Assistant Secretary of the Greek Orthodox Community SA Elias Mavrogiorgis, was awarded the 2011 National Volunteer Award late last year, for his vital contribution to the Greek and wider community over many years.

In conjunction with the 10th anniversary of the United Nations International Year of Volunteers, the award recognised Mr Mavrogiorgis’s involved in a wide range of areas including roles with community schools, welfare, aged care, workers’ rights, cultural events, church activities and much more.

He is currently the Convenor of the Greek Orthodox Community of South Australia (GOCSA) Schools Committee, the Church Committee, and the Cultural Committee. His involvement in so many parts of the Greek community means he has to give up a lot of personal time. It is estimated that the hard-working citizen dedicates up to 10 hours each week volunteering with GOCSA.

His Board and Executive duties with GOCSA and the Greek Workers’ Educational Association of SA (PLATION), is estimated to clock up to 30 hours every month. Born on the Greek island of Ikaria, Mr Mavrogiorgis migrated to Australia in 1965. He never lost touch with his roots, adding the Pan-Ikarian Association of Australia to his long list of committee memberships and volunteer work.

Amongst his congratulators is Minister for Multicultural Affairs Jennifer Rankine, who commended Mr Mavrogiorgis for his role spearheading GOCSA for over 30 years promoting multiculturalism and immigrant workers’ rights. Prime Minister Julia Gillard and Minister for Human Services Tanya Plibersek also sent him a letter of congratulations for his community contribution.