The Hellenic Women’s Network of Melbourne Victoria HELIADES Inc. marked the festive season with a joyful Pre-Christmas Lunch, bringing together around 100 members and friends for a celebration filled with Greek food, music and community spirit.
Held at the Lemnos Tavern, the event was imbued with the spirit of Christmas, featuring non-stop dancing, the singing of traditional carols and a special visit from Santa Claus, who distributed gifts to children in attendance.
Guests enjoyed a festive menu of Greek specialties, with the atmosphere described by organisers as one of love, joy and togetherness.
Addressing attendees, HELIADES President Niki Matziaris-Garay formally welcomed members and guests, while also acknowledging the strong turnout, noting the mix of familiar faces and new members within the HELIADES community.
Entertainment for the afternoon included Greek music curated under the guidance of Christina Sachar, with guests encouraged to dance, sing carols together and embrace the festive kefi that defined the celebration.
In her Christmas message, Ms Matziaris-Garay extended wishes of peace, justice, love and health to all families, expressing hope that the meaning of Christmas would serve as a guiding light of faith, kindness, gratitude and hope in the year ahead.
The President also offered heartfelt thanks to the HELIADES Board for their collaboration throughout the year, naming executive and committee members for their dedication and contribution. Special acknowledgement was given to Vice President Sylvia Kourkouvelis, who served as the principal organiser of this year’s Christmas event, as well as to volunteers who supported the celebration.
Gratitude was extended to Lemnos Tavern and its staff for their hospitality, to the network’s photographer Peter Sachar, and to Greek-language media outlets for their continued support in promoting HELIADES’ activities.
The celebration concluded with Christmas wishes, embraces and a shared hope that members and friends would gather again next year, as HELIADES wished everyone a Merry and Blessed Christmas and a peaceful, happy New Year in 2026.
