The future of Merri-Bek’s long-standing Sister City relationship with Sparta, Greece is in jeopardy, with councillors set to vote on a recommendation to end the partnership at this Wednesday’s council meeting on 9 April 2025.
Cr Katerine Theodosis has called on her fellow councillors to reject the proposal and preserve the historic connection, highlighting the significance of the relationship to the local Greek Australian community.
“Merri-Bek has been a Sister City of Sparta for nearly 40 years and is home to a proud and thriving Greek community,” Theodosis said.
“Whilst our city has changed a lot over the years, the presence and contributions of our Greek Australian community remain strong. Ending this partnership would jeopardise important cultural, economic and historical ties between our two proud communities.”
The Council’s review of its Sister City affiliations led officers to recommend discontinuing the relationship, despite Merri-Bek being home to thousands of Greek migrants and the symbolic “Sparta Place” located off Sydney Road in Brunswick.
Community leaders, including President of the Pallaconian Brotherhood Chris Paikopoulos, have voiced strong opposition to the recommendation.
“The relationship between our cities arose from Australian Diggers who, after being protected by Spartans during WWII, sponsored Spartans to move to Australia and make Melbourne their home,” Paikopoulos said.
“It costs council zero to have this relationship, but to us as Greek Australians it means a lot. It allows us to host a range of events and activities for Greek Australians and the broader community here in Merri-Bek.”
Supporters of the Sister City program argue that such partnerships are more than symbolic. They support cultural programs, international events and exchanges, and help maintain Merri-Bek’s status as a culturally rich and globally connected municipality.
The final decision will be made at Merri-Bek Council’s upcoming meeting.
