The Order of Australian Hellenic Education Progressive Association (AHEPA) NSW held a combined 66th and 67th Convention on 5 December to review the work of the past two years, hold leadership elections and look to the future.

The Convention, which was postponed last year because of COVID-19, was held at the AHEPA NSW Hall in Rockdale with state member for Oatley Mark Coure as the special guest.

“The lockdowns have been difficult for everyone. Community groups such as AHEPA NSW play a very important role in keeping food on people’s tables and contact for people’s minds,” Mr Coure told the audience.

READ MORE: AHEPA NSW donates $18,900 to key projects in the state

Mr Coure presented five St George Community Awards which he initiated to acknowledge the work of volunteers and community organisations:

• Individual Volunteer Award: Angela Kiki Konstantinopoulou for her original paintings of the heroes of the Hellenic War of Independence;

• Youth Achievement Award: Ioanna Diamadis for her contributions to AHEPA NSW and the Pontoxeniteas Association;

• Community Group Award: Chapter Ippokratis No. 21 for their fundraising for medical research and the bi-annual Ippokratis Awards, recognising the contributions of medical professionals to our community;

• Senior Volunteer Award: Irene Anestis, particularly for her fundraising efforts on behalf of the Childrens’ Cancer Institute; and

• Sport Award: the AHEPA Hunters Fishers and Shooters Club for their efforts promoting responsible use of firearms.

The Convention presented Eleni Elfetheria-Kostakidis with a $1,500 sponsorship towards the publication of her new book “Whose Song Is This?”, which explores the origins of the Greek song “Apo Xeno Topo”

Bill Skandalakis was re-elected president of AHEPA NSW as was most of the leadership team. The organisation’s main focus for the future will be the renovation of Bexley Bowling Club which will be the organisation’s new home.

It will hold its annual Christmas Party on Saturday, 11 December and the final “Kafeneion” gathering of the Seniors’ Group on Tuesday, 14 December. Money raised from the Christmas party will be donated to a community kitchen to provide free meals for the less fortunate. Activities will re-start in the new year with the first Kafeneion of 2022 on 11 January.