Cyprus history and culture exhibition opens

Members of the Greek and Cypriot community along with a number of Victorian politicians were in attendance at the inauguration of the exhibition 'History and Culture of Cyprus' last Thursday.

Minister for Multicultural Affairs Nicholas Kotsiras, who officiated the event, spoke strongly about the long history and culture of Cyprus, presenting the country's national problem and his wish for quick reunification of the island. President of PASEKA, Mr Constantinos Procopiou, who organised the exhibition, started the opening of the formal inauguration, thanking everyone who contributed to the success, including the Ministry of Education of the Republic of Cyprus which had sent the exhibition.

Among those present were His Excellency the High Commissioner of Cyprus Yiannis Iakovou and Members of Parliament Jenny Mikakos, Kelvin Thomson, Graham Watts, the co-chair with John Pandazopoulos of the newly formed Parliamentary Friendship Group with the Republic of Cyprus, and members Adam Foley, Nazih Elasmar, Marlene Konrox, Jane Barrett Elizabeth Miller, Thelmo Languillan and Wendy Halfpenny.

There was also a massive response from those who could not attend due to other commitments, who phoned to apologise. This included the Prime Minister, the Speaker of the Commonwealth Parliament, the Premier and Federal Member for Calwell Maria Vamvakinou.

Members of the Greek Orthodox Community of Melbourne and Victoria, the Greek Australian Council, the Greek Branch of Veterans, RSL, SAE Oceania, AHEPA, the Panepirotic Federation, the Arcadian, the Cretan, White Tower Association of Thessaloniki (a sister city of Melbourne), and the Pontiac Community were also in attendance.

"It was very encouraging to see our youth, the NEPOMAK, and the Greek Orthodox College of St John," Mr Procopiou said. Mr Procopiou also thanked the contribution of the Greek Media in the success of the inauguration of the exhibition. "We are indebted to 3XY, TA NEA, Neos Kosmos, including the English edition, SBS and 3ZZZ," he said.

Other speakers at the event included the President of the Cyprus Community of Melbourne and Victoria Mr Harry Tsindos, who was also the host. "He welcomed us all and referred to the rich archaeological evidence of the long history of our island, thanking at the same time the organisers," Mr Procopiou said.

The exhibition will be open for two months and is located at the Cypriot Community of Melbourne and Victoria, 495 Lygon St, Brunswick. Schools and educational institutions are asked to contact Mr Procopiou on (03) 95098363, or 0417 393 491, or email constantinos@tricomo.com.au, in order to visit the exhibition.