By Dimitrios Kametopoulos
The Lemnian Association of Sydney and New South Wales “Maroula” marked the 113th anniversary of the liberation of Lemnos with a moving day of commemoration on Sunday, 5 October 2025.
The day began at the Greek Orthodox Church of Saint Euphemia in Bankstown, where His Grace Bishop Bartholomew of Brisbane, assisted by Fr Panagiotis Protopsaltis, officiated a Doxology and the Blessing of the Five Loaves.
Following the service, members of the community gathered around the War Memorial in the church courtyard for a Memorial Tribute. The Greek National Anthem was sung, a minute’s silence was observed, and wreaths were laid in honour of the Lemnians and other Greeks who fought for the island’s liberation and unification with Greece.
Welcoming attendees on behalf of the Association, Ioannis Sentas (President of the Lemnian Association), Konstantinos Havas (former President of the Lemnian Association), Chris Spiropoulos (President of the Parish–Community of Saint Euphemia), and Liz Kaydos (Lemnian community member and film director) each spoke about the enduring significance of 8 October 1912 — the day Lemnos became the first Aegean island to be freed from Ottoman rule. They reflected on how the event sent waves of optimism across Greece and remains a symbol of national pride.
The morning concluded with a festive luncheon in the adjoining school hall, where Lemnians and friends of Lemnos shared food, fellowship and memories.
The commemorations will continue on Saturday, 11 October 2025, with the official anniversary dinner dance at The Lemnos in Belmore. The event will welcome many distinguished guests and celebrate the island’s enduring legacy of freedom and resilience.
For further details or bookings, contact Mr Havas on 0410 421 943 or (02) 9533 2942.
