RUSSIANS IN AUSTRALIA.

Wanganui Herald, Volume LI, Issue 15193, 13 April 1917, Page 7

RUSSIANS IN AUSTRALIA.

REPATRIATION OP REFUGEES

In connection with the revolutionary movement, a large gathering of Russians resident in Melbourne was held on March 31. The objects wore to discuss the political situation and to adopt a scheme to enable Russian political refugees to return home to take part in the revolutionary movement. It han been decided, in view of instructions issued to the Russian Consul-General in Australia, that a local loan be raised for the special purpose of repatriating theee men. Great enthusiasm was shown at. (he meeting, every reference made to the new regime being warmly applauded. Over ihe dnis was suspended a huge red banner on which was inscribed "Long Live Free Russia!" Cheers were given for "the republic,'' and, at, the request, of the chairman, the audience stood in silence in honour of those* who had given their lives for the emancipation of Russia. It ws« decided that a central committee, representative of the Russians of the Commonwealth, should be formed to advise the Consulate a« to the suitability of the persons to be repatriated. In a subsequent interview, M.d'Abaza, Russian Consul-General, welcomed the promised co-operation of the newlyelected committee, which co-operation, he remarked, was in itself symbolical of the new order in Russia. He aJso said that he was iu full sympathy with the new regime, whose watchword, as he understood it. was for the present law and order. He himeelf would devote all j his energies to further the aims of the | new free Russia, working together with the Russian colony in Australia.