The flags at City Hall in Geelong were dropped at half-mast on Wednesday, out of respect and in mourning of the late Jordan Mavros OAM, who was a champion of multiculturalism.
Mr Mavros, 70, passed away on Friday 23 August after a battle with cancer.
Born in Greece, Mr Mavros migrated to Australia on his own in December 1972, aged in his 20’s, where he worked in factories.
Speaking no English at the time, he didn’t let that deter his dreams; working hard to improve his language skills, he went on to study at university, completing degrees in history and sociology, and a masters in social work.
In 1983 Mr Mavros moved to Geelong where he married Lina, and worked as a social worker with the newly formed Geelong Migrant Resource Centre (Diversitat) and eventually rose the ranks to become chief executive officer.
Mr Mavros never forgot his humble beginnings, dedicating his career to helping Geelong’s ethnic groups and less fortunate in his roles at Diversitat, as chairman of the Give Where You Live Foundation, and founder of Multicultural Aged Care Services.
“He was one of the nicest men you’d ever meet; a lovely soul,” Give Where You Live chief Bill Mithen said, a sentiment shared by Mr Mavros daughter Helen.
“He had such a kind heart. He wanted to help the most vulnerable people; those who couldn’t help themselves,” she said.
In 2007 his services to Geelong and the migrant community were recognised, honoured with an OAM.
“Mr Mavros clearly displayed community values that we can all aspire to, and we sincerely thank him for his selfless contribution to our region,” said Dr Geoff Russell, Manager of Corporate Communication and Marketing at the City of Greater Geelong.
Mr Mavros is survived by his wife Lina and children Elias, Helen and Julia.