My Grandfather John Leszczuk departed Russia at age 17 and arrived in Australia on the 27th of May 1950.

Due to the loss of his home during WWII and disenchanted with the current Communist regime, he migrated to Bonegilla, Victoria, before travelling to Mount Gambier, where his parents followed him in 1952.

Although unable to speak English and accustomed to a colder climate, my Grandfather soon found relief in the democratic way of life, warmer conditions, the friendliness of the people and constant employment. He started at the Bonegilla Migrant camp and rapidly picked up various jobs, working his way down to Mount Gambier. During this time he became romantically involved with an Aboriginal woman but unfortunately, due to the prejudice of the time, the relationship ended.

He finally moved to Adelaide, meeting his partner, starting a family and working as a Grader Driver and helped to build Festival Theatre, where his name is engraved.