Kristina Kallas, to Australia and New Zealand. Her visit focused on cooperation in artificial intelligence, new technologies in education, and reforms in general and vocational education. Estonia’s experience and leadership in these areas attracted strong interest from Australian partners.
Economic diplomacy was also very active. In October, the Space Estonia delegation visited Sydney, and in November, the Estonian Geological Survey delegation — together with researchers and officials — visited Western Australia, New South Wales, and Queensland. These visits opened new doors for cooperation and highlighted Estonia’s expertise in advanced and future-oriented sectors.
To strengthen the bond between Estonians in Australia and our historic homeland, I make every effort to arrange meetings between visiting Estonian dignitaries and the local diaspora, as well as with business leaders through the Estonian–Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The meetings held in Sydney and Melbourne during the visits of the Riigikogu delegation and Minister Kallas were lively, informative, and much appreciated. At the same time, I recognise that participation can always be improved. Such meetings require considerable coordination within already tight official programmes, and we remain open to adjusting formats in the future to better meet community expectations.
The HEIA media project has had a strong and successful launch, serving as a nationwide online platform for Estonians in Australia and helping to prevent fragmentation of our information space. It complements long-standing local publications while enabling more timely communication, including consular information from the Embassy. I am honoured to contribute a regular “Column by the Ambassador” several times a year and welcome your suggestions on its content and focus.
The Estonian Archives in Sydney deserve special recognition. They are unique not only in the context of Estonian communities in Australia but also within the broader Estica heritage landscape. Every official Estonian delegation I have brought to the Archives has been deeply impressed, often describing the visit as a highlight. Maintaining such high archival standards with limited space is a remarkable achievement by dedicated volunteers. In the long term, larger facilities will be needed, and this should be considered in any future restructuring of Estonian House. The Archives remain a vital guardian of Estonian memory and identity in Australia.
With Maie Barrow (Archives volunteer), Henn Põlluaas, Juku-Kalle Raid, Marko Mihkelson at Estonian House Sydney. Photo from the private collection of Jaan Reinhold
Across Australia, Estonian language teachers perform invaluable and often unseen work, largely on a voluntary basis. Their efforts were rightly recognised with letters of appreciation from Estonia’s Minister of Education. The Embassy will continue to support them, including by helping to source educational materials from Estonia. Supporting opportunities for teachers to meet and collaborate remains important for the future.
Children’s camps are among the strongest pillars of Estonian identity in Australia. The long-established Sõrve camp, with its extraordinary intergenerational legacy, and the newer Melbourne-based camp both play an essential role. As generational ties to Estonia evolve, it is increasingly important that these camps maintain a strong focus on language, culture, and traditions alongside recreation. The introduction of a language and culture leader at Sõrve is a very welcome development.
The coming year will also bring change. The Melbourne Estonian House has found new owners, and within six months the Estonian Society will vacate the building and, it is hoped, move into suitable new premises. Given the building’s historical significance, I sincerely hope that its cultural treasures will be preserved — whether in new facilities, through display elsewhere, or, where necessary, through storage or transfer to institutions such as the Estonian National Museum. While the Embassy does not manage this process, we stand ready to assist in seeking support from Estonia if needed.
Maintaining the tradition of Estonian Days (Eesti Päevad) is another vital task. I extend my heartfelt thanks to the Adelaide Estonian Society, and especially to Mr Martin Kurvits, for organising the 2024 celebrations. I also warmly welcome the Sydney Estonian Society’s decision to host the next Estonian Festival in April 2027.
Finally, I would like to thank all community leaders, volunteers, teachers, organisers, and supporters who give their time and energy to keeping Estonian culture alive in Australia. Our strength as a diaspora lies in our shared commitment and unity.
In 2025, I had the honour of nominating the Wollondilly Heritage Centre and Museum, Hilja Toom and Martin Kurvits for the Minister of Foreign Affairs’ Citizen Diplomacy Award, in recognition of their outstanding contributions to Estonian life and heritage in Australia. I am delighted that all were awarded and extend my congratulations once more.
Hilja Toom receives her award from Minister of Education and Research Kristina Kallas in Melbourne. Photo from the private collection of Jaan ReinholdMart Rampe received the award on behalf of Wollondilly Heritage Centre and Museum. Photo from the private collection of Jaan Reinhold
I wish you all a happy, healthy, and inspiring 2026. May it bring renewed energy to our communities and continued strong ties between Estonia and Australia.
With best wishes, Jaan Reinhold Ambassador of Estonia to Australia
Perth book event & conversation with Lilian Saage. Source: Facebook event page.
A lot is happening in Perth this weekend — and right at the heart of it is the chance to meet Lilian Saage in person. Book talk on Friday, workshop on Saturday. Scroll on, choose your adventure.
A Friday evening of engaging conversation
🗓️ Date: Friday, 13 February 2026 🕔 Time: 6.00-8.00 pm (Perth time, AWST) 📍 Where: 5 Mackie Street, Victoria Park 6100 WA 🎟️ Register: Link 📘 Event page: Link 🗣 Language: in Estonian
Friday evening offers a relaxed opportunity to hear more about the ideas behind Lilian’s book, Mina, sina ja kõik meie vahel (Me, You and Everything in Between), ask questions, and take part in an open conversation in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Tea and coffee will be provided — and partners and friends are very welcome.
If you’ve read our recap from Sydney, you’ll know this isn’t your average “sit politely and nod” kind of event. Lilian speaks, we listen. We reflect. We laugh (sometimes at ourselves). We quietly realise that relationships are less about being “bad at love” and more about being tired, overloaded humans running on emotional fumes. She gently dismantles myths (romance optional, connection not), invites us to unpack the invisible backpack we carry from our families, and reminds us that emotional adulthood is a choice — not an age.
Expect practical insights. Expect a few “oh” moments. Possibly expect to go home and try the six-second kiss experiment.
Saturday workshop — from relationship routine to celebration
🗓️ Date: Saturday, 14 February 2026 🕒 Time: 12.00–2.00 pm (Perth time, AWST) 📍 Where: 5 Mackie Street, Victoria Park 6100 WA 🎟️ Register: Link 🎟️ Event page: Link 🗣 Language: in Estonian
Workshop: Kuidas suhete hall argipäev muuta särtsakaks pidupäevaks?
Lilian Saage — recognised family therapist, mentor and inspiring speaker — will guide participants through how everyday moments with loved ones can become more joyful and meaningful. Her core belief? The most important relationship in life is the relationship with yourself. From there, everything else flows.
This workshop is a chance to gather practical ideas and fresh perspectives on keeping close relationships alive and inspiring — in a cosy setting, with good company and honest conversation.
Perth friends — if you’ve been meaning to have deeper conversations, refresh your perspective, or simply meet a thoughtful and engaging speaker from Estonia, this is your moment. Small, conscious choices — like showing up — are often where care begins. Enjoy!
The new board of the AESL attending the AGM of AESL, 18 January 2026. Missing from this photo are Anu Läänesaar and Elina Peedoson. From left: Ingrid Provan, Sirje Jõgi Rivers, Martin Kurvits, Dr Juho Looveer, Martin Kukk, Ave Nukki and Esmée Okamoto. Photo from the private collection of Sirje Jõgi Rivers.
The Council of Estonian Societies in Australia (Austraalia Eesti Seltside Liit, AESL) has elected a new Board, with its first meeting held on 11 February 2026. At this meeting, the executive positions were formally appointed.
The Executive Board consists of:
Ave Nukki – President (Independent) Juho Looveer – Vice President (Independent) EsméeOkamoto – Secretary (Independent) Ingrid Provan – Treasurer (VIC)
In addition to the Executive Officers, the Board includes State Representatives from across Australia:
Martin Kukk (NSW) Martin Kurvits (SA) Anu Läänesaar (WA) Elina Peedoson (QLD) Sirje Rivers (Independent)
The new Executive Board and State Representatives look forward to working closely with Estonian societies nationwide to strengthen cooperation, support cultural initiatives, and ensure a vibrant and united Estonian community across Australia.
AESL remains committed to fostering unity, preserving Estonian heritage and building strong connections for future generations.
From Perth to Brisbane, beloved Estonian actor Margus Tabor brings his one-man show Mamma Lood to Australia — and he’s also answered a few questions for HEIA ahead of the tour.
Australian Estonian societies across the country are hosting a special theatre treat this February: Mamma Lood, a heartfelt and hilariously recognisable comedy performance by Ugala Theatre actor Margus Tabor.
Drawing on memories of his own grandmother, Margus brings to the stage stories shaped by hardship, resilience and gentle humour — a tribute to disappearing oral histories and the quietly wise worldview of people who call Estonia’s island of Hiiumaa home. These are stories about growing up, family, work, habits, illness, love and all the small details that somehow turn into life’s big lessons.
This is not a strictly scripted comedy show in the traditional sense. Each performance is somewhat unique, shaped by the moment, the audience and the rhythm of live storytelling — which is why there are no subtitles and why every show feels like a shared, once-only experience.
A well-travelled Mamma — now heading Down Under
Mamma Lood has already travelled widely, with performances for Estonian communities in New York, Toronto, Vancouver, Brussels, Luxembourg and Germany. Australia, however, is a first.
“I always wonder whether my growing-up story will resonate with people beyond Estonia,” Tabor admits. After one New York performance, a woman told him she wished she’d brought her younger family members along — then they would finally understand why she sometimes seems a bit “odd” to them. Recognition achieved.
Australia, he says, sparks particular curiosity.
“I’m coming with excitement to understand what that something is about this land that has allowed such a strong Estonian community to grow here,” he shares. “Maybe it will help me better understand myself too — as an Estonian, a Hiiumaa islander, and a citizen of the world.”
Why should Australian Estonians come along? In short: because this is storytelling that meets you where you are.
“My performance is about telling stories, and I hope there’s something recognisable in it for everyone,” says Tabor. “Hiiumaa humour for the wide world! Islanders of the world, unite — Hiiumaa and Australia are both islands after all!”
Expect laughter, moments of tenderness, and that unmistakable feeling of yes, I know this person — whether it’s a grandmother, an uncle, a neighbour, or a memory you didn’t realise you were still carrying.
Also on Tabor’s Australian wish list? Encounters with kangaroos and koalas. Organisers, you’ve been warned.
Laughter, recognition and the joy of growing up with a grandmother — Mamma Lood promises a warm and memorable afternoon (or evening) wherever it lands. Highly recommended.
Image: The Invisible Fight, Kino Lorber/SBS On Demand.
I’ve put together a short video introducing four standout Estonian movies — and where you can watch them in Australia this summer. Watch the video below, then read on for a little more about each film and what makes them worth your time.
Spring (Kevade) – 1969, directed by Arvo Kruusement
Image: Spring (Kevade), MUBI.
Set in rural Estonia during the transition from the 19th to the 20th century, Spring is a classic film that follows six school friends — Arno, Teele, Toots, Kiir, Tõnisson and Imelik — as they come of age, fall in love for the first time, and experience their first heartbreaks.
The film is based on a 1912 novel by Oskar Luts, which has also been adapted into a stage musical and a ballet. ERR notes that when the book was first published, it sold for 60 kopecks — equivalent at the time to 10 loaves of bread or half a kilogram of butter!
The famous film adaptation is just the first part of a masterful trilogy by director Arvo Kruusement, with the thematic sequels being appropriately titled Summer (Suvi, 1976) and Autumn (Sügis, 1990). For anyone who grew up in Estonia (or wants to know what that was like), it’s a must see.
I haven’t yet found a streaming service that carries Spring in Australia. You may be able to purchase a DVD of the film from overseas, provided you have a region-free player at home.
November – 2017, directed by Rainer Sarnet
Image: November, Oscilloscope/SBS On Demand.
November is a modern take on old Estonian folklore. Two main storylines intertwine in this film: one set in a peasant village populated by supernatural beings — including farm tools with souls — and another following a girl trying to make a boy fall in love with her. It’s got witchcraft, it’s got romance, it’s got suspense … and it’s got a healthy dose of real history.
Set during the time of the Baltic German rule, when native Estonians were impoverished serfs, the main appeal of November is the costumes, sets and cinematography. Shot intentionally in a luscious black and white, being able to witness the manipulation of light and shadow as this bizarre tale unfolds is a real visual feast. See if you can spot which prominent folk legend predicted the rise of ChatGPT!
Every Estonian knows the sauna is an ancient place of community and healing. Even though not many Aussies have a sauna in the backyard, it’s easy to see why the unassuming Smoke Sauna Sisterhood captured so many hearts and minds on the film festival circuit: Anna Hints’ non-fiction depiction of the secret world of the Estonian smoke sauna — and the multitude of hardships regular women face daily — is as equally revealing as it is heartbreaking.
The camera work will intrigue you as it draws you into the changing Estonian forest landscape. Then, as these real women undergo their own bathing and cleansing rituals for the body, the kinship they find in the steam of the wooden sauna hut also provides a much needed detox of their souls … and maybe yours will, too. I was looking up the nearest sauna as soon as the credits rolled.
The Invisible Fight (Nähtamatu võitlus) – 2023, directed by Rainer Sarnet
Image: The Invisible Fight, Kino Lorber/SBS On Demand.
The Invisible Fight is a wacky, bombastic genre flick about an Estonian border guard on the Soviet-Chinese border who decides to seek enlightenment by training as a floating martial artist at a hidden Christian Orthodox monastery.
And if “kung fu Christian monks in Estonia” isn’t enough to process, there’s also a love triangle, a potential second coming, and mid century social commentary, all paired with a Black Sabbath soundtrack. It’s truly one of the wildest films I’ve ever seen. I can’t wait to see what Sarnet cooks up next.
The Invisible Fight is available to stream on SBS On Demand.
If your February–March plans could use a little more European cinema (and a little less scrolling), this one’s for you. The Europa! Europa Film Festival is back — and this year’s program includes films with strong Estonian connections screening in Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney.
Running from 19 February to 19 March 2026, the festival brings together 43 films from 22 countries, offering audiences a beautifully curated snapshot of contemporary European storytelling — visually rich, emotionally layered and very good at lingering in your thoughts on the walk home.
Among the standout selections are two films connected to Estonia, both exploring that tender, messy space between youth and adulthood — where big feelings, bad decisions and unexpected beauty tend to collide.
A scene from “Rolling Papers”. Source: Europa! Europa Film Festival.
Estonia’s submission for the 2026 Academy Awards Best International Feature, Rolling Papers (2024) is a raw, free-wheeling coming-of-age story set in Tallinn, following a group of friends navigating that famously awkward stage between adolescence and adulthood.
Sebastian works a monotonous job at a grocery store, until a chance encounter with the effortlessly chaotic Silo sparks dreams of escape — specifically, sunny Brazil. But when Sebastian meets Nora, the idea of leaving Estonia suddenly feels less straightforward. Partying, talking, smoking, dancing, yearning — it’s all here, rendered with warmth, restraint and an eye for the beauty of ordinary moments.
Directed by Meel Paliale, who also wrote, edited and composed the film’s dreamy synth score, Rolling Papers has already collected major accolades at home, including Audience Award wins and Estonia’s Film of the Year.
“The Southern Chronicles” (Pietinia Kronikas)
A scene from “The Southern Chronicles”. Source: Europa! Europa Film Festival.
A Lithuanian–Estonian co-production, The Southern Chronicles (2024) shifts us to the early 1990s, where 17-year-old Rimantas hustles through post-Soviet Lithuania on rugby, Eurobeat and black-market schemes — until he meets Monika, whose love of literature and poetry opens the door to an entirely different world.
Based on a bestselling novel, the film became the highest-grossing Lithuanian movie of all time, swept the Lithuanian Oscars, and won Best Baltic Film at the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival. It’s nostalgic, charming and unexpectedly tender — with bonus points for period outfits and a strong Eurodance soundtrack.
Whether you’re there for the Estonian connections, the Baltic storytelling, or simply an excuse to leave the house on a weeknight, Europa! Europa is a reminder that European cinema is thriving — and worth seeing on the big screen.
Friends' Day in Sydney 2026. Source: Estonian Society of Sydney.
If your February is currently 80% “work” and 20% “where did my social life go?”, consider this your gentle nudge: the Estonian House in Sydney is hosting a proper Sõbrapäeva Simman — and yes, you’re invited.
What are we celebrating? In Estonia, 14 February is sõbrapäev (Friends’ Day) — a celebration of friendship, connection and love in all its forms (not just the roses-and-pressure Valentine’s version). Think: besties, mates, chosen family, long-distance legends and the friend who sends you a meme instead of a 700-word emotional check-in (deeply valid). And yes — Estonians often send Happy Friends’ Day greetings to parents and siblings too. In our world, family can absolutely count as friends.
Event information
📅 Date: Friday, 13 February 2026 🕖 Time: 7.00 pm – 11.00 pm 📍 Location: Estonian House, 141 Campbell St, Surry Hills NSW 2011 🎟️ Tickets: $25 (Estonian Society of Sydney members) and $30 (guests) 🔗 Ticketing link: www.trybooking.com/DGNDE
On Friday 13 February, the party kicks off with live energy from the father-and-daughter duo Jaan Kirss and Helena Victoria Kirss.
Musician and showman Jaan Kirss isn’t just turning up with a drum kit and a smile — he’s known in Estonia as a sought-after peojuht (MC) who knows exactly how to read a room and keep a party moving (the kind of talent that should probably come with a national certificate). He’s also a multi-instrumentalist and singer — and for anyone who enjoys a little retro sparkle with their simman, he has played drums in the great Estonian band Apelsin.
His daughter Helena Victoria Kirss, who now lives in Australia, brings the kind of rhythm energy — and the “one more song!” momentum — that mysteriously relocates you closer to the dance floor. She’s a drummer, educator and drum show artist who has performed with a range of well-known Estonian and international artists, blending showmanship with the kind of musical confidence that keeps the night buzzing.
Expect dance-friendly rhythms, warm banter and the kind of musical chemistry you only get from family. Here’s a teaser of what’s coming, shared by the Kirss family on Instagram:
This is a bring-a-friend night — and we mean that broadly. Bring your partner, your neighbour, your book club buddy, your “I promise I’ll come out” friend, or your favourite human from the “it’s complicated but we still dance” category. The whole point of sõbrapäev is that everyone gets to feel included.
Highlights you can brag about later
Here’s what to expect:
live music + dance-friendly rhythms (gentle, non-compulsory nudge to join the dance floor)
big-hearted Friends’ Day atmosphere (zero awkward romance requirements)
a community night at the Estonian House — Sydney’s home base for many a good time.
Meet you on the dance floor
See you on the dance floor — because friendship deserves one. Come even if you have two left feet: no judgement, plenty of good music, and excellent people-watching options from the sidelines with your favourite drink in hand.
Read more
🔗 Facebook event link: Link 🔗 Read more about the Kirss family (Estonian): Link 🔗 Vikerraadio/ERR segment with Jaan Kirss: Link 🔗 Helena Victoria Kirss (English profile): Link 🔗 Helena Victoria Kirss on Instagram: Link
Applications are now open for a grant program supporting Estonian community initiatives abroad: Eesti väliskogukondade omaalgatusprojektide toetus 2026. Applications close 3 March 2026, with an online info session on 17 February for anyone who wants guidance before applying.
The purpose of the program is to strengthen Estonian communities abroad and their connection with Estonia. It supports activities that help keep Estonian identity alive overseas, strengthen Estonia’s positive reputation internationally, and increase awareness in Estonia of what diaspora communities are doing.
A key priority for this funding round is youth-focused work and projects that involve young people.
Grant information
📅 Applications close: 3 March 2026, 11.59 pm (Estonian time) 💶 Grant amount: up to €5,000 per application (total pool €100,000) 🎯 Priority: youth-related activities and youth involvement 📩 Apply: taotlus[at]integratsioon.ee (subject line: “Taotlusvoor omaalgatusprojektid”) 💻 Info session: 17 February 2026, 4.00 pm (Estonian time) ℹ️ More info: Integratsiooni Sihtasutus (Integration Foundation)
Source: Global Estonian.
What kinds of projects can be supported
Funding can be used for community-led initiatives such as:
cultural and heritage projects, events, seminars and festivals (especially youth-related) — including business, science and other thematic initiatives
cooperation projects that strengthen a sense of belonging and connections between Estonia and diaspora communities
learning days and continuing education activities
participation in major Estonian cultural events
activities that raise awareness in Estonia about diaspora initiatives
Projects that have already finished before the application is submitted are not eligible.
Funding available
The total budget for the round is €100,000, and the maximum grant is €5,000 per project.
Each applicant can submit up to two applications. (In some cases, a peak/umbrella organisation in the host country may submit up to three applications.)
Who can apply
Applications are open to:
private legal entities registered in Estonia
sole traders registered in Estonia
private legal entities registered in another country under that country’s rules.
Applicants also need to meet standard eligibility requirements (for example, not being in bankruptcy or liquidation, and having no overdue obligations to the grant administrator).
How to apply
Application round: 4 February 2026 to 3 March 2026 (Estonian time).
For Australian readers, that means:
Deadline: Tuesday, 3 March 2026, 11.59 pm Estonian time (4 March 2026, 08.59 am Sydney/Melbourne time) Info session: 17 February 2026, 4.00 pm (18 February 2026, 1.00 am Sydney/Melbourne time)
To apply, submit a digitally signed application (or signed and scanned) by email to taotlus[at]integratsioon.ee, using the subject line “Taotlusvoor omaalgatusprojektid”.
An online information session will be held via Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 17 February 2026 at 4.00 pm (Estonian time) (Adelaide 18 February 2026, 0.30 am | Brisbane midnight | Perth 17 February, 10.00 pm | Sydney/Melbourne 18 February, 1.00 am).
