The Pammessinian Brotherhood of Melbourne ‘Papaflessas’ is preparing a grand celebration on Saturday 22 October for Melbourne’s newest Greek landmark: Kalamata Place.
The laneway in the northern suburb of Thornbury was recently named after the Greek city with Darebin Council’s unanimous approval.
Kalamata Place’s official opening will take place with an overseas guest of honour, Athanasios Vasilopoulos, the Mayor of Kalamata joining in person.
The Mayor of Darebin Cr Lina Messina, whose support for the naming has been acknowledged, will also be present for the special occasion.
“We had worked on this proposal for some time. We are grateful to all the Darebin Councillors for supporting this proposal, in particular we thank Cr Emily Dimitriadis and the mayor, Cr Lina Messina without whom this proposal would not have been considered”, Papaflessas President, Steve Gotsis recently stated.
The Papaflessas Committee, whose headquarters is adjacent to the Kalamata Place alley, had proposed the name to Darebin Council last year as a way to recognise the Greek Community’s contribution to Darebin.
Prior to approval, the Council undertook community consultation with stakeholders in Darebin, an area that became home to a large Greek migrant population, many from Kalamata and Messinia, as well as a vibrant hub with Greek businesses and social clubs.
A dedication ceremony, music performances and traditional Messinian food will be among the highlights of the celebratory grand launch.
“The moment we have all been waiting for!,” The Papaflessas club wrote on socials in an open invitation with all welcome to attend.
The event will take place on Saturday 22 October between 1 and 3.30pm on 2 Gooch Street Thornbury.
