The Panarcadian Association of Melbourne – O Kolokotronis is continuing to search for a historic flag that was stolen from its stall at the Antipodes Festival on Lonsdale Street in Melbourne, Victoria.
The Festival took place on Saturday, February 24 and Sunday, February 25, with many local Greek community organisations having stalls on the day to connect with members of the public.
The Panarcadian Association of Melbourne’s stall was decorated with a historic blue and white flag, featuring a sketch in the centre of Greek Revolution fighter Theodoros Kolokotronis.
The Association, which celebrates its 65th anniversary this year, uses the flag at marches, memorials, wreath laying ceremonies, and funerals for past Presidents. It has historical, sentimental and irreplaceable values.
According to the President of the Association, George Kotsirilos, the flag was stolen from their stall at the Antipodes Festival between midnight on Saturday, February 24 and the early hours of Sunday, February 25 morning.
“We are saddened to see this taken from us. This has touched many of our members, as the flag has been with our club for approximately 50 years. I can assure you Kolokotronis is turning in his grave,” Mr Kotsirilos told The Greek Herald.
Mr Kotsirilos said the theft has been reported to the Greek Community of Melbourne, who were saddened to hear the news.
“A police report has also been provided, and CCTV footage has been viewed as cameras are 20 metres directly opposite our stall and also 5 metres behind our stall,” he said.
The Panarcadian President has asked anyone with information on the stolen flag to come forward.
“We are not looking to press charges, and nothing more will eventuate from this when the flag is returned,” Mr Kotsirilos said.
The flag can be returned and left with the Hellenic Museum at 280 William St, Melbourne, Victoria.
