Legacy of Commitment
With a legacy of commitment since its establishment in 1930, the Greek Orthodox Community of South Australia (GOCSA) has been a pivotal organisation that serves the multifaceted needs of the Greek Australian community.
As a not-for-profit entity, GOCSA’s commitment to cultural preservation and community service spans decades, and its comprehensive programs and services significantly impact and enrich numerous lives.
Educational endeavours
Greek Language Schools
GOCSA’s Greek Language Schools stand out for their comprehensive curriculum and immersive cultural activities. With classes catering to various proficiency levels, these schools provide a unique opportunity to learn the Greek language and culture. Currently, 196 primary and secondary students and 61 adults are benefiting from these programs.
In memory of the late President Bill Gonis OAM, the Gonis Gardiakos Scholarship supports Year 6 and Year 7 students by covering their fees for five years to encourage continued learning. For more information, contact Community Language Schools Coordinator Himo Tsakalos at himot@gocsa.org.au.
Class Schedules:
- Primary School Students
– Allenby Gardens PS: Monday 4.00-6.00 pm
– Unley Primary School: Monday 4.00-6.00 pm
– St John Bosco School: Tuesday 3.30-5.30 pm
– Clapham Primary School: Tuesday 3.45-5.45 pm
– Lockleys North Primary School: Wednesday 3.45-5.45 pm
– Rose Park Primary School: Thursday 3.45-5.45 pm
– Vale Park Primary School: Friday 3.30-5.30 pm
– Sturt Street Community School: Saturday 9.00 am-12.00 pm
– Torrensville Primary School: Friday 3.30-5.30 pm
- Secondary School Students:
– Adelaide High School: Saturday 9.00 am-12.00 pm
Adult Classes:
– Beginners: Thursday 6.30-8.00 pm, Olympic Hall
– Intermediate: Wednesday 6.30-8.00 pm, Olympic Hall
– Advanced: Tuesday 6.30-8.00 pm, Olympic Hall
- Contact Information:
-Himo Tsakalos: (08) 8118 2014 | himot@gocsa.org.au
GOCSA Schools https://gocsa.org.au/schools
- Cultural preservation
GOCSA Dance Academy
Founded in 1980, the GOCSA Dance Academy is a unique platform that offers free classes to students aged 5 to 45, fostering the preservation of Greek dance traditions. The academy’s students learn dances from various Greek regions and perform in authentic costumes at events nationwide.
Class Schedules:
– Junior + Intermediate Groups: Saturday 1.00 – 4.00 pm
– Senior Group: Monday 7.30 – 9.00 pm
Contact Information:
Hellas Lucas: 0407 617 967
Yiannis Oikonomou: 0401 094 312
Youth engagement – Neoléa
Neoléa fosters connections among young Greek Australians, promoting cultural heritage and community engagement. It organises artistic workshops, participates in multicultural festivals, and collaborates with Greek organisations.
Contact Information: Anastasia Mavrides: 0407 617 967
Arts & culture
Annual Hellenic Cultural Festival Odyssey
The Annual Hellenic Cultural Festival Odyssey, held from October 4 to November 9, is a vibrant celebration of Greek arts and culture. The festival features the Odyssey Art Prize, the Greek Film Festival, lectures, dance, live music, cooking workshops, and a surprise closing event, offering a diverse range of activities for all.
Community Services
- Community Churches
GOCSA operates five churches, including the heritage-listed Cathedral of Archangels Michael and Gabriel. These churches, supported by the Ladies Philoptochos, serve the spiritual needs of South Australia’s Greek community.
Church Locations:
Cathedral of Archangels Michael and Gabriel: 286 Franklin St Adelaide SA | (08) 8231 6463
Koimisis Tis Theotokou: 1a William St Croydon SA | (08) 8340 2676
St Nicholas: 65 George St Thebarton SA | (08) 8231 4307
Saints Constantine & Helen: 101 Goodwood Rd Goodwood SA | (08) 8271 2387
Saints Cosmas & Damian Chapel: Ridleyton Greek Home for the Aged
Aged Care
Ridleyton Greek Home for the Aged (RGHA)
RGHA provides holistic care, ensuring the well-being of seniors in a culturally appropriate environment. The home offers personalised care plans and fosters a vibrant community atmosphere.
Contact Information:
– Address: 89 Hawker St, Ridleyton SA 5008
– Phone: (08) 8340 1155
Home Care Package (HCP)
The HCP provides in-home support for older individuals, promoting independence and cultural sensitivity.
Contact Information:
– Lika Izzo: (08) 7088 0505, 0403 250 295
– Eleni Charalambous: (08) 7088 0501, 0404 503 437
Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP)
GOCSA’s CHSP offers various services for individuals 65 and over, including social support groups, individual support, in-home support, and transport.
Contact Information:
– John Ioannou: (08) 7088 0505 | johni@gocsacommunitycare.com.au
– Areti Koufopoulou: (08) 7088 0505 | areti@gocsacommunitycare.com.au
