Melbourne’s World Greek Language Day celebrations are on the final straight, with the organising committee meeting this week for the fourth time to lock in last arrangements for the February 9 event at the Capitol Theatre.
The meeting took place without Professor Anastasios Tamis, the driving force behind the UNESCO-recognised celebration, who was hospitalised last week. While his absence was keenly felt, his influence remained unmistakable as the committee finalised an event he has pursued with relentless focus from its inception.
Even from his hospital bed, Professor Tamis continued to direct preparations through a steady stream of emails and phone calls, underscoring his commitment to seeing the project through.
Long-time supporter and benefactor Peter Patisteas reaffirmed his backing, saying the Melbourne celebration exists because of Professor Tamis’ persistence.
“Without him pushing for this and rallying volunteers, Melbourne would have no celebration on February 9th, nothing on the actual day of UNESCO’s World Greek Language Day,” he said, adding he was prepared to provide further support if required.
Committee member Mike Zafiropoulos noted the event has outgrown its local beginnings. “This is an international event,” he said, pointing to Melbourne’s growing role as a global reference point for World Greek Language Day.
The evening will be hosted by lawyer Dean Kalymniou and broadcaster Helen Kapalos and will feature a keynote address by The Hon. Professor Anthe Philippides. The program blends scholarship and performance, with musical presentations by the Psaltries Choir of Melbourne and the 45-member Camerata Chorus of Melbourne, supported by a 12-member ensemble under musical director Andreas Koikas. Actor Jeremy Artis will narrate excerpts from Odysseas Elytis’ Nobel Prize address.
With the event days away, attention has turned to seamless execution, as volunteers coordinate logistics, protocol and student participation under the direction of Dimitris Gonis.
In a significant achievement for a community initiative, major preparations are complete, including a 40-page official program and commemorative gifts for Philhellenes. The event is entirely sponsor-funded and volunteer-run, with no government funding from either Greece or Australia.
Despite limited publicity, registrations have far exceeded capacity, creating a substantial waiting list. Consuls general, diplomats and business leaders from numerous countries will inundate the Capitol Theatre.
With a full house, attention focused on how to accommodate the audience. St John’s College Director of Hellenism Kristian Raspas sparked strong agreement when he insisted that students should not be treated as ‘extras’ and relegated to back seats. The team immediately set to work rearranging seating.
NUGAS Co-President Demi Bourdopoulos had created an efficient ticketing system and rallied NUGAS members to help usher in guests.
As the meeting concluded, the mood was resolute. Professor Tamis may not have been in the room, but his leadership, and the momentum he created, remained the committee’s heartbeat.
To add your name to the waiting list or better still, volunteer on the night, contact the committee on their website.
*Photos by The Greek Herald / Mary Sinanidis.
