Dr George Paxinos received the Lifetime Achievement award at last Friday’s annual HACCI Excellence Awards Gala Ball held at the Mural Hall in Melbourne. Almost 400 guests celebrated a night of Hellenic achievement. Peter Mercoulia took out the Business Excellence Award; Viki Lascaris the Professional Excellence Award; Mike Zafiropoulos the Community Achievement Award and the Young Achievement Award went to musician Stefan Cassomenos.
Guests were entertained by MC James Razos, the singing duo Wayne Simmons and Jenny Theologidis, clips of old Greek films, singer Yianna Stavrou and the surprise act of the evening: The 3 Waiters, who unexpectedly broke out into song filling the room with their beautiful tenor voices. The Levendopaida Band played wonderful Greek and European music as guests danced and networked throughout the event.
HACCI President Nicholas Mylonas made reference to an incredible year for HACCI and thanked HACCI’s Board and Committees for their tireless work in delivering a full year of events, projects and activities which have seen HACCI broaden its influence and membership base, and reestablish its place as a key organisation linking businesses and professionals with government and community in Hellenic Australia.
Mr Mylonas also thanked the Bank of Cyprus Australia and its CEO George Tacticos for the very important support it provides to HACCI and the entire Greek Australian community. HACCI’s Internship Director Fotini Kypraios gave an overview of HACCI’s Internship Program which has placed and changed the lives of at least six young Hellenes and certificates were presented in recognition of both the interns and HACCI’s Internship Partners which have supported the program by providing opportunities and positions.
Well-known Brand Strategist Peter Economides, who was invited by HACCI for an Australian tour and gave sold-out presentations in Melbourne and Sydney, last week spoke of his overwhelming welcome by the Greek Australian community. His presentations based on his “Rebranding Greece” and “Ginetai” campaigns have been inspirational and fundamental in the resurgence of Hellenic pride and possibilities of the accomplishment of many great things amongst Hellenes throughout the world, especially amongst younger generations.
Peter Economides stated he was leaving Australia having made many new friends and that he would most certainly be back very soon. HACCI thanks all its guests who attended this formal and prestigious event and looks forward to another great year and to contributing to bringing its valued members and young new entrepreneurs and professionals to the forefront of Hellenic achievement. For more information and details please visit the HACCI website www.hacci.com.au or contact the HACCI Office on (03) 9602 2977.