Brotherhood of Chalkidiki in NSW hosts Christmas celebration

The Brotherhood of Chalkidiki “Aristotelis” of New South Wales hosted its 2024 Christmas celebration with remarkable success, marking the association’s largest turnout in nearly 30 years.

Despite late storms, the event welcomed more than 130 attendees, including many children, with many taking advantage of the fine early weather to join the sold-out festivities.

Held as a testament to community spirit and cultural pride, the celebration featured contributions from committee members, their families, and attendees who worked tirelessly to make the day a triumph.

The event was not only a gathering of long-standing members, but also saw a strong representation from families with roots in Chalkidiki, making up 70% of the attendees. This included, but is not limited to, the following:

• Three generations of the Makridis family from Nea Moudania.
• Stacey Camillos (Mavros family, Agios Mamas) attending after 30 years.
• The Tekirdaglis and Pascali families from Ammouliani, joined by relatives from Wollongong.
• Representatives from other Chalkidiki villages such as Arnaia, Olynthos, Taxiarchis, Vavdos, and Stavros.

The event also hosted prominent leaders from Greek community associations in NSW, including President of the Pan-Macedonian Association of NSW, Anastasia Karakominakis, and President of the Athenian Association of NSW, Cathy Valis, among many others.

The Brotherhood’s committee was commended for its dedication. Key organisers included President Costa Dantos, Vice President Jenny Kaporis, Secretary Alexandra Poulos, Treasurer John Tratselas, and General Committee members Artemis Kelezis, Bill Dantos, Carol Stavropoulos, George Tratselas, Joanna Arnis, Vicky Stamatiou, and Vicky Tsakirou.

Established in 1962, the Brotherhood of Chalkidiki “Aristotelis” in NSW is the sole association representing Chalkidiki residents in the state.

The record attendance and enthusiastic participation from families and community leaders underscore the enduring connection between Chalkidiki heritage and Greek Australian culture.