Ukrainian women in Geelong began their activities in the 1950s. One of the first groups was the Organisation of Ukrainian Women in Geelong (OUW), which united active women determined to preserve and foster Ukrainian culture in their new homeland.

From 1951 to 1953, the group was led by Vira Omelchenko, Antonina Tsybulska, and Klara Dzvontchak. The family of Antonina and Vasyl Tsybulsky made a significant contribution to the organisation's development. Antonina Tsybulska founded a drama club that not only staged plays in Geelong but also toured Melbourne and Sunshine. Her daughter, Anna, started a dance group, and Natalka directed a choir. These artistic groups actively participated in national anniversary celebrations, with strong support from Vira Omelchenko, Mrs. Sharavara, and Tetiana Sirykh.

Over time, due to the lack of their own premises, the group's activities slowed somewhat. Their main efforts shifted towards fundraising for the construction of the People's Home for the Geelong Branch of the Association of Ukrainians in Victoria, which was established in June 1952. However, many OUW members continued to work in education, particularly in the Saturday school, which opened its doors to Ukrainian children in 1956. The school was led by Mr. Mazuryk, Natalka Tsybulska-Oleksandrenko, Vira Omelchenko, and Tetiana Sirykh. Teachers included Anna and Antonina Tsybulska, Maria Hanusyn, and Mara Klos.

In 1964, the branch revitalised its activities. At the general meeting on April 12, 1964, Vira Liubchenko was elected as the Head of the Branch. The committee included energetic and dedicated women who breathed new life into the branch's work, increasing membership first to 50, and later to over 100 women.

Lesia Ukrainka Branch Geelong at the UWAA75th Anniversary in Cowra

Today, the Lesia Ukrainka Branch in Geelong continues to develop the Ukrainian community, actively engaging women in cultural, charitable, and community work.

Since the beginning of the full-scale war in Ukraine, the Branch's members have focused their efforts on assisting Ukraine. A particularly significant event is the charitable Mama's Market — an annual event that has become an important tradition. This year marks the third Mama's Market. Since the war began, humanitarian needs have grown even more: millions of Ukrainians have become refugees, thousands of children have been forcibly taken to Russia, and thousands of families have lost their homes.

The Branch's members are working to provide support to women and children who have fled occupied territories and are now in extremely difficult circumstances. The Branch emphasizes: "We do not have the right to get tired of this war. We must continue to help."

In addition to Mama's Market, the Branch actively participates in city festivals, such as Pako Fest, where they promote Ukrainian culture, and consistently organises collections of humanitarian aid for Ukraine.

Leadership and Contact

The current Chairwoman of the Lesia Ukrainka Branch in Geelong is Valya Bazalicki.

You can find the Lesia Ukrainka Branch in Geelong and stay updated on their activities via their Facebook page: Link