The Pan-Macedonian Association of NSW is set to explore the proud culture of its region over the next few months through a series of events as part of this year’s Dimitria Festival.
The festival will feature a number of initiatives across NSW celebrating Macedonian culture, with it having officially kicked off last Sunday with a cocktail party at Ramsgate RSL Club.
The event was attended by various political representatives and member of Greek Australian organisations, with Melbourne-based lawyer and writer Konstantinos Kalymnos delivering a keynote speech.
The event also included traditional Macedonian dance performance from the Aristotelion Academy of Greek Traditional Dance under the direction of Takis and Stavroula Papapetrou.
Anastasia Karakominakis, President of the Pan-Macedonian Association of NSW, praised the opening event as a great success and a “remarkable start to this year’s Dimitria Festival”.
“Sunday night was a testament to the strength of our bonds and the commitment we all share in preserving and promoting our culture,” Karakominakis told Neos Kosmos.
The association’s President stressed that it was just the beginning of a packed program of initiatives planned.
“This year’s Dimitria Festival offers a wide range of events showcasing Macedonian heritage and its connection with the broader Greek culture,” she said.
“Attendees can look forward to lectures, cultural performances, and much more. There will also be activities aimed at engaging younger generations, helping them connect with their cultural roots while celebrating the rich history shared between Macedonia and Australia.”
Karakominakis added that there is considerable diversity and inclusivity in this year’s program, crafting events to cater to all generations.
“I am particularly excited about the fusion of traditional and modern elements, including performances and presentations that bridge the gap between the past and present. This reflects how our culture is evolving while staying true to its roots,” she said.
The association’s President expressed the significance in holding the festival, which plays a primary role in maintaining and promoting their cultural identity and ensuring it is shared with the broader Australian society.
“The Dimitria Festival is not just a celebration of Macedonian culture but also a testament to the long-standing relationship between Greece and Australia. It symbolises the shared history, values, and aspirations of our community,” she said.
“We are proud to continue this tradition, honouring the sacrifices of those who came before us and ensuring that future generations carry our heritage forward.”
The events will continue over the next two months up until 1 December, with further information on all events to be shared on the Pan-Macedonian Association of NSW’s Facebook page.
Program of confirmed events:
- Saturday 5 October at night – 60 Year Celebrating Panagia Soumela Concert at Orion Centre – 155 Beamish Street, Campsie. Event by the Pontian Society of Sydney “Panagia Soumela”.
- Sunday 20 October, 1pm – Edessa Association Taverna at Panagia Soumela Hall – 604 New Canterbury Road, Hurlstone Park. Event by the Philantropic Association of Nomos Pellas “Edessa”.
- Saturday 26 October at 7pm – Pontoxeniteas Annual Dinner Dance at the Greek Community Club – 206 Lakemba Street, Lakemba. Event by the Pontian Association of NSW “Pontoxeniteas”
- Sunday 27 October at 9am – St Demetrios Litany at Kogarah Greek Orthodox Church. Event by the Pan-Macedonian Association of NSW.
- Saturday 23 November at night – Pan-Macedonian Federation of Australia Dance in Brisbane. Event is by the Pan-Macedonian Federation of Australia
- Sunday 1 December at 12.30pm – Annual Chalkidiki Christmas BBQ Picnic at Carss Park Life Saving Hall Courtyard. Event by the Brotherhood of Chalkidiki “Aristoteles” of NSW.
