Canberra is set to transform into Australia’s most Hellenic city this March, as the local Greek community prepare to mark Greek Independence Day with a series of events and symbolic displays across the capital.
Greek flags will fly from Monday, March 24 in honour of Greek Independence Day, officially commemorated on March 25. The flags will be prominently displayed along key locations including Commonwealth Avenue leading to Parliament House, Kings Avenue enroute to Canberra Airport, and around Canberra Walk near the city centre.
On the night of Tuesday, March 25, a number of iconic Canberra landmarks and government buildings will be illuminated in blue as a tribute to Greek history and heritage. Sites include Old Parliament House, the Carillon Bell Tower, the National Museum of Australia, Questacon, the Canberra Times Fountain, and various lightrail stops across the city. Cranes operated by GEOCON will also light up in blue, along with the Hellenic Club of Canberra.
John Loukadellis, President of the Greek Community & Church of Canberra and Director of the Hellenic Initiative of Australia, said, “This is a moment of pride for our community.”
“Canberra will be the most Hellenic city in the country for the day, and we’re grateful for the strong support of the ACT Government, Infrastructure Canberra, and the National Capital Authority,” Mr Loukadellis added.
Celebrations will continue on Sunday, March 30 with a church service at St Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church in Kingston, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at the Hellenic Australian War Memorial at midday. A festive luncheon will follow from 1pm, featuring live music from the Kefi Band and performances by the Canberra Hellenic Dancers.
The Greek community invites Canberrans and visitors alike to join in the celebrations, honouring the spirit of independence and the enduring contributions of Greek Australians to the nation’s cultural fabric.
