The book ‘Cretan Pioneers of Australia’ by Socrates Tsourdalakis which uncovers the remarkable journey of Cretan immigrants who arrived on Australian shores as early as 1829 will be launched on Sunday June 25.
The Cretan Federation of Australia & New Zealand will present the historian’s book at the Sports & Art Complex of St. Johns Greek Orthodox College in Preston.
Australia’s Archbishop Makarios will present the book alongside other esteemed dignitaries. A tribute video and personal stories of descendants will also be delivered.
The carefully researched book sheds light on the courage and resilience of those early settlers, spanning from the 1800s to the 1950s before the post-war migration era, earning them the rightful title of pioneers.
Having immigrated to Australia himself in 1965, Socrates Tsourdalakis had the privilege of meeting several of these pioneers of the Greek community and embarked on recording their memories and testimonies, describing the Greek migrant experience to Australia at the time.
Little did he know that his research would uncover Hellenes of Cretan descent who not only integrated into Australian society but have continued to thrive for seven generations.
The first chapter of the book provides a detailed account of these early Cretan immigrants, including their arrival, marriages, occupations, community involvement, and captivating photographs.
The second chapter delves into the descendants of these pioneers, who bravely served in the Australian Armed Forces across various conflicts, from World War I to the present day, as showcased in the book.
Subsequent chapters highlight the contributions of Cretan descendants who played key roles in establishing the Greek Orthodox Community of Melbourne & Victoria in 1897.
Many of the individuals served on the boards, and the book further profiles clergy of Cretan background who arrived as migrants and continue to serve actively in the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese.
The final chapter pays tribute to over 15,000 Cretans who arrived on Australian shores as migrants, a significant portion of whom have never been documented in the diaspora.
This chapter includes vital statistics for those interested in this field of research. Socrates believes he has captured at least eighty percent of the Cretan presence in the Oceania region.
Refreshments and finger food will be served following the event.
When: Sunday, June 25, at 3pm
Where: Sports & Art Complex of St. Johns Greek Orthodox College, 1 Blanch Street, Preston
For further information, please contact president@cretan.com.au
