At the foot of Melbourne’s Shrine of Remembrance, after a five-year absence, thousands of Greek Australians gathered to commemorate the 204th anniversary of the Greek War of Independence. The event, steeped in history, emotion, and cultural pride, brought together dignitaries, families, students, and community leaders to honour past sacrifices and celebrate the resilience of Hellenism in Australia.
Master of Ceremonies Leonidas Vlahakis guided the proceedings as wreaths were laid in memory of those who fought for Greece’s independence. Among the notable attendees were Victorian Minister for Tourism Steve Dimopoulos, representing Premier Jacinta Allan, Maria Vamvakinou MP, representing Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and a host of federal and state politicians, reflecting the strong ties between the Greek community and Australian political life.
Greek Consul General in Melbourne Dimitra Georgantzoglou delivered a speech that resonated with many, emphasising the shared history between Greece and Australia.
“It is a great honour and privilege to attend today’s commemorative ceremony at the Shrine of Remembrance, a sacred place of reflection and tribute to the sacrifices made in the name of freedom, courage, and duty,” she said.
The significance of the Shrine
For many attendees, the decision to return the parade to the Shrine after several years at South Melbourne Football Stadium was deeply meaningful.
Manos Milios, wearing a Greek special forces t-shirt, told The Greek Herald he plans to serve as a marine in Greece next year.
“It has always been a dream, and I even wrote about it during one of my class projects at school,” he said. “It is better to be here at the Shrine so we don’t lose our connection to our Patrida (homeland). It should be here. I won’t go to the parade anywhere else.”
Protypo student Stathis, 17, was a flag-bearer with his classmates Antonia and Maria. Stathis said, “Being here at the Shrine of Remembrance, rather than last year at South Melbourne Football Stadium, is better. I think the structure symbolises the forgotten soldiers, and while we may not always remember our ancestors individually, it is important to honour everyone who fought for our freedom.”
The parade was a vibrant display of Greek Australian pride, with students, community groups, and heritage organisations marching in traditional dress, waving blue and white flags. Drama teacher Katerina Poutachidou joined Vlahakis in the presentation.
Mother Paraskevi Stavrianakos, whose toddler marched with his kindergarten, Alpha Early Learning, said, “We have been taking him to the parade since he was a newborn, and we are so happy that this is his first experience, right here.”
Despite the heat, elderly gentleman Ilias Mantas, who came to see his youngest grandchild, said, “Last year, it may have been more comfortable, but I prefer it here at the Shrine. It is more dignified.”
First-time attendee Ismini Tsitos, a grandmother, found the experience moving. “This is our first time at the Shrine, and I prefer it here. The place is more appropriate.”
Peter Meculios, proudly draped in a Byzantine Orthodox flag, echoed the sentiment. “This is the second most important day in the Greek calendar after Easter. The Shrine is a military memorial that reminds us not only of Australian sacrifices but also of Greek sacrifices.”
However, not everyone was convinced. Lemonia Spindzos, a mother of two, admitted, “I prefer the stadium because it is closed. The little ones will be in the parade next year, and a stadium is more contained.”
A celebration and a protest
As Greek Australians gathered in celebration, 400 Turkish protesters assembled nearby at the Australian-Turkish Friendship Memorial. Wearing t-shirts emblazoned with the face of Kemal Atatürk, they chanted slogans as Greek families made their way to the Shrine. Their rallying cries could be heard during the wreath-laying ceremony.
A Turkish protest organiser told The Greek Herald they were unaware of Greek Independence Day festivities.
“We are here to protest the political turmoil unfolding in our country. We oppose the recent arrest request for Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu—one of the strongest challengers to President Erdogan. This is deeply concerning. We are protesting for democracy,” he said.
Former Victorian politician and Parks Victoria Chair John Pandazopoulos commented on the situation: “Everyone has the right to protest. However, it can cause confusion during our annual national day event, especially if other protests occur nearby. The Shrine area is sacred ground, and we must be mindful of that.”
The large Greek Australian police contingency helped attendees feel somewhat safer. Police inspector Eftyhis Anastasiadis told The Greek Herald that while the Greek police were there in a “ceremonial capacity” they could swing into action when needed, but added that “we have enough police to look after us today.”
A day to remember
As the event concluded, Sophia Siachos, President of the Victorian Council for Greek National Day, addressed the crowd.
“The Greek Australian alliance is built on shared values—democracy, justice, and the pursuit of a better future. Over a century ago, Greek immigrants arrived in Australia seeking new opportunities, bringing with them traditions, their language, and their love for family and community. Australia welcomed them, and together, we built a multicultural society where Greek heritage remains vital,” Ms Siachos said.
Siachos later told The Greek Herald, “We are thrilled with the outcome of the Greek National Day Parade 2025, which saw over 1,500 participants and more than 3,000 spectators. This remarkable turnout reflects the strong support from our community and the significance of the event returning to the Shrine of Remembrance, our parade’s historical home.”
The day was a powerful reminder of the enduring bond between Greece and Australia, honouring the past while celebrating a vibrant future.
