The Brotherhood of Chalkidiki Aristotelis of New South Wales held a fundraiser luncheon at Panagia Soumela Hall in Canterbury on Sunday, September 15 that far exceeded expectations.
President Costa Dantos addressed the large crowd, expressing heartfelt gratitude for the impressive turnout. The event saw double the number of participants compared to previous years, marking a significant increase and highlighting the event’s growing popularity.
In his speech, Mr Dantos expressed his delight at seeing so many new faces, some attending for the first time or after a long hiatus of up to 20 years.
Mr Dantos emphasised that such events not only benefit the association but also contribute to the attendees’ well-being, promoting social interaction, dancing and physical activity for a happier and healthier life.
A key highlight of the evening was the acknowledgment of the hard work of the Chalkidiki Association’s committee. Mr Dantos also extended a special thanks to Panagia Soumela Sydney, recognising the support of Chris Klazidis and Peter Papoulidis.
During the event, attendees had the pleasure of watching a video message from Athanasia Emmanouilidou, the Deputy Mayor of Nea Propontida in Chalkidiki. The video conveyed her admiration for the diaspora’s commitment to preserving Greek culture. She highlighted the importance of maintaining Greek traditions and language, even as these face challenges in Greece.
Looking forward, several upcoming events were announced. The Pan-Macedonian 2024 Dimitria Program was introduced, featuring notable activities such as a doxology at Kogarah Greek Orthodox Church on September 29 and a Pan-Macedonian Federation of Australia dance in Brisbane on November 23. The Panagia Soumela committee will also host a dance on October 5 with a famous Pontian Greek band.
Other events on the horizon include a litany service scheduled for October at Kogarah Greek Orthodox Church to decorate the St Demetrios icon, and the annual Chalkidiki Christmas BBQ picnic at Carss Park on December 1.
As the evening drew to a close around 5 pm, attendees were treated to coffee and galaktoboureko. The event was a resounding success, marked by a strong sense of community and shared celebration of Greek heritage.
Official guests in attendance included Anastasia Karakominakis, Pan-Macedonian Association of NSW President; Chris Klazidis, Pontian Society of Sydney “Panagia Soumela” Acting President; Nikos Stanisis, President of the Nomos Pella Association “Edessa”; Christos Pazaridis, Pan-Thracian Association of NSW “Democritus” President; Peter Tsigounis, Greek RSL NSW Sub-Branch President; and Katerina Pratsas, the only living former Chalkidiki Brotherhood President who attended.
