The Greek community of Queensland came together in a night of pride, remembrance, and unity as the 204th anniversary of Greek Independence was officially commemorated at Parliament House, Brisbane.
Hosted by the Honorary Consul-General of Greece in Queensland, George Mastrocostas, this prestigious event paid tribute to the courage and sacrifice of those who fought for Greece’s freedom in 1821, while also celebrating the deep and enduring ties between Greece and Australia.
The evening was attended by distinguished guests, including:
- Her Excellency, the Honourable Dr Jeanette Young AC PSM, Governor of Queensland
- The Hon. Fiona Simpson MP, Minister for Women and Women’s Economic Security, Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, and Minister for Multiculturalism, representing the Premier of Queensland, the Hon. David Crisafulli MP
- Councillor Krista Adams, Councillor for Holland Park Ward, representing the Lord Mayor of Brisbane, Adrian Schrinner
- His Grace Bishop Bartholomew of Brisbane
The event commenced with a warm welcome from Mr Mastrocostas and his wife, Ying Mastrocostas, as guests arrived at the Premiers’ & Speakers’ Hall. A moment of reverence followed as the Greek Community Choir, Ellinikes Fones, led the singing of the national anthems of Australia and Greece, marking the unity between the two nations.
The official proceedings began with a heartfelt prayer by Bishop Bartholomew, setting the tone for a night of reflection and celebration. Mr Mastrocostas then took the stage to propose a Loyal Toast to His Majesty, King Charles III, followed by his address, in which he emphasised the historical significance of the 25th of March and the role of the Greek Australian community in preserving Hellenic culture and values.
Her Excellency, the Honourable Dr Young AC PSM, followed with a Toast to His Excellency, Konstantinos Tasoulas, President of the Hellenic Republic, and delivered an inspiring speech, acknowledging the Greek community’s invaluable contributions to Queensland’s multicultural identity.
Further addresses were given by Minister Simpson and Councillor Adams, both recognising the strength and unity of Queensland’s Greek community and the profound impact of Hellenic ideals—freedom, democracy, and resilience—on Australian society.
To conclude the formal proceedings, the talented Ellinikes Fones returned to the stage for a moving performance of three traditional Greek songs, filling the hall with the unmistakable spirit of Hellenism.
As a special tribute to this historic occasion, the City of Brisbane honoured the Greek community by illuminating three major landmarks in blue and white—the colours of the Greek flag. Brisbane City Hall, Old Parliament House, and King George Square stood proudly lit up, serving as a powerful visual reminder of the deep friendship between Greece and Australia.
Speaking after the event, Mr Mastrocostas expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all attendees, dignitaries, and community members who joined the celebration.
“Greek Independence Day is not only a commemoration of our past but a reaffirmation of our identity and values. The overwhelming support from the Queensland Government and Brisbane City Council, along with the presence of so many distinguished guests and community members, is a testament to the enduring strength of Hellenism in Australia. Tonight, we stood together in pride and unity, honouring our heritage while looking forward to the future,” Mr Mastrocostas said.
As the night came to a close, the message was clear—the spirit of 1821 lives on in the hearts of Greek Australians, and the bonds between Greece and Queensland remain stronger than ever.
