The Gortynian Association of South Australia celebrated its heritage on Sunday 10 August 2025, hosting the sold-out “Gortynia Day at the Winery” at Greek-owned and family operated Esilio Wines in Uleybury.
More than 90 guests, ranging from elders to the younger generation, travelled to one of Adelaide’s most picturesque wine regions for an afternoon of food, wine, music, and community connection.
A celebration of heritage
Founded in the early 1980s, the Gortynian Association of SA exists to preserve and promote the culture, history, and traditions of Gortynia, a mountainous district in Arcadia in the north-west Peloponnese, Greece.
Known for its rich history dating back to antiquity, Gortynia holds particular significance in Greece’s War of Independence. Villages in the region produced revolutionary leaders such as Theodoros Kolokotronis, Dimitrios Plapoutas, and Dimitrios Deligiannis, whose families were instrumental in the struggle against Ottoman rule.
Stemnitsa, one of Gortynia’s famed villages, served as the seat of the Peloponnesian Senate, the early formal administrative body of the Revolution in 1821.
Speaking to The Greek Herald, committee member Steven Stamopoulos said the association’s work centres on “the building of connections between those of Gortynian heritage, [and to] Hellenes and Philhellenes.”
A warm and lively gathering
The event ran from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm and included a generous spread of traditional Greek and vineyard favourites, including pita with dips, calamari with oven potatoes, Greek salad, and wood oven pizzas.
The Association, in collaboration with Esilio Wines, offered tastings for attendees, providing a full cellar-door experience and a tasting flight of the varieties which the winery offers.
In addition, a raffle, supported by association members and friends, added to the day’s festivities. For convenience, a return bus service from the Pan-arcadian Hall made the trip accessible for all ages.
The atmosphere was one of warmth and camaraderie, with laughter, music, and spirited conversation flowing as freely as the wine. Cakes and coffee prepared by the committee and volunteers rounded out the day, emphasising the sense of fellowship amongst the community.
Passing the torch
Since 2021, the association has been guided by a new committee representing the next generation of Gortynians, committed to carrying forward their parents’ and grandparents’ traditions.
President Sotirios Petropoulos used the occasion to thank the community and sister associations for their support, reflecting on the importance of generational change.
“We are changing. We are still first-generation Greeks. As you can see, it’s the changing of the guard and our kids are blossoming into other relationships, yet still holding on to Greek culture and traditions,” Mr Petropoulos said.
“Hopefully we continue these events for many years. By supporting us, it supports the kids and ensures we can, as a community, stay true to Greek culture, respect it and ensure it continues.”
Looking ahead
With the day fully booked and many on the waitlist, the success of “Gortynia Day at the Winery” shows the vitality and forward momentum of the Gortynian Association.
The healthy and positive blend of youth and the older generation in attendance points to a bright future for the preservation of Gortynian heritage in SA.
