The Australian Greek Ex-Servicemen’s Association Inc. held a Greek National Day celebration on Sunday, March 16 at the Holy Monastery of “Axion Esti” in Northcote, Victoria.
A memorial service was conducted inside the church by His Grace Bishop Evmenios of Chora. Due to heavy rainfall, the wreath-laying ceremony took place inside the church, beneath the Holy Icon of the Virgin Mary.
The event was honoured by a large attendance, with a number of officials laying wreaths including Bishop Evmenios; Emily Dimitriadis, Deputy Mayor of Darebin City Council – South East Ward; Katerine Theodosis, Councillor of Merri-bek City Council – West Breen Ward; and Nikolaos Makridis, President of the Australian Greek Ex-Servicemen’s Association.
Numerous representatives from Greek community organisations, as well as Senior Sergeant Stylianos (Steve) Spyrou and Sergeant Con Matsamakis, also attended to pay tribute to the heroes of 1821.
Following the wreath-laying ceremony, a minute’s silence was observed in honour of the fallen heroes.
Later, guests and members of the Australian Greek Ex-Servicemen’s Association gathered for a reception, where the Association’s President, Mr Makridis, spoke about key moments that shaped the Greek War of Independence.
*All photos supplied by Natasha Spanos
