As 2023 marks the 60th anniversary of the Greek Orthodox Community of Oakleigh & District and the 40th anniversary of Oakleigh Grammar, a celebratory Gala Ball was held on Saturday, May 27 to mark the occasions.
Organised by the Oakleigh Grammar Parents Association and proudly sponsored by the Bank of Sydney, the event took place at Vogue Ballroom with over 400 guests enjoying a five-course meal, and lively entertainment.
Opened with a blessing by Father Stavros, and a welcome speech by Board Chairman Chris Damatopoulos, dancing commenced shortly after entrée, and the dancefloor remained packed well into the night.
Several performers kept the crowd entertained and on its feet, from Bouzouki players Antonis Pistikakis and Harrison Giavris, and Sammy on Percussion, to NexGen Event Management Lebanese Drumming and DJ Nick Missailidis.
The event raised funds for Oakleigh Grammar to provide resources from its students’ wish list. Father Stavros, acting as auctioneer for the evening’s auction of two framed and signed AFL guernseys and a framed print, reprised his role with great skill. The auction, together with a raffle draw, raised $12,000.
With sponsorships and proceeds from ticket sales, the Oakleigh Grammar community managed to raise a total of over $20,000 for the School which directly benefits Oakleigh Grammar students.
Tickets to the event were highly sought after and sold out in less than 30 minutes.
Principal Mark Robertson commented: “Oh what a night! It was a fantastic School and Community Anniversary Gala Ball with fabulous entertainment. It was a real celebratory party for staff, Board members and families to unite on this milestone occasion.”
“Congratulations to our Parents Association and Vogue Ballroom owned by Board member George Giannaros for hosting such a vibrant event and to Bank of Sydney for their sponsorship,” Mr Robertson added.
“We also thank our community who got behind the event and fundraising efforts on the night to deliver such as amazing outcome. We look forward to further celebrations through the year.”
*All photos by Kosta Deves.
