Eleni Petinos MP, Member for Miranda:

·

Today we celebrate Greece’s defiance of the Axis Powers and fighting for the values of freedom and democracy that unite us all.

On 28 October 1940, Greece sent a message not only to Italian Dictator, Benito Mussolini, but to the entire world – “No”.

In this moment, the global community looked to Greece with admiration and respect as Greek Prime Minister Ioannis Metaxas refused to bend to the Italian ultimatum.

This historic display of bravery and defiance in the face of oppression is an enduring legacy instilled in all children of the diaspora, including those growing up here in Australia. This moment in history is the embodiment of the Greek spirit and represents who we are as a people.

80 years on, it is incumbent upon us to take a moment to pause and reflect with pride on the courage and sacrifice of our ancestors this Oxi Day.

As Sir Winston Churchill astutely put it, “We will not say that Greeks fight like heroes, but that heroes fight like Greeks”.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

‘I will never forget you’: Emotional farewell for Greek Consul General in Sydney

An emotional Greek Consul General Yannis Mallikourtis delivered his farewell speech on Monday evening at Business Sydney’s Event Centre.

Adelaide’s St Sophrony Parish raises funds for hall construction

The newly established St Sophrony of Essex parish in Hectorville, Adelaide, held its first official fundraising dinner on Sunday, June 29.

From homelessness to homeowner: Kostas Papadimitropoulos shares his inspirational story

Melbourne man Kostas Papadimitropoulos has turned his life around after being scammed out of his life savings and forced to live in his car.

Sydney Dance Company shines at Athens Epidaurus Festival with ‘Impermanence’

The Sydney Dance Company captivated a crowd of 5,000 at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus last week, performing 'Impermanence.'

Former ATO worker Paraskevi Vula Danassis convicted in $2 billion GST scam

Former Australian Taxation Office employee Paraskevi Vula Danassis has been convicted over her role in a $2 billion GST fraud scheme.

You May Also Like

Cypriot Australian community leader Georgia Alexandrou passes away

The Cypriot Australian community is in mourning today following the death of Georgia Alexandrou on April 21 after a long battle with cancer.

The never-ending lawsuits of AHEPA in NSW

On October 21, 2023, Justice Black in the Supreme Court of NSW issued two judgments in an ongoing series of disputes within the AHEPA.

Piraeus metro dig uncovers ancient Hellenistic artifacts and aqueduct

Greek archaeologists have unearthed an ancient aqueduct and thousands of Hellenistic artifacts during the excavations for the Athens metro line to Pireaus.