Hundreds of Greeks from across Adelaide gathered at the Cathedral of Archangels Michael and Gabriel on Sunday to honour the 203rd anniversary of the beginning of the Greek War of Independence against the Ottoman Empire.
The commemoration event, which occurs annually and coincides with the Feast of the Annunciation, commenced with the Great Doxology. Following the liturgy, a memorial service and wreath-laying ceremony were held at the Cathedral’s courtyard.
For the first time in recent years, the festivities continued at Olympic Hall, where the Official Opening took place and speeches were given by GOCSA President Peter Gardiakos and esteemed guests Michael Brown MP Member for Florey representing the Premier of South Australia, Peter Malinauskas MP and Lord Mayor of the City of Adelaide, Dr Jane Lomax Smith AM.
In his welcome speech, GOCSA President Peter Gardiakos said that March 25 is an opportunity to honour those “who fought for freedom” and a “celebration steeped in the values of democracy”.
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All photos: Supplied
All photos: Supplied
All photos: Supplied
All photos: Supplied
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All photos: Supplied
All photos: Supplied
All photos: Supplied
“Democracy remains a cherished principle, guiding our journey for a brighter tomorrow. The ideals of freedom, equality, and justice, ingrained in our collective consciousness, continue to shape our identity and aspirations,” Gardiakos said.
Michael Brown MP, Member for Florey, spoke about Greek influence in the state since the early 1900s and highlighted GOCSA’s contribution to promoting multiculturalism and intercultural understanding.
“The State Government is proud to support your organization’s work,” Mr Brown said.
Addressing the attendees, Lord Mayor of the City of Adelaide, Dr Jane Lomax Smith AM, reminisced about 40 years ago when she moved into the city and “the Hellenic diaspora was everywhere,” and said that, “just as the City of Adelaide is beginning to talk to the City of Athens about becoming sister Cities, because we are after all the Athens of the South, we invite you to come and enjoy the city”.
“Adelaide is a Greek city. It’s been built and shaped by the diaspora,” she said.
The event continued with songs and reciting of poems by GOCSA’s Greek Language School students, followed by a light lunch and traditional dance performances from the GOCSA Dance Academy.
Attending the event were also the Chief Justice of South Australia the Chris Kourakis, Councillor George Demetriou on behalf of the city of West Torrens; Councillor Stephen Finos on behalf of the City of Unley; Mr Minas Lucas, Vice President of the Cyprus Community of South Australia and a number of representatives from Greek associations, communities, and organisations.
Wreaths were also laid by Trian Gonis on behalf of Federal Member for Adelaide Steve Georganas MP, by Alex Zenios on behalf of Frank Pangallo MLC, and by GOCSA Assistant Secretary Chloe Kourakis on behalf of City of Adelaide Councillor Mary Couros.
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