On behalf of Plast Australia and Plastuny across the country, we extend our sincere and heartfelt congratulations to pl.sen.dov. Orysia Sywak-Spinner, Bl., on receiving the Order of St Yuriy in Gold, and to pl.sen.dov. Natalka Oleksyn, Bl., on receiving the Order of the Vichniy Vohonj in Gold. The honours were presented on Sunday, 3 May, in Sydney, NSW.
These distinguished Plast awards recognise many years of faithful service, leadership, and unwavering dedication to Ukrainian youth, Plast ideals, and the broader Ukrainian community in Australia.
Orysia’s Plast journey began in Novatstvo and has continued through decades of devoted service as a vykhovnytsia, mentor, camp leader, and Plast NSW Stanychna. Through her calm leadership, care, and commitment, she has played an important role in strengthening Plast life in New South Wales, nurturing young Plastuny, supporting new vykhovnyky, and helping build a strong and united Plast community.
Natalka has also given generously through her many years of Plast service — as a vykhovnytsia, leader, community volunteer, and humanitarian coordinator. Following the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Natalka helped establish a place of welcome, support, and practical assistance for newly arrived displaced Ukrainians in Sydney through Blue and Yellow Hearts. Her work brought together Plast, the parish, the Ukrainian community, and many friends of Ukraine across Australia in a remarkable spirit of solidarity and care.
Both Orysia and Natalka exemplify Plast leadership lived through action: service without seeking recognition, devotion to youth, loyalty to Ukraine, and daily commitment to the Plast promise and Plast values.
Dear Orysia and Natalka, thank you for your many years of generous volunteer work, dedication, and leadership. Your example inspires our Plast family across Australia and reminds us of the enduring strength of Plast service across generations.
Многая літа! Warmest congratulations and deep gratitude from all Plastuny of Australia.
СКОБ! ⚜️
