The Hellenic Writers’ Association of Australia, in collaboration with the Greek Consulate of Melbourne, contributed to the celebrations of Lord Byron 200 years on from his passing with a special commemorative event.
The event took place on Saturday 19 October at the Consulate’s Event Hall as it honoured the famous philhellene and poet, whom famously played a major role in the Greek Revolution and in garnering worldwide attention to the Greeks’ struggle for independence.
Emmanouil Kakavelakis, the Greek Consul General in Melbourne, and Roma Siachos, President of the Hellenic Writers’ Association of Australia, officially welcomed the event, each stressing the importance of Lord Byron’s contributions to the Greek cause and his vital role in the philhellenic movement.
The keynote speakers, Dr Spyridoula Dimitriou and Vicky Petala, elaborated on the works, legacy, and significant aspects of Lord Byron’s life and involvement in Greek Revolution.
The event was hosted by Anthi Tzani and featured musical performances by artists Evangelia Baksa, Stavroula Thomopoulos, and Odysseas Krypotos, with Evangelos Plokamakis serving as coordinator of the evening.
Concluding on an emotional note, the event reaffirmed the enduring connection between freedom, independence, and the contemporary Greek experience.
There were numerous attendees present, among which were former minister Jenny Mikakos, the President of the New Democracy branch in Australia, Arthur Tsouchantaris, and the President of the Greek Community of Melbourne, Bill Papastergiadis.
