In a historic first, a delegation from the Hellenic Police Force visited Melbourne as guests of the Victoria Hellenic Police Association (VHPA), with the support of Victoria Police.
The visit was made possible with backing from major sponsor Agapi Care Inc. and supporters including Concise Financial Services.
Inspector Andrew Markakis APM and Acting Superintendent Efti Anastasiadis led the delegation, organising a series of visits to operational units such as the Dog Squad, Mounted Branch, and Police Academy. The group also engaged with Greek community organisations across Melbourne.
At a formal dinner, the Hellenic officers exchanged gifts with Their Graces Bishop Kyriakos of Melbourne and Bishop Evmenios of Chora, in a symbolic gesture of unity. They were accompanied throughout by Police Chaplain Fr Emmanuel Lykopandis, who also guided them through key operational sites.
One of the highlights of the trip was their participation in the Greek Independence Day parade on Sunday, 23 March, marching proudly alongside the Greek Australian community.
The delegation took part in the 2025 Greek National Day Ceremony, marching in full uniform alongside Victoria Police and the Australian Federal Police, commemorating Greece’s War of Independence on 25 March 1821.
