The Hellenic Returned and Services League (RSL) sub-branch in Melbourne marked Greek Independence Day with a number of commemorative services.
The event, which honoured the fallen from the Greek War of Independence, included a wreath-laying ceremony at the Australian Hellenic Memorial wherein over 40 wreaths were laid.
His Grace Bishop Kyriakos of Melbourne, assisted by Father Panteleimon, led the service and gave a prayer for the fallen.
The ceremony was emceed by Major Terry Kanellos, secretary of the Hellenic RSL, who welcomed dignitaries including Greek Ambassador to Australia Stavros Venizelos, Consul General of Greece in Melbourne Dimitria Georgantzoglou, and other officials.
Ambassador Venizelos delivered a speech before the wreath-laying, followed by the raising of flags and the playing of the national anthems of Greece and Australia. Many local students participated, adding a youthful presence to the ceremony.
The Hellenic RSL later hosted another wreath laying ceremony at the Melbourne Shrine of Remembrance, followed by a luncheon in South Melbourne, attended by the Ambassador, Consul General, Defence Attaché Colonel Kyriakos Kyriakakos, and other dignitaries.
*All photos supplied by Nikolaos Kydas
