Each year, plastuny around the world mark the Feast of Pokrova – the Holy Protection of the Mother of God, a day that renews the spirit of service, fellowship, and commitment that defines Plast. It is a moment to give thanks to those whose quiet efforts strengthen our community, nurture the next generation, and keep Ukrainian life vibrant.
On 19 October, Plast Victoria gathered in North Melbourne, where members young and old came together for Divine Liturgy followed by a formal apel’ ceremony honouring the achievements and service of fellow plastuny.
Novatstvo received recognition and vmilist’ merit badges for creativity in filmmaking, and yunatstvo received vmilist’ merit badges for archery.
A special moment came with the awarding of the Kadra Vykhovnykiv II for Novatstvo to pl. sen. Chrestyna Kmetj, pl. sen. Teresa Lachowicz, pl. sen. Rebekah Clarke, and st. pl. Alexandra Bernyk — the first such recognitions in Australia in five years. These honours acknowledged both long-standing dedication and the recent completion of the demanding requirements of this leadership qualification.
On behalf of Plast Global, two distinguished members were awarded the Orden Vichnoho Vohniu v Zoloti, Plast’s highest honour for contributions to the wider Ukrainian community.
- pl. sen. Jarema Polatajko was recognised for his financial expertise, which he has shared generously with numerous Ukrainian organisations over more than 20 years, including Dnister Ukrainian Credit Co-operative, the Ukrainian School Council of Australia, Ukrainian School Council of Victoria, Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations, Ukrainian World Congress, among others and alongside active participation in Plast leadership in Victoria and Australia.
- pl. sen. Walentyn Mykytenko received the honour for his many years of service as a director and long-standing chair of Dnister Ukrainian Credit Co-operative, guiding the organisation with integrity and commitment to community advancement, implementing risk management, corporate governance. Druh Walik’s service to the Ukrainian Orthodox Church and active participation in Plast leadership and that of kurin’ Karpatski Orly were also recognised.
On behalf of Plast Global, the Orden Sviatoho Yuria v Zoloti – the highest Plast award – was presented to pl. sen. Teresa Lachowicz, acknowledging her many years of leadership, including as Stanychna of Victoria, and her tireless coordination of humanitarian and medical aid since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine. Podruha Teresa’s efforts in Plast’s educational work and increasing parental engagement and incorporating diversity and inclusion in all aspects of Plast activities were specifically recognised.
Plast Victoria looks forward to its stanychnyi tabir from 27 December to 4 January – Save the date! Plast Victoria also notes its Annual General Meeting will be held on 16 November and is seeking any interested parties to join the Stanychna Starshyna – many hands make light work!
Congratulations to all recipients for their dedication, leadership, and embodiment of the Plast spirit!
