The Organisational Council for Greek National Day is made up of representatives from all of Victoria’s major Greek Organisations and has been busy planning and programming the events to commemorate the 200th Anniversary of the 1821 Greek Revolution.
The 25 March 1821 commemoration is of religious and national importance for Hellenism. Greeks around the globe celebrate the Annunciation of Our Lady (Evangelismos) as well as the proclamation of the Modern Hellenic State 200 years ago – a very important milestone.
This Commemoration of the Bicentenary of Modern Greece gives the Greek Australian community of Victoria, the Paroikia, the opportunity to promote, educate and enhance the knowledge and understanding of what happened in 1821 to our third, fourth and subsequent generations of Greek Australians. In this way, we can ensure the significance of the important historical event is not lost.
In 2021, we take the opportunity to respect our history, we remember our ancestors, we showcase Greece and we plan for our future.
The 2021 Victorian Council would like to congratulate and thank the following schools, parishes and organisations for taking the time to submit events for the 2021 Victorian Program creating an annual program of events beginning in January and ending in December.
Over 80 schools, parishes and organisations have contributed to this program: Ahepa, Agapi Care, Alpha Greek School, Altona North Greek Orthodox Parish, Ascot Vale Greek Orthodox Parish, Australian Federation Pontian Organisations, Australian Greek Ex-servicemen Association, Australian Hellenic Golf Federation, Australian Hellenic Memorial Foundation, Bacchus Marsh Greek Orthoox Parish, Ballarat Greek Orthodox Parish, Bendigo Greek Orthodox Parish, Bentleigh Greek Orthodox Parish, Bentleigh Greens Soccer Club, Box Hill Greek Community, Byzantine Music School of Australia, Carlton Greek Orthodox Parish, Central Pontian Association ‘Pontiaki Estia’, City of Moreland, Coburg Greek Orthodox Parish, Cretan Brotherhood of Melbourne, Cretan Federation of Australia & New Zealand, Cyprus Community of Melbourne & Victoria, Dandenong Greek Orthodox Parish, Dodecanesian Federation of Australia, East Keilor Greek Orthodox Parish, Epirotic Federation of Oceania, Fawkner Greek Orthodox Parish, Federation of Greek Elderly Associations, Federation of Messinian Organisations, Forest Hill Greek Orthodox Parish, Fronditha Care, Greek-Australian Cultural League of Melbourne, Greek Australian Women’s Network ‘Food For Thought’, Greek City Times, Greek Media Group, Greek Orthodox Community of Melbourne & Victoria, Greek Youth of Archdiocese Northcote District, Halkidiki Association of Melbourne -Aristotelis Stagiritis, Heidelberg United Football Club, Hellenic Museum, Hellenic Writers Association of Australia, Hellenic RSL Sub Branch, Kalamata Society 23rd March, Lalor North Primary School, Lefkadian Brotherhood of Melbourne, Malvern East Greek Orthodox Parish, Manasis Dance School, Mavraganis Greek School, Mentone Greek Orthodox Parish, Merimna Pontion Kyrion Oceania, Mildura Greek Orthodox Parish, Neos Kosmos, Nestoras College, Northcote Greek Orthodox Parish, Oakleigh Grammar School, Oakleigh Greek Orthodox Community, Pammessinian Brotherhood of Victoria ‘Papaflessas’, Panarcadian Federation of Melbourne & Victoria, Panarcadian Association of Melbourne & Victoria ‘O Kolokotronis’, Pancretan Association of Melbourne, Panepirotic Federation of Australia, Pantrifilian Association of Melbourne, PanMacedonian Association of Melbourne, Pedia Greek School, Pegasus Dance Academy, Pontian Community of Melbourne, Pontian Association Euxinos Pontos, Pronia, Preston Greek Orthodox Parish, Richmond Greek Orthodox Parish, Robinvale Greek Orthodox Parish, Shepparton Greek Orthodox Parish, St. Albans Greek Orthodox Parish, St. Johns Greek Orthodox College, South Melbourne Football Club, Sunshine Greek Orthodox Parish, Thessaloniki Association ‘White Tower’, Thomastown Greek Orthodox Parish, Wangaratta Greek Orthodox Parish, Yarraville Greek Orthodox Parish, Zenon Education Centre. The 2021 Victorian Committee consists of the following representatives from within the Organisational Council for Greek National Day: His Grace Bishop of Dervis IEZEKIHL (Greek Orthodox Archdiocese District Melbourne), Rev. Fthr. Evmenios Vasilopoulos (Greek Orthodox Archdiocese District Northcote), Tony Tsourdalakis – Convenor (Cretan Federation of Australia & New Zealand), Natasha Spanos (Oakleigh Grammar School), Peter Andrinopoulos (Federation of Messinian Organisations), Chrissa Kanatas (Panarcadian Association of Melbourne), Michael Karamitos (Greek Orthodox Community of Melbourne), Jorge Menidis (Greek Community of Melbourne), Andrew Ballis (Panmacedonian Association of Melbourne), Sophia Siahos (Australian Pontian Federation), Ross Alatsas (Greek Media Group & Hellenic Museum), John Pantazopoulos (World Hellenic Interparliamentary Council), Sam Vlahos (Kalamata Society 23rd March), Anastasia Theodoropoulou (Neos Kosmos). The program of events is under the auspices of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia and the Consul General of Greece in Melbourne.
The Organisational Committee for Greek National Day would like to thank the Department of Premier and Cabinet of the Victorian Government for the ongoing support and advice. The committee is also pleased to announce that the Parade and Wreath-Laying Ceremony to be held (COVID-19 permitting) on Sunday 21 March, 2021, has been officially endorsed and accepted and will fall under the auspices of the committee. Furthermore, the 2021 Victorian Council would like to thank the General Secretary for Greeks Abroad & Diplomatic Relations, John Chrysoulakis, and a major benefactor, the Bank of Piraeus, for offering a plethora of initiatives and events to the Organisational Council for Greek National Day including some of the following:
- Copies of the Poem of Dionysius Solomos Hymn to Liberty (Ύμνος στην Ελευθερία)
- Copies of the Publication of the General Archives of Greece highlighting the heroes of 1821
- Copies of the Commemorative Medal for the 200th Anniversary of the Hellenic Revolution produced by the National Museum of Greece
- An exhibition titled Το ’21 αλλιώς. The Revolution in figurines using Playmobil.
- Eleven online conferences with common themes titled 200 years of the Modern Hellenic State
- An Official Series of Lectures in Greece titled 21 Lectures for 1821-2021 held under the auspices of the National Kapodistriako University of Athens
The 2021 Victorian Committee would also like to thank the following partners, sponsors and financial supporters. Our Government partners, the State Government of Victoria, The General Secretariat of Greeks Abroad and the City of Moreland. Our Media Partners Neos Kosmos, Radio 3XY / TA NEA Newspaper, Greek Herald, SBS Greek Radio, Greek City Times, ERT and Antenna Pacific. Our Commercial Sponsors, Peter Tziotzis Orthodox Funeral Services, Hellenic Museum, St.Johns Greek Orthodox College, Oakleigh Grammar School, Nestoras College and our Community financial supporters, the Cretan Federation of Australia & New Zealand, the Federation of Messinian Organisations of Victoria, the Greek Australian Ex Servicemen Association of Victoria, the Epirotic Federation of Oceania (Aus), the PanArcadian Federation of Victoria, the Central Pontian Association of Victoria Pontiaki Estia, the Lefkadian Brotherhood of Victoria and AHEPA.
READ MORE: Democritus’ poster on 1821 anniversary attracts early comments
JANUARY
AMBASSADORS 200
Monday, 11 January
The Organisational Committee for Greek National Day, in conjunction with the Consul for Education and the General Secretariat for Greeks Abroad, will host a state-wide student competition titled Ambassadors 200. All Greek Youth, including students, will be asked to express what 1821 means to them, either through an essay, a poem, a drawing, a powerpoint presentation, a poster, an interview, a song, a painting or an object. The best 200 entries: (a) will be officially announced as Ambassadors of Victoria for 2021; (b) will be presented to the audience at the Music and Dance Concert on Sunday, 21 March, at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl; (c) will have their entries transported to Greece for an exhibition at the Botis Thalassinos’ Museum in the Prefecture of Iraklion in Crete; (d) will be awarded the official commemorative medal of the 200th Anniversary, compliments of the Bank of Piraeus and (e) will be awarded the National Lapel Pin compliments of the Victorian Committee. All participants will receive a Certificate of Participation from the 2021 Victorian Committee. For more information, contact Mrs. Natasha Spanos on 0449 232 783.
ONLINE PRESENTATION SERIES
Sunday, 17 January
The Greek Australian Women’s Network, Food For Thought, will present fortnightly online presentations throughout 2021 in a series titled Her Story to commemorate 200 years since the War of Independence which coincides with 20 years since the Food For Thought Network was founded. The highlight of the year will be the launch of an oral history book Finding Our Voice, written by the Founder of the Food For Thought Network, Varvara Ioannou and co-edited by Professor Joy Damousi. The book profiles the stories of 30 Greek Australian professional women and 10 of their non-Greek friends sharing their inspirational personal and professional stories as told through their own words. The Greek Australian Women’s Network, Food for Thought, aims to primarily showcase and pay tribute to Greek Women in Australia – of all generations – in tandem with Greek women who have contributed to the world over the last two centuries. The synchronicity of the 200 years commemoration of the Greek War of Independence and 20 years of the Greek Australian Women’s Network, Food For Thought Inc, provides a unique and perfect opportunity for deep reflection regarding “the role of women in the War of Independence, the struggles of the everyday migrant woman, the trailblazer, the Ipeirotisa at the Albanian front, the antartissa, and the pioneer”. The online series will commence on Sunday 17 January 2021. For more information, please check the organisations website: www.fftn.org.au or contact Varvara Ioannou on 0403034527.
FESTIVE DIVINE LITURGY & LOCAL FESTIVAL
Sunday, 24 January
The Greek Orthodox Parish Transfiguration of our Lord, Thomastown, in the Archdiocesan District of Northcote is hosting is a Festive Divine Liturgy followed by a local Festival in the confines of the Parish to mark the 200th Anniversary of Greece’s Independence on Sunday 24 January at 9.00am.The event will take place at 45 Poplar Street Thomastown. For more information please contact Rev. Father Georgios Frangos on 0410 581 806.
SENIOR CITIZENS COMPETITION
Monday, 25 January
The Federation of Messinian Organisations of Melbourne & Victoria is launching a senior citizens competition titled What does the Greek War of Independence mean to you? The competition will be open to all senior members of the community from January through to March. Prizes will be presented at a special event in March 2021. For more information, contact Jim Grivokostopoulos on 0407 822 103.
AUSTRALIA DAY PARADE
Tuesday 26 January
The Pegasus Dance Academy is performing at the annual Australia Day Parade on Tuesday, 26 January, 2021. The performance will be based on the 200 years since the beginning of the Greek Revolution of 1821. The participants of Pegasus Dance Academy will be dressed in traditional costumes from various parts of Greece and Cyprus with a group of dancers presenting Greek dances during the parade. The program is as follows
10:00 am: Gathering of all groups of different nationalities on Swanston Street Melbourne (between Bourke and Lonsdale streets)
11:00 am:Raising the flag at Melbourne Town Hall in the presence of Victoria’s Premier Daniel Andrews, the Melbourne’s Mayor Sally Capp and other guests
11.10 am: Parade, heads to the Arts Centre, Saint Kilda Road
For more information contact Sotiris Sotiriou on 0419 464 436.
FEBRUARY
SCHOOL ART PROJECT
Monday, 1 February
Pedia Greek School is organising a school art project. The students will have the opportunity to make a 10m x 5m Greek Flag and a life-sized 3D Evzone approximately 3 metres in height and 1.5 metres in width, created with paper, wool, and crepe paper during Term 1. For more information contact Christos Vatranis on 0456 114 829.
ONLINE PRESENTATIONS
Tuesday, 2 February
The Pammessinian Brotherhood of Victoria Papaflessas is presenting a series of weekly online presentations of the heroes of 1821. The series commences on Tuesday, 2 February, 2021 and will run thought the year. They will be posted on the Brotherhood’s Facebook page as well as the official 2021 Facebook page. For more information contact Steve Gotsis on 0418 172 266.
FESTIVE DIVINE LITURGY & DOXOLOGY AT FESTIVAL
Sunday, 7 February
The Greek Orthodox Parish of the Presentation of Our Lord, Coburg, in the Archdiocesan District of Northcote is hosting is a Festive Divine Liturgy, inclusive of a Doxology Service, followed by a local Festival at the parish to mark the 200th Anniversary of Greek Independence. The service begins at 9.00am. The event will take place at 29 Victoria Street, Coburg. For more information please contact Rev. Father Leo Ioannou on 0425 853 502.
MEMORIAL SERVICE & WREATH LAYING CEREMONY
Sunday, 7 February
The Panarcadian Federation of Victoria along with the Panarcadian Association of Melbourne & Victoria O Kolokotronis are hosting a memorial service followed by a wreath-laying ceremony and refreshments, to pay tribute to Greek general Theodoros Kolokotronis, a pre-eminent leader in the Greek War of Independence against the Ottoman Empire. The event will take place at Holy Monastery of Axion Estin, 7 Hartington Street Northcote, and begins at 10:00am. For more information contact Chrissa Kanata on 0413 131 888.
SCHOOL ASSEMBLY
Monday, 15 February
The Greek Orthodox Parish of The Presentation of our Lord, Coburg, in the Archdiocesan District of Northcote is hosting a School Assembly to commemorate the Greek Independence Day anniversary at 6:30pm. The event will take place at 29 Victoria Street, Coburg. For more information, please contact Rev. Father Leo Ioannou on 0425 853 502.
TRIBUTE CONCERT
Saturday 20 February
The Cretan Brotherhood of Melbourne and the Pancretan Association of Melbourne under the auspices of the Cretan Federation of Australia and New Zealand are hosting the 50th Anniversary Tribute Concert to honour the music and life of the great lyricist Kostas Mountakis: (a) 50 Years since the arrival of the first Cretan Musician to Australia which was Kostas Mountakis (Melbourne & Sydney) 1971
2021; (b) 30 Years since the passing of Kostas Mountakis (1991- 2021); (c) Union of four Cretan lyricists (Sifis Tsourdalakis, Yiannis Pollakis, Antonis Petrantonakis and Michalis Platyrrahos) for the first time; (d) A commemoration of the anniversary of the writing of the Lyrics to the Cretan songs for 1821 by Mountakis. The event will take place at 7:00pm at the Cretan House, 148-150 Nicholson Street, Brunswick East. For more information, contact Mr. Michael Houdalakis on 0408 855 109, Manuel Starakis on 0408 246 722 or Tony Tsourdalakis on 0419856736.
SCHOOL COMPETITION
Monday 22 February
ZENON Education Centre is organising an internal school competition for their students titled The Greek Revolution of 1821
200 years since then. Students of ZENON Education Centre will have the opportunity to participate by submitting different art works. For more information contact Andria Garivaldi on 0401 208 013.
LECTURE
Saturday 27 February
The Pammessinian Brotherhood of Victoria Papaflessas is hosting a lecture titled The Contribution of Greek Diaspora to the Revolution of 1821 presented by Lecturer Georgia-Juliana Charpantidou at 7:30pm. The evening will conclude with a Cocktail Party which will include music. The event will take place at ΠΑΠ House, 2 Gooch Street, Thornbury. For more information, call Steve Gotsis on 0418 172 266.
READ MORE: Celebrating the Greek Revolution – 1821 and the Architectural re-birth of Athens
MARCH
LECTURES
Sunday, 7 March
AHEPA is hosting two community lectures to commemorate the 200th Anniversary of the Greek War of Independence, when roughly half of Hellas fought for and won Freedom (Eleftheria) from the oppressive Ottoman Empire. The lectures will take place at Queen’s Hall, Victorian Parliament House, from at 10:30am-12:30pm and 2:30pm.-5:00pm. For more information, contact Ange Kenos on 040 899 003 or 9337 6973.
CELEBRATION ZOOM MEETING
Sunday, 7 March
The Dodecanesian Federation of Australia is organising a zoom meeting to commemorate the 200-year Anniversary of Greek Independence on Sunday, 7March. Dodecanesian members from all around Australia are invited to join and listen to Guest Speakers from Dodecanesian Islands. For more information, contact Monique Angelides on 0402 313 247.
CONVERSATION AFTERNOON
Sunday, 7 March
The Pammessinian Brotherhood of Victoria, Papaflessas, is hosting an afternoon conversation celebrating International Women’s Day with author Despina Meris, titled Be inspired by Despina’s journey. The event takes place at 2:00pm at Melina on the Rooftop, Level 13, 168 Lonsdale Street Melbourne. For more information, contact Steve Gotsis on 0418 172 266.
SCHOOL PROJECT
Monday, 8 March
Alpha Greek School is organising an internal school project for their students to participate in during lessons in March. The students will have the opportunity to write about an event or a hero or draw a picture in relation to the Greek Revolution. For more information, contact Anastasia Lembesis on 0402 770 757.
MOVIE SCREENINGS
Monday, 8 March 2021 PRONIA is hosting movie screenings throughout March and April. The seniors that attend Day Centre in Balwyn, Brunswick, Clarinda and Sunshine will watch movies about the Greek War of Independence. For more information, contact Peter Andrinopoulos on 0416 020 865.
DINNER DANCE
Saturday, 13 March
The Dodecanesian Federation of Australia is hosting a dinner dance to celebrate the 200-year Anniversary of Greek Independence and the Dodecanesian Ensomatosis (Unification) at 6:00pm. The event will take place at Rhodian Diagoras House, 46 Straker Street, North Melbourne. For more information, contact Monique Angelides on 0402 313 247.
SCHOOL ART EXHIBITION
Sunday, 14 March
The Greek Orthodox Parish of Saint Andrews Greek School in Forest Hill is hosting a Primary School Art Exhibition with works of art about 1821 on Sunday 14 March 2021 at 11.30am. The event will take place at the Saint Andrews Parish, 201 Mahoney’s Road Forest Hill. For more information contact Helen Lambris on 0412 958 300.
LECTURE
Sunday, 14 March
The Federation of Messinian Organisations of Melbourne & Victoria is hosting a lecture on the life and times of the revolutionary leader and Greek hero Gregorios Flessas “Papaflessas” at 2:00pm. The event will take place at ΠΑΠ House, 2 Gooch Street, Thornbury. For more information, contact Jim Grivokostopoulos on 0407 822 103.
THEATRICAL PLAY
Sunday, 14 March
The Epirotic Federation of Oceania (Australia) is presenting a play, titled Katsantonis, The Precursor to Freedom at 5:00pm. Directed by Filio Zoi, the play gives insight into the Revolution of 1821, which was not a last-minute decision taken suddenly. On the contrary, it was the outbreak of an uprising prepared for by our enslaved ancestors. The play shows how the thirst for Freedom was accompanied by hard struggles, heavy sacrifices, bloody events. Preparation for liberation had begun from the moment that Constantinople, a centre for Orthodoxy, fell into the hands of the Ottomans. The work shows the struggles, sacrifices, and bloody events of 1821, were preceded by other equally important lesser-known events. The play will take place at the Epirotic House, 19-21 Ferguson Street Abbotsford. For more information, contactKostas Vasiliou on 0401 802 492.
SCHOOL ASSEMBLY
Monday, 15 March
The Greek Orthodox Parish of “The Dormition Of Our Lady Church” in North Altona is hosting a School Assembly to commemorate the Greek Independence Day at 5:30pm. The event will take place at 272 Millers Road Altona North. For more information contact Kleanthis Papadopoulos on 0434 285 303.
OUTDOOR SCHOOL CONCERT
Friday, 19 March
Nestoras College is hosting a school concert to commemorate the 200th Anniversary of Greek Independence at 5.00pm. All students will perform a kalamatiano and a tsamiko dance to celebrate 00 years since the Greek Revolution. A live band will perform. Drones will be used for video recording the event and for online streaming. Parents of students will be invited to attend the commemoration. The school will use its hundreds of Greek costumes to portray a huge sea of colour and pride for Hellenism. The event will take place at the Thornbury Campus, 38 Collins Street, Thornbury. For more information, contact ohn Kostarakis on 0413 183 088.
HIGH SCHOOL SPEECH NIGHT
Friday, 19 March
The Greek Orthodox Parish of Saint Andrews Greek School in Forest Hill is hosting a High School Speech Night. Students in senior levels will give a presentation on the 200th Anniversary of Greek Independence at 7:00 pm. The event will take place at the Blackburn English Language School, 120 Eley Road East Burwood. For more information, contact Helen Lambris on 0412 958 300.
SCHOOL ASSEMBLY
Saturday, 20 and 22 March
Pedia Greek School is hosting two school assemblies to commemorate the Greek Independence Day on Saturday 20 March at 9:00am and Monday 22 March at 5:00pm. The events will take place at Westall Secondary College, 88 Rosebank Avenue, Clayton South. For more information, contact Christos Vatranis on 0456 114 829.
SCHOOL ASSEMBLY
Saturday, 20 March
The Greek Orthodox Community of Dandenong and District Saint Panteleimon Greek School is hosting a school assembly to commemorate Greek Independence Day at 11:00am. The event will take place at the Community Hall of the Greek Orthodox Community of Dandenong, 19 Herbert Street Dandenong. For more information, contact Niki Farfara-Pashos on 0407 632 805 or 9701 0615.
HIERARCHICAL DOXOLOGY
Sunday, 21 March
The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia Melbourne District in conjunction with the Organisational Committee for Greek National Day are hosting the official Doxology to commemorate the 200th Anniversary of the Hellenic Independence in the presence of the Hellenic Presidential Guard (Evzones) at 9.00am at Saint Eustathios Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 221 Dorcas Street, South Melbourne. For more information contact Daniel Bellis on 0437 565 743.
OFFICIAL PARADE
Sunday 21 March
The Organisational Committee for Greek National Day is hosting the official Parade and Wreath-Laying Ceremony to commemorate the 200th Anniversary of Greek Independence from the Ottoman Empire in the presence of the Hellenic Presidential Guard (Evzones) at 12:30pm at the Shrine of Remembrance. The Parade by all the Schools and Organisations will commence from Tom’s Block at the King’s Domain Gardens. A wreath-laying ceremony at the Eternal Flame of the WWII forecourt will follow the parade, and will include the presence of religious, diplomatic, political and community leaders. For more information, contact Tony Tsourdalakis on 0419 856 736.
MUSIC AND DANCE CONCERT
Sunday, 21 March
The Organisational Committee for Greek National Day in conjunction with the Greek Media Group are hosting a Music and Dance Concert at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl at 3:30pm. The event will include school theatrical plays, community dance group performances and traditional music groups in the presence of the Hellenic Presidential Guard “Evzones”. There will be food and drink outlets available at the event. Admssion is free for the entire community. For more information, contact Tony Tsourdalakis on 0419 856 736.
HELLENIC CULTURAL WEEK
Monday-Friday, 22-26 March
St John’s Greek Orthodox College is organising several historical events from 22-26 March. Students from Prep to Year 12 will engage in a range of programs and activities to celebrate Greek Culture, including musical performances, theatrical events, exhibitions, a cooking competition, dress up day, and Greek food day. For more information, contact Kathryn Drougas on 9480 5300.
SKYPE SCHOOL ASSEMBLY
Monday, 22 March
The Greek Orthodox Community of Dandenong and District Saint Panteleimon Greek School, in conjunction with the Argirios Moshidis High School in Lemnos, will host a Skype school assembly to commemorate Greek Independence Day at 5:00pm. The event will take place at the Community Hall of the Parish, 19 Herbert Street, Dandenong. For more information, contact Niki Farfara-Pashos on 0407 632 805 or
9701 0615.
BOOK PRESENTATION
Monday, 22 March
The City of Moreland is hosting a book presentation, titled In their own image. The work is a history of Greek presence in Australia since 1810. This will be presented by Leonard Janiszewski, a historian from Macquarie University. The event begins at 7:45pm and takes place at Brunswick Library, Sydney Road and Dawson Street, Brunswick. For more information, contact Rita Hardy on 0412 609 933 or on 8311 4111.
CELEBRATION LUNCHEONS
Monday, 22 March
PRONIA will host several luncheons for the Elderly Citizens throughout the month of March to celebrate Greek Independence Day. These events are for the seniors that attend the Day Centres in Balwyn, Brunswick, Clarinda and Sunshine. The events will include a tavern-style lunch with live music from renowned Greek singers and traditional Greek dancing groups performing. For more information, contact Peter Andrinopoulos on 0416 020 865.
FAMILY HISTORY TALK
Tuesday, 23 March
The City of Moreland is hosting a family history talk by Kalliroe Triatis focused on a research paper on tracing Greek family history. The event will take place at Coburg Library, Victoria and Louisa streets, Coburg, at 7:00pm. For more information, contact Mrs. Rita Hardy on 0412 609 933 or on 8311 4111.
VIDEO PRESENTATION
Wednesday, 24 March
The Greek Orthodox Parishes of Saint Paraskevi, Saint John The Merciful and Saint Barbara Greek School in St Albans are showcasing class video presentations to commemorate the Greek National Day at 5:00pm. The event will take place at 22 Marsden Cres, St Albans. For more information, contact Daphne Kousoulis on 9367 2860 or 0412 567 795.
FLAG-RAISING CEREMONY Thursday, 25 March
The Thessaloniki Association White Tower, in conjunction with the Panmacedonian Association of Melbourne, are hosting a flag raising ceremony to raise eight Greek flags at Federation Square at 10:00am. The event program will include singing of the Australian and Greek national anthems by students. The Dancing Group of Panmacedonian Association will perform a dance which gives insight into Greek folkloric tradition. The eight Greek flags will be flying on the masts for the duration of the day. For more information contact Iakovos Garivaldis on 0413 057 426.
COMMEMORATIVE SERVICE
Thursday, 25 March
The Hellenic RSL Subbranch is hosting a commemorative service for Greek Independence Day on Thursday, 25 March. The program includes a Doxology at Saint Efstathios Church, 221 Dorcas Street, South Melbourne, at 9:30am. A wreath-laying Ceremony at the Australian Hellenic Memorial, Corner of Birdwood and Anzac Avenue Domain Gardens at 12.00pm. Another Wreath Laying Ceremony in the inner sanctum of the Shrine of Remembrance at 1:00pm. For more information, contact Steve Kyritsis on 0418 571 800.
EXHIBITION LAUNCH
Thursday, 25 March
The Hellenic Museum- in close collaboration/partnership with the Benaki Museum in Athens, is planning a major exhibition in celebration of Greece’s 1821 bicentenary. There will be three key elements: (1) A physical exhibition of spectacular artefacts from the Greek revolution including the sword of Kolokotronis and the pistols of Mavromichalis; (2) A 20-minute film in three parts, each corresponding to a distinct theme/period: namely the pre-revolutionary year (from the Orloff Revolution to 1821), the revolution itself (1821-1829) and the formation and early years of the modern Greek State (1830-1870’s); (3) An interactive augmented reality application based on the film elements described above. The launch will take place on Monday, 22 March, at the Hellenic Museum, 280 William Street, Melbourne. For more information, contact John Tatoulis on 8615 9016.
FORUM PRESENTATION
Thursday, 25 March
The City of Moreland is hosting a forum presentation, titled Beneath the Fig Leaves: A memoir of food, family and Greece. This will be presented by Greek- Australian author Olympia Panagiotopoulos at 7:45pm. The event will take place at Brunswick Library, Corner of Sydney Road and Dawson Street, Brunswick. For more information, contact Rita Hardy on 0412 609 933 or on 8311 4111.
SCHOOL ASSEMBLY
Friday, 26 March
St John’s Greek Orthodox College is hosting a school assembly to celebrate the Hellenic Culture and the Greek Independence Day at 9:00am. The event will take place in the College Gymnasium, 21
Railway Place, West Preston. For more information, contact Kathryn Drougas on 9480 5300.
SCHOOL ASSEMBLY
Friday, 26 March
Oakleigh Grammar School is hosting a school assembly for years Prep to Year 7 to commemorate the 200th Anniversary since the beginning of the Greek Revolution between 2:00pm and 3:30pm. Students will present poems, songs, theatrical plays, and dances dedicated to the national holiday of 25 March, 1821, and to Hellenic culture. The event will take place at Oakleigh Grammar Sports Centre, 77-81 Willesden Road, Oakleigh. For more information, contact Natasha Spanos on 0449 232 783.
VIDEO PRESENTATION
Friday, 26 March
The Greek Orthodox Parish of Archangels Greek School in Mentone is releasing a video presentation made by students, titled 25th of March through the eyes of students at Greek School of Mentone Taxiarches. For more information, contact Poppy Drougas on 0422 222 680.
SCHOOL ASSEMBLY
Friday, 26 March
The Greek Orthodox Parish of “Saints Raphael, Nicholas & Irene” Greek School in Bentleigh is hosting a school assembly to commemorate the Greek Independence Day on Friday 26th of March 2021 at 7:00pm. The event will take place at 120 Marriage Road Brighton East. For more information contact Mrs. Alexia Kalpouzakis on 0400 117 438.
SCHOOL ASSEMBLY
Friday, 26 March
ZENON Education Centre is hosting a school assembly to commemorate Greek Independence Day followed by a Greek Glendi with music and dance between 6:30pm and 8:00pm. The event will take place at Malvern Valley Primary School, Abbotsford Avenue, Malvern East. For more information, contact Andria Garivaldis on 0401 208 013.
SCHOOL ASSEMBLY
Friday and Saturday, 26-27 March
The Greek Orthodox Parish of Saint Catherine’s Greek School in East Malvern is hosting two school assemblies to commemorate the Greek Independence Day on Friday 26 March at 5:00pm and on Saturday, 27 March at
9:00am. The events will take place at 3B Epping Street, Malvern. For more information, contact\ Kostas Dimaras on
0400 592 921.
PRIMARY SCHOOL CONCERT
Friday and Saturday, 26-27 March
The Greek Orthodox Parish of Saint Andrews’ Greek School in Forest Hill is hosting a School Concert with poems, dances, speeches and other activities on Friday 26 March at 7:00pm and on Saturday 27 March at 10:00am. The event will take place at Blackburn English Language School, 120 Eley Road East, Burwood. For more information, contact Helen Lambris on 0412 958 300.
PHOTOGRAPHIC EXHIBITION
Friday, 26 March
The Organisational Committee for Greek National Day, in conjunction with Greek City Times, is hosting a photographic exhibition by Nick Bourdaniotis. These photos have been compiled over the past six years, both in Greece and Australia, honouring the Greek Presidential Guard, Evzones. The exhibition will include photographs with rare, behind the scenes access to the daily lives of the Evzones for historic, archival, media and TV show purposes. This exhibition will feature a selection of The Presidential Guard (Evzones) photographs of which includes 25 images on metallic aged canvas displayed in the highest quality print. Associated next to each photograph will be a story expressing where the photo was taken and what was happening at that moment when it was captured. The event will be launched on Friday 26 March 2021 at Queen’s Hall in Parliament House as well as Oakleigh Grammar School. For more information, contact Nick Bourdaniotis on 0411 983 093.
COMMEMORATIVE SERVICE
Sunday, 28 March
The Greek Australian Ex Serviceman Association is hosting its official Commemorative service for the 200th anniversary of Greek Independence at the Holy Monastery Axion Estin, 7 Hartington Street, Northcote. The Doxology will take place at 10:00am, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at the Greek Memorial at 11:30am. A luncheon will follow at 12:00pm at the dining room of the Monastery. For more information, contact Peter Dourios on 0408 530 177.
FESTIVE DIVINE LITURGY & WREATH-LAYING CEREMONY
Sunday, 28 March
The Greek Orthodox Parish of The Annunciation of Virgin Mary Mildura in the Archdiocesan District of Northcote is hosting a Festive Divine Liturgy and Doxology to mark the 200th Anniversary of Greek Independence from the Ottoman Empire at 9:0 0am.The event will take place at 312 Deakin Avenue, Mildura. Following the church service, there will be a wreath-laying ceremony at the Mildura War Memorial at Henderson Park situated at 215 Deakin Avenue, Mildura. For more information, please contact Rev. Father Gary Peripetsakis on 0401 296 346.
SCHOOL ASSEMBLY
Sunday, 28 March
The Greek Orthodox Parish of Saint Nicholas Greek School in Yarraville is hosting a school assembly to commemorate Greek Independence Day on Sunday at 10:30am. The event will take place at the school of Greek Orthodox Parish of St. Nicholas, 5-9 Murray Street, Yarraville. For more information, contact Soula Embeslidis on 0413 573 671.
BOOK LAUNCH
Sunday, 28 March
The Thessaloniki Association White Tower in conjunction with the Panmacedonian Association of Melbourne, the Greek-Australian Cultural League of Melbourne and the Hellenic Writers Association of Australia are hosting the launching of a series of four volumes of books by Mr Iakovos Garivaldis OAM entitled “Προσφύγων Μνήμες” (Memories from Refugees) at 3:00pm. The books will be launched by Dr Christos Fifis and Dr Thanasis Spilias. The event will take place at Pontian House, 345 Victoria Street, Brunswick. For more information, contact Iakovos Garivaldis on 0413 057 426.
READ MORE: The Greek Community of Melbourne’s Greece 1821 Bicentenary Celebrations
APRIL
MEMORIAL
Sunday, 4 April
The Greek Orthodox Parish of Saint Andrews Greek School in Forest Hill is hosting a Church Service, Memorial Service, Doxology and Wreath-Laying Ceremony at 10.00am for the fallen heroesof 1821. The event will take place at St Andrews Parish, 201 Mahoney’s Roa, Forest Hill. For more informationm contact, Helen Lambris on 0412 958 300.
ART GALLERY
Monday, 5 April
PRONIA is organising creative art sessions throughout March and April. The seniors that attend the Day Centre in Balwyn, Brunswick, Clarinda and Sunshine that attend the Day Centres will create pictures with the theme of 1821 that will be displayed at the PRONIA Art Gallery in Brunswick and on the PRONIA website and social media. For more information, contact Peter Andrinopoulos on 0416 020 865.
BOOK & ICON EXHIBITION Sunday-Sunday, 11-17 April
The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese Book Centre in the Northcote District is hosting a Book and Icon Exhibition to mark the 200th Anniversary of Greek Independence at 11:30am. The Exhibition will run from 9:00 am to 9.00pm daily from Sunday, 11 April, until Saturday, 17 April. The event will take place at 7 Hartington Street, Northcote. For more information, contact Phillip Papagiannopoulos on 0425 854 782.
ARTWORK EXHIBITION
Monday, 12 April
The City of Moreland is presenting an artwork exhibition by local Greek artists depicting the 1821 Revolution. The works will be displayed in prominent areas in Council buildings such as Brunswick Town Hall, Coburg Town Hall, and Brunswick and Coburg Libraries. For more information, contact Rita Hardy on 0412 609 933 or on 8311 4111.
CELEBRATION LUNCHEON
Saturday, 17 April
The Federation of Greek Elderly Citizen Clubs is hosting a special event to celebrate the 200th Anniversary of the beginning of the Greek Revelation, at 12:00pm. The program will include speeches as well as a film screening about the Greek Revelation of 1821 and traditional Greek dances. The event will take place at 16 Anzed Court, Mulgrave. For more information, contact John Kostoulias on 0400 858 954.
ART EXHIBITION
Saturday, 17 April
AGAPI Care will host an art exhibition on Saturday, 17 April, at its Clayton residence, showcasing paintings created by clients of Agapi. The residents works capture their feelings of what it means to live in a free world, commemorating the 200-year celebration of Greek Independence. The exhibition will be followed by a BBQ with residents, family, friends, and their community all coming together. For further information, please contact Mary Gakopoulos on 9471 1231.
FILM PRESENTATION
Sunday, 18 April
The Central Pontian Association of Melbourne, Pontiaki Estia, in conjunction with the Merimna Pontion Kyrion Oceania and the George Divine Treloar Memorial Committee, is showcasing a short film about George Devine Treloar on at 4.00pm. The event will take place at the Pontian House, 540 Sydney Road Brunswick. For more information, contact Litsa Athanasiadis on 0421 804 968.
MAY
MEMORIAL EVENT
Saturday, 8 May
Fronditha Care is hosting a memorial event for the first generation of Greeks who came to Australia. The event will take place at 12:00 pm at 16 Anzed Court Mulgrave. For more information, contact Michael Malakonas on 9552 4150.
FESTIVE DIVINE LITURGY & WREATH-LAYING CEREMONY
Saturday, 8 May
The Greek Orthodox Parish of St George, Robinvale, of the Archdiocesan District of Northcote is hosting a Festive Divine Liturgy and Doxology to mark the 200th Anniversary of Greek Independence at 9am. The event will take place at 29 Ronald Street, Robinvale. Following the church Service there will be a Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the Robinvale Euston War Memorial situated at the Corner of Bromley Road and Moore Street Robinvale. For more information please contact Rev. Father Gary Peripetsakis on 0401 296 346
FESTIVE DIVINE LITURGY & WREATH LAYING CEREMONY
Sunday, 9 May
The Greek Orthodox Parish of St. George, Shepparton, in the Archdiocesan District of Northcote is hosting a Festive Divine Liturgy and Doxology to mark the 200th Anniversary of the Hellenic Independence on Sunday 9 May at 9:00 am.The event will take place at corner Hawdon and Knight Streets, Shepparton. Following the church Service there will be a Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the Shepparton War Memorial situated at corner of Fryers Street and Welsford Street Shepparton. For more information please contact Rev. Father Platon Derlis on 0423 403 227
FESTIVE DIVINE LITURGY & DOXOLOGY
Tuesday, 11 May
The Greek Orthodox Parish of Saints Cyril & Methodius, Preston, in the Archdiocesan District of Northcote is hosting a Festive Divine Liturgy and Doxology in the presence of the students from St John’s Greek Orthodox College to mark the 200th Anniversary of Greek Independence at 9:00am. Following the church service there will be a luncheon. The event will take place at 2 Yann Street, Preston. For more information, please contact Rev. Father Vasilios Kourtesis on 0422 008 397.
WINE TASTING EVENING
Thursday, 13 May
The Pammessinian Brotherhood of Victoria Papaflessas is hosting an evening of Greek Wine tasting with mezedes, music and enjoyment. Participants will meander through the ancient and contemporary eclectic wine country of Greece and the Peloponnese at 7:30pm. The event will take place at Odyssey, 100 Ormond Road, ,Elwood. For more information, contact Steve Gotsis on 0418 172 266.
MOTHER’S DAY DINNER DANCE
Saturday, 15 May
The Pantrifilian Association of Victoria is hosting the annual Mother’s Day Dinner Dance at 6:30pm. This year, the dance is dedicated to 200 years of Greek motherhood. The event will take place at White Rose Receptions, 725 High Street, Thornbury. For more information, contact Agatha Koroneos on 0401 036 644.
DINNER & PRESENTATION
Saturday, 15 May
The Panarcadian Federation of Victoria along with the Panarcadian Association of Melbourne & Victoria, O Kolokotronis, are hosting a presentation followed by a dinner, titled Battle of Valtetsi, 12 May, 1821, at 7:00pm. The event will take place at the Panarcadian Association of Melbourne, 570 Victoria Street, North Melbourne. For more information, contact Chrissa Kanata on 0413 131 888.
LECTURE
Sunday, 16 May
The Central Pontian Association of Melbourne Pontiaki Estia, in conjunction with Merimna Pontion Kyrion Oceania, is hosting a lecture, titled The rebirth of the Greek Nation and the forgotten at 4:00pm. The lecture will be presented by Kostas Pataridis. The event will take place at Moreland City Council chambers, 90 Bell Street, Coburg. For more information, contact Penny Tsombanopoulos 0417 328 918.
DOXOLOGY Sunday, 23 May
Τhe Halkidiki Association of Melbourne Aristotelis o Stagiritis is hosting a Doxology and Wreath-Laying Ceremony to honor the fallen of the 1821 campaign in Halkidiki at 10:00am at the Holy Monastery of Axion Estin situated at 7 Hartington Street, Northcote. For more information, contact Mr Terry Kourtis on 0414 637 492.
RADIOTHON
Sunday, 23 May
AGAPI Care is hosting its Annual Radiothon for the Sunday of the Disabled. The event is dedicated to the women who contributed towards Greece’s War of Independence. The event hopes to band the community together for the promotion of AGAPI’s cause. The celebration will take place at an Agapi Care venue in Preston. For further information, please contact Mary Gakopoulos on 9471 1231.
DOXOLOGY & WREATH-LAYING CEREMONY
Sunday, 29 May
The Cretan Federation of Australia and New Zealand in conjunction with the Cretan Brotherhood of Melbourne and the Pancretan Association of Melbourne are hosting a Doxology followed by a wreath-laying ceremony to honour the Cretan Generals and the heroes of the Cretan Revolution and all the population in Crete at the time at 10:00am. Local musicians will perform the two official Rizitika which were sung by the Generals at the time, while 21 female dancers from Melbourne’s Cretan Dance groups will perform the Trizalis, a female War Dance in honour of the women who died in Crete during the Revolution of 1821. The event will take place at Holy Monastery of Axion Estin,
7 Hartington Street, Northcote. For more information, contact Tony Tsourdalakis on 0419 856 736.
JUNE
BYZANTINE CONCERT – Friday, 11 June
The Byzantine Music School of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia is hosting a Concert of Traditional Songs and Hymns to mark the 200th Anniversary of Hellenic Independence at 7:00 pm. The concert takes place at the Greek Orthodox Church of St John the Baptist, which is situated at 998 Lygon Street. North Carlton. For more information, contact Vaios Anastassopoulos on 0419887896
LECTURE – Sunday, 13 June
The Pammessinian Brotherhood of Victoria Papaflessas is hosting a lecture by Dr Stavroula Nikoloudis, titled Greek Folk Songs: Heroes and Heroines of the Revolution of 1821. The event takes place at 2:00pm and will be followed by a celebration and exhibition of traditional Greek dancing in national dress, music and mezedes. The event will take place at ΠΑΠ House, 2 Gooch Street, Thornbury. For more information, contact Steve Gotsis on 0418 172 266.
FESTIVE DIVINE LITURGY & DOXOLOGY – Saturday, 19 June
The Greek Orthodox Parish of St Johns Carlton in the Archdiocesan District of Northcote is hosting a Festive Divine Liturgy and memorial during Saturday of Souls to honour the fallen war heroes of 1821, marking the 200th Anniversary of the Greek Independence. The event takes place at 9:00am at 998 Lygon Street, North Carlton. For more information, please contact Rev. Father Konstantinos Papapetrou on 0416295158.
MEMORIAL SERVICE – Sunday, 20 June
The Pancretan Association of Melbourne & the Cretan Brotherhood of Melbourne, under the auspices of the Cretan Federation of Australia and New Zealand, are hosting a memorial service to mark the 250th anniversary of the death of Ioannis Vlahos (Daskalogiannis), who passed away on 17 June 1771. The event features 21 boys from both Dance Groups perform the Pyrrhic Dance Pentozalis in honour of Daskalogiannis and 1821 in Crete. The commemoration takes place at 10:00am at the Greek Orthodox Parish of St. Anargiri, 87 Willesden Road, Hughesdale. For more information contact Mr. Michael Houdalakis on 0408 855 109 or Mr. John Nikolakakis on 0413 440 033.
FESTIVE DIVINE LITURGY & DOXOLOGY – Sunday, 20 June
The Greek Orthodox Parish of The Holy Trinity in Richmond, part of the Archdiocesan District of Northcote, is hosting a Festive Divine Liturgy and Doxology to mark the 200th Anniversary of the Greek War of Independence. A church service takes place at 9:00am, followed by a luncheon. The event will take place at 319 Burnley Street, Richmond. For more information, please contact Rev. Father Emmanouil Ioannidis on 0408 544 208.
LECTURE – Sunday, 20 June
The Federation of Messinian Organisations of Melbourne & Victoria is hosting a lecture titled The Australian connection to the Greek War of Independence at 2:00pm. The lecture will be presented by Major Terry Kanellos, who will explore the Australian connections to the Greek War of Independence. This event will take place at the Hellenic RSL Sub Branch, 14 A Ferrars Place, South Melbourne. For more information, contact Jim Grivokostopoulos on 0407 822 103.
SCHOOL EVENT – Wednesday, 23 June
Mavraganis Greek Language School is hosting a school event, titled A historical recursion to 1821. Students will present historical references, poems, songs, and dances dedicated to 25 March. The event will take place at 7:00pm at Mount Waverley Heights Primary School, 36 Solomon Street Mount, Waverley. For more information, contact Vlasis Mavraganis on 9753 5408 or 0427 004 033.
SCHOOL EVENT – Friday, 25 June
The Greek Orthodox Community of Box Hill and Districts Greek School is hosting an event titled A historical recursion to 1821. Students will present historical references, poems, songs, and dances dedicated to 25 March. The event will take place at 7:00pm at 3 Hopetoun Parade, Box Hill. For more information, contact Vlasis Mavraganis on 0427 004 033.
YOUTH DINNER DANCE – Friday, 25 June
The Central Youth of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese in the Northcote District are hosting a Youth Dinner Dance in Traditional Greek Costume to mark the 200th Anniversary of the Greek War of Independence. The youth group will present all the traditional costumes of Greece. The event takes place at 7:00pm at the Tabor Function Centre in Poplar Street, Thomastown. For more information please contact Rev. Father Georgios Frangos on 0410 581 806.
JULY
FESTIVE DIVINE LITURGY & DOXOLOGY – Sunday, 11 July
The Greek Orthodox Parish of St Anthony in Sunshine, located in the Archdiocesan District of Northcote, is hosting a Festive Divine Liturgy and Doxology to mark the 200th Anniversary of the Greek War of Independence at 9:00am. Following the church service there will be a luncheon. The event will take place at 66 Armstrong Street, Sunshine. For more information please contact Rev. Father Synesios Frangos on 0419 870 063.
TAVERN NIGHT – Saturday, 24 July
The Greek Orthodox Parish of Saint Nicholas Greek School in Yarraville is organising a Tavern Night dedicated to the 200th Anniversary of Greek Independence Day with a variety of student presentations at 6:00pm. The event will take place at the Community Hall of Greek Orthodox Parish St Nicholas, 5-9 Murray Street Yarraville. For more information, contact Soula Embeslidis on 0413 573 671.
FESTIVE DIVINE LITURGY & FESTIVAL – Sunday, 25 July
The Greek Orthodox Parish of St Panteleimonas in Dandenong, which is part of the Archdiocesan District of Melbourne, is hosting a Festive Divine Liturgy and Doxology to mark the 200th Anniversary of the Greek War of Independence. Following the church service at 9:00am, there will a School Festival which will include poems and songs from the School of the Parish. The event will take place at 19 Herbert Street, Dandenong. For more information, please contact Stefanos Karamoshos on 0411 665 490.
FESTIVE DIVINE LITURGY & DOXOLOGY – Sunday, 25 July
The Greek Orthodox Parish of St Paraskevi in St Albans, part of the Archdiocesan District of Northcote, is hosting a Festive Divine Liturgy and Doxology to mark the 200th Anniversary of the Greek War of Independence at 9:00am. There will be a luncheon following the church service. The event will take place at 22 Marsden Crescent, St Albans. For more information, please contact Rev. Father Demos Nicolaou on 0421 704 806.
MEMORIAL SERVICE & WREATH-LAYING CEREMONY – Sunday, 25 July
The Panarcadian Federation of Victoria along with the Panarcadian Association of Melbourne & Victoria O Kolokotronis are hosting a memorial service and wreath laying ceremony followed by a presentation, titled Battle of Dervenakia – 26 July 1822 – 28 July 1822. The event, accompanied with refreshments, will take place at the Holy Monastery Axion Estin, 7 Hartington Street, Northcote. For more information, contact Chrissa Kanata on 0413 131 888.
FESTIVE DIVINE LITURGY & DOXOLOGY – Tuesday, 27 July
The Greek Orthodox Parish of St. Panteleimonas in Dandenong, within the Archdiocesan District of Melbourne, is hosting a Festive Divine Liturgy and Doxology to mark the 200th Anniversary of the Greek War of Independence. Following the church service at 9:00am, there will be a luncheon. The event will take place at 19 Herbert Street, Dandenong. For more information, please contact Stefanos Karamoshos on 0411 665 490.
SCHOOL ASSEMBLY – Wednesday 28 July
The Greek Orthodox Parish of of Saint Paraskevi Greek School in St Albans is hosting a school assembly to commemorate the Greek War of Independence at 5:30pm. The event will take place at the school of the Greek Orthodox Parish at 22 Marsden Crescent, St Albans. For more information, please contact Rev. Father Demos Nicolaou on 0421 704 806.
READ MORE: ‘We can better understand the hardships of those who fought for freedom in 1821’
AUGUST
DOXOLOGY & LUNCHEON – Friday, 6 August
The Greek Orthodox Parish of The Transfiguration of our Lord in Thomastown in the Archdiocesan District of Northcote is hosting a Doxology & Luncheon to mark the 200th Anniversary of the Hellenic Independence at 10.00am. Following the church service, there will be a commemorative luncheon. The event will take place at 45 Poplar Street, Thomastown. For more information, please contact Rev. Father Georgios Frangos on 0410581 806.
LECTURE – Sunday, 8 August
The Federation of Messinian Organisations of Victoria is hosting a lecture on the Foreigners who supported and fought in the Greek War of Independence at 3:00pm. The lecture will be presented by lawyer/author Konstantinos Kalimnios. This event will take place at the Hellenic Museum, 280 William St, Melbourne. For more information, contact Jim Grivokostopoulos on 0407 822 103.
FESTIVE DIVINE LITURGY & DOXOLOGY – Sunday, 15 August
The Greek Orthodox Parish of Panagia Soumela in East Keilor, part of the Archdiocesan District of Northcote, is hosting a Festive Divine Liturgy and Doxology to mark the 200th Anniversary of the Greek War of Independence at 9:00am with the participation of the Australian Federation of Pontian Organisations. Following the church service there will be a luncheon. The event will take place at 20 Amis Crescent, East Keilor. For more information, please contact Rev. Father Konstantinos Apostolellis on 0412 576 011.
FESTIVE DIVINE LITURGY & DOXOLOGY – Sunday, 22 August
The Greek Orthodox Parish of the The Dormition of Our Lady in Bendigo in the Archdiocesan District of Northcote is hosting a Festive Divine Liturgy and Doxology to mark the 200th Anniversary of the Hellenic Independence on Sunday 22nd August at 9.00am. Following the church service there will be a luncheon. The event will take place at 3 Marong Street Iron Bark, Bendigo. For more information please contact Rev. Father Evmenios Vasilopoulos on 0408 003 002
BOOK LAUNCH – Sunday, 22 August
The Pontian Community of Melbourne and Victoria is hosting a book launch for the special edition that has been published, titled 200 Years of Greek Independence through the history of the Pontian Hellenism, at 3:00pm. The event will take place at the Pontian House, 345 Victoria Street, Brunswick. For more information, contact Apostolos Alexiadis on 0412 145 100 or Roma Siachos on 0421 237 779.
PRESENTATION OF TRILOGY – Sunday, 22 August
The Panarcadian Federation of Victoria along with the Panarcadian Association of Melbourne & Victoria O Kolokotronis are hosting the presentation of Yota Krili’s trilogy, titled The paths of freedom. The books are historical novels which describe the uprising (Κυπαρισσόμηλο) and finally until the enthronement of King George I (Κυκλάμινο). The event will take place at 4:00pm at the Arcadian House, 570 Victoria Street, North Melbourne. For more information, contact Chrissa Kanata on 0413 131 888.
SCHOOL PROJECT – Monday, 23 August
Alpha Greek School is organising an internal school project for their students to participate in during their lessons in August. The students will have the opportunity to write about an event or a hero or draw a picture in relation to the Greek Revolution. For more information, contact Anastasia Lembesis on 0402 770 757.
SEPTEMBER
PHOTOGRAPHIC EXHIBITION – Thursday-Monday, 2-6 September
The Society of Kalamata, 23 March, in collaboration with the Kalamata Photographic Association and the Messinian organisations in Melbourne, are presenting a photographic exhibition titled Πριν και Μετά – Before and After. The photographic exhibition will be a presentation of photos of the Messinian region from older times and how that same location looks today. There will be a focus on the places of historical significance of the Greek revolution of 1821. The photographic exhibition will take place from Thursday-Monday, 2-6 September, from 2:00pm-6:00pm daily at ΠΑΠ House, 2 Gooch Street, Thornbury. The official opening will be on Thursday, 2 September, at 6:30pm. For more information, contact Peter Andrinopoulos on 0416 020 865.
OLIVE GROVE PLANTING – Sunday, 5 September
The Greek Orthodox Parish of The Transfiguration of our Lord in Thomastown in the Archdiocesan District of Northcote is hosting an Olive Grove Planting Ceremony within the confines of the Parish to honour the war heroes of 1821 while also marking the 1 September as the International Day of the Environment, the Orthodox worldwide day of the environemnt as sanctioned by the Ecumenical Patriarchate. The event takes place at 12:00pm at 45 Poplar St, Thomastown. For more information, please contact Father Georgios Frangos on 0410 581 806.
LECTURE – Sunday, 5 September
The Pontian Association of Melbourne Euxeinos Pontos is hosting a lecture on Ioannis Kapodistrias, the first Governor of the new Greek Nation at 3:00pm. The event will take place at the Pontian Community, 345 Victoria Stm Brunswick. For more information, contact Stefanos Konstantinidis on 9571 0496 or 0401 839 387.
DINNER DANCE – Saturday, 11 and 18 September
The Manasis School of Greek Dance and Culture is hosting its Official Dinner Dance for all of this Junior and Intermediate Classes celebrating the 200th Anniversary of the Greek War of Independence on Saturday, 11 September. On Saturday, 18 September, the Dinner Dance will also be hosted for all the Senior Level classes and adults. Both Dinner Dances will be held at the Nafpaktian Hall, Ross St, Heatherton. For more information, contact Dimosthenis Manasis on 0423 486 137.
SCHOOL CONCERT – Wednesday, 15 September
Lalor North Primary School is hosting its end-of-year School Concert which will be dedicated to the 200th Anniversary of the Greek National Day with children presenting songs, poems, dances and music relating to 1821. The event will take place on Wednesday 15th September 2021 at 1.30pm in the School Hall, Derna Crescent Lalor. For more information contact Mrs. Ana Koutsouroupas on 0400 200 4871.
VISUAL PRESENTATION – Sunday, 19 September
The Federation of Messinian Organisations of Victoria is hosting a visual representation on the Greek War of Independence through the eyes of Greek and foreign artists by Melbourne artist Stella Papas at 2:00pm. This event will take place at the Hellenic Museum, 280 William St, Melbourne. For more information, contact Jim Grivokostopoulos on 0407 822 103.
EXHIBITION SOCCER GAME – Wednesday, 22 September
The Oakleigh Cannons Soccer Club and the Bentleigh Greens Soccer Club will co-host an Exhibition Soccer Game to mark the 200th Anniversary of the Greek War of Independence at 7:30pm. The game will take place at Jack Edwards Reserve, situated at Edwards St, Port Melbourne. For more information, contact Andrew Ballis on 0418 530 937.
FESTIVE DIVINE LITURGY & DOXOLOGY – Saturday, 25 September
The Greek Orthodox Parish of Our Lady of Myrtles in Wangaratta in the Archdiocesan District of Northcote is hosting a Festive Divine Liturgy and Doxology to mark the 200th Anniversary of the Greek War of Independence on Saturday, 26 September at 9.00am. Following the church service there will be a luncheon. The event will take place at 3 Mather St, Wangaratta. For more information, please contact Father Platon Derlis on 0423 403 227.
MEMORIAL SERVICE & WREATH-LAYING CEREMONY – Sunday, 26 September
The Panarcadian Federation of Victoria along with the Panarcadian Association of Melbourne & Victoria O Kolokotronis are hosting a memorial service followed by a wreath-laying ceremony to honour the heroes of the Liberation of Tripolitsa. The event takes place at 10:00am and includes refreshments, and takes place at the Holy Monastery of Axion Estin, 7 Hartington Street, Northcote. For more information, contact Chrissa Kanata on 0413 131 888.
COSTUME & TRADITIONAL ARTIFACTS EXHIBITION – Sunday, 26 September-Sunday, 10 October
The Panepirotic Federation of Australia, the Cretan Federation of Australia & New Zealand, the Australian Federation of Pontian Organisations and the Federation of Messinian Organisations in conjunction with the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese (Melbourne & Northcote Districts) are hosting an exhibition of authentic and traditional clothing, jewelry, and weapons from all over Greece spanning over a century. The exhibition will be launched at 2:00pm on Sunday, 26 September, and will run through to Sunday, 10 October. The exhibition is aimed at highlighting the tradition that inspired and contributed to liberation of the Greek Nation as well as to pass messages to the younger generations about those who fought during the Greek Revolution. The event will take place at St John’s Greek Orthodox College, 21 Railway Place, West Preston. For more information, contact Konstantinos Kalimnios on 0412 515 348, Tony Tsourdalakis on 0419 856 736, Yiannis Pilalidis on 0414 334 233 or Peter Andrinopoulos on 0416 020 865.
EXHIBITION SOCCER GAME – Wednesday, 29 September
The Port Melbourne Soccer Club Sharks and the Northcote City’s Iraklis will co-host an exhibition soccer game to mark the 200th Anniversary of the Greek War of Independence at 7:30pm. The game will take place at S S Anderson Oval, situated at Plummer St, Port Melbourne. For more information, contact Andrew Ballis on 0418 530 937.
OCTOBER
MUSIC CONCERT – Friday, 1 October
The Cyprus Community of Melbourne & Victoria is presenting a music concert with artists from Greece and Cyprus to celebrate the 200-year Anniversary of the Greek War of Independence at 7:00pm. The event will take place at the Cyprus House. For more information, contact Stelios Angelodimou on 0419 303 922.
INTERNATIONAL PHOTO EXHIBITION – Monday, 4 October – Friday, 5 November
The Organisational Council for Greek National Day in conjunction with Neos Kosmos is hosting a photo exhibition directly from Greece, titled Evzones–The Guardians of the Unseen. This exhibition was created by photographer Dimitra Hatziadam, the official photographer of the presidential guard for the last 10 years. Ms Hatziadam created a three-year photographic project from May 2013 through to March 2016, where she focused on the daily routine of the Greek Army’s prestigious unit, capturing points that were unknown to the public eye. Understanding that a successful, anthropocentric photograph is not only about being present in the room, but crucial in conveying the character and psychological composition of these people, Ms Hatziadam managed to show the invisible side of the Evzone – a Greek symbol of global recognition associated with bravery and dignity. The exhibition will be launched on Monday, 3 October, and run through to Friday, 5 November, at the Hellenic Museum, 280 William St, Melbourne. Part of the exhibition will be presented at Alphington Grammar School for the students and the community. For more information, contact Athanasia Theodoropoulou on 0416 260 074 or Tony Tsourdalakis on 0419 856 736.
DINNER DANCE – Saturday, 9 October
The Panarcadian Federation of Victoria along with the Panarcadian Association of Melbourne & Victoria O Kolokotronis are hosting a dinner dance to commemorate the Liberation of Tripolitsia. The event will take place at 7:00pm at the PanArcadian Association of Melbourne at 570 Victoria St, North Melbourne. For more information, contact Chrissa Kanata on 0413 131 888.
SCHOOL ARTS WEEK – Monday-Friday, 11-15 October
Oakleigh Grammar School is holding its annual Arts Week, dedicated to the 200-year Anniversary of the Greek War of Independence. The Art Department in conjunction with the LOTE Department of the School is organising a variety of activities for all students centered around the celebration of Greek Independence Day and Hellenic Culture. The event features works created in Prep-Year 12 students classes in Art, Drama and LOTE classes. The event will run from Monday, 11 October, through to Friday, 15 October 2021 at Oakleigh Grammar School, Arrowsmith Centre, 77-81 Willesden Rd, Oakleigh. For more information, contact Natasha Spanos on 0449 232 783.
PAINTING EXHIBITION – Sunday, 17 October
The Panmacedonian Association of Melbourne and the Thessaloniki Association White Tower are hosting a painting exhibition of works by Greek-Australian artists which will be opened to the public on Sunday, 17 October at 2:00pm. The theme, Revolution 1821 – 200 years from independence, will take place at the Macedonian House, 470 Queens Parade, Clifton Hill. For more information, contact Pavlos Mavroudis on 0418 353 086.
FILM PRESENTATION – Sunday, 17 October
The Federation of Messinian Organisations of Victoria is presenting the screening of the film, Η μεγάλη στιγμή του ’21: Παπαφλέσσας, at 5:30pm. This event will take place at Palace Cinemas in Como on Toorak Rd, South Yarra. For more information, contact Jim Grivokostopoulos on 0407 822 103.
MEMORIAL SERVICE – Wednesday, 20 October
The Australian Hellenic Memorial Foundation is hosting a Memorial Service and Wreath-Laying Ceremony to commemorate the Battle of Navarino at 11:00am. at the Australian Hellenic Memorial, Domains Gardens. The Battle of Navarino occurred on 20 October in 1827 which was the decisive naval engagement that led to the end of the War of Greek Independence against Turkey. For more information contact Mr. Peter Andrinopoulos on 0416 020 865.
BOOK LAUCH – Wednesday, 20 October
The Society of Kalamata 23 March is hosting a book launch, titled 200 Years, Greek Women of Influence, to highlight the influence of women of Greek background throughout the world over the last 200 years from 1821 to 2021. It will cover as many facets of life as available that influenced change in the world around them. It will take place on Wednesday, 20 October, at 6:00pm. This event will take place at the Hellenic Museum, 280 William St, Melbourne. For more information, contact Peter Andrinopoulos on 0416 020 865.
GOLF TOURNAMENT – Saturday-Sunday, 23-24 October
The Australian Hellenic Golf Federation, with the support of the Hellenic Golf Clubs in Australia, is hosting the 2021 Golf Open for all Greek-Australian golfers to mark the Bicentenary of the Greek War of Independence. The tournament will take place on Saturdayand Sunday, 23 and 24 October at the Moonah Links Golf Course situated at 55 Peter Thomson Drive, Fingal. For more information, contact Theo Theodoropoulos 0417 57 1977.
DINNER DANCE – Saturday, 23 October
The Society of Kalamata 23 March, together with the Pammesinian Brotherhood Papaflessas and the Pantrifilian Association of Melbourne, are hosting a dinner dance to celebrate Greek Independence Day while showcasing Hellenic Culture and providing an opportunity to share the importance of the Greek Revolution with emerging generations of the Greek diaspora. The dance will include an adjoining exhibition on the history of the Greek Revolution of 1821, featuring traditional outfits. Th event will run from 6:30pm to 1:00am, and will take place at St Kilda Townhall, 99A Carlisle St, St Kilda. For more information, contact Peter Andrinopoulos on 0416 020 865, Steve Gotsis on 0418 172 266 or Jim Grivas on 0407822103.
LUNCHEON – Sunday, 24 October The Lefkadian Brotherhood is hosting a luncheon with a discussion of Lefkada’s participation during the Greek Revolution at 12:00pm. The event will take place at the Lefkadian House, 124 Bell St, Coburg. For more information, contact Alexandra Daglas on 0409 531 089.
FESTIVE DIVINE LITURGY & DOXOLOGY – Tuesday, 26 October
The Greek Orthodox Parish of Saint Dimitrios, Ascot Vale, in the Archdiocesan District of Northcote, is hosting a Festive Divine Liturgy and Doxology to mark the 200th Anniversary of the Greek War of Independence at 9:00am. Following the church service, there will be a luncheon. The event will take place at 1 Gladstone St, Moonee Ponds. For more information, please contact Father Emmanuel Lykopantis on 0413 686 988
HIERARCHICAL LITURGY & DOXOLOGY – Saturday, 30 October
The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia, Northcote District, in conjunction with the Organisational Committee for Greek National Day are hosting the official Hierarchical Liturgy & Doxology presided by Archbishop Makarios of Australia to commemorate the 200th Anniversary of the Hellenic Independence at 9:00am at the Holy Monastery of Axion Estin, 7 Hartington St, Northcote. For more information, contact Father Evmenios Vasilopoulos on 0408 003 002.
GRECIAN BALL – Saturday, 30 October
The Organisational Committee for Greek National Day of Victoria and the Greek Orthodox Community of Melbourne & Victoria are co-hosting the 2021 Grecian Ball to commemorate the 200th Anniversary of the Greek War of Independence in the presence of the Hellenic Presidential Guard Evzones on Saturday at Grand Hyatt Ballroom. The event is being held under the auspices of religious, diplomatic, political and community Leaders. For more information, contact Chrysa Kanatas on 0413 131 888.
FESTIVE DIVINE LITURGY & FESTIVAL – Sunday, 31 October
The Greek Orthodox Parish of Axion Estin, in the Archdiocesan District of Northcote, is hosting a Festive Divine Liturgy to mark the 200th Anniversary of the Greek War of Independence at 9:00am. Following the church service, there will be a festival with food, music and dance. The Pancretan Association of Melbourne will also commemorate the Anniversary of the Saint Tesseris Martyrs of Rethymnon, Crete, on the same day. The Panmacedonian Association of Melbourne, in conjunction with the Thessaloniki Association White Tower, will host a memorial service for revolutionary leader Pavlos Melas, who donated his estate and his life to the cause of Greece’s liberation. The event will take place at 7 Hartington Street, Northcote. For more information, please contact Father Spyridon Bonias on 0407 861 523.
OFFICIAL PARADE – Sunday, 31 October
The Organisational Committee for Greek National Day is hosting the official parade and wreath-laying ceremony to commemorate the 200th Anniversary of the Greek War of Independence in the presence of the Hellenic Presidential Guard Evzones at 12.30pm at the Shrine of Remembrance. The parade includes the participation of all schools and organisations in the region, and it will commence from Tom’s Block in the Domain Gardens. Following the parade, there will be the Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the Eternal Flame of the 2nd World War forecourt in the presence of religious, diplomatic, political and community leaders. For more information, contact Tony Tsourdalakis on 0419 856 736.
NOVEMBER
FESTIVE DIVINE LITURGY & DOXOLOGY – Monday, 1 November
The Greek Orthodox Community Parish of Saints Anargyri in Oakleigh in the Archdiocesan District of Melbourne is hosting a Festive Divine Liturgy and Doxology to mark the 200th Anniversary of the Greek War of Independence at 9.00am. Following the church service there will be a luncheon. The event will take place at 85 – 87 Willesden Road Oakleigh. For more information, please contact Father George Adamakis on 0425 746 684.
21 THE EXHIBITION – Wednesday-Sunday, 3-7 November
The Federation of Messinian Organisations of Victoria is presenting an exhibition, titled 21 The Exhibition, commencing on Wednesday, 3 November, through to Sunday, 7 November. The exhibition will present the artistic creations of 21 established, new, and emerging artists daily from 11:00am-4:00pm with the official opening from 6:30-8:30pm on Wednesday, 3 November. The event takes place at the Victorian Artists Society, 430 Albert St, East Melbourne. For more information, contact Jim Grivokostopoulos on 0407 822 103.
SCHOOL ASSEMBLY – Saturday, 6 November
Τhe Greek Orthodox Parish of Saint Nektarios Greek School in Fawkner is hosting a school assembly to commemorate Greek Independence Day on Saturday, 6 November, at 10:00am. The event will take place at the school of the Greek Orthodox Parish, 138 – 144 Major Rd, Fawkner. For more information, please contact Father Spyridon Vandoros on 9359 6586
FESTIVE DIVINE LITURGY & DOXOLOGY – Tuesday, 9 November
The Greek Orthodox Parish of Saint Nektarios in Fawkner of the Archdiocesan District of Northcote is hosting a Festive Divine Liturgy and Doxology to mark the 200th Anniversary of the Greek War of Independence at 9:00am. Following the church service, there will be a luncheon. The event will take place at 138 – 144 Major Rd, Fawkner. For more information, please contact Father Spyridon Vandoros on 9359 6586.
THEATRICAL PLAY – Friday, 12 November
Zenon Education Centre is presenting a theatrical play, titled Καλύτερα μιας ώρας ελεύθερη ζωή – H Επανάσταση των Ελλήνων, from 6:30pm to 8:30pm. The event will take place at The Auditorium, Glen Eira Town Hall, corner of Glen Eira and Hawthorn roads Caulfield. For more information, contact Andria Garivaldis on 0401 208 013.
MOVIE NIGHT – Saturday, 13 November
The Central Youth of the Greek Archdiocese of the Northcote District are hosting an outdoor movie screening, titled Heroes of 1821 at a drive-in cinema on the grounds of the Axion Estin Monastery at 8:00pm. For more information, call Father Evmenios Vasilopoulos on 0408 003 002.
MOVIE NIGHT – Sunday, 14 November
The Panmacedonian Association of Melbourne in conjunction with the Thessaloniki Association White Tower are hosting a movie screening about the Greek Revolution of 1821, titled What it means to the Greek people and the rest of the independent world, at 5:30pm. The event will take place at the Palace Cinemas in Westgarth, 89 High St, Northcote. For more information, contact Pavlos Mavroudis on 0418 353 086.
SISTERS-CITIES DINNER DANCE – Saturday, 20 November
The Panmacedonian Association of Melbourne and the Thessaloniki Association White Tower are hosting the Official Dinner Dance dedicated to the 200th Anniversary of the Greek War of Independence at 7:00pm. The event will take place at Normanby House Receptions, 22 Normanby Ave, Thornbury. For more information, contact Pavlos Mavroudis on 0418 353 086.
DIMITRIA & SISTER CITIES FESTIVAL – Sunday 21 November
The Thessaloniki Association White Tower and the Panmacedonian Association of Melbourne are hosting the Dimitria & Sister-Cities Festival at the Queen Victoria Market. Community and school dance groups will be participating with traditional folk dances between 10:00am and 4:00pm. Throughout the afternoon, local importers will also be showcasing their Greek products which are imported to Australia from Greece. For more information, contact Pavlos Mavroudis on 0418 353 086.
DECEMBER
CONCERT PRODUCTION – Sunday, 5 December
Sts Anargiri Greek Language Centre representing The Greek Orthodox Community of Oakleigh and District Inc in conjunction with Merimna Pontion Kyrion, the Central Pontian Association of Melbourne Pontiaki Estia, the Pancretan Association of Melbourne and other organisations from the wider community are hosting a concert production, titled Glory to the mother who gives birth to… at 4:00pm. The event will be held in the Greek language (with English subtitles) with music, short theatrical representations, and historical references including dance groups from various regions of Greece that are relevant to the historical context being presented within the celebration of the 200-year Greek Independence Day anniversary. Byzantine hymns will also accompany parts of the production which will take place at Oakleigh Grammar Conference Centre, 77-81 Willesden Rd, Oakleigh. For more information, contact Kosta Pataridis on 0433 188 992.
FESTIVE DIVINE LITURGY & DOXOLOGY – Monday, 6 December
The Greek Orthodox Parish of St. Nicholas in Yarraville, part of the Archdiocesan District of Northcote, is hosting a Festive Divine Liturgy and Doxology to mark the 200th Anniversary of Hellenic Independence at 9.00am. Following the church service there will be a small Festival in the confines of the Parish. The event will take place at 5 Murray Street, Yarraville. For more information, contact Father Alexandros Korlos on 0412 662 183.
FESTIVE DIVINE LITURGY & DOXOLOGY – Sunday, 12 December
The Greek Orthodox Parish of St Nicholas in Ballarat of the Archdiocesan District of Northcote is hosting a Festive Divine Liturgy and Doxology to mark the 200th Anniversary of Greek Independence at 9.00am. Following the church service there will be a Luncheon in the Parish Hall. The event will take place at 116 Humffray St, Ballarat. For more information, contact Father Evmenios Vasilopoulos on 0408 003 002.
FESTIVE DIVINE LITURGY & DOXOLOGY – Sunday, 26 December
The Greek Orthodox Parish of Panagia Eleousa in Bacchus Marsh in the Archdiocesan District of Northcote is hosting a Festive Divine Liturgy and Doxology to mark the 200th Anniversary of the Hellenic Independence on Sunday, 26 December, at 9.00am. The event will take place at O’Connell Rd, Bacchus Marsh. For more information, contact Father Evmenios Vasilopoulos on 0408 003 002.