The Zarax Association of NSW celebrated its 50th anniversary on Saturday, March 18 at The Grand Roxy reception centre in Brighton-Le-Sands, Sydney.
At the dinner dance, which was attended by over 260 people, the Laconians honoured Apostolis Belesis-Belas, one of the founding members of the Association who came from Brisbane together with his family and his grandchildren.
Event emcee Theodoris Drivas welcomed guests, members and friends. He referred to the success of the Association, which started humbly and is now celebrating its 50th anniversary with pride.
The President of the Association, Dimitris Haramis, thanked guests, members and friends of the Association, as well as the founders and all the previous Boards of Directors.
“You are the pillars and contributors to the great success of our club. In 1971, a handful of Zarakites, all immigrants and under adverse financial conditions, created our Association which managed to be one of the most progressive associations. All this was possible because all of us work for the good of our Association,” Mr Haramis said.
The Vice President of the Association, Mary Petroleka-Skalkos, said: “we honour and recognise the achievements and great contribution of all who founded the Association, but also all the previous Boards and members who have worked hard and continue to serve and give for decades.”
To honour the memory of members who have passed away, a minute’s silence was observed during the event.
Ms Petroleka-Skalkos then addressed the young children in attendance and encouraged them to continue the hard work of their parents and grandparents to continue the morals, customs and culture of Sparta.
Afterwards, Mr Haramis awarded commemorative plaques to the founders of the club and to those who for many years served on the Board of Directors.
The only young female President of the Association, Stella Drivas, who served as a member of the Board and as President for four years, also received a plaque.
Panagiotis Doukas, member of the first Board of Directors, cut the anniversary cake. The evening ended with lots of fun, dancing and music under the direction of the orchestra of George Doukas.
