On Friday, June 16, 2023, one of the Greek community’s most distinguished philanthropists, Genovefa Goulas, passed away at the age of 88. Genovefa Goulas was an eminent figure who formed deep connections with the community and was renowned for her charity work. Her generosity, dedication, and selfless spirit contributed to the development of a more compassionate world.
The Journey to Australia, married life, and the Conway Fish Trading business
In January 1935 Genovefa was born in Apsalos, a village in Pella, Greece
She grew up as the family’s fourth child, alongside her siblings George, Alex, Antigone, John, and Anastasia, and completed her studies at Thessaloniki Business College.
In 1957, at the age of 22, young Genovefa arrived in Australia aboard the Italian ship “Toscana.”
Upon her arrival, she worked at “Olympia” restaurant in Footscray, along with her siblings.
In 1960, fate brought Genovefa and Con together at Evangelismos Church in East Melbourne.
The profound connection the two shared during their first date in Williamstown, paved the way for a lifelong journey, which soon led to their engagement.
Their love story reached a milestone in 1961 when they exchanged vows at Agios Nikolaos Church in Yarraville, in the presence of Father Andonis Amanatidis.
In 1963, Genovefa became a mother, as she gave birth to her son Dimitrios, who even made headlines in the Herald Sun for his unusually large size as a baby.
Two years later, Genovefa’s dream of welcoming a daughter came true with the arrival of Yvonne.
In 1969, Con and Genovefa purchased a milk bar on Wingfield Street, starting a wholesale fish business, later known as Conway Fish Trading.
With the combined efforts of all family members, the business thrived and flourished over time.
Genovefa’s kind and friendly nature, particularly in her role of managing telephone service and order reception for the business, earned her continuous praise from the customers who were predominantly Greek.
Charity work
Genovefa was known for her generous spirit and widely recognised for her contributions to the services of the Greek Archdiocese of Australia.
Her acts of philanthropy and charity work with Yooralla, and Guide Dogs Australia, as well Meals on Wheels campaign – where she helped deliver food those in need – established her as an example of communy giving and dedication.
Genovefa played a pivotal role as the “right hand” of Bishop K. Ezekiel. For more than two decades, she served as the Vice President of the Victorian Philoptocho, a position that enabled her to provide substantial support to all the churches in the region.
One of her most significant achievements was her role in the establishment of Panagia Soumela Greek Orthodox Church in East Keilor.
Genovefa’s active involvement in organising events, such as dinner dances and church fetes, were instrumental in raising funds, and crucial in financing and constructing the church in East Keilor to this day.
In 2008, Genovefa and Con’s contributions towards the establishment of the Church were honoured with a prestigious award from the Archbishop of Australia.
Memories from the family
Her family members have fond memories of Genovefa, whose calming presence had a remarkable ability to create an atmosphere of peace within the family.
Her elegance, style,were notable, as she carried herself with grace in social settings. Although she treated everyone as her own family, sharing her love and warmth selflessly, she held a special place in her heart for the brightest stars in her life – her grandchildren.
A cherished memory is that of her grandson Kostas and the time they spent together in Greece. During their trip Kosta’s grandmother refused to speak to him in English, pushing him to practice and develop his abilities in Greek language- a skill he continues to carry with him to this day.
Nikolas treasures the memory of his grandmother’s presence at his local footy matches.
Despite her limited understanding of the rules of footy she was always be there cheering him on and showering him with comments about his football abilities.
Her grandson Alex completes this “puzzle of memories” as he recalls her phone calls at all hours of the day. Whether it was early morning or late at night, she would reach out to him, requesting that he turn on the television and adjust the heating.
As the family looks back on these memories, they carry with them a sense of gratitude for the love Genovefa brought into their lives, reminding them of the values of love, care, and support for family and community.
