Greek Consul General honoured at Hellenic Club farewell event in Sydney

·

Sydney’s Greek community came together on Thursday, June 19, for a dignified farewell dinner in honour of Greece’s Consul General, Ioannis Mallikourtis, as the diplomat prepares to conclude his posting at the end of July 2025.

The event was hosted by The Hellenic Club of Sydney at its Alpha venue, operated by Con Dedes, and brought together community leaders, clergy, and political dignitaries — including the Hon. Sophie Cotsis MP and the Hon. Courtney Houssos MLC — to recognise Mr Mallikourtis’ contribution to the Greek diaspora over the past three years.

Hellenic Club President Nick Hatzistergos opened proceedings by reflecting on the Club’s proud legacy ahead of its centenary next year. He paid tribute to past board members, life members, and the broader Greek Australian community for their enduring role in building a cultural hub in the heart of Sydney.

hellenic club of sydney consul general
Hellenic Club President Nick Hatzistergos. All photos copyright The Greek Herald.

He noted that the Hellenic Club remains the envy of many multicultural communities across New South Wales, as one of the few to maintain a central presence in Sydney’s CBD — a testament, he said, to the vision and perseverance of generations of Greek Australians.

“We stand on the shoulders of those who came before us, and it’s our responsibility to build on that foundation,” Hatzistergos said, honouring their contributions with pride.

A blessing was offered by His Grace Bishop Iakovos of Miletoupolis, followed by a moving introduction by Nick Pappas AM, who praised the Consul General’s humility, availability, and unwavering service.

“You leave behind a community that really doesn’t want to let you go — and surely that’s the highest praise for a diplomat,” Pappas remarked.

In his address, Consul General Mr Mallikourtis reflected on the resilience and sacrifice of Greek migrants who arrived in Australia decades ago, many with little more than determination. He expressed pride in the community’s evolution and the accomplishments of their children and grandchildren.

hellenic club of sydney consul general
Consul General of Greece in Sydney, Ioannis Mallikourtis.

While optimistic, he shared two key challenges that the Greek Australian community must navigate in the future. The first was the preservation of the Greek language, which he described as essential for maintaining cultural identity.

“If we totally lose the language, it will be difficult to keep the rest,” he cautioned, urging for united and collective efforts to strengthen Greek language education in New South Wales.

The second was the need to re-engage younger generations, as traditional village-based association models become increasingly disconnected from the experiences of today’s youth. He called on community leaders to find new ways of connecting Greek and Australian identities through modern, inclusive approaches.

Despite these challenges, Mr Mallikourtis said he remained deeply hopeful about the diaspora’s future. He expressed sincere thanks to his colleagues at the Consulate, and above all, his wife Christiana, whom he credited as his greatest source of strength throughout his career.

St Basil’s NSW/ACT Chairman James Jordan delivered brief remarks and presented farewell gifts to the Consul General and Ms Stavrou on behalf of the aged care organisation, thanking them for their enduring partnership and support.

Guests enjoyed a formal dinner, marking the occasion with warmth, reflection, and pride in the shared achievements of the Greek Australian community.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

‘Una Faccia, Una Razza’: The politics of memory and the power of saying ‘OXI’

The annual homage to “OHI” Day stems from Greece's Prime Minister Metaxas firmly stating “OHI” (NO) to Mussolini's request.

The Master Miller and the art of olive oil perfection

The Master Miller’s mission has its roots in a philosophy that begins at the olive tree and reaches the heart of those who seek quality.

Brain regain: For the first time in 14 years, more people return to Greece than leave

For the first time in over a decade, Greece is witnessing a positive migration balance as more Greeks return home than emigrate.

When everyday Greeks said OXI: Resistance and survival during World War Two

“Aera!” (Air!) roared Greek soldiers as they clawed over jagged rocks on the brutal Pindus Mountains during Italy’s 1940 invasion.

Botanical Park of Crete: Rooted in fire, inspiring hope

The October 2003 fire started with electrical cables in a village near the Marinakis family’s olive groves.

You May Also Like

When two become one: A deep dive into the Proxenia marriage tradition

In a world where no two people are the same, the pursuit of love is the tie that bands us together; and the journey is quite the ride.

Dim Georgiadis joins ‘long-time mates’ in taking over iconic McLaren Vale winery

Iconic McLaren Vale winery, Fox Creek Wines has been purchased by long-time mates and industry colleagues, Ben Gibson, Jock Harvey and Dim Georgiadis.

Tsitsipas to follow In Sampras’ footsteps in journey to become Greek tennis inspiration

Tsitsipas met his idol, former World No. 1 Pete Sampras, for the first time at Indian Wells. The Greek and his family got to briefly chat with Sampras, an American of Greek origin with whom he happens to share a birthday.