The Hellenic Returned and Services League (RSL) Sub Branch in South Melbourne will honour Greek National Day, also known as OXI Day, on October 28, 2024. The anniversary commemorates Greece’s refusal to allow Axis troops to enter the country during World War II, marking the nation’s entrance into the war.
The celebrations will begin with a solemn Divine Liturgy at St. Eustathios Church, located at 221 Dorcas Street, South Melbourne, at 9.30am.
Following the service, participants will gather at the Hellenic Memorial at the corner of Birdwood and Anzac Avenue in Domain Gardens, Melbourne, for a wreath-laying ceremony at 12pm.
At 1pm, another wreath-laying ceremony will take place at the Shrine of Remembrance.
After these commemorative ceremonies, attendees will move to the Hellenic RSL Sub Branch Memorial Hall at 14A Ferrars Place, South Melbourne, to celebrate the occasion with a light meal.
Entry to the hall is free for members, while non-members are requested to contribute $10.
The event is organised by Emmanuel Karvelas, President, and Sotirios Kanellos, Secretary. The Hellenic RSL Sub Branch encourages all community members to join in honoring this significant day in Greek history.
In addition to the RSL events, the Gregorios Lodge will host an OXI Day commemoration ceremony on Sunday, October 27, 2024, from 4pm to 6pm at Freemasons Melbourne, located at Level 1, 288 Victoria Parade, East Melbourne. The ceremony is open to all, and attendees are encouraged to wear dark lounge suits or dinner attire, with refreshments provided at no cost.
On the same day, Olympia and Yitonia will celebrate OXI Day with an exciting event at Olympia in Oakleigh. From 1pm to 10pm, the rooftop will transform into a vibrant zeibekiko arena, featuring a curated Greek street food menu and a live band. Guests can enjoy traditional dance, including the famous White Napkin Twirling, for a fee of $20.
