In a surprising development, President of the Greek Orthodox Community of South Australia (GOCSA), Peter Gardiakos, has announced he will not seek re-election in the upcoming Board of Directors election on 11 January.
The race now features 36 candidates, and sources reveal that Peter Gonis, a key adviser to SA Premier Peter Malinauskas, is poised to contest the presidency. Gonis is expected to lead the faction formerly headed by Gardiakos.
Gardiakos, emphasised his continued dedication to GOCSA in a statement to members which was posted on the GOCSA site, socials and sent to media.
“Thank you all for your unwavering support during the period I served the Community from the Board,” he said.
He expressed gratitude to members, volunteers, sponsors, and staff for their contributions.
“It is this support that has allowed me to foster a culture of collaboration and assemble a dedicated team that has become the driving force behind our historic organisation.”
Despite his efforts, Gardiakos was unable to secure the 75 per cent majority needed to pass a motion for reconciliation with the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia at a pivotal meeting last October.
The schism between secular run Greek communities and the Church began in the early 1960s in South Australia, and then spread nationally. It began as Archbishop Ezekiel, sent from Chicago, sought to wrest control over properties and intervene in community affairs. However, by the 1990s secular Greek community organisations across the states reconciled with the church, SA held fast to the Schism..
Reflecting on the 61 per cent vote in favour of reunification at the October special meeting, Gardiakos told Neos Kosmos at the time; “With 61 per cent of people voting to join the Archdiocese, it was a very disappointing result for the majority of members.”
In his statement, Gardiakos revealed his decision followed a period of reflection over the holiday season.
“After careful consideration, I have decided not to run again for the upcoming elections,” he said. “I believe now is the right time for me to step aside and hand over to the next generation to build on the strong foundation we have established.”
GOCSA enters a new chapter, and the election promises to be a defining moment for the Community, with Gonis potentially bringing a younger and fresh dynamic to its leadership.
