The Cyprus Community of New South Wales launched its inaugural Liberty Medal, recognising EOKA fighters in Australia as part of an event marking the legacy of the Cypriot liberation struggle.
Held on April 28 at the Cyprus Community Club in Lakemba, the evening also saw the opening of the Struggle for Liberty Exhibition, bringing together community members, historians and dignitaries.
The presentation of the inaugural recipients formed the central focus of the event, with many in attendance viewing the recognition as a significant step in formally acknowledging the contribution of EOKA fighters in Australia.
The Liberty Medal recipients were announced and honoured during the ceremony, with each recognised for their role in the struggle for Cyprus and their contribution to the community in Australia.
Christodoulos (Takis) Avgoustou was recognised for exceptional courage during the struggle for the liberation of Cyprus. After sustaining severe injuries in the line of duty, he returned to the fight, reflecting a sustained commitment to the cause of freedom. In the years since, he has been regarded within the community as a figure of quiet strength and service.
Angelos Fotiou was honoured for a life shaped by resilience across defining periods of Cypriot history. As a teenager, he experienced the EOKA struggle, later serving again during the events of 1974. Migrating to Australia in 1975, he rebuilt his life through perseverance and hard work, contributing to both his family and the broader community.
The late Demetrios Theoharous (1936–2022) was recognised posthumously for a life defined by patriotism, enterprise and community contribution. Having participated in the independence struggle before migrating to Sydney, he built a successful business and family life, becoming an example of the migrant experience in Australia.
For many in attendance, the recognition marked a meaningful moment, with the contribution of EOKA fighters formally acknowledged beyond Cyprus.
The ceremony was held in the presence of Nikolaos Varellas, Deputy High Commissioner of the Republic of Cyprus to Australia, and His Grace Bishop Iakovos of Miletoupolis, while historian Dr Emilios A. Solomou joined via Zoom from Cyprus to deliver the keynote address.
Dr Solomou reflected on the historical significance of the EOKA struggle, placing it within the broader context of global anti-colonial movements and ongoing discussions around liberty and self-determination.
The Liberty Medal was introduced as a new initiative recognising individuals who have advanced the principles of liberty, human dignity and freedom, with organisers indicating it will become an ongoing annual award.
Addressing attendees, Vasilis Panayi, President of the Cyprus Community Youth of NSW, said the initiative formed part of a broader effort to connect the history of Cyprus with contemporary values.
“Tonight, we gather not only as a community, but as custodians of a history that has shaped who we are,” he said.
“With the launch of the Liberty Medal, we honour individuals and institutions who have advanced liberty, dignity and human rights, connecting the legacy of Cyprus with the universal values we share today.”
The accompanying Struggle for Liberty Exhibition, presented as part of the evening’s program, offered a detailed account of the EOKA liberation struggle and its wider historical context. Titled Cyprus: The Liberation Struggle 1955–1959, the exhibition was developed by the Cyprus Community of NSW as a major public history initiative documenting one of the defining periods in modern Cypriot history.
Drawing extensively on Australian archival material, the exhibition explored not only the events of the liberation struggle itself, but also how they were understood and interpreted through Australian eyes.
Curated by Dr Panayiotis Diamadis, the Community’s Director of Archives and Heritage, the exhibition featured photographs, historical documents and newspaper reports spanning the years 1950 to 1974, with a strong emphasis on Australian sources.
“It’s an important exhibition, for the Cyprus community, for all Greeks, for all Australians, to re-discover the struggle for freedom, the people’s aspiration for independence, and their right to self-government, identity, culture and history,” Dr Diamadis said.
Earlier in the evening, a student poetry performance on the theme of liberty formed part of the program.
In closing remarks, organisers outlined a broader program of cultural and community initiatives to follow, with the exhibition remaining open to the public, including for school and educational visits across New South Wales.
To attend any of the scheduled lectures, or organise school, church or community group tours – including guided experiences with lunch or dinner – visit: www.thecyprusclub.org.au/exhibition
