latvians

Latvians, together with Estonians and Lithuanians, were the first ethnic groups in the large postwar immigration wave of “displaced persons” from Europe that started in 1947. It has been estimated that some 17,000 persons born in Latvia, and a further 2,500 persons born elsewhere but of Latvian origin, settled in Australia between 1947 and 1952. Including prewar settlers, by 1952 about 20,000 Latvians were living in Australia. Queensland was a less popular destination than the southern states because many feared its hot and humid climate. Probably about 1,500 people of Latvian origin came to Queensland, though a figure of 2,000 has also been mentioned. They started to arrive in 1948 and settled mostly in or near Brisbane, but in smaller numbers also in Rockhampton, Mackay, Townsville, Cairns and Mount Isa. The early years were primarily spent in establishing a new life, attaining economic security and buying or building a home. Many had to study, while holding down other jobs, to have their previous qualifications recognised or re-established. Parents had learnt that education was the only thing of value that could be carried by a refugee or migrant. Children were therefore encouraged and assisted to obtain a good education, preferably at the tertiary level and leading to a professional qualification. Despite coming to Australia without capital and belongings, Latvians quickly and successfully adapted to life in Queensland and became reasonably secure economically. Source: latviansonline.com/brisbane-community-grows-smaller-older/

I'm in.

sunshine day, sunshine smile, this is important reason that why choose Mandarin school shanghai (www.mandarininn.cn/) for these teachers have sunshine simle for everyone.

grace!

In October of 1951 the BLA founded the folk dance group “Senatne” (Olden Times) with 14 participants. Its leader was Gaida Stendere and pianist Maksimilians Sprīvulis. The number of dancers rapidly grew. “Senatne” participated in many events in Brisbane and whole Australia. With reducing of the number of participants “Senatne” ended its existence in 2000. Source: www.rlb.lv/latvian-organizations-and-schools-abroad/brisb...

Queensland Latvians started to gather together in 1949 in church services. The first church service for Latvians was held on November 24, 1949 in German language by Minister Ramer. 54 Latvians attended the church service. On January 14, 1950 mixed choir was founded under the leadership of E.Kalums. In 1950 E.Kalums founded Brisbane Latvians’ choir and men double quartet. On January 28 and March 18, 1950 Latvian meetings were organised, where the participants decided to call the Brisbane Latvian Association’s foundation meeting. It took place on April 1, 1950. In the meeting 56 Latvians participated. The foundation meeting took place in the Australian Lutherans’ Bethlehem parish meeting premises Brisbane „Fortitude Valley”. The association established mixed choir „Beverīna”, library, arranged Latvians’ House. In 1950 the BLA theatre group started its work. In 1954 the theatre group was taken over by Daugavas Vanagi (Daugava Hawks). In October of 1951 the BLA founded the folk dance group “Senatne” (Olden Times) with 14 participants. Its leader was Gaida Stendere and pianist Maksimilians Sprīvulis. The number of dancers rapidly grew. “Senatne” participated in many events in Brisbane and whole Australia. With reducing of the number of participants “Senatne” ended its existence in 2000. In 1954 the BLA founded Youth Group. For many years the Youth Group organised readings about Latvian language, history, literature and music. The Youth Group does not exist anymore. Also Literates Group works in the BLA. Under the wing of the association were organised eight Australian Latvians’ Culture Days. Source: www.rlb.lv/latvian-organizations-and-schools-abroad/brisb...