Ukraine warzone inspires Busselton local

While Ukraine may seem distant from our peaceful shores, for Busselton local Helena Chlepnac, the ongoing war hits very close to home.

Born of Ukrainian heritage, Helena feels deeply connected to this dark chapter in her homeland’s history. Moved to action, she’s organising a fundraiser for the children of Ukraine.

On the 19th and 20th of October, the community will have the chance to make a difference in the lives of the people of Ukraine by participating in the United for Ukraine Fundraiser at Bay Furniture in Dunsborough.

“My parents arrived in Fremantle in 1950 as WWII Ukrainian refugees,” Helena shared.

“I was raised within the tight-knit Ukrainian community of Western Australia.”

Since the war began, she’s been an active fundraiser in Australia and a volunteer on the ground amid the chaos and casualties in the western capital of Lviv.

“When the full-scale invasion of Ukraine happened on February 24th, 2022, we decided that all proceeds from our business, Unplugged Wine Tours, would go towards supporting Ukraine, specifically to the orphaned or traumatised children of wounded soldiers,” Helena said.

Her involvement deepened when her family in Ukraine asked for help finding shelter in Germany for escaping women and children.

“I put a notice on social media and immediately got a response from a German woman living in Perth, who offered the family a lovely space in her home,” Helena remembered.

As the situation quickly escalated, dozens of mothers and children from Ukraine began to arrive in Perth, and Helena was there to meet them with open arms.

“The children were terrified, and the women were exhausted, having fled with very few possessions,” she recalled.

“Many didn’t speak English, and we helped find them somewhere to live, provided clothing, food, medical care, visas, and whatever else they needed.”

“I saw how traumatised the children were. Some couldn’t even speak.”

Helena packed her bags and headed to her homeland to help as a volunteer with PTAHA, an NGO (non-governmental organisation) assisting displaced people in Lviv.

“Because the bombing has been so horrific in the last few months, there are a lot more people, mums, kids, and wounded soldiers coming through Lviv trying to find help and safety,” Helena said.

“So, I’ve been volunteering at the train station, helping to do whatever is necessary.”

“Sometimes it’s food, sometimes it’s water, sometimes it’s just a hug… those simple things we take for granted,” she said.

The situation in Lviv has recently worsened.

“Our shift starts at 7 am,” Helena said. “We get the list of the trains coming from the war zone. As soon as the trains stop, we hit the platform with wheelchairs, ambulances and whatever assistance we can offer to help the scared and injured.”

Helena’s United for Ukraine fundraiser aims to support PTAHA’s crucial work. She’s ensured all proceeds will go directly to assist the displaced and wounded in Lviv.

“I know many people are concerned about donating to large organisations, as much goes to admin rather than the people who need it most,” Helena said. “I’ve worked hard to set up a way to get the money directly to Dr. Valentin and PTAHA.”

“We have an extensive list of what is essential and required on the ground at Lviv, and the money will be directly distributed where needed.”

Rob Possingham from Bunbury has also dropped everything and joined the effort as a volunteer paramedic. His connection to Ukraine spans 25 years, beginning as a tourist and evolving into friendships with locals.

“It was very personal when the war kicked off in 2022. I knew I had to return all the love and support these people had shown me,” Rob said.

“I’d stopped working full-time as an emergency ambulance officer, so it seemed a natural and a well-timed fit for me to go and donate my time to Ukraine.”

“With the help of my network, I acquire medical equipment and transport it to Ukraine, where I distribute it directly to paramedics and medics in need. I feel very fortunate to have the time and skills to assist these innocent victims.”

Helena said the strength of the Ukrainian people was “astonishing”.

“I had no idea. I knew my parents had been through it. But of course, it’s not touched me as an Australian till now, as we’re so far removed from it.”

After returning from Lviv, Helena vowed to do more to help.

“I bought some stunning Ukrainian art that I had intended to do something with when I got back, and I contacted Peter at Bay Furniture with my fundraising idea,”

“He immediately said, Yes!”

“Once word got out, lots of people came forward from wineries, restaurants, hotels, and other local businesses with donations. The support has been amazing.”

The United for Ukraine Fundraiser promises two days of community spirit and fun.

Saturday, October 19th, from 2-7 pm, features music, wine, Ukrainian food, and a silent auction and raffles. Sunday, October 20th, from 3-7 pm, continues the festivities with live jazz.

“It’s going to be a very community-focused couple of days. So, come along and have some fun, a glass of wine, experience Ukrainian culture, and unite to support the people of Ukraine,” Helena said.

“This fundraiser is about providing whatever support the South West can to help the children of Ukraine have some future where trauma isn’t their reality, but health, safety, and happiness are.

“To put it in perspective, one cup of café bought coffee can buy a child a week’s worth of joy. You can feed a few children a day for the cost of just one cup,” she said.

“This a war about world freedom, and if we don’t do anything, it will have dire consequences. The children are the future, so let’s help them have one!”

To donate directly, visit the GoFundMe page at www.gofundme.com/f/j5k8j-united-for-ukraine

The funds raised will be combined with the rest of the donations and sent directly to PTAHA.