Four generations of Pontians gathered on Saturday, August 17 to celebrate the 60-year history of the Pontian Society of Sydney Panagia Soumela.
Celebrations started at 7.30pm at the Society’s hall in Hurlstone Park. Members and friends of Panagia Soumela Sydney mingled, shared memories, and enjoyed a delicious dinner served by Gina’s Catering.
President of Panagia Soumela Sydney, Hellene Flampoulidou Flame kick started official proceedings by inviting the Society’s dance groups to perform alongside talented Pontian musicians Eric Fotiadis and Chris Klazidis.
The performance drew loud applause and had everyone on their feet, with parents and grandparents joining their children and grandchildren on the dance floor for some traditional Pontian dancing.
Speeches were then given by former President of Panagia Soumela Sydney, Peter Papoulidis representing the President of the Pontian Federation of Australia, Esta Paschalidis-Chilas, and Ms Flame.
In her speech, Ms Flame spoke about the history of Panagia Soumela Sydney.
She said a dream to forge the first Pontian society in Sydney was born in 1956 thanks to a few young immigrant men travelling from house to house gathering support. In 1964, their dedication culminated in the establishment of the Pontian Brotherhood of the Virgin Soumela, now known as the Pontian Society of Sydney Panagia Soumela.
“For the first and second generations of immigrants—our parents and grandparents—cultural associations were lifelines helping them navigate the new world while holding onto their identity,” the President said.
“And today, as we stand here as third, fourth, and fifth generations, these associations still remain vital because they create a space for us to belong, to share our stories, and to keep our traditions alive in this rapidly changing world.”
Founding members and former Presidents were then called up to the front to receive gifts as a form of appreciation for all their hard work and dedication to the Society. Present on the night were Kalistrato Kilazoglou (Founder – member for 60 years), Panteli Tsipidi (former President – member for 55 years), and Harry Tsipidi (Treasurer – member for 55 years).
The official proceedings ended with the current Executive Committee and past Presidents gathering together to cut a cake in celebration of the Society’s 60th anniversary.
“Please all raise your glasses! Here’s to many more years of unity, culture, and tradition!” Ms Flame exclaimed.
Attendees enjoyed the rest of night, dancing to live music by Pontian musicians Adam Neou and Prodromos Moysiadis, as well as Modern Greek band Sam Christodoulides and Thanasis Pylarinos.
*All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Andriana Simos.
