A symbolic midnight flag raising at Federation Square has marked the beginning of Greece’s Independence Day commemorations in Melbourne, setting a powerful tone for celebrations across the city.
Just before midnight on Tuesday, members of the Victorian Council for Greek National Day, led by Chair Sophia Siachos and Manningham Mayor Jim Grivas, gathered for the ceremonial moment. Also present were Greek Community of Melbourne’s Vice President Leonidas Vlahakis and President of the Pan-Macedonian Association of Melbourne, Peter Stefanidis.
Held at 11:45pm, the event carried both symbolic and emotional weight, as the Greek flag was raised to mark the transition into March 25 – a date deeply embedded in Hellenic history and identity.
The ceremony unfolded against the backdrop of the city centre and a screen projecting the Acropolis, offering an early focal point for the Greek Australian community ahead of broader commemorations throughout the day.
From sunset tonight, Wednesday, March 25, Melbourne’s tribute will extend further, with both Parliament House and Federation Square set to be illuminated in blue and white, in recognition of the community’s enduring cultural legacy.
The lighting had originally been part of broader discussions surrounding a planned visit by Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and would have included the unveiling of Democracy Place. Although the visit has since been postponed, the decision was made by Victoria’s state government to proceed with the illuminations, ensuring the occasion would still be marked in a visible and meaningful way.
Victorian MP Lee Tarlamis welcomed the initiative, telling The Greek Herald: “I’m proud that this is another way in which we are honouring the Greek community, celebrating the enduring spirit of Hellenism.”
Not all landmarks will be joining the tribute. A source within the City of Melbourne confirmed to The Greek Herald that Melbourne Town Hall will not be lit for the occasion, as it has already been booked for lighting in support of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. A subcommittee of the Victorian Council for Greek National Day had pushed for its inclusion, but without success.
Even so, Melbourne’s skyline is expected to carry a distinctly Hellenic hue. In the absence of an official prime ministerial visit, the city’s Greek community — and the institutions that support it — are ensuring that the significance of Independence Day is not only remembered, but seen.
