The Aged Care Facility of the Greek Orthodox Community of New South Wales welcomed the Consul General of Greece in Sydney, Ioannis Mallikourtis, along with key donors of the institution, on Saturday. The visit highlighted the facility’s high standard of care and exceptional organisation.
During a guided tour of the premises, guests had the opportunity to engage with staff and residents, learn more about the services provided, and witness firsthand the dedication and professionalism that define the day-to-day operations. A special emphasis was placed on rooms and spaces dedicated to donors and supporters of the Community, acknowledging their invaluable contributions.
Among the distinguished donors honoured during the visit were:
- Bill and Kathleen Drakopoulos
- Danny and Peter Delimitrios (Pinnacle Cleaning)
- John and Katherine Assarapin
- The Tsilimos family – in memory of Michalis Tsilimos
- Nia Karteris – in memory of Lampros Karteris
The visit was also attended by the NSW Minister for Industrial Relations and Work Health & Safety and local MP, Sophie Cotsis, who praised the ongoing efforts of the staff and the outstanding care provided by the facility. She made special mention of the recent national recognition of the Aged Care Home for achieving the highest resident satisfaction rating in food services.
President of the Greek Orthodox Community of NSW, Harry Danalis, warmly thanked all attendees for their continued presence and support, stating:
“Without the contribution of the Greek community, the operation of such a facility would be extremely difficult. This support is both invaluable and absolutely essential.”
Visibly impressed by the cleanliness and organisation of the facility, Mallikourtis expressed his satisfaction with his first comprehensive visit inside the Home’s premises, noting:
“There is a sense of Greece in every corner. It is deeply moving to witness the love and care offered to our elderly, who are the backbone of our community.”
The Consul General also praised the generosity of donors and the significance of such initiatives in maintaining the cohesion and identity of the Greek diaspora:
“Acts of giving like these remind us of the power of unity. Donations are not just about preserving language and culture, they also extend to the meaningful care of our people.”
Donor Bill Drakopoulos shared his heartfelt appreciation, saying:
“It brings me deep satisfaction that, as a community, we can give back to those who cared for us in our youth. This is a true expression of culture.”
He explained that this sense of contribution was instilled in him by his parents, a value he hopes to keep alive through future generations of his family.
During the tour, visitors paused at a room dedicated to the memory of the late Michalis Tsilimos, a prominent community figure who dedicated his life to service and the advancement of the Greek Australian diaspora.
“It is an honour for our family to see our father remembered in this way,” his son, Stavros Tsilimos, said. “His commitment went beyond the Aged Care Home, it extended to the entire Greek community.”
He also highlighted the need for ongoing support.
“A facility like this cannot rely solely on its staff and Board. It needs the active involvement of all of us, relatives, friends, and community members. Our elders deserve comfort, dignity, and joyful moments in their final years. It is our duty to give back for all they have given us.”
