Greece’s Culture and Sports Minister Lina Mendoni paid a visit to the Greek Centre on Wednesday and was welcomed by members of the board the Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM).
GCM president Bill Papastergiadis led Dr Mendoni on a tour of the centre and told her of plans that included the renovation of the lobby and the imminent installation of replicas of the Parthenon frieze on the building’s balcony façade.
“Following two years of lockdown, now is the time to expand the links and projects that can tour between the two countries. Language and culture are the backbone of the GCM’s core activities and it is important to bring to Australia artists and academics from Greece. But it is very important to discuss further opportunities that could be explored by community groups in Australia and the Ministry of Culture.”
Mr Papastergiadis, was joined by GCM Vice-President Jim Bossinakis, Assistant Secretary Vicki Kyrtsis and board members Leo Vlahakis and Spiridoula Demetriou in thanking the minister and presenting her with a plaque to commemorate the visit. The Consul-General of Greece in Melbourne Emmanuel Kakavelakis also attended.
Dr Mendoni thanked the GCM and presented Mr Papastergiadis with a reproduction fragment of a marble votive relief of a seated Asklepios that is on display at the National Archaeological Museum.
“It is essential for all the Greeks around the world to be proud of their heritage and culture. We are looking forward to working closely with the Greek Community of Melbourne and I am hopeful we will announce very soon some very exciting projects,” Dr Mendoni.
After the visit to the Greek Centre Dr Mendoni was led on a short stroll through the historic Greek Precinct on Lonsdale Street before enjoying lunch at Tsindos Restaurant.
