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Australia’s Estonian folk costume library is open to all

By
Marissa Pikkat
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Folk costume librarians, Marissa and Maie Pikkat. Photo from the private collection of Marissa Pikkat.

Did you know that Sydney-based handicrafts society Eesti Seltsi Kunsti-, Käsitöö- and Etnograafia Ring (SESKKE) has a folk costume library of over 300 items, led by Maie Pikkat, where you can borrow Estonian costumes, at any age and size?

How it all started?

A few years ago, Maie Pikkat brought an incredible idea to SESKKE: to start a folk costume library in Australia. This idea was born from her love of folk costumes and her evolving understanding of the meaning behind different patterns, colours and pieces. She shared the idea with the folks at SESKKE and there was unanimous support — but the question was, how were they going to do it?

Maie shared that she had enough space to house the folk costumes and there was also a personal connection to a range of costumes created here in Australia in the 1960s and 1970s. Her grandmother Anette created quite a number of costumes that people are still wearing today or donating to our library. Now, Maie did not want people to assume she was taking the costumes for herself, so SESKKE agreed this would become an ongoing project for them, one of many, with Maie as the curator of the costumes. This project has taken on a much bigger meaning than initially thought.

How SESKKE obtains Estonian folk costumes

There are a number of ways SESKKE collects folk costumes from all over Australia. Some are donated by folks with no intention of asking for them back; others are lent to the library on the condition that they will be returned when requested. This allows others to wear and enjoy the range of folk costumes in the library. There are also a number of pieces lent to the library that come from both my own and Maie’s personal collections. Currently, including our own collections, we have over 300 folk costume pieces — and still growing.

This year, 2025, Maie and I travelled to Estonia with the intention of bringing back a suitcase full of material to create more skirts for children. We proposed this to SESKKE and were given a budget to do just that! Our fundraising efforts are being put to good use in serving the community. We travelled to some lesser-known areas of Estonia and scored beautiful belts at nearly half the price you would pay in Tallinn. These items had to come home with us and were added to the library, along with a full suitcase of material.

If you are travelling to Estonia and want to know about these hidden spots, please get in touch with me at marissa.pikkat[at]outlook.com and I will be happy to share.

Folk costume materials. Photo from the private collection of Marissa Pikkat.

What we have in the library

When we talk about the size of the library, we are not just talking about a belt here or a skirt there. We are delighted to share that full sets have made their way into the folk costume library, including a number of sets created by my great-grandmother Anette. Maie knows which ones Anette created because of a particular signature style — her skirts are exceptionally vibrant.

Over the years, Maie has collected and cared for full sets and many individual pieces, which we put together for folks to use at various occasions. What I really enjoy about this library is that it is body-inclusive. There are items in a wide range of sizes, from very small through to size 26. This was intentional — we want everyone to feel connected to their Estonian roots, no matter their size. Between all our items, Maie and I manage to find something for everyone.

How we keep track of items

When someone brings an item to the library, Maie diligently catalogues it with a number and name. If someone donates their item, it is labelled with the next number in the sequence and the name SESKKE. If an item is lent, it is labelled with the lender’s name and forms part of a separate collection.

This system can be difficult to manage at times, especially when we take the whole library to the Sõrve summer camp for use, but it works and we have not lost a single item yet. SESKKE has successfully applied for funding from the Estonian Cultural Foundation in Australia (ECFA) to assist with a new management system; however, many of the easier options come with ongoing costs, so this remains a work in progress. Any donations or ideas on how to manage this efficiently are welcomed by SESKKE ahead of Sõrve 2027.

When items are lent out, folks must sign a contract in blood — just kidding! We simply take their contact details to follow up and check the items back into the library. Thankfully, this system has become more efficient over the years at Sõrve.

Example skirts from the folk costume library. Photo: private collection of Marissa Pikkat.

Where we use the library

The library has been used over many years at numerous events. The biggest event of the year for Maie and her team (myself included) is Sõrve summer camp. Maie takes all the items to Sõrve, where we unload them and hang each piece up in the lounge room of our tare (cottage) for the week. I fear that at the next camp we may not have much room left to move in our tare once all the costumes are hung and ready to be allocated to children, adults and leaders.

At Sõrve 2025, our Ambassador shared with me during the kultuurietendus (cultural afternoon) that this was the biggest display of Estonian folk costumes he had seen outside Estonia. When I shared this with Maie and SESKKE, they were absolutely thrilled.

The library is also used at other events throughout the year, such as choir performances, Mother’s Day performances by young children, or Lepatriinu (children’s folk dance group), and various other cultural occasions. Maie has also received requests from community members for graduations and multicultural days at primary schools. It is incredible to see the library used for a range of activities, allowing people to share in their pride of Estonia.

How the items are cared for

Maie takes great pride in caring for the folk costumes, some more delicate than others. This is particularly important after Sõrve, as children often sweat in the heat, and some pieces return with make up on it — something I am guilty of myself. Thankfully, Maie is always there to rescue both the folk costumes and me.

Following Sõrve, Maie often spends the next month carefully cleaning the folk costumes before storing them away for future use. Thankfully, she is supported in this work by her husband Toivo, daughter Danae, son in-law Leslie and newly recruited grandson Lekso. I sometimes also help, especially when creating new pieces. I jokingly tell Maie she is running a sweatshop when she asks myself and others to help make pärjad (traditional headpieces).

In early 2025, with the support of SESKKE, Maie attended a one-day workshop on caring for old textiles. This course provided valuable insights into how to care for delicate items, such as lace and hand-dyed wool, including how to avoid colour running and moth damage. I attended as well, and we learned so much, including best practices for storing fabric not yet made into garments. It was very insightful and has helped us find new ways to care for old folk costumes so they can be worn and enjoyed time and time again.

Traditional Estonian headpieces in the folk costume library. Photo: private collection of Marissa Pikkat.

What’s next

There have been talks about showcasing the folk costume collection in Sydney. This would be a big undertaking. It would require a lot of work and substantial community support, but it remains a possibility for the future. In the meantime, Maie will continue to care for and grow the library, with people generously offering their own costumes or those of late loved ones, when they are unsure what to do with them.

SESKKE, Maie and I are incredibly grateful to everyone who donates or lends their costumes because it allows others to experience the joy of Estonian culture through traditional wears and gives each item new life. There are so many emotions when you attend a cultural event such as Vabariigi aastapäev (Independence Day) or emadepäev (mother’s day) and everyone is in their folk costumes. These experiences bring up much joy, pride, connection and a sense of belonging.

How to get involved

If you would like to donate or lend your costume to the library, please contact Maie at maiepikkat[at]bigpond.com and start a conversation. She is always thrilled to receive something new and excited to show me when I visit. That said, I can’t miss it — the newest pieces mostly end up hanging on coat hangers in my bedroom. When I sleep over, I fall asleep surrounded by folk costumes, and it brings me pure joy.

Global Estonian December newsletter lands with Australian insights

By
Kristel Alla
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Christmas markets in Tallinn, Raekoja plats. Source: Global Estonian.

Put the coffee on — or pour the mulled wine — because the Global Estonian December newsletter is out, and it’s full of bits that make us in Australia sit up straighter in our chairs (yes, even before caffeine).

This month’s newsletter speaks fluent Aussie-Estonian, with highlights including:

  • Sõrve Summer Camp coming back to New South Wales in January 2026 — sunshine, language immersion, lifelong friendships and tired but happy kids guaranteed.
  • A timely nudge about grants for Estonian education projects abroad, worth bookmarking for Australian Estonian organisations looking to support language, culture and learning in our communities.
  • A thoughtful look at digital Estonian life and ways to keep connected, which will feel very familiar to anyone who has ever attended a meeting, rehearsal or Christmas catch-up via Zoom. Sydney gets a mention or two.
  • The Year of the Estonian Book tapestry is travelling the globe — literally embroidered by the community and currently hanging out in Sydney, proving that stories don’t just travel, they get stitched.

Estonia on the move (and we’re part of that story)

Zooming out, the newsletter also checks in on Estonia’s wider footprint.

  • Five new embassies are set to open, extending Estonia’s global reach, in Armenia (Yerevan), Moldova (Chișinău), Azerbaijan (Baku), Brazil (Brasília) and Kenya (Nairobi).
  • Citizen diplomats and community organisations are recognised for keeping Estonia visible and connected abroad — including Hilja Toom, Martin Kurvits, and the Wollondilly Heritage Centre and Museum in Australia.
  • A recorded Virtual Forum for Global Estonians blends serious security talk with reflections on language, belonging and why talking to each other still matters. HEIA insights included.

Books, food, houses and festive feelings

Because it is December, there’s also plenty festive feelings to enjoy:

  • Estonian Christmas events popping up around the world.
  • A lovingly illustrated 2026 wall calendar celebrating Estonian Houses globally (only 14 made the cut including the Estonian House in Sydney — tough competition).
  • A growing map of Estonian food around the world, with an open invitation to add your local finds.
  • And a Christmas poem to close the year — quietly and thoughtfully, as Estonians do.

Ready for the full scroll?

Eesti keeles: https://bit.ly/GE-12-2025
In English: https://bit.ly/GE-12-2025-EN

Information session for future AESL Board members

By
Marissa Pikkat
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Image: Gemini Nano Banana.

There will be a Zoom information session on Thursday, 18 December 2025 at 7pm, for community members interested in joining the Board of Directors of the Council of Estonian Societies in Australia (Austraalia Eesti Seltside Liit, AESL).

What AESL is

AESL is Australia’s umbrella organisation for Estonian organisations and groups, and acts as a link to global Estonian networks. Over the past several years, I have served on the AESL Board of Directors as the representative for New South Wales. I was nominated through organisations I was involved with at the time, including Sõrve Camp and the Eesti Seltsi Kunsti-, Käsitöö- ja Etnograafia Ring (SESKKE). When I first heard there was an opening for NSW, I was really excited to be part of this board — something a little more global — and felt that the skill set I had could contribute to the organisation and help folks in Estonian organisations around Australia.

Opportunities to contribute

I’m sharing this as several AESL Board positions are coming up for renewal, including a NSW representative, a Queensland representative and one independent member. These roles will replace current board members whose positions are up for renewal.

AESL is looking for new members from the respective states, as well as an independent member, to join them in the coming years, bring fresh ideas, and collaborate on the new path AESL is taking — redefining its purpose and realigning with what matters in the community. They are looking for people to be part of this exciting new time.

A range of possibilities

During my time with AESL, I collaborated with others to establish monthly Zoom sessions that brought together folks from around Australia and sometimes international guest speakers, to share ideas and updates from various Estonian communities. These conversations were a fantastic way to hear what was happening around the country and world, they helped connect people who had a need with those who had relevant resources. For example, one month it was shared that the Sõrve Camp needed some particular music for their cultural performances and others participating in the conversation had access to the music required. It was a great way to connect our community members.

These sessions ran for about a year and ended in late 2024, as competing commitments made it difficult to sustain regular participation. While it was disappointing to see these conversations pause, they had a clear purpose. I hope future board members may choose to pick this idea up again – or introduce their own initiatives and see them come to life.

Another area I previously managed was AESL’s social media. With the introduction of HEIA (Hello Estonians in Australia), thankfully, there is now less need for this information to be shared through AESL channels, as HEIA has become a central source of community information – what an amazing achievement!

Hear more and ask questions

On Thursday, 18 December at 7pm (Sydney time), I will host a Zoom session to talk through the AESL Board roles that are up for nomination. This conversation will run for 30 minutes, respecting everyone’s time, and will provide an opportunity to ask questions for anyone curious about or considering nominating for a role.

This is in advance of the AESL Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 18 January 2026 at 10am at Sydney Estonian House. A Zoom option will also be available for folks unable to attend the AGM in person. More information will follow.

Please use this Zoom link to join the conversation on Thursday, 18 December at 7pm, 30 min only:
https://utsmeet.zoom.us/j/84544789553

Read more about AESL:
https://aesl.eesti.org.au/

Join via Zoom

Recognition for Estonian language teachers in Australia

By
Iti Connor
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Recipients of letters of recognition together with Estonia’s Minister of Education and Research. From left to right: Anneli Lill, Iti Connor, Kristina Kallas, Grete-Stina Witcombe and Kätriin Vinkmann. Source: Estonian Embassy in Canberra.

Estonia’s Minister of Education and Research, Kristina Kallas, met with Estonian language teachers from Australia during her visit to New Zealand and Australia. The meeting took place at the end of November at the Estonian House in Melbourne.

This meeting provided an opportunity to introduce the work being done in the Australian community to teach the Estonian language, as well as to exchange ideas on further developing Estonian language education in Australia. A key topic of discussion was the growing interest among families in preserving the Estonian language across generations, alongside the difficulties of sustaining it in a predominantly English-speaking context.

Four teachers who participated in the meeting – Anneli Lill, Grete-Stina Witcombe, Iti Connor and Kätriin Vinkmann – received letters of appreciation for their dedicated work in preserving the Estonian language and culture in Australia. This acknowledgement means a great deal to our community teachers and gives them renewed motivation to continue their work.

We extend our sincere thanks to the Estonian Embassy in Canberra for initiating this meeting. We also thank the Council of Estonian Societies in Australia, the Brisbane Estonian Society, the Gold Coast Estonian Society, the Adelaide Estonian Society, the Melbourne Estonian Society and the Estonian House in Melbourne, whose support enabled the teachers to travel to Melbourne and participate in the meeting.

Iti Connor
The Council of Estonian Societies in Australia – Estonian Language Studies Coordinator

Photos of Estonian Australian language teachers receiving their letters of appreciation from Kristina Kallas, 28 November 2025, Estonian House in Melbourne. Anneli Lill (top left), Iti Connor (top right), Grete-Stina Witcombe (bottom left) and Kätriin Vinkmann (bottom right). Source: Estonian Ministry of Education and Research.

Tunnustus eesti keele õpetajatele Austraalias

Eesti haridus- ja teadusminister Kristina Kallas kohtus oma Uus-Meremaa ja Austraalia visiidi käigus ka Austraalia eesti keele õpetajatega. Kohtumine toimus novembri lõpus Melbourne’i Eesti Majas.

Kohtumine pakkus võimaluse tutvustada Austraalia kogukonnas tehtavat eesti keele õpetamise tööd ning vahetada mõtteid eesti keele õppe edasiseks arendamiseks. Arutluse all oli muuhulgas perede kasvav huvi eesti keele põlvkondadevahelise edasikandumise vastu ning väljakutsed selle hoidmisel ingliskeelses keskkonnas.

Kohtumisel osalenud neli õpetajat – Anneli Lill, Grete Stina Witcombe, Iti Connor ja Kätriin Vinkmann – said tänukirjad pühendunud töö eest eesti keele ja kultuuri hoidmisel Austraalias. Selline tunnustus pakub väärtuslikku innustust meie kogukonna õpetajatele.

Täname väga Eesti Saatkonda Canberras, kelle initsiatiivil kohtumine aset leidis. Täname ka Austraalia Eesti Seltside Liitu, Brisbane’i Eesti Seltsi, Gold Coasti Eesti Seltsi, Adelaide’i Eesti Seltsi, Melbourne’i Eesti Ühingut ja Melbourne’i Eesti Maja, kelle toetusel said õpetajad Melbourne’i kohale sõita ja kokkusaamisel osaleda.

Iti Connor
Austraalia Eesti Seltside Liit – eesti keele õppe koordineerija

Eesti keele õpetajad said haridus- ja teadusminister Kristina Kallaselt tänukirjad pühendunud töö eest eesti keele ja kultuuri hoidmisel Austraalias, 28. novembril 2025. aastal, Eesti Majas Melbourne’is. Anneli Lill (üleval vasakul), Iti Connor (üleval paremal), Grete-Stina Witcombe (all vasakul) ja Kätriin Vinkmann (all paremal). Pildid: Eesti Haridus- ja Teadusministeerium.

In memoriam — Kuno Mikkor

By
Matti Kiviväli
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Kuno Mikkor, from the private collection of Matti Kiviväli.

Kuno Toivo Mikkor was born on 22 April 1952 to parents Arnold and Asta. He was the oldest of three children with younger brother Alan and then sister Inga. 

Kuno’s parents arrived in Australia from Estonia, just after the Second World War in 1949, and were sent to the Bonegilla migrant camp in Wodonga. They met the first day Asta arrived in Victoria and were married at Bonegilla six months later.

Kuno’s parents eventually settled in Pascoe Vale and when Kuno was old enough he attended Pascoe Vale Primary School before heading off to Oak Park High School.

At the completion of Year 12, or HSC as it was known back then, Kuno attended RMIT to complete his Article Clerk course and did so well he was offered a scholarship to complete a Law Degree at Melbourne University, which he accepted. Due to a number of extenuating circumstances Kuno never completed the course, instead opting to join the workforce starting with the Department of Civil Aviation and then a tannery in Northcote.

Kuno then went and worked at Maglia Clothing and Manufacturing before commencing work at CHL Apparel in Brunswick, where he worked for more than 20 years. When his career in the “rag trade” ended, he started his own small catering business – Esto Catering – that he ran for a number of years.

Kuno’s involvement with the Estonian community commenced with his love of sport, particularly basketball. He joined the local Estonian Sports Club “KODU” and played in their basketball teams through the 1970’s until they ended playing. In 1971 he joined the Sports Club Committee, moving on in 1972. 

He returned in 1979 as the president of the sports club. Together with Matti Ainsaar and a revitalised Committee, he helped drive a resurgence in the fortunes of the sports club with increased participation in Men’s and Women’s Volleyball Team and a return of the Men’s Basketball Team. Membership in the sports club grew to about 80 people. During the period 1979 to 1989 the club experienced success in a number of competitions as well as organising fundraisers, themed balls, awards nights and major sporting events. Kuno held the president’s role until the 2000’s. During the time, he was the lead organiser of the 1979 XXIII Eesti Spordipäevad, 1981 XXIV Eesti Spordipäevad, and one of the main organisers of the sports program at ESTO88 in Melbourne.

Kuno Mikkor joined the Estonian House Co-operative Ltd Board in 2008 upon the retirement of his father Arno. He served as the secretary from 2015 to 2022. Kuno was also a key player in the Estonian House Social Club from 2013, serving behind the bar at every major event in the hall and Social Club gatherings. Kuno also spent some time in the Estonian Society of Melbourne leadership group in 1981/82 and 2017/18.

For his work in the community, Kuno Mikkor was awarded the Austraalia Eesti Seltside Liidu (Council of Estonian Societies in Australia) aukiri in 2023.

Kuno passed away quietly at home on 24 November 2025, aged 73. He leaves behind his wife Gabry, daughters Kylie and Rhia, son-in-laws James and Paulo, and grandchildren Alexandra, Elora, Ethan, Elijah, Isabelle and mother Asta Mikkor, 101 years.

Kuno was dearly loved, he will be missed but never forgotten by those that knew him. Rest in peace.

Terminaator in Sydney: epic and emotional

By
Kristel Alla
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Jaagup Kreem singing at the Terminaator concert, with band member René Puura in the background. Sydney Estonian House, 28 November 2025. Photo by Kristel Alla.

Some concerts are planned. Others become pilgrimages. This one had Melbournians booking flights, group chats buzzing for months and a collective “are you already there?” echoing across state lines. Terminaator in Sydney wasn’t just a gig — it was an event. And yes, fan mode is fully on.

Let’s be honest upfront. This is a love letter. A biased one. Consider yourself warned. But also consider this: one of us, an experienced rock musician with zero nostalgic attachment to Terminaator, declared it “an epic concert”. Australian-Estonian approved. That’s the highest compliment there is.

Welcome home (again)

The Sydney Estonian House doors opened and Ave — the welcoming face of the Estonian Society in Sydney — greeted us like family. Melbournians found each other instantly, as we do. Young, old, lifelong fans and curious first-timers — everyone singing, everyone moving, everyone swept up by that uniquely Estonian magic where music dissolves generations and geography.

Age didn’t matter. Accents didn’t matter. Whether you grew up with Terminaator or had barely heard them before — by the second song, we were all in. Music does that. It moves through the body, clears the mind and reminds you where you come from. I secured a spot close to the stage (because really — how often does Terminaator visit Australia?). Apparently every five years. Too long.

The bar, the kitchen, the nostalgia

Before the first chord, the senses were already working overtime. Estonian drinks lined the bar. Kalevi chocolates made appearances. Homemade pies emerged fresh from the oven. A sneaky peek into the kitchen rewarded me with a warm pastry — and suddenly I was back in my mum’s kitchen. One unexpected bite, one powerful memory added to the evening’s growing pile of goodness.

Potato salad (divine), Estonian-style garlic bread (yes please), Vana Tallinn, Gin Long Drinks, cider — sustenance sorted. Culture restored.

From left: the bar at the Sydney Estonian House serving eager customers. Centre: fans from Melbourne (top) and our brilliant cook Juta Mitt with fresh pastries straight out of the oven (bottom). Right: Jaagup Kreem enjoying the pastries prepared by Juta. Sydney Estonian House, November 2025. Photos by Kristel Alla and Ave Nukki.

Warm-up brilliance: Jericho

Enter Jericho. Wow. A strong warm-up band that had the room moving on their feet before Terminaator even stepped on stage. We’re told they regularly play at the Sydney Estonian House, including Vappu concerts — mental note made. New album out too, apparently. Instagram following commenced.

Merch was flying — tour-exclusive cups and T-shirts made especially for the Australian run. Souvenirs secured.

Terminaator takes the stage

Easy on the ears and eyes. Balm for our culture-deprived souls. An atmosphere that wrapped the room and refused to let go.

At one point, a fan placed a Vana Tallinn shot on stage and encouraged Jaagup Kreem to drink it. And drink it he did. The crowd loved it. Jaagup… possibly less so. Still, it warmed him up — useful, given his ongoing commentary about the Australian heat (fair).

Audience interaction was a highlight throughout. Jaagup is a master at connection — witty, generous, effortlessly professional. Each band member had their solo moment, met with huge applause.

On stage:
Jaagup Kreem (vocals)
Taavi Langi (guitar)
Henno Kelp (bass guitarist)
Roland Puusepp (drums)
René Puura (keys)

Jaagup also casually announced that René is single and looking for a girlfriend. The audience, naturally, was eager to assist. Poor René. Or lucky René. Hard to say.

From left: Terminaator performing on stage to an excited crowd. Right: René Puura. Photos by Kristel Alla.

Exit fan mode. Talk music.

Juulikuu lumi was saved for the encore — nearly causing collective heart failure when it seemed it might not come. But it did. Along with all the favourites: Carmen, Nagu esimene kord, Kuutõbine and more.

We sang everything. Loudly. Passionately. Some of us so enthusiastically that voices were gone the next day. We would’ve kept clapping forever if given the chance. Solo artists, all of us, filling every pause.

Jaagup joked about Australia being “on the back of the head of the world” (maailma kuklapoolel), about drinking upside-down with the moon reversed, about the heat, about Aussies going to bed at 10pm while clubs in Estonia are just warming up. He dedicated Kuutõbine to those who can’t sleep at night, and another song to those who were forced to leave Estonia — our ancestors scattered across the world. The room felt it.

He thanked those who travelled from Melbourne, Brisbane, New Zealand. “If you only knew how much we love you,” he said. We believed him.

Post-Terminaator glow

The glow followed us home. Songs looped on repeat during walks. Playlists reshuffled themselves accordingly. Terminaator remains a pillar of Estonian culture — a status only a few bands ever reach.

And yes, apologies for stereotypes, but let’s be honest while we’re here. Five handsome men on stage, pouring their hearts into love songs about longing, waiting and devotion? We’re human. We noticed. Meeting your musical idols doesn’t happen often. You’re allowed to enjoy it.

Most of us left around midnight. Rumour has it the afterparty had a different tempo altogether. We don’t listen to gossip. Mostly because we’re sad we missed it.

Acknowledgements

A huge thank-you to Peppermint Events for organising the tour, the Estonian Society of Sydney for hosting, the band for travelling across the world, and our wonderful Melbourne crew for making the journey north. Terminaator toured Australia for two weeks, also performing in Perth and on the Gold Coast — with great success, judging by social media.

Come back soon, Terminaator. Five years is far too long.

From left: Terminaator taking their final bow. Right: Terminaator together with fans. Photos by Kristel Alla.

Estonian Cultural Foundation in Australia: past, present and a new board

By
Dr Siiri Iismaa
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Screenshot of the EFCA Annual General Meeting, 16 November 2025.

From a post-war aid committee to a nationwide cultural steward, the ECFA now champions Estonian heritage across Australia — and with a new board at the helm, the legacy continues.

The Estonian Cultural Foundation in Australia (formerly the Estonian Relief Committee, ERC) began in 1945 when Estonian migrants in Sydney formed a welfare organisation to support refugees in post-war Europe. In its first decade, the ERC sent around 700 aid parcels and helped secure landing permits for 3,500 Estonian immigrants to Australia.

In the 1950s, the idea of an Estonian retirement village, Taara Gardens, emerged, supported by a strong Estonian community in Thirlmere. Land was purchased in 1957 and the first building opened in 1962. By 1999, Taara Gardens had expanded to 73 independent living units and a 39-bed hostel, along with additional facilities.

The organisation was incorporated as a company limited by guarantee in 2002 under the New South Wales Corporations Law. Increasing regulatory and financial pressures over the subsequent decade made it difficult for volunteers to manage the aged-care facilities, and in 2012 the ERC completed a transaction with RSL LifeCare that saw Taara Gardens taken over in its entirety, thereby ensuring the future of Taara Gardens and its residents.

As part of the transaction with RSL LifeCare, as well as ERC’s absorption of the Thirlmere Estonian Society “Koit”, the ERC was left with significant cash funds and shifted its mission towards supporting Estonian cultural activities throughout Australia. In 2020, it adopted a new name — the Estonian Cultural Foundation in Australia (ECFA) or Eesti Kultuuri Sihtasutus Austraalias (EKSA) — along with a new constitution, and is now registered as a charity with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC). Donations received by ECFA and returns from ECFA investments are used to give small grants towards projects that support and promote Estonian culture, language and heritage across Australia.

ECFA held its 2025 Annual General Meeting on Sunday 16 November 2025. The incumbent office-holders are listed below.

Chairman – Lembit Suur
Deputy-Chairman – Kristi Barrow
Secretary – Dr Siiri Iismaa
Treasurer – Elen Ellervee

Directors
Maie Barrow
Dr Juho Looveer
Dr Peeter Muttik
Hillar Ranniko
Ave Nukki

We are extremely grateful to Ingrid Galloway (née Tartu) for her 19 years of impactful service to the ERC and ECFA in the role of Secretary. We wish her well in her future endeavours.

If you’re looking to be involved in ECFA, or simply want to support what we do, sign up today to become a member, for just $5 a year! You can find our membership form here: Membership form

We are a small community, all the better for pitching in to help each other.

Applications open for 2026 Estonian education projects abroad

By
Kristel Alla
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Image by Gemini Nano Banana.

The Institute of the Estonian Language (EKI) has opened the first funding round for 2026 Estonian education projects abroad, inviting schools and organisations worldwide to apply by Friday, 2 January 2026.

The grant supports initiatives that strengthen the teaching, use and preservation of the Estonian language and culture outside Estonia. Funded projects may take place at any point between 1 January and 31 December 2026.

What can be funded

Support is available for a wide range of education-related activities, including:

  • Estonian language and culture classes
  • learning-support activities and teaching development
  • cultural programs directly linked to education
  • language and culture camps for children and young people (both abroad and in Estonia).

The grant supports training for teachers and parents on Estonian language and culture topics and inviting specialist trainers to deliver workshops locally.

The grant also supports longer-term and capacity-building activities that strengthen Estonian language education in communities abroad, including regular learning programs for children and young people that run for at least four months, delivered by teachers or engaged parents.

Source: Global Estonian.

Key conditions

  • Applications are open to legal entities working with Estonian communities abroad.
  • Own or co-funding must make up at least 20% of the total project budget.
  • Participation or tuition fees included where relevant.
  • Reports from previously funded projects must be submitted — organisations with outstanding reports or repayments will not be considered.
  • New for 2026 is a simplified application form for participation in Estonian language days (emakeelepäevad) (max €400 per organisation).

While no general information session will be held this round, applicants are encouraged to contact EKI with questions. Email Merike Barborak at EKI: merike.barborak[at]eki.ee

Read the grant conditions in Estonian here: Grant conditions

How to apply

Completed and signed applications should be submitted electronically to: haridusprojekt[at]eki.ee

Please include the project name in the email subject line. Digital signatures and scanned signed documents are also accepted.

Funding decisions will be announced within one month of the application deadline.

Read more

More information and application forms: eki.ee/haridusprojektide-taotlused/

Register for Craft Camp and spend July in Viljandi

By
Kristel Alla
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0
Image by TImor from Pixabay.

Registration for Craft Camp 2026 is officially open — so if your inner crafter has been whispering, “Learn silversmithing, come on!” this is your moment. July in Viljandi, Estonia, is waiting.

From 12–18 July 2026, Viljandi becomes a glorious tangle of yarn, wood shavings, silver dust and people proudly announcing, “I haven’t crocheted since Year 9, but how hard can it be?” (Spoiler: very, very fun.)

Choose three of the 23 hands-on workshops, each taught by masters who can embroider a Mulgi pattern with the calm confidence most of us reserve for making toast. Beginners, experts and enthusiastic in-betweeners are all welcome.

When workshops wrap up, the cultural program kicks in — concerts, lectures, a film night and the kind of late-evening craft chat that starts with “just one more row…” and ends an hour later with existential questions (about wool, about life).

On 15 July, camp heads out into Estonia — to Tartu, Mulgimaa, or the legendary Kihnu Island, where craft isn’t just a pastime but a way of life.

All workshops take place at the Viljandi Culture Academy’s sleek home where ancient techniques meet excellent coffee breaks. Accommodation and most meals are DIY, giving you a chance to eat your way through Viljandi like a local.

Everything’s in English (or translated from Estonian), and the fee includes workshops, materials, snack breaks and a festive dinner with folk music — because what’s craft camp without someone busting out a set of torupill pipes? The kind of creative momentum that lasts long after you’re home is a freebie. You’re welcome.

Treat yourself early — the Christmas special runs 9 December 2025 to 4 January 2026, followed by Early Bird (5 January to 31 March 2026) and regular pricing (1 April to 31 May 2026).

Some workshop materials and field trips add a little extra to the invoice.

Whether you’ve always dreamed of stitching a Mulgi shawl, carving your initials into wood, or simply running away to Estonia for a week of creative bliss — Craft Camp 2026 is calling. Register and let July be the most Estonian month of 2026 — in our experience, it’s when Estonia shows off, with culture, craft and summer in full swing.

Read more and register

Register here: https://viljandi.ut.ee/en/craftcamp

See photo albums from past camps: https://viljandi.ut.ee/en/node/115402

The story behind the SESKKE calendar

By
Marissa Pikkat
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SESKKE calendar 2026, photo by Kristel Alla.

The Sydney handicrafts society, Eesti Seltsi Kunsti-, Käsitöö- ja Etnograafia Ring (SESKKE), has created a calendar that shows off the national costumes worn by Australian Estonians across the country, and this is the story behind how the calender came to life.

This project came about due to another project SESKKE had undertaken, the digital photo archive, led by Mai Buchert. We had a series of photographs of members in the Australian Estonian community wearing their folk costumes, or folk costumes donated to our rahvariide raamatukogu (folk costume library), curated by Maie Pikkat.

Turning the archive into a community calendar

The calendar project was first brought to SESKKE by Maie Pikkat, who has built her knowledge over the years about Estonian folk costumes though many trips to Eesti, and watching her grandmother create many of the pieces in Australia, in the 1960s and 1970s. Many of which have found their way back to the folk costume library. Maie thought it would be a great idea to have the photos taken from the digital archives project and turn them into a calendar that could be enjoyed all year round.

The idea behind it was to showcase a variety of folk costumes, but also the people within the Estonian community throughout Australia. The 2025 calendar mostly showcased folks in New South Wales, with those from other states missing out. This was largely due to the project idea being brought to SESKKE and developed in the middle of the year, with all the backend work done by Mai Buchert to obtain consent from the people previously photographed as part of the digital photography archive. Thankfully many wonderful community members contributed with their content that was included in the 2025 calendar. At the 2024 Eesti Päevad, SESKKE were selling the calendars and heard thoughtful suggestions to feature Australians from more states. This encouraged SESKKE to expand the reach and include even more Australians in the 2026 edition.

It was a collaborative effort to obtain consent from folks all over Australia, to showcase even more beautiful people and costumes, as this calendar project was not considered when the original photographs were taken. The ladies at SESKKE worked hard over the first few months in 2025, led by Mai, to gather the consent. Luckily the ladies in SESKKE are very well connected. Once the consents started to come in, the photos were securely handed over to Danae Pikkat to start putting the calendar together.

Esmée Okamoto showing you the SESKKE calendar 2026, photo by Marissa Pikkat.

Designing the calendar

Danae is not part of SESKKE, however she was very generous with her time, collaborating with Maie Pikkat to design the calendar. Danae and Maie decided on the front page image, which is a broach (sõlg) from Maie’s collection. Danae took the photo, then spent hours editing to get the image right, and the cover was born. The name of the calendar was also developed by Maie and Danae Pikkat, with meaning around the community coming together and showcasing the folk costumes we have put together in Australia. There is an understanding, developed from these two projects, that the costumes may not always be accurate but we do our best with what we have at the time. Our ancestors who created these costumes largely made them from memory because when they left Estonia and came to Australia, during occupation, they only had one suitcase full of essentials, not folk costume books, like we have access to now.

Once the cover and general layout was decided, the graphic along the bottom of each page to bring it all together needed to be decided. Now Danae was using the paid Estonian Designs AU Canva account so she added the Setomaa graphic across the bottom of each page, as she had access to this, then in a very cheeky way asked for my permission to use the commission paid for Estonian Designs AU to use in the calendar. There was no question that this could be used for the community, with acknowledgement on the back page. In fact, it was an honour and a privilege.

Printing and a special diplomatic request

Danae had worked hard for months, going back and forth with Mai getting images in a secure way, to add to the calendar. Once the calendar was almost ready, Maie and myself presented the digital version to SESKKE for feedback and comments. These were taken onboard, some further edits were made, then the calendar was sent for printing.

Danae and Maie made a decision on how many were to be printed and an extra 10 were added to the order, especially for our Ambassador Jaan Reinhold. Last year at Sõrve camp, Jaan and I discussed the calendars and he personally requested we do a 2026 edition as he wanted to purchase some to give as diplomatic gifts. True to his word, they were ordered and delivered to our Ambassador, ready to be gifted this Christmas. This was very exciting for SESKKE and there was a collective gratitude around this kind gesture and appreciation for our hard work.

SESKKE calendar 2026. Photo by Kristel Alla.

Launching the calendar

When SESKKE had the final prints of the calendars, it was time to sell them. I was tasked with setting up the Trybooking event page and developing all the backend logistics for our community to be able to order these beautiful calendars for 2026. There was also a need to talk about these calendars and create social media content around them. One Sunday, for several hours, Esmée Okamoto and I got together to shoot a range of videos, to add to our social media, to get folks interested and to purchase the results of our hard work. This day was so much fun with a blooper reel yet to come.

A celebration of Estonian folk costumes in Australia

The 2026 calendar is a combination and collaboration of a number of SESKKE projects, come together to celebrate and showcase Estonian folk costumes in Australia. Lots of hard work and dedication from a number of people, with the same goal – to celebrate Estonian folk costumes throughout the year.

There are still some calendars left, shipping all over Australia. Get yours now, a little piece of Australian Estonian history. Aitäh (thank you!) SESKKE and all the dedicated folks who produced this wonderful calendar.

To purchase one of our beautiful calendars, please click here and don’t forget to add postage at checkout for shipping all over Australia. Thank you for allowing us to be part of your home.

Get your calendar
Poster by Marissa Pikkat.

Tree of Eternal Love screens on the Gold Coast

By
Kristel Alla
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Source: The Estonian Film Database.

The Gold Coast Estonian Society is rolling out the popcorn and the punchlines this Saturday as the award-winning Tree of Eternal Love hits the screen — impressive cast, absurd humour, Estonian snacks and a kids’ corner all included.

Gold Coast Estonian Movie Night is back, and this time it brings a road-trip absurdist comedy featuring heartbreak, friendship, questionable decision-making and an axe. In other words, peak Estonian storytelling.

Tree of Eternal Love (Kiik, kirves ja igavese armastuse puu), directed by Meel Paliale, follows Kiik — a young mechanic who takes heartbreak to dramatic new heights by attempting to chop down a mythical “eternal love” tree somewhere across the country. The result? A journey that’s equal parts thorny, introspective and delightfully chaotic.

Source: Gold Coast Estonian Society.

This movie has a cast that needs no introduction (but gets one anyway). Starring Marko Matvere, Andrus Vaarik, Jan Uuspõld, Egon Nuter, Mihkel Raud and more, this award-winning 2021 film became a standout of Estonia’s new wave of absurd comedy.

As always, the Gold Coast Estonian Society promises a cosy night out: think snacks, popcorn, Kalev sweets, drinks (yes, Gin Long Drinks too), and a relaxed corner for the tiniest film critics.

Show up early for a chat and stay after for more — these movie nights are as much about people as they are about cinema. So grab your friends, bring the family and settle in for an evening of Estonian film, laughter and great company on the Gold Coast.

🎬 Event details

📅 Saturday, 13 December 2025
🕒 Doors open 3.00 pm | 🎞 Film starts 5.00 pm
📍 Varsity Lakes Community Centre, 20 Mattocks Road, Varsity Lakes QLD 4227
🎥 In Estonian with English subtitles
💰 Tickets $10 — book via Trybooking link here

Tickets

Learn more

Event information: https://www.facebook.com/events/697711943107233

About the film in the Estonian Film Database: https://www.efis.ee/film/20350

The Gold Coast Estonian Society on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goldcoastestonians/

📽️ Watch the Tree of Eternal Love trailer below.

Thank you

Thank you to Elina Peedoson and the Gold Coast Estonian Society for this information.

Gold Coast Family Camp: Estonia tucked between the trees of an Australian rainforest

By
Kristel Alla
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0
Gold Coast Family Camp 2025. Source: Oakstone Photography.

A total of 110 children, parents and volunteers spent an unforgettable November weekend deep in a New South Wales rainforest — and many still swear their hearts are somewhere between a kookaburra call and a slice of küpsisetort (cookie tart).

Hosted by the Gold Coast Estonian School and Playgroup — with enthusiastic reinforcements from Brisbane, Newcastle and New South Wales — the very first Gold Coast Estonian Family Camp unfolded from 7-9 November 2025. Think lush valley, wandering farm animals, walking trails… and limited phone reception. A paradise for children, and mildly confronting for adults who kept patting their pockets for phantom notifications.

With no city noise and no Wi-Fi to negotiate, families suddenly had space to breathe, connect and — most importantly — speak Estonian. By Sunday, several parents reported hearing more eesti keel from their kids than they usually manage in a month. And when it was time to say goodbye? Let’s just say the rainforest wasn’t the only thing dripping with moisture.

Gold Coast Family Camp 2025. Source: Oakstone Photography.

Learning, laughing, exploring

Children were grouped into teams across three age brackets (0–3, 4–8 and 9–15 years), each guided by tireless volunteers who deserve their own medals. Across the weekend, kids took part in a full Estonian-language program designed to spark curiosity and showcase culture.

The six-point adventure challenge sent teams racing (sometimes literally) through tasks such as:

  • learning and performing Estonian songs
  • crafting a traditional Estonian küpsisetort
  • acting out Estonian pantomime
  • matching spoken words with pictures and meanings
  • solving puzzles and other creative challenges.
Gold Coast Family Camp 2025. Source: Oakstone Photography.

Everywhere you wandered, you could hear laughter, singing, new Estonian words being tested aloud, and small groups cheering each other on. Children and parents too were enjoying themselves, learning and connecting. Something magical happens when you combine good people, a rainforest, with Estonian language floating through the air like a soft lullaby.

Gold Coast Family Camp 2025. Source: Oakstone Photography.

The program woven with care

The program was beautifully curated — thoughtful, varied and clearly crafted with love.

Children created Estonian-themed posters, joined dance sessions led by accredited teacher Elen Ellervee, and even composed their own camp hymn. Older kids filmed mini-movies documenting their camp adventures, while the littlest ones thrived in a dedicated playgroup program.

Estonian music floated through the valley all weekend, gently nudging kids (and adults) into speaking more Estonian than they do in their everyday Australian lives.

Elen captured the feeling perfectly:

“The Gold Coast Family Camp turned out to be a special, heart-warming and memorable event. It felt like a small oasis of Estonian language and culture tucked between the Australian mountains. Throughout the camp there was a friendly and engaging atmosphere — children’s laughter and Estonian music could be heard everywhere, and the activities brought childhood memories back to life. There was black bread on the table and the children made küpsisetort — what more could one wish for? A deep bow to the organisers, and I hope this becomes an annual tradition.”

Gold Coast Family Camp 2025. Source: Oakstone Photography.

Finding Estonia on a rainforest trail

On the final morning, families — from brave toddlers to tall teenagers — set out on a rainforest hike. There was a waterfall to spot, steep paths to conquer and small hands reaching for bigger ones. For many, that earthy, unhurried moment became the highlight of the entire weekend.

The kids tell it best

Sophie, 14: “The games and activities were really fun… I made so many great memories — I would 100% come back.”
Rayden, 6: “I loved playing with friends… the waterfall walk was a bit hard but fun! I would definitely come again and bring my dad!”
Lola, 12: “It was fun — I especially loved the games. I would definitely come again.”
Kaspar, 14: “A great event and a great place to make new friends… I would 100% come again.”
Gold Coast Family Camp 2025. Source: Oakstone Photography.

A community effort — and something quite extraordinary

These memories were brought to life thanks to the Gold Coast Estonian School and Playgroup and dedicated volunteers from the Gold Coast, Brisbane and Newcastle. Support also came from the Integration Foundation, the Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Institute of the Estonian Language, the Estonian Ministry of Education and Research, the Estonian Cultural Foundation in Australia, the Gold Coast Estonian Society and the Brisbane Estonian Society.

Judging by the tears at the closing ceremony — and the thank-you messages still appearing weeks later — the Gold Coast Estonian Family Camp has already become something quite extraordinary. For many families, it felt like rediscovering a tiny piece of Estonia tucked between the trees of an Australian rainforest.

Well done, Gold Coast!

Gold Coast Family Camp 2025. Source: Oakstone Photography.

Photo album

Here are some photos by the Oakstone Photography capturing some wonderful moments from the Gold Coast Estonian Family Camp.

Acknowledgement

We are grateful to Elina Peedoson from the Gold Coast Estonian Society for this information and photos.

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