St John’s College in Preston, Melbourne, joined the rest of the Greek community in celebrating OHI Day this past week. The College’s commemoration sought to reflect, as the statement said: “the friendship between Australia and Greece during the school week and over the weekend.”
The school began the commemoration with a month-long educational initiative in the classrooms. Students were taught the history and significance of OHI Day and about the Greek people during WWII – when they said a defiant “No” to the Axis forces.
Over the past weekend, students participated in several events that honoured the significance of OHI Day. A Flag Festival was held in Thomastown, where the vibrant Greek culture was displayed for all, and a Wreath Laying Ceremony at the Australian Hellenic Memorial and Shrine of Remembrance highlighted the weekend.
It was there that students showed their respect and gratitude for the sacrifice of Greek and Australian soldiers during the war. The Australian Hellenic Memorial Foundation also held a state-wide competition for students, where they got to showcase their knowledge. Those from St John’s achieved distinctions in multiple categories, with the following recognised for their contribution to preserving and promoting the Australian and Greek bond.
Encouragement award:
Antonie G (Year 2)
Serafim A (Year 4)
Christos S (Year 6)
William K (Year 7)
Konstantina S (Year 8)
Athanasios V (Year 9)
Jaskaran S (Year 10)
Meanwhile, Stavroula P (Year 10) finished third place, and Adam S (Year 10) came second.
