On the eve of ANZAC Day- April 24th- something quietly powerful unfolded.
For six hours, a group of Russian-speaking women and girls gathered around a table and created, by hand, a wreath of remembrance. What began as a simple act of preparation became something far greater- a space of connection, reflection, and shared purpose.
Old friends reunited. New friendships were formed. Conversations flowed- in different languages, across generations, across experiences- all woven together into every branch, every leaf, every careful detail.
Visitors to the café paused, asked questions, and some joined in- adding their hands, their curiosity, their presence. In that moment, the wreath became not just ours, but a truly multicultural expression of remembrance.
We are deeply grateful to Natalia of Adelaide Vertical Gardens for generously donating fresh laurel branches and materials that gave this wreath its life and beauty.
Our heartfelt thanks to Lakeside cafe for welcoming us into your space and for your warmth and hospitality- and for the delicious food that kept us going through those long, meaningful hours.
We would also like to thank Artoprint for accepting our last-minute request specifically because it was for ANZAC Day- that gesture meant a great deal to us.
Special thanks to the women who brought this project to life:
Mariana Ablamskaya
Aliona Kosloff
Lucy Bodnar
Terra Fiera
Tatiana Ezhlova
Olga
Gina (for her professional florist consult)
and many others
And with special appreciation to
Tamara Barrass and her cultural project Cocoshnick in Australia joining us from Melbourne and bringing with her not only artistry, but a deep sense of cultural continuity and care.
The journey of this wreath came full circle when it was laid at the memorial in the heart of the city of Adelaide- a quiet, powerful tribute offered with respect.
We are sincerely grateful to the ANZAC Day Committee of South Australia for the honour and privilege of contributing in such a meaningful way.
This wreath was not just made- it was lived, shared, and felt.
And in its making, it brought people together in the spirit of remembrance.
Lest We Forget.
