Sydney remembers Cyprus’ fight for freedom ahead of National Day anniversary

·

Cypriot and Greek Australians gathered in solemn remembrance on Sunday, 30 March, for a memorial service marking Cyprus National Day and commemorating the heroes of the 1955–1959 War of Independence against British colonial rule.

The event was jointly organised by the Justice for Cyprus Co-ordinating Committee of NSW (SEKA NSW), the Cyprus Hellene Club Ltd, and the Cyprus Community of NSW, and took place at the Cathedral of the Annunciation of Our Lady in Redfern, Sydney.

cyprus

The day began with a Doxology Service at 9:30 am, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at the Church Courtyard cenotaph at 11am. Representatives from Cypriot and Hellenic organisations, along with community members of all ages, came together to honour those who gave their lives in the name of freedom and national dignity.

A speech from the High Commissioner of the Republic of Cyprus in Australia, Antonis Sammoutis, was read out, paying tribute to the legacy of the EOKA fighters. The High Commissioner referred to the EOKA struggle as “a shining milestone in the modern history of Cyprus” and “a symbol of heroism and moral greatness.”

Mr Sammoutis honoured the sacrifices made by the Cypriot people, noting that despite the overwhelming power of British colonial forces, “the brave Cypriot soul fought to win justice with bare hands and blood.” He also highlighted the roles of Archbishop Makarios III and General Georgios Grivas Digenis, who led the resistance and shaped the movement that ultimately led to the independence of Cyprus.

The Cypriot High Commissioner concluded his address with a call for continued vigilance and unity in the pursuit of national reunification: “Let the 1955–59 struggle be the light for a fair and comprehensive settlement towards the reunification of our beloved island.”

The service offered a moment of collective reflection, bringing together Cypriots, Greeks, and supporters of Cyprus in an atmosphere of pride, memory, and ongoing commitment to justice. Light refreshments were served following the ceremony.

*Photos supplied by Dimitrios Kametopoulos.

Cretan Convention - Web Banner

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Service, culture, and unity: Greece’s new Consul General in Sydney sets out his vision

Greece’s new Consul General in Sydney, George Skemperis, speaks to The Greek Herald about diplomacy, unity, and the vibrant Greek Australians.

Greek school memories: Honouring the teachers who shaped our language and lives

Both the negative and heartfelt stories of Greek school have a way of becoming core memories for Greek Australians.

Spotlight on VCE Greek teacher Kristian Raspa

Sunday, October 5th is World Teachers’ Day and gives us the opportunity to celebrate the influential educators who have shaped our lives.

Movie ‘Arcadia’ picked for Oscars 2026 as Greek entry

The submission will represent the country at the 98th edition of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) in the United States.

Greece remains world’s maritime powerhouse in 2025

Greece continues to dominate global shipping, maintaining its position as the world’s top ship-owning nation by capacity.

You May Also Like

Kytherians in Australia celebrate legacy and philanthropy at annual Debutante Ball

The Kytherian Association of Australia hosted their Annual Debutante Ball on Saturday, May 18, at the Royal Randwick Racecourse in Sydney.

Watch: A 3D Flythrough Tour of Classical Athens

Developed as a hobby project in 2008 by visual effects artist Dimitris Tsalkanis, 3D Athens presents the Ancient city through time.

Greece receives last Rafale fighter jet in strategic milestone

The Hellenic Air Force has received its final Rafale fighter jet, completing its fleet of 24 French-made aircraft.