Oakleigh Grammar held a Founders’ Assembly in commemoration of the School’s 40th anniversary on August 18.
The school was established by the Greek Orthodox Community of Oakleigh and District, now in its 60th year.
Among the attendees were founding member and Honorary Principal Constantine Papadopoulos, Honorary Presidents Constantine Baltas and Angelos Sardellis, Former Principals Elpiniki Pavlou, Angelos (Ivan) Papadopoulos, Steve Charisis, and Patrick Power, along with current Board Members, Principal Mark Robertson, and the guest speaker David Davis MP, Member of the Legislative Council (Vic) for South-Eastern Metropolitan, Shadow Special Minister of State, and Shadow Minister for the Arts and Creative Industries.
The assembly commenced with a spirited entrance by the Oakleigh Grammar drummers.
After an opening prayer by Oakleigh Grammar Chaplain Father Stavros, Mr Davis delivered an address to the students, urging them to “nurture Greek heritage, preserve the language, and uphold traditions”.
He commended the School for its remarkable recognition of this pivotal moment in its history.
Current Principal Mark Robertson went on to address the audience, consisting of students from Prep to Year 12, teachers, support staff, and VIPs.
He expressed gratitude towards Founders Mr Rovolidis and Mr Zafiropolous, and Father Nicholas Moutafis, as well as the 1983 Committee of Management, who “dared to dream and transform it into reality”.
Mr Robertson acknowledged the presence of Presvetyra Moutafis and paid tribute to the memory of Father Moutafis and said his legacy encompassed faith, vision, and the belief in inherent greatness in every individual.
“…our most significant achievement lies in our culture of inclusivity, embracing all children as precious gifts from God – at the core, we represent the ‘true blue’ Australian multicultural School – right here at Oakleigh Grammar. We proudly maintain one of the highest levels of student happiness as assessed by ISV. On this momentous occasion, I extend my tribute to both past and present Board Members, staff, parents, political leaders, Greek community groups, alumni, and, of course, our students, who embody our future,” he said during his speech.
Finally, Oakleigh Grammar School Board Chairman Chris Damatopoulos delivered a heartfelt address, stating that “students remained central to every decision undertaken by the Board, continually inspiring each Board Member to contribute to the community”.
The audience went on to enjoy performances by the School Choir, a theatrical presentation, a video encapsulating the School’s history, a demonstration of Greek dance, and an energetic bouzouki performance by student Tony Pistikakis.
Following a tribute to long-serving staff members, Father Stavros concluded the event with a Benediction, after which staff, student leaders, and guests partook in a morning tea.
