The Mytilenian House in Canterbury was filled on Saturday evening as the Mytilenian Brotherhood of Sydney & NSW hosted its vibrant celebration for the 113th Anniversary of the Liberation of Lesvos.
Held on 15 November 2025, the event brought together community members, cultural groups and friends of Lesvos for an evening rich in history, music, dancing and island spirit.
Official guests, including President Emanuel Valageorgiou and Vice President Soula Gerasimou from the Samian Brotherhood of Sydney & NSW, and George Kitsandonis from Panpirotiki Enosi, were also in attendance, showing their support for the celebration.
The Pontian Brotherhood’s President Peter Psomas and Vice President Joanna Tzanellis were also present to ensure the event ran smoothly on the day.
A moving opening ceremony
The evening commenced with emcee and committee member Christine Gazepis Stavropoulos, who warmly welcomed guests and reflected on the significance of the commemoration.
The hall then stood for the Australian and Greek national anthems, performed powerfully by Jim Tsolakis from the Australian Hellenic Choir, followed by a minute of silence to honour those who fought and those who sacrificed their lives for the liberation of the island.
Guests also heard an engaging historical address from George Tserdanis, proud Lesvian and journalist at The Greek Herald, who spoke about the island’s journey to freedom and the enduring legacy of its liberation.
Celebration filled with kefi
Following the formalities, the night transformed into a lively celebration. The Mytilenian Brotherhood’s dancing group performed traditional dances that captivated the room, drawing applause and emotion from attendees.
Live music from Paradise Band kept the atmosphere high with non-stop kefi, while guests enjoyed authentic island cuisine and generous hospitality.
A message of unity and remembrance
Ms Stavropoulos expressed the Brotherhood’s deep gratitude to all who supported the event, emphasising the importance of preserving the community’s heritage.
“The committee of the Mytilenian Brotherhood wish to sincerely thank all who attended our Annual Liberation Day dinner dance and also extend a huge thank you to the generous sponsors who donated such wonderful prizes for our auction,” she told The Greek Herald after the event.
“These events are to honour those who fought and those who lost their lives fighting for freedom and liberation and an acknowledgment of history. Whilst numbers in associations have dwindled over the years due to generational change, it’s important we all make an effort to continue the legacy of our forefathers and preserve our heritage for future generations. We must never forget.”
Ms Stavropoulos also extended warm thanks to the Samian Brotherhood and Panpirotiki Enosi for their presence.
“We grow as an entire community united in preserving history, culture and heritage. We look forward to seeing you again next year,” she said.
Keeping the legacy alive
The Mytilenian Brotherhood once again delivered a heartfelt and culturally rich commemoration, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding the island’s history, honouring its heroes, and nurturing the community bonds that keep Lesvian heritage alive.
*All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Andriana Simos
