By Takis Triadafillou and Andriana Simos

The Samian community in Sydney celebrated the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Samos and the 112th anniversary of the island’s union with Greece on Sunday, November 17, with distinguished guests, members, and friends in attendance.

The Samian Brotherhood of Sydney & New South Wales ‘Lykourgos’ celebrated the historic events with their annual festival luncheon at the Grand Roxy in Brighton-Le-Sands.

The event was emceed by Takis Triadafillou, Vice Secretary of the Samian Brotherhood, who warmly welcomed the guests before introducing President Emanuel Valageorgiou.

In his address, Mr Valageorgiou thanked the distinguished guests, members, and friends, including several presidents from Greek associations and organisations, for their presence. He delivered a moving historical overview of the two significant events, evoking deep emotion among those present.

Vice President Soula Gerasimou extended her gratitude to the attendees, acknowledging Bill Mougios and his team at the Grand Roxy for their impeccable service. She also expressed appreciation for the unwavering support of Dimitra Skalkos, owner and publisher of The Greek Herald.

Athanassios Lambrou, First Counsellor for Public Diplomacy at the Consulate of Greece in Sydney, provided a captivating historical recount of the unification of Samos with Greece. He also highlighted the recent generosity of the Samian Brotherhood in supporting the Samos Hospital and the Health Centre of Karlovasi by donating much-needed medical equipment.

The Hon. Mark Buttigieg MLC, who addressed the gathering partly in Greek, acknowledged the strength of Greek migrants and expressed his gratitude for the invitation to the event, noting that his wife is of Greek heritage.

The Hon. Mark Coure MP, NSW Shadow Minister for Multiculturalism, spoke about the beauty of Greek traditions across the nation, emphasising how such events uplift the morale of Greek migrants and preserve their cultural heritage. He thanked Mr Valageorgiou and the entire organising team, as well as supporters and media partners.

Reflecting on the milestone celebrations, Mr Coure remarked, “Ladies and gentlemen, today we celebrate 200 years since the Battle of Samos. Next year, we also celebrate the 70th anniversary of this Association, which truly deserves a round of applause.”

The Kalymnian Dance Group, led by Amalia, energised the room with traditional dances that had everyone joining in.

The festive luncheon was further enriched by live music from Chara Dimitriou, Michalis Naxakis, and Panagiotis Kokkinis, who kept the dance floor alive with a diverse musical repertoire.

The Pancretan Association of Melbourne hosted a moving event on Saturday, November 16, marking the 158th anniversary of the Arkadi Holocaust.

Held at the Cretan Village, the evening brought the community together to honour the courage and sacrifice of the Cretan people during one of the most defining moments in their history.

The event began with a warm welcome from Pancretan Association President Aggie Mihelakis, who reflected on the importance of the Arkadi Holocaust as a symbol of unity, defiance, and resilience for Cretans worldwide. His Grace Bishop Kyriakos of Melbourne blessed the evening with a prayer, setting a solemn tone for the commemorative proceedings.

Christos Tzanidakis, representing the visiting Tzanidakis group from Crete, expressed gratitude for the association’s hospitality and the opportunity to share in this significant event. Following his speech, a gift exchange between the association and the musicians symbolised mutual respect and cultural connection.

The event showcased vibrant performances from the Pancretan Association’s junior and intermediate dance groups, as well as a collaborative presentation by senior dancers from the Pancretan Association and the Cretan Brotherhood of Melbourne. Their performances celebrated the resilience and cultural pride of the Cretan people, culminating in a poignant rendition of a Rizitiko song dedicated to the Arkadi Holocaust.

The highlight of the evening was a stirring performance by the Tzanidakis group, who brought traditional Cretan music to life, capturing the spirit of resistance and hope. Their artistry earned resounding applause, further solidifying the cultural bond between Melbourne’s Cretan community and the homeland.

The Consul General of Greece in Melbourne Emmanuel Kakavelakis addressed the audience, praising the Pancretan Association’s dedication to preserving Cretan history and culture in the diaspora. A symbolic gift exchange followed, where the Tzanidakis group presented the association with an icon of the Four Martyrs of Rethymno, revered figures of the Cretan Revolution who epitomise the island’s enduring fight for freedom.

In return, the Pancretan Association gifted the visiting musicians with Aboriginal boomerangs and artefacts, a gesture honouring the shared respect for cultural heritage.

The evening concluded with a commemorative photo of the Tzanidakis group alongside all the dancers who performed, capturing a moment of unity and celebration that transcended borders.

The event was a testament to the Pancretan Association’s commitment to preserving and passing on the legacy of Crete, ensuring that the story of the Arkadi Holocaust continues to inspire future generations.

The Mytilenian Brotherhood of Sydney & NSW hosted a lively and heartfelt celebration for the 112th anniversary of the liberation of the island of Lesvos on Saturday, November 16, at the Mytilenian House in Sydney.

The room was abuzz with energy as guests enjoyed live music from the ever-popular Paradise Band, indulged in delicious Greek cuisine, and soaked in the atmosphere of cultural pride. 

Adding to the festivities, the Sydney Greek Dancing School delivered a vibrant and skilful dance performance that brought cheers and applause, perfectly capturing the spirit of the evening.

Vice President Joanna Tzanellis led the attendees in a solemn moment of reflection, holding a minute’s silence to honour those who have been lost in the island’s storied history. This was followed by a commemorative address from President Peter Psomas, who highlighted the significance of the liberation. 

In his address, Mr Psomas warmly welcomed distinguished guests, including presidents of various organisations and past presidents of the Brotherhood. He concluded with an impassioned chant of “Zito!” (Hoorah for freedom – Hoorah for our island), which echoed through the hall and united everyone in celebration.

The evening continued with the drawing of raffle door prizes, adding excitement to an already joyful event. Guests then took to the dance floor, where vibrant music and spirited dancing became the heartbeat of the celebration, filling the Mytilenian House with the sounds of happiness and togetherness.

Among the attendees was NSW Minister for Industrial Relations and local MP for Canterbury, Sophie Cotsis, whose presence added a sense of acknowledgment and support for the community’s cultural and historical contributions.

The 112th anniversary of the liberation of Lesvos was more than a commemorative event; it was a vibrant celebration of heritage, freedom, and unity, leaving everyone with a renewed sense of pride for their beloved island.

The Combined Universities Greek Association (CUGA) commemorated the 51st anniversary of the Athens Polytechnic Uprising at the University of Sydney on Friday, November 15. 

The four Greek student societies of Sydney’s major universities (Sydney University Greek Society, Hellenic Society of UNSW, UTS Hellenic, and Macquarie University Greek Association) hosted the event to remember the sacrifices of those who fell at the hands of the military junta in 1973. 

Throughout the evening, CUGA representatives highlighted the importance of commemorating such an event.

An address was made by Harry Danalis, President of the Greek Orthodox Community of NSW (GOCNSW), as well as the evening’s keynote speaker Associate Professor Anthony Dracopoulos from the University of Sydney’s Department of Modern Greek Studies. 

Associate Professor Dracopoulos’ talk highlighted not only the historical context leading up to the Uprising but also its relevance to Australian citizens today. 

The evening was hosted by emcees Angelique Aifantis, President of the Sydney University Greek Society along with Maria Kakali, Ambassador of the Greek Community Language as well as Secretary of the Sydney University Greek Society. 

Anargyros Kallos, Modern Greek Department Liaison of the Sydney University Greek Society, read out the chronicle of the events that took place in the days leading up to 17 November 1973. 

Five poems were also read out by students:

• “1050 Χιλιόκυκλοι” by Kostoula Mitropoulos – Denis Antipas, General Committee Member of SUGS.
•  “The Body and the Blood” by Yiannis Ritsos – Elle Tamvakolos, President of Hellenic Society of UNSW.
•  “Η Γενιά του Πολυτεχνείου” – Basil Georgas, President of UTS Hellenic Society.
• “16 και 17 Νοεμβρίου 1973” by Yiannis Ritsos – Eleanna Gatsi, First Year Representative of SUGS.
•  “Γλυκέ μου εσύ δε χάθηκες” by Yiannis Ritsos – Maria Kakali, Secretary of SUGS.

The commemoration was attended by many of Sydney’s Greek Australian community including, but not limited to, member of the Board of Directors at GOCNSW, Andreas Smyrnis, and Board Member of the Greek Australian Society, George Mpliokas. 

On Friday, November 15, the Plaza Ballroom’s chandeliers lit up not just the room, but the spirits of everyone attending the 38th annual HACCI Excellence Awards. 

Hosted by the Hellenic Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (HACCI), this year’s gala was an opportunity for Melbourne’s Hellenic Australian community to celebrate the achievements and ongoing contribution of Greek businesses, visionary entrepreneurs, and exceptional professionals to the economic and social fabric of Australia. It was also a cultural showcase celebrating the rich tapestry of the Hellenic-Australian community.

This year’s distinguished guest list included political and community leaders who gathered to applaud their peers’ outstanding contributions across diverse sectors. The attendees included Steve Dimopoulos MP, Victorian Minister for Environment and Tourism; John Pesutto MP, Leader of the Victorian Liberal Party; Lee Tarlamis MP; Viv Nguyen, Chair of the Victorian Multicultural Commission; and Emmanuel Kakavelakis, Greek Consul General to Melbourne, among others.

The HACCI board is grateful to the Award sponsors and partners, who were also present at the Melbourne Town Hall to attend the event: the Stamoulis family, who present the Lifetime Achievement award; Melos Sulicich, CEO of Bank of Sydney, HACCI’s Chamber Partner; Elpis Korosidis, representing PRONIA; Elpis Korosidis; Kostas Siolis, representing Directed Technologies; John Kallitsas from Salary Masters; Peter Zervos from BDO Australia; Steve Tsalikidis from Heidelberg United FC; and Stavros and Con Saristavros, who presented the Chris Saristavros Young Achiever award. 

MC Zoy Frangos, a celebrated figure in musical theatre, showcased his charisma throughout the night, weaving songs into his presentation. He also made a special mention to his dual heritage, highlighting his Greek and Indigenous Australian roots with pride and setting the stage for an evening of high achievements and heartfelt stories. 

The 2024 awardees are as varied as they are impressive:

• Spiro Stamoulis Lifetime Achievement Award: Mike Zafiropoulos AM, whose five-decade career has bridged cultures and fostered multicultural understanding.
• Bank of Sydney Business Excellence Award: James Stevens, the floral innovator behind Mr Roses, known for his community-focused business model.
• Professional Excellence Award, presented by BDO Australia: Professor Jonathan Carapetis AM, who has made groundbreaking strides in pediatric health.
• Innovation Award, presented by Directed Technologies: John Konstantopoulos, whose AI innovations are revolutionizing healthcare.
• Woman of Influence Award, presented by SalaryMasters: Martha Oplopiadis, a pioneer in engineering and an advocate for women in STEM.
• Community Service Award, presented by PRONIA: Anastasia Darras AM, celebrated for her transformative work with TLC for Kids.
• Sport Award, presented by Heidelberg United FC: Andrew Paschalidis, known for his dual legacy in sports broadcasting and heart health advocacy.
• Chris Saristavros Young Achiever Award: Jane Aslanidis, a leader in international commerce and innovation, with a notable impact on global initiatives.

The awards were presented by HACCI Board Members Vicky Alexiou and Helen Kapalos. Flowers Vasette created the spectacular flower arrangements given to the Award winners, and Melvourni coffee set up a Greek coffee station, brewing the signature hot beverage at the end of the opulent, three-course meal. 

The gala was also a feast for the senses, featuring performances that ranged from Evangeline Victoria’s soul-stirring violin solos to Elisa Colla’s soaring soprano, each act adding layers of Greek cultural heritage to the evening. 

A very special moment came with the presence of the Psaltries Choir of Melbourne, whose byzantine hymns filled the room with emotion. 

As the night drew to a close with a vibe of Greek dance party, courtesy of DJ Vath featuring Steve Gold on the bouzouki, the awards left attendees inspired, reflecting on the community’s vibrant contributions to Australia’s multicultural mosaic.

“The HACCI awards are a beacon of excellence, shining a light on individuals and organizations that uplift us all. They remind us of the strength found in our collective stories and the boundless potential of the Hellenic-Australian community,” HACCI Chair, Fotini Kypraios, said.