The Greek Orthodox Community of NSW (GOCNSW) has celebrated another hugely successful return of the Greek Fest at Brighton-Le-Sands, where thousands filled Bay Street on Sunday, November 16, for a vibrant day dedicated to Hellenic culture.
From morning until late evening, Greek Fest at Bay Street transformed the beachfront precinct into a lively hub of music, traditional dancing, delicious food, stalls and cultural experiences.
The event marks the second year since the festival’s return to the area – the very place where the Greek Festival of Sydney was before expanding to Darling Harbour.
GOCNSW was thrilled to welcome the steady stream of visitors who embraced the festivities.
“This has been a resounding success, as you can see around you,” GOCNSW President Harry Danalis said during the official ceremony. “We are so pleased that so many of you came to enjoy the day with us.”
Chair of the Greek Festival of Sydney, Nia Karteris, shared her heartfelt gratitude.
“To see the Greek flag and thousands of Greeks here – I am not only proud, but I am also truly moved. This festival doesn’t happen without you,” Ms Karteris said.
The Consul General of Greece in Sydney, George Skemperis, commended the community for preserving its identity while thriving in Australia.
“You are a successful case of integration. You can be, at the same time, wonderful Australians and wonderful Greeks,” he noted, emphasising that events like this allow everyone to experience “the Greek way of living.”
NSW Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper highlighted the strength of the local Greek community.
“There are probably four generations of Greeks celebrating here today, and that is a testament to how strongly the community holds onto its culture,” Minister Kamper said.
Representing the NSW Opposition Leader, MP Eleni Petinos said the Greek Fest showcased “why Australia is such a multicultural community and why we believe it is the most successful multicultural country in the world.”
Federal MP for Kingsford Smith Matt Thistlethwaite called the event “a celebration of all the wonderful contributions Hellenic culture has given us,” while Federal MP for Barton Ash Ambihaipahar praised the strong participation of young Greek Australians.
Bayside Mayor Edward McDougall also expressed his appreciation for the overwhelming turnout.
“At Bayside Council, we are incredibly proud of our vibrant Greek community. This is the heart of Greek hospitality in Sydney,” the Mayor said.
Further words of support were offered by Anastasios Polychronis, Commander of the Greek Military Academy, and Kieran McKenna of Bank of Sydney, both acknowledging the festival’s cultural significance.
A special thanks to young voices of the community
A heartfelt acknowledgment was extended to Anja Ribbeck, student of the Greek Orthodox Community of NSW Afternoon School, for beautifully reciting both National Anthems during the official ceremony.
Her confident and respectful performance was warmly received by dignitaries and the crowd, symbolising the strength of the next generation carrying Hellenic culture forward.
A day filled with entertainment and community spirit
The entertainment program was packed from start to finish.
Dance performances from a wide range of cultural groups captivated audiences, including the GOCNSW Greek Dancing School, the Cyprus Community of NSW Performing Group, the Kogarah School of Greek Dancing, the Kalymnian Association of NSW Dance Group, the Greek Community of Newcastle Hellenic Dancers, the Pontian Association of NSW “Pontoxeniteas” Dance Group, the Cretan Association of Sydney & NSW, the Hellenic Lyceum of Sydney, Sydney Sizmos Performers, the Lemnian Association of NSW “Maroula” Dancing Group, and Nickolaos Vasilas from My Zeibekiko journey, each showcasing the richness and diversity of Hellenic tradition.
Throughout the day, crowds were energised by sets from DJ Georgie D, DJ Maestro, and performances by Thanasis Bouzouki Entertainment and Iho Nyx, keeping the atmosphere festive and lively from morning onwards.
Maria Maroulis shines as the day’s headline highlight
The festival reached its peak with the highly anticipated performance by Maria Maroulis, whose evening concert was a standout highlight of the entire event. Her powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence brought the crowd together for an unforgettable finale.
GOCNSW extends its warmest thanks to all attendees, performers, volunteers and partners who helped make Greek Fest at Bay Street a true celebration of Hellenism – and a proud reminder of the Greek community’s enduring spirit in New South Wales.
*All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Andriana Simos
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