From the knights of the past to the defenders of Ukraine today.
From 29–31 August 2025, surrounded by the eucalyptus forests and gentle hills of Western Australia, history was made — the first-ever Plast camp in the region, aptly named “In Unity There Is Strength!”
This was more than a weekend adventure. It was a journey through time — from the noble knights of the Middle Ages to the modern heroes of Ukraine who defend their homeland with courage and honour. Their bravery, loyalty, and strength became the inspiration for all who took part.
Over three unforgettable days, Ptashata, Novatsvo, Yunatstvo, and our wonderful parents (Tativtka) built something much more than a camp. Through songs, discussions, games, campfires, and prayer, we discovered that only together — as one family, one brotherhood — can we meet every challenge.
“In Unity There Is Strength” was not just a name — it became the very heart of the camp.
Day 1: A New Chapter Begins
On 29 August, the long-awaited camp finally began. The forest greeted everyone with sunshine, birdsong, and the excitement of new adventures.
The Yunatstvo gathered for their first challenge — baking bread in a cauldron! Under the guidance of mentors Vitalii Verbytskyi, Anatolii Yezhor, Fr Vasyl Olevych, and Nataliya Kulchytska, they learned how to prepare coals, knead dough, and bake over an open fire. The bread came out a little crispy, but with butter and currant jam — it was perfect!
Meanwhile, Novatstvo welcomed a special guest from Brisbane, Tomas Miljenovic, who joined Camp Commandant Lesia Yezghor in leading games and songs. The Ptashata (the youngest group) played nearby, joining in the singing and laughter.
As the evening settled in, Fr Vasyl led everyone in prayer. Camp Commandant Lesia welcomed all participants with heartfelt words:
“We are making history today. This camp is the first step in a great journey. In unity is our strength — and in Plast lies our future.”
The evening ended with full hearts, warm food, and laughter echoing through the forest — a beautiful beginning to a historic weekend.
Day 2: Adventure, Discovery, and Brotherhood
30 August was a day of courage, teamwork, and learning for every age group.
Yunatstvo – The Spirit of True Brotherhood
The day began with a delicious breakfast, lovingly prepared by the parents — our tireless “knights of the rear.”
The Yunatstvo explored the philosophy of Hryhorii Skovoroda, Ukraine’s great thinker, with Myroslava Yankovych. They created “cups of happiness” from natural materials — symbols of inner peace and purpose — before setting off on a hike through the forest.
At a hidden spot, they discovered a memorial plaque from 1992 — dedicated to a visit from children of the Chornobyl zone. Finding this “Ukrainian footprint” deep in Australia was moving and powerful.
Next came an obstacle course near an old tunnel — a true test of strength, agility, and team spirit. Later, they mastered the art of pitching tents under the guidance of Taras Gorodetsky, Vitalii Verbytskyi, and Anatolii Yezghor — quickly proving themselves capable outdoor leaders.
Dinner was cooked by the scouts themselves — barley porridge made over an open fire. And as night fell, songs, skits, and laughter lit up the campfire.
That day proved once again: in unity — there is strength; in brotherhood — resilience; in Plast — the future.
Novatsvo – A Day of Teamwork and Discovery
Novatsvo’s morning began with warm smiles and breakfast, followed by lessons in navigation and orientation. With compasses — and even magnets and water bowls — they learned to find direction and then set off on a trek to the lake, guided only by their maps and teamwork.
At the lake, they played games of skill and precision, and later returned to camp to build castles — creative, sturdy, and truly knightly! After lunch, they painted personal shields, then enjoyed “battles” with bubble swords — full of laughter, energy, and kindness.
One of the most touching moments came during the Trust Trail, where scouts guided one another through the forest blindfolded — learning about empathy, care, and mutual support.
They also discovered the story of the 1992 “Overseas Camp of Friendship” — a living link between Ukraine and Australia. And then came archery practice, a favourite for kids and parents alike!
As evening fell, Novatstvo joined the others by the campfire for songs, skits, and stories — celebrating friendship and the spirit of unity.
Ptashata – The Quest for the Great Treasure
For the youngest campers, day two was a magical treasure hunt. Led by vykhovnytsia Nataliia Smith, the Ptashata followed clues through the forest, solving puzzles, building trust, and working as a team to piece together a torn treasure map.
Every challenge — from “lava jumps” and balloon relays to invisible drawings and catching pom-poms — taught the same message: only by working together can we succeed.
At the end of the quest, they discovered the “treasure chest” — full of sweets, joy, and the greatest prize of all: friendship and unity.
That evening, the Ptashata proudly joined the older scouts at the campfire — singing, laughing, and sharing their triumphs.
It was a day when little feet made big steps — and little hearts proved they could do great things together.
The Parents – Knights of the Hearth
While the children played and learned, another story unfolded quietly behind the scenes — the story of our parents, the true knights of care and warmth.
They cooked every meal with love, built fires, carried wood, and ensured that the camp ran smoothly. Their hospitality, laughter, and hard work filled the forest with comfort and warmth.
Special thanks to Nick Klymenko, who brought his guitar and music, making the evenings around the fire truly magical.
Dear parents — thank you. You are the heart of our Plast family and the guardians of our children’s joy, faith, and pride in being Ukrainian.
Day 3: A Knight’s Farewell
The final morning, 31 August, began with a surprise appearance — a real knight!
He led the scouts on an energetic morning run, setting the tone for the Knighting Ceremony, where campers received their light-hearted but heartfelt “knighthood.”
Later, the community gathered for a Divine Liturgy celebrated by Fr Ihor Holovko beneath the open sky. The song “Bozhe, vyslukhai blahannia” filled the air, uniting everyone — children and parents alike — in prayer and gratitude.
Awards and badges were presented at the final assembly, honouring each child’s growth — in courage, kindness, and skill.
And then — the small miracle of weather: a week of rain before, and rain after, but during camp — three perfect, sunny days. Truly, a blessing.
In unity lies our strength.
In brotherhood — our resilience.
In Plast — our future.
The first Plast camp in Western Australia was not just an event. It was the beginning of a tradition — a legacy of community, learning, and faith.
Thank you to everyone who made this historic moment possible.
SKOB!
Hotuis’!
