The Greek Community of Box Hill and Districts couldn’t have asked for a better turnout, or weather for that matter, on Sunday at its inaugural Greek Festival, a celebration of the community’s 50 year anniversary.

Established in 1968, it is one of longest running Greek Orthodox communities in the Eastern suburbs, so the event was understandably full of emotion, pride, and optimism for the future.

The event kicked off with official speeches presented by committee member and local architect Peter Darmos, the first speaker off the rank Consul General of Greece in Melbourne, Dimitris Michalopoulos. He acknowledged the community’s success throughout the past five decades across a number of fields, and expressed his wish that it continue to flourish over the next 50 years.

Local parish priest, Dionysios Rallis spoke of the important role played by the Holy Cross Orthodox Church, and said he believes both the church and community will continue on their good work within the Greek community for years to come.

Also present on the day were local member Robert Clark, Member for the Eastern Metropolitan Region, Bruce Atkinson, and Member for the Northern Metropolitan Region, Jenny Mikakos.

They spoke of the significance of the community’s 50 year milestone, and the great work its members have carried out with regards to religion, education and culture, along with their charity work and services for the elderly.

Meanwhile in the lead up to the state election, Ms Mikakos announced that under a re-elected Labor government, that the Box Hill Greek Festival would be subsidised with $10,000 in 2019.

Official guests in attendance for the milestone celebration.

Finally the community’s President, George Stoupas gave an emotionally charged speech during which he spoke of the significant work carried out by the community, and thanked everyone for their contribution.

The Greek Festival was on from 12 noon until the evening, and the sun kept shining throughout. Attendees indulged in Greek food favourites, and were kept entertained with impressive performances by the Manasis dancers and Rythmos band.