Although Australia is almost 12,000 kilometers from Russia, there are many connections between our countries. Russian ships began visiting Australian ports as early as the early 19th century. For the locals, this was a significant event, and they flocked to see the vessels that had arrived from the distant north. Later, near Sydney, a Russian Cape emerged, where our sailors established a small base for ship repairs. In this same area, the Russian explorer Grigory Zaozersky discovered unique rib bones of a prehistoric animal.

Relations with Australia somewhat deteriorated due to the events of the Crimean War. The English frightened the local population with the possibility of a Russian attack. In gratitude for supporting British policy, the metropolis rewarded its colonial subjects with trophy Russian cannons, which can still be seen in Australian parks and squares. However, there was no animosity towards Russians among the locals. Over time, Russians began to migrate to Australia, especially during the gold rush. Ivan Fredericks (real surname Fyodorov), a native of Arkhangelsk, became famous for his kindness and became a national hero of Australia, known as Russian Jack.

In the early 20th century, a small Russian community settled in northern Australia. Russians were valued for their hard work, and local authorities even tried to attract them from nearby countries, promising to cover the travel costs from Nagasaki to Brisbane.

However, mass emigration from Russia began after the October Revolution of 1917. White Guards, Cossacks, priests, and scholars fled to Australia. At first, it was not easy for the emigrants. For example, Cossacks earned money by cutting reeds with sabers. Interestingly, their children later assimilated, and some even fought on the side of the Americans during the Vietnam War. Such are the twists of history!