A vibrant celebration of Hellenic culture filled Lonsdale Street on Saturday, February 22, as the Antipodes Festival reached its peak.
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan took to the stage at 6.30 pm, delivering a passionate speech to a cheering crowd, many waving Greek flags. She called for the return of the Parthenon Marbles, sending a message to 10 Downing Street, London.
“I’ve written to the British Prime Minister and called for the return of the Parthenon Marbles,” she announced, describing them as a “priceless treasure” and a “precious part of the Greek soul.”
She argued that the marbles, “stolen” from Greece, belong in their rightful place, completing the majesty of the Parthenon.
“I look forward to seeing one day at the Parthenon, those marbles where they truly belong,” Allan concluded, while acknowledging the replica at the Greek Centre on Lonsdale Street, created by Kostandinos Vousis and Panagiotis Vasilakis, as a tribute to both Greece and Melbourne’s Greek history.
“It’s an absolute privilege to join you here this evening for the Antipodes festival,” Allan declared, celebrating Greek culture, history, and contributions to the world, from philosophy and science to art, architecture, and the very principles of democracy.
She emphasised the strength and resilience of the Greek diaspora, acknowledging Melbourne’s status as the third largest Greek city outside of Athens and Thessaloniki.
“Whether you’re born in Thornbury or Brunswick, Oakleigh or Lonsdale Street,” Allan stated, “the power of Greek culture and Greek communities is plain to see.”
She also warmly acknowledged the strong presence of Greek members within the Labor caucus, including Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, Steve Dimopoulos MP; Minister for Consumer Affairs and for Local Government, Nick Staikos MP; Member for Northcote, Kat Theophanous MP; and Lee Tarlamis MP, alongside Nina Taylor MP.
The Premier also welcomed the new Consul General of Greece in Melbourne, Dimitra Georgantzoglou, and gave special recognition to Bill Papastergiadis OAM, President of the Greek Community of Melbourne, for his leadership and dedication.
Following her speech, Papastergiadis engaged in a brief conversation with the Premier, asking about a potential future visit to Greece, a question Ms Allan allowed the enthusiastic audience to answer for her, before stating, “Who am I to disagree?”
Earlier in the day, Federal Minister for Skills and Training, Andrew Giles MP, and Minister for Housing and Homelessness, Clare O’Neil MP attended the festival and participated in Greek dancing, while David Davis MP also visited the festival.
