Melbourne’s Hellenic Museum brimmed with distinguished guests on Monday, March 24 including Victoria’s Premier Jacinta Allan, to celebrate Greek National Day (25th March).
Premier Allan announced a landmark collaboration with the Hellenic Museum, with the Victorian government offering free access for children to its upcoming “Rituals, Gifts for the Gods” exhibition. This will feature over 150 artifacts, with 119 originating from Greece, many of which have never left Athens, with MC Spyros Alatsas revealing that the exhibition comes following meetings with Greece’s Culture Minister Lina Mendoni.
“I want to make sure that even more Victorians have the opportunity to learn about and be inspired by that history, particularly our youngest Victorians,” Premier Allan stated.
Sarah Craig, CEO of the Hellenic Museum, told The Greek Herald, “The Victorian Premier is a supporter of the Greek community and the Hellenic Museum, and has offered support for the museum in providing free access to the children.”
She said that more children’s focused events can be expected to accompany the free visits once the exhibition opens in a few months.
Premier Allan was asked by The Greek Herald about other issues of interest to the Greek community, apart from culture, such as the loss of the Greek language.
“The way we solve problems is by drawing on our values,” she said. “That’s why Greeks pass on culture to their children and grandchildren – to pass on those values.”
The Premier also noted that the National Gallery of Victoria and Melbourne Museum will promote the exhibition to their extensive distribution lists, reaching over 200,000 people.
After the euphoria of the Greek parade returning to the Shrine after five years, the news of the next exhibition was welcomed. Congratulations flowed regarding the impeccable organisation of the parade by Victoria’s Greek National Day Council on Sunday, drawing thousands. Much of the praise went to Sophia Siachos, the Council’s chair.
Adding a unique twist to the accolades, His Grace Bishop Kyriakos of Melbourne, during his speech, playfully reinforced gender stereotypes by quoting former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, who said in 1965: “If you want something said, ask a man. If you want something done ask a woman.”
This unexpected reference drew a surprised reaction from Premier Allan, who quipped, “When I came here this evening, I didn’t expect to hear Margaret Thatcher on Greek National Day. Who am I to disagree with Margaret Thatcher?”
Ambassador of Greece to Australia Stavros Venizelos delivered a powerful speech, highlighting Greece’s rich history and modern contributions with its strong national defence force, an economy that relies 70% on services, the influx of millions seeking the beauty of the islands and wealth of history.
“We are a maritime power with Greek shipping controlling nearly 20% of global trade. 50% of our energy is sourced from renewable power,” he said, ending his list of Greece’s bounties with the quote: “When I want something done, I have my wife.”
Consul General of Greece in Melbourne, Dimitra Georgantzoglou, host of the event, did not give a speech but graciously welcomed eminent guests, including His Eminence Metropolitan Ezekiel of Dervis, His Grace Bishop Evmenios of Chora, Shadow Multicultural Affairs Minister Kim O’Keefe, Minister Steve Dimopoulos, Minister Nick Staikos, Lee Tarlamis MP amongst others.
The evening was a testament to the enduring cultural ties between Greece and Victoria, and the Hellenic Museum’s commitment to preserving and sharing this rich heritage. With the Victorian government’s support, future generations will have the opportunity to delve into the captivating world of ancient Greece.
*All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Mary Sinanidis
