City holds civic reception for Ukrainian Ambassador to Australia

The City of Greater Bendigo has today joined with local business and community leaders to welcome the Ukrainian Ambassador to Australia, Vasyl Myroshnychenko, to Bendigo.

Mayors, Councillors and Chief Executive Officers of neighbouring shires, leaders in helping refugees settle in the community, representatives of the Ukrainian community and their supporters, Rotary representatives and leaders from the education sector attended to help demonstrate solidarity with Ukraine.

Mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf said the City was proud to host the lunch with the support of the community.

“At times like this we can feel quite helpless but the Ambassador’s visit has been an opportunity for Bendigo and the central Victorian region to stand with the people of Ukraine, show our sympathy and join a chorus of voices around the world that continue to call for peace,” Cr Metcalf said.

“Several months in, we are no less shocked by the senseless and destructive nature of war, the mounting loss of life, and the many stories we hear of families and communities torn apart. As a Mayor, I also empathise with the task ahead to rebuild cities, communities and civic pride. This work in the years to come will be truly monumental.

“It has been a privilege to welcome Ambassador Myroshnychenko to Bendigo, to show him the home of the Bushmaster military vehicle and highlight how our community is helping contribute to the war effort.”

Ambassador Myroshnychenko yesterday toured the Thales Australia factory, where Bushmasters are made, after Cr Metcalf met him last month at the National General Assembly of Local Government and invited him to visit Bendigo.

Ambassador Myroshnychenko said he was delighted to have met with members of the Bendigo community.

“This is a kind and compassionate community that is, rightly, very proud of its local manufacturing industry and the way it is helping the people of Ukraine,” he said.

“The Bushmaster is critical to our war effort and it has been wonderful to visit the home of the Bushmaster and meet local leaders and Ukrainian people who are living here.

“Ukraine sincerely appreciates the support it is receiving around the world and I will be pleased to share my experience in Bendigo with my colleagues at home.”