Frankston North Rotary Club recognised the lifelong service of Tasoula Kipouropoulos, awarding her the prestigious Paul Harris Fellow distinction.
Club president Kostas Demopoulos presented the award, acknowledging her tireless commitment to community service and more than 20 years of leadership as President of the Senior Citizens Club of Frankston.
Kipouropoulos migrated to Australia from Greece in 1956 at just 18 years old. The following year she married her husband, Michael, and together they worked to build a new life amid the challenges of post-war migration, when racism and stereotypes were common.
“Yiayia is a remarkable example of service to others. She has kept Greek culture alive while bringing people together,” her granddaughter Kristen Kipouropoulos told Neos Kosmos.
“Purpose and building social connection is what has kept her young.”
Staying close to their community, the couple joined other Greek migrants on the Mornington Peninsula to establish a Greek Orthodox church and adjoining hall. This space became a cornerstone for culture, faith, and connection, and gave rise to what was first known as the Greek Senior Citizens Club of Frankston.
Building inclusivity across generations
Now renamed the Senior Citizens Club of Frankston, the organisation embraces members from across cultural backgrounds, including Greek, Armenian, Serbian and Filipino communities. At 86 years old, Kipouropoulos continues to lead with remarkable energy, coordinating a team of volunteers who prepare weekly lunches and activities for 40–50 seniors, as well as excursions and outings.
Her dedication has made the Club not just a meeting place, but a vibrant hub of inclusion and connection.
Community members describe Kipouropoulos as an inspiration whose leadership sustains cultural heritage while building unity among diverse groups. Her commitment, they say, demonstrates that purpose, passion and service can be as vital to longevity as any medicine.
