About

The Russian Ethnic Representative Council of Victoria (RERC) has been hosting balls for almost twenty years. It is a community event which promotes a Russian presence in Australia by bringing our community and its cultural and business partners together. Representatives from State and Federal Governments, Russian diplomats, business and community leaders join RERC to celebrate the historical and cultural diversity of our Balls.

This annual Ball is one of the events which keeps the spirit of the Russian community and culture alive here in Melbourne. Ballroom dancing skills are not a prerequisite – all who love music and dancing look forward to a magnificent evening of entertainment – an explosion of sights and sounds to enchant both the young and the young at heart!

The first St Vladimir’s Ball was held in 1991 in Tudor Court Reception. The Ball was named in honour of St Grand Prince Vladimir, or “Shining Light”, as the Russian people called him. We remember Grand Prince Vladimir as the person who introduced and disseminated the Orthodox Faith. Orthodoxy in Kievan Russia brought with it the light of spiritual culture, beauty, books, education, craft and art. Russian literature and music had its start here. St Vladimir himself was known for his Slavic high-spiritedness; he enjoyed games, celebrations and festivals.

Honouring the enlightener of the Russian land, RERC held its Ball for many years on the Friday closest to 28th of July, which is the Feast-day of the equal-to-the-Apostles St Grand Prince Vladimir. The importance of 28th July is now celebrated as an official Public Holiday in Russia.

It became customary that individuals, who have made outstanding contributions to the Russian community be honoured at St Vladimir’s Ball.

You can view a list of recipients of the awards by clicking here.