The Kastellorizian Association of Victoria (KAV) marked a historic milestone on Sunday, celebrating the 100th annual feast day of its patron saints, Sts Constantine and Helen, with a spirit of reverence, community, and cultural pride.
The day began with a solemn church service at the Greek Orthodox Church of Sts Constantine and Helen in South Yarra, followed by a vibrant and well-attended luncheon held in the church hall.
In her welcome address, KAV Vice President Phillippa Adgemis offered a heartfelt overview of the Association’s century-long devotion to its patron saints and the deep spiritual and historical ties between Saint Helen and the island of Kastellorizo. According to long-standing tradition, Saint Helen visited the island during her return from the Holy Land after discovering the Holy Cross, taking refuge in its harbour and commissioning the building of a church in gratitude. Today, the Cathedral of Saints Constantine and Helen in Kastellorizo stands in her honour.
Guests at the luncheon were treated to two special centenary performances, organised with meticulous care by Maria Georgoulas.
The first was by the newly formed KAV Centenary Choir, directed by Elizabeth Exintaris and managed by Chrysanthi Koutsoukis. The choir moved attendees with their renditions of traditional Kastellorizian and Hellenic songs, celebrating the musical soul of the diaspora.
The second highlight was a heartwarming performance by the Kazzie Kids’ dancing group. The children, who have been attending cultural dance classes led by Adgemis and supported by Tammy Odontiadis, Vivienne Mihalos, Kathleen Grosso, and Christine Mastores, impressed the audience with their grace, joy, and evident pride in their heritage.
The event also featured an array of KAV memorabilia, which proved popular among guests. Calendars, keychains, aromatic candles, and tea towels—including one printed with a traditional recipe for Kastellorizian Bride’s Halva—were in high demand.
As part of its Centenary Year celebrations, the KAV has announced a series of upcoming events throughout 2025:
31 August: Kastellorizian Historical & Cultural Exhibition at KAV Clubrooms, followed by afternoon tea and traditional sweets
7–21 September: Centenary Tour of Kastellorizo, led by Anastasis Kokkinos and organised by Luxe Sailing
18 September: Seminar as part of the Greek History & Culture Series, with Florence Livery presenting “Stardust: The Golden Years of the Castellorizian Ladies Society”
11 October: Centenary Gala Ball at Park Hyatt Melbourne (Tickets available from June)
10–12 October: Full weekend of events for interstate and local guests (event details to be announced)
November: Street Naming Party (TBC)
23 November: Family Christmas Party at Phoenix Park
