By Takis Triadafillou and Andriana Simos.
The Mytilenian Brotherhood of Sydney and NSW hosted an impressive annual dance to commemorate 110 years since the liberation of Lesvos from the Ottoman Empire.
Members and friends of the Mytilenian Brotherhood gathered on Saturday, November 12, alongside special guests to attend a truly beautiful and pride-filled anniversary event at Sydney’s Mytilenian House.
The President, Mr Peter Psomas, welcomed the attendees and respectfully asked everyone to observe a minute’s silence for the 110th anniversary before introducing the official guests.
Official guests included the President of the Greek Orthodox Community of Sydney, Mr Harry Danalis; President of the Greek Festival of Sydney, Ms Nia Karteris; President of the Greek Orthodox Community of Canberra, John Loukadelis; NSW Labor Member for Canterbury, Sophie Cotsis MP; Secretary of the Cypriot Community of Sydney, Michalis Kyriakou; Presidents of the Antissian Association of NSW, Ms Maria Iatrou and Trish Loukis; and former Presidents of the Mytilene Brotherhood, Yiannis Spanelis and George Proestos.
During his speech, Mr Psomas said: “Tonight we commemorate the 110th Anniversary of the liberation of island Lesvos.”
“Let’s remember and acknowledge our fallen heroes who fought and lost their lives for our beloved island. Eternal Memories, long live Lesvos long live Freedom.”
For his part, Mr Danalis welcomed attendees and emphasised the importance of such commemorations to honour and pride not only Mytilenians, but all Greeks.
The President of the Greek Orthodox Community of Canberra and former President of the Antissian Association of NSW, Mr Loukadelis, spoke with pride about the liberation and its importance in Greek history.
In closing his speech, he shared a proud sentiment, exclaiming: “Long live Lesvos.”
The event was accompanied by the melodies of the ОPA OPA orchestra band and was coloured with performances by Maria Houliaras’ Sydney Greek Dancing School.
