The Hellenic Medical Society of Australia (HMSA) concluded another successful year with a memorable celebration on a warm November evening at the Victorian Artists Society in East Melbourne.
The event, billed as the Hellenic Medical Society of Australia End of Year Social Party, took place on Friday, November 22, at 7pm and brought together members, supporters, and distinguished guests to celebrate the society’s achievements and connections.
Attendees were treated to an exploration of the Hylton Mackley Artist of the Year exhibition, an opportunity to delve into the intricate stories portrayed through the artworks. The fusion of art and medicine created a fitting backdrop for the evening’s speeches, recognitions, and networking.
The event was hosted by Dr Arthur Kokkinias, HMSA Secretary, who introduced the evening’s speakers. Harry Hatzis from Zaparas Lawyers addressed the audience, followed by Emmanuel Kakavelakis, Consul General of Greece in Victoria. The keynote speaker was Professor James Tatoulis AM, a luminary in the field of cardiothoracic surgery.
Professor Tatoulis reflected on his illustrious career spanning decades, during which he performed over 12,000 major cardiac surgeries and over 1,000 thoracic operations. He spoke poignantly about the value of family, the importance of cherishing loved ones, and pride in Greek heritage. In recognition of his extraordinary contributions to medicine and the community, HMSA presented Professor Tatoulis with a commemorative plaque.
The society also acknowledged the loyal support of Mr Kakavelakis and Zaparas Lawyers, presenting them with awards for their contributions to the HMSA and the broader community.
The event drew a vibrant mix of HMSA members, partners, and representatives from Greek Australian organisations and media. Notable attendees included Bill Papastergiadis OAM, President of the Greek Community of Melbourne; Elpis Korosidis, President of Pronia; Sylvia Hadjiantoniou, CEO of Pronia; and Faye Spiteri OAM, CEO of Fronditha Care, among others. Board member Dr Athina Pirpiris, who played a key role in organising HMSA’s inaugural Careers Day earlier this year, joined fellow board members Dr Ben Filipopoulos and Dr Arthur Nasis in celebrating the society’s achievements.
Although not present at the event, HMSA President Professor Marinis Pirpiris shared updates on the society’s efforts to build stronger links with Greece during a recent trip. While overseas, he met with Greek officials and academic leaders, including the Minister of Health, Adonis Georgiadis, and the President of the Athens Medical Association, Dr Georgios Patoulis. Discussions focused on recognising foreign medical degrees and fostering clinical, academic, and exchange collaborations between Greece and Australia.
Professor Pirpiris also held meetings with senior figures from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, including Rector Professor Gerasimos Siasos, Vice Rector Professor Sophia Papaioannou, and Dean of the Medical School Professor Nikolaos Arkadopoulos, to establish student exchange programmes with the University of Melbourne.
With a clear vision for the future, the HMSA is set to expand its impact through a dynamic programme in 2025, offering valuable opportunities for education, networking, and collaboration within the Greek Australian medical community and beyond.
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