The Pan-Macedonian Association of Melbourne and Victoria convened its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on February 4 at the Association’s offices located at 470 Queens Parade, Clifton Hill. The event saw enthusiastic participation from over 25 association members.
Key Highlights:
Nikos Katsakis, representing the Cultural and Educational Club of Florina “Aristotelis,” was elected to preside over the AGM.
Accomplishments:
Outgoing President, Dimitrios Minas, highlighted the association’s significant achievements during the past year:
- Successful relaunch of the Dimitria festival after a 7-year hiatus.
- Establishment of a strong collaborative partnership with St. Dimitrios Church for jointly organising the Dimitria festival.
- Restoration of club facilities.
- A well-attended Dimitria concert, supported by the Greek Community of Melbourne and Victoria and the association’s members.
- Broad community backing and sponsorship for the association’s annual Dimitria magazine.
- Increased interest from young individuals to join the committee and contribute to the association’s ongoing initiatives.
Naming Issue: Nikos Lalopoulos (outgoing Secretary) emphasised the association’s efforts in addressing the ongoing issue related to Greece’s northern neighbour’s attempts to appropriate the Macedonian name and identity. The committee’s letter to the Greek government, advocating for the rescission of the Prespa agreement was published in the 2023 Dimitria magazine and read in full at the AGM to unanimous support from the members.
New Executive Committee: The AGM concluded with the election of the following executive members to the committee:
- President: Peter Stefanidis
- Vice President: Vassiliki Laiou
- Secretary: Harry Tsairis
- Assistant Secretary: Taso Orphanidis
- Treasurer: Tony Tsiavis
- Public Relations Officer: Voula Tsarouhidis
Incoming President Peter Stefanidis then gave a speech committing the committee he leads to continue the good work the previous administration has set in motion with a strong focus on strengthening ties with our member associations, as well as engaging the youth and making Pan Mac more relevant for the next generation of Greeks.
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