The official launch of the Pontic Educational and Cultural Association of Victoria (Akrites Tou Pontou), was held last week with a debut function at the PAOK soccer complex in Altona.
The newest addition to Melbourne’s Pontic community started off on the right foot, with President Peter Stefanidis even having to turn away would-be guests due to a lack of capacity at the venue.
“The response has been overwhelming and beyond our optimistic estimates,” Mr Stefanidis said.
There is already a significant Pontic representation in the community, but the new club aims to offer a different service to the community. Mr Stefanidis said the club is less about “preserving an old culture, but investigating its evolution here in Australia”.
“We are not hampered by the issues that have become part and parcel of most organisations weighing down even the most progressive committees. We simply focus on the needs of the youth and respect the forefathers and bearers of this invaluable knowledge.”
A running theme in the launch event was Akrites’ commitment to engaging the local Pontic youth. It was only fitting then, that the night was attended and enjoyed by many youths, who revelled in the night’s entertainment and music.
Among those who attended were representatives from other Pontic clubs, including Pontiaki Kinotita Vice President George Mouratidis, Panagia Soumela Vice President Paulos Laridis, and representatives from Sydney’s Pontian club Aitents, Christina Banos and Efthimi Avgetidis.
“We are adamant that we will work with the wider community to support the cause,” Mr Stefanidis said. “Another club only means that we have other means of bringing people together. The show of support by our sister clubs only proves the resolve that we can work together for a more united community.”