I would firstly like to acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land on which the Fairfield amphitheatre stands, the Wurundjeri people of the mighty Cullen Nation. I would like to pay respect to their laws and lores, and pay respect to elders past present and emerging. I would also like to acknowledge that this land was stolen and never ceded. This always was and always will be Aboriginal land.

As a proud member of the Greek Australian Victorian Melbourne community I would like to acknowledge the joint struggle and success that both indigenous Australians and migrants to Australia have had in receiving recognition for citizenship, equality and fairness. Over 200 years of wrongs to put right.

I support the protection of this cultural place, a monument built in 1983 to help celebrate diversity, multiculturalism, bilingualism and difference. It first hosted open theatre of the Greek classics for the 1984/85 Epidaurus festival presenting plays in both Greek and English. Since then hosting a multitude of festivals, events and performances by communities of many faiths, regions, backgrounds and identities. Earlier on this year I recall coming here to attend a reading of Homer’s ancient poem “The Iliad”. Such a great and perfect setting.

READ MORE: Campaign to Protect Fairfield’s Ancient Greece Inspired Amphitheatre

The space that has been allocated for the proposed redevelopment is already listed in the Cultural Heritage Register and Information System as an area of cultural heritage sensitivity by Aboriginal Victoria in its Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Register and Information System. Respecting the site moving forward would mean no more development or disturbance at the site.

The amphitheatre is Victoria’s only Ancient Greek model amphitheatre and Victoria’s only public professional outdoor theatre. A space that will be treasured especially in these outdoor pandemic times while the arts scene is resurrecting itself.

We ask that Heritage Victoria reconsiders the inclusion of Fairfield Amphitheatre, River Pavilion and Kiosk to state level heritage (and ongoing) protection to the Victorian Heritage register. A significant cultural contribution of Migrants in Australia. The most recent census still states the biggest Greek population in Australia is in the City of Yarra. A living, thriving and active Greek and migrant community. We oppose works that threaten the theatre’s viability and disturbs the land of the local indigenous aboriginal community. A listing with Heritage Victoria will protect it.

Hope is still here – It’s still not too late as a second hearing result on this decision is expected in January 2022. We hope that today plays its role in bringing new information to light and to the forefront to reverse the prior decision on redevelopment.

Please play your part – write to MPs, counsellors, government and Heritage Victoria and don’t forget to sign the online petition.

♦Vasso Zangalis is a member of the Board of the Greek Orthodox Community of Melbourne and Victoria.