The Federation of Pontian Associations of Australia will conclude its flagship annual gathering, Synapantema 2026, with a commemorative event at the Anzac Memorial in Hyde Park honouring the shared wartime legacy between the Anzacs and Pontic Hellenism.
Held in a different Australian state each year, Synapantema will take place in Sydney from April 24 to 27, bringing together Pontian communities from across the country for four days of cultural, social and commemorative activities.
The final day of the program, on Monday, April 27, will feature the “Anzacs in Pontos” event at the Anzac Memorial in Hyde Park. Attendees will gather from 10:45am for a Daily Service of Remembrance in the Hall of Memory, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony.
A special presentation will then be held in the Memorial’s auditorium, featuring historian Dr Panayiotis Diamadis and community figure Kosta Pataridis, exploring the historical links between the Anzacs and the Pontos region.
The event will run from 10:45am to 1:00pm at the Anzac Memorial, located at 126 Elizabeth Street, Sydney, and will conclude with a community lunch.
Synapantema’s broader program begins on Friday, April 24, with activities including a visit to the Sydney Aquarium, youth networking drinks and an opening night Parakath with dinner and live entertainment, hosted by Panagia Soumela Sydney and Pontoxeniteas NSW.
Saturday’s schedule includes Anzac Day commemorations, beginning with the Dawn Service, followed by the sold-out Synapantema Dinner Dance.
On Sunday, participants will attend a Divine Liturgy at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Annunciation in Redfern, before joining a workshop by Dr Mattheios Tsahouridis at the Tom Mann Theatre in Surry Hills.
The day will also feature a Sydney Harbour cruise with canapés and a traditional evening Parakath at Pontian House.
The Federation, representing nine Pontian associations across Australia, said the annual event aims to strengthen cultural ties and celebrate Pontian heritage, with attendees travelling from interstate to participate.
