St Basil’s Lakemba was alive with colour and culture last week as some of Australia’s oldest Greek Australians came together to celebrate OXI Day, a national day that holds deep significance for the Greek community.
Residents started the day with a special church service from His Grace Bishop lakovos of Miletoupolis followed by a souvlaki BBQ lunch.
The celebrations continued into the afternoon with traditional Greek dancing and a performance by a choir from local Greek Orthodox school All Saints Grammar, creating a vibrant and emotional celebration of heritage and resilience.
“OXI Day is a powerful reminder of courage, unity, and resilience – values that our Greek residents carry deeply in their hearts. Seeing them come together in song and dance reminds us that these traditions are not just about history, but about pride and identity that continue to inspire generations,” St Basil’s NSW/ACT CEO, Diana Horvatovic, said.
OXI Day which means ‘no’ in Greek is commemorated on October 28 remembering when the Greek Prime Minister rejected an ultimatum from Italian dictator Benito Mussolini during World War II.
“Watching our residents sing traditional songs and dance with such joy was truly moving. OXI Day isn’t just a commemoration; it’s a celebration of life, resilience, and community – qualities that remain at the heart of our home,” Mrs Horvatovic said.
St Basil’s 170 residents are all of Greek background including 100-year-old Hrisoula Mitsopoulos who was a teenager on that historic day and remembers it well.
“I remember the pride and unity of the Greek people. Even in the hardest times, we stood together and said “No” with courage and faith in our freedom,” she said.
“It reminds us that Greece has always fought for justice and independence. The younger generations must know what their grandparents went through so they can appreciate peace and freedom today.”
Ms Horvatovic added, “For our residents, especially those who lived through or grew up hearing stories of that era, OXI Day is a moment of reflection and gratitude. It’s a chance to honour the sacrifices made for freedom and to celebrate the strength of the human spirit – something we can all learn from.
“Events like this are about more than remembrance – they’re about dignity, connection, and joy. Our Greek residents show us that even in later life, celebrating who you are and where you come from is profoundly important.”
