For the first time in Western Australian history, ten members from the elite unit of the Hellenic Presidential Guard, the Evzones, are visiting Perth from the 1 to 7 November to commemorate Greece’s National OXI Day, and have marched in the city stopping traffic.

Earlier today they conducted a procession along St George’s Terrace, followed by a flag raising ceremony outside Council House on Friday while they were also welcomed by WA Premier Mark McGowan in a dedicated morning tea ceremony at Parliament House.

During their stay in Perth, the Guards are visiting Greek community organisations and schools. Perth Lord Mayor Basil Zempilas has also held a function to welcome the Evzones to the WA state.

Their participation has also been scheduled in a wreath laying ceremony at Kings Park on Sunday, November 6.

The Evzones, meaning “well-girdled” fighter, leave millions of visitors each year fascinated and mesmerised with their distinctive uniforms and changing of the guard ceremony, while guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in central Athens around the clock, under any weather conditions.

Greek Consul in Perth Georgia Karasiotou encouraged all Western Australians to take the opportunity to see the Evzones in action.

“The visit is of high symbolism for the deep and longstanding friendship between our two countries, forged during wartime, when Greeks and Australians fought side by side for the shared values of freedom, justice and democracy. Greece is ever thankful to Australians having sacrificed their lives in the Battles of Mainland Greece and Crete during WWII.

This will be a unique experience for every person in WA. The Presidential Guard are a very recognisable icon of Greece, inspiring awe and admiration to Greeks and international visitors alike and to have them here in Perth is extremely fortunate” she said.

“It’s a great opportunity to see these guards up close and personal; for those who have never been to Greece, this is a small snippet of what they can experience when they do eventually go there” she added.

Watch them march below: