It was a moment of pure joy for Effie Lalopoulos, aged over 80, when the Kastoria Lane street sign finally appeared early on Monday, November 10 beside the Australian Association of Kastorians in Coburg North. After years of lobbying, her beloved community’s name was finally etched into Merri-bek’s map.
“I was very emotional when I saw the sign,” Effie said, recalling how the club was on the brink of closure.
“Even when people told me not to bother, I never gave up on my dream. Since we saved the building, I’ve wanted this lane named Kastoria. When I saw the sign, I ran into the neighbouring shop and asked the lady to take a photo!”
Effie, who spearheaded the campaign to save the Kastoria Club in 2019, knew the naming had been approved by Merri-bek Council but worried the sign wouldn’t arrive in time for the November 30 unveiling and mural activation. By day’s end, other Kastorians had gathered for their own celebratory photos.
The naming of Kastoria Lane was years in the making. The process began before COVID, sparked by Effie’s wish to preserve the club’s legacy “for as long as possible.” With the help of former mayor Lambros Tapinos, who initiated the naming, and councillors Helen Politis, Katerine Theodosis, Sue Bolton, and Nat Abboud, the motion passed in August 2025.
“It’s fantastic to see that the legacy of the Kastorians will be protected by naming this piece of land in their honour,” said Cr Politis, who moved the motion first initiated by Tapinos. She added that success came after years of lobbying and campaigning.
John Pandazopoulos also helped to ensure the name honoured the post-war migrants who built Coburg’s Greek heart.
“I didn’t even know who John was when Mayor Tapinos first introduced him to me,” Effie laughed. “I remember having him hang up curtains upstairs. He didn’t seem to mind.”
Pantazopoulos told The Greek Herald that these initiatives are “symbols of our shared history and heritage.”
“It is a recognition by governments that we are here and have been contributors to this society,” he said. “These initiatives represent a new way of thinking by established community groups. Sharing their spaces and involving young people.”
After approvals from Vicnames and the Geographical Names Board of Victoria, the sign was finally installed this week.
As part of the upcoming celebration, the club will unveil a mural by emerging artist Anthony Despotellis collaborating with Yitonia, costing around $15,000 – $20,000 – most of it from Effie and her family. Donations are welcome via donorbox.org/kastoria-lane-mural-transformation.
“I want young people to be involved,” Effie said. “This is about keeping our heritage alive.”
Effie’s trademark smile, koulourakia, and quiet persistence have ensured Kastoria’s name will forever grace Coburg North. No sooner was the sign up than she went door-to-door thanking those who helped.
“They’ve all been invited to the big street party,” she said proudly. “They’ll all be there.”
After all, Effie is hard to say ‘no’ to.
