South Melbourne FC has unveiled the Eras of Hellas mural at Lakeside Stadium, a tribute to players who have defined the club’s 65-year history.
The mural, launched on Saturday inside the Social Club, was designed and produced by Kosta Drossos in collaboration with Kou Media and the cultural association Yitonia.
It features key figures from each of the football club’s eras: John Bedford and John Margaritis from the 1960s, Jimmy Armstrong from the 1970s, Steve Blair from the 1980s, Paul Trimboli and now-global coach Ange Postecoglou from the 1990s, Fernando De Moraes in the 2000s, Brad Norton from the 2010s, and from the women’s game, Natalie Martineau and Alex Cheal.
The event was hosted by Neal Symons and Head of Football Peter Kokotis, with club legends, family members and supporters in attendance.
“South Melbourne FC has always been more than just a football club. It is a family, a community, and a home for generations of players, coaches, and supporters,” said Hellas’s president Nicholas Maikousis.
“This mural captures the spirit of Hellas with loyalty, leadership, and excellence, and pays tribute to those who helped build our story. We are proud to honour these legends and inspire the next generation at Lakeside Stadium.”
Head of Brand and Operations, George Kouroumalis was effusive and said, “The mural celebrates the achievements of our greats and reminds everyone who walks into our Social Club of the responsibility and pride that comes with wearing the South Melbourne shirt.”
Football Director Peter Kokotis, said that, “Every name on this mural represents a chapter in the South Melbourne story.
“The mural is a pantheon of great leaders who defined their eras and whose impact will never be forgotten.”
Kokotis said that the mural is an “iconic map of our club’s history” which will “ensure every generation from now on, will never forget those who were intrinsic to making this a great club”.
Hellas’s Director Tony Margaritis said the mural was “about capturing our history and ensuring it lives visually within our club. The mural is something all South people and members can be proud of.”
Acknowledgement was given to club historians John Kyrou and Paul Mavroudis for their research, and to Margaritis for his support in realising the project.
The club has also introduced a trophy wall and a historical overview along the Social Club ramp, providing a record of its achievements.
For the blue-and-white faithful, the Eras of Hellas mural now stands as a permanent reminder of the players who shaped South Melbourne FC and its place in Australian football.
