It was an unforgettable evening at St Basil’s NSW/ACT in Randwick on Thursday night as Greece’s Presidential Guard – the Evzones – marched into the aged care home, greeted by thunderous applause from elderly residents, their families, and staff.
Surrounded by emotion and cheers, the Evzones’ arrival created a powerful atmosphere as many residents — some in wheelchairs, others holding Greek flags — rose to their feet in joy. It was a moment where Greece truly came to them, bridging generations through tradition and pride.
The event began with a chapel service where the ‘Christ is Risen’ hymn echoed across the room as a choir featuring local clergy chanted, joined by everyone in attendance.
His Grace Bishop Iakovos of Miletoupolis read a message from His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia, who offered his paternal blessings and praised the Evzones as “a living symbol of the eternal ideals of faith in God, love of our Hellenic motherland, courage, determination, freedom and self-sacrifice.”
From the chapel, guests moved to another room for the official proceedings, opened by the national anthems of Greece and Australia — spiritedly led a cappella by George Karantonis when the sound system failed, earning him a round of applause.
First to speak was the Consul General of Greece in Sydney, Ioannis Mallikourtis, who warmly welcomed the Evzones and thanked all present for celebrating this symbolic visit. He said the Evzones’ recent visits to a number of aged care homes in Sydney were an honour for those elderly Greeks who first migrated to Australia and made their homes here.
Representing the NSW Government, Dr Marjorie O’Neill MP spoke next, noting the significance of Greek migration and its lasting impact on Sydney’s eastern suburbs.
“This place would not be what it is today if it was not for Greek migration. Our area and Australia are far better places because of it,” she said.
“Being able to celebrate Greek culture right here in the eastern suburbs of Sydney is incredibly remarkable and we are very lucky to have you all here.”
Randwick City Councillor Alexandra Luxford followed with heartfelt remarks, highlighting that Greek is the third most spoken language in the city and sharing her pride in her own Greek ancestry.
“The Greeks in our city are a proud community. The presence of the Evzones helps strengthen the ties between thousands of Greek Australians like myself and their homeland,” Councillor Luxford said.
In his speech, James Jordan, Chair of St Basil’s NSW/ACT, thanked the Evzones for bringing “a little bit of Greece” to residents.
“Some people here tonight are suffering from pain or dementia. But as soon as the four Presidential Guards dressed in the national costumes… came through the door, they smiled, they applauded. They loved that Greece came here to visit them so thank you for giving that life to our residents,” he said, visibly moved.
“For them to connect again with their mother country through the Presidential Guard is a big thing.”
Mr Jordan also thanked the Hellenic Club of Sydney, volunteers, and photographer Nick Bourdaniotis, whose Evzones Collection was on display—previously shown at the Athens War Museum and now permanently housed in the Presidential Palace in Greece.
Next, the Commander of the Greek Presidential Guard, Michalis Tzinieris, delivered a heartfelt message on behalf of the Evzones, stressing what an honour it was for them to be in Australia.
Closing the formal speeches, Mr Karantonis, director of The Evzones Collection, reflected on the journey of documenting the Guard’s symbolism and legacy.
“This is more than a showcase of extraordinary photography—it is an educational journey, a tribute to history and and a celebration of identity,” he said. “Your arrival in Australia brings our hearts closer to our motherland, strengthening the bonds that unite us… We honour you today and always.”
Guests were then invited to view the photo exhibition and take photos with the Evzones — respectfully and without physical contact — before enjoying refreshments. For many, it was a night where memories were rekindled, and cultural identity shone through with powerful clarity.
*All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Andriana Simos.
