The Consulate General in Melbourne joined forces with the Hellenic Museum this year, to commemorate the Greek Independence bicentenary.
The special event, that took place on the day of the anniversary, Thursday 25 March, was attended by community and church representatives, politicians and philhellenes from all walks of life.
The highlight of the evening was a spectacular performance by the Greek Community of Melbourne dance group, with the famous dance of Zalongo being the opening act.
Under the direction of their teacher, Nick Papaefthymiou, who was also performing, dancers made impressed attendees with a show mixing dance with theatrical elements perfectly timed with the traditional Greek music at the background.
Spiro Alatsas was the MC of the event, featuring guest speakers the museum’s CEO, Sarah Craig, Bishop of Dervis, Ezekiel, Consul General Emmanuel Kakavelakis, Victoria’s Multicultural Affairs Minister Ros Spence, and Shadow Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Neil Angus.
Among those present were GOCMV President Bill Papastergiadis, Cretan Federation of Australia and New Zealand Tony Tsourdalakis, MPs Steve Dimopoulos, Nick Staikos, Kat Theophanous, senator Lee Tarlamis and Parks Victoria CEO, John Pantazopoulos.