A packed Apollo Room at the Hellenic Club of Canberra bore witness to a powerful and passionate lecture by cultural heritage advocate Emanuel J. Comino AM on Thursday, May 15, as part of an event co-hosted by the Hellenic Club and AHEPA Canberra under the auspices of the Ambassador of Greece to Australia, Stavros Venizelos.
Mr Comino, founder and chairman of the International Organising Committee – Australia – for the Restitution of the Parthenon Marbles, delivered a heartfelt presentation on the historical, cultural and moral case for the return of the Parthenon Sculptures to Greece.
With nearly five decades of tireless advocacy behind him, Mr Comino captivated the audience with his depth of knowledge and unwavering commitment to the cause.
The event was chaired by AHEPA National President Sophia Notaras, and featured remarks from Ambassador Venizelos, who offered a compelling perspective from the Greek state.
“To those who believe the British Museum offers better exposure or that the Marbles have become part of the British cultural heritage, we say: cultural stewardship does not mean permanent possession. Justice must overweigh convenience,” he said, drawing applause from the crowd.
The Ambassador closed his speech with a simple, resolute message: “It is time. The Marbles must return home.”
Also in attendance were High Commissioner of the Republic of Cyprus in Australia, Antonis Sammoutis, Deputy Head of Mission for Cyprus Nikos Varellas, the Very Reverend Father Petros from St Nicholas Church, President of the Greek Orthodox Community and Church of Canberra, John Loukadellis, and representing the Hellenic Club of Canberra, Vice President Eleni Notaras and Nikos Kalogeropoulos.
The event commemorated over 40 years since the formation of the world’s first committee for the return of the Parthenon Marbles, established by AHEPA (Australia) in 1981 under Mr Comino’s leadership. Since then, thousands across Australia and New Zealand—regardless of background—have lent their voices to this cultural justice movement.
Organisers and attendees alike hailed the evening as inspirational, educational and a powerful reminder of the global support behind Greece’s rightful claim to its ancient heritage.
