The Federation of Pontian Associations of Australia will host its flagship annual gathering, Synapantema, bringing together Pontian communities from across the country for a four-day cultural program from April 24 to 27.
Held in a different state each year, Synapantema will this year take place in Sydney, featuring a packed schedule of cultural, social and commemorative events.
Proceedings will begin on Friday with a series of activities including a group visit to Sydney Aquarium, youth networking drinks, and the official opening night Parakath with dinner and live entertainment, hosted by Panagia Soumela Sydney and Pontoxeniteas NSW.
Saturday’s program will include Anzac Day commemorations, beginning with the Dawn Service, followed by the Synapantema Dinner Dance in the evening, which has already sold out.
On Sunday, participants will attend a Divine Liturgy at the Cathedral of the Annunciation in Redfern, followed by a free workshop with Dr Mattheios Tsahouridis titled “The Pontic Lyra in Contemporary Greece: From Tradition to Invention” at the Tom Mann Theatre in Surry Hills. The day will also include a Sydney Harbour cruise with canapés and a traditional evening Parakath at the Pontian House with dinner and entertainment.
The event will conclude on Monday with an Anzac War Memorial wreath-laying service, followed by a presentation on the Anzacs in Pontos and a community lunch.
The Federation, which represents nine Pontian associations across Australia, said the event aims to strengthen cultural ties and celebrate Pontian heritage, with participants travelling from multiple states to take part.
The event is supported by Gold Sponsors Armenco, Cienem Decorative Services, The Grocer Group, Souvlaki Boys, Building & Energy Consultants Australia, St Basil’s NSW & ACT, MARS Project and Home Impacts, as well as Bronze Sponsor Sydney City Civil.
Event Details (tickets still available)
Sunday, April 26
Free Workshop with Dr Mattheios Tsahouridis
- “The Pontic Lyra in Contemporary Greece: From Tradition to Invention”
- 12pm–2pm (doors open 11:45am)
- Tom Mann Theatre, 136 Chalmers St, Surry Hills
- Buy tickets: https://www.trybooking.com/DLDXC
Sydney Harbour Cruise with canapés
- 3pm–6pm
- Sydney Harbour
- Buy tickets: https://www.trybooking.com/DJRPU
Parakath at the Pontian House – Dinner & Entertainment
- 7:30pm–11:30pm
- The Pontian House
- Buy tickets: https://www.trybooking.com/DLDXD
