Shortly after sunrise on March 22, a service and doxology was held in honor of Greek Independence Day within the walls of Melbourne’s St Eustathios Greek Orthodox Church.
From the quiet burning of candles to symbolic hymns, the church doors remained open as the greater community joined in prayer and reflection for the sacred occasion.
Recognised as both Greek National Day, and a significant religious event celebrating the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary, the 25th of March embodies many meanings.
This year, the commemorative events leading up to the day also help to mark the 205th anniversary of the Greek War of Independence against Ottoman rule, where the words of a revolutionary figure continue to echo after centuries.
“Kαλύτερα μιας ώρας ελεύθερη ζωή, παρά σαράντα χρόνια, σκλαβιά και φυλακή”
(Better one hour of free life than forty years of slavery and prison) – Rigas Feraios
Wreath laying Ceremony and Commemoration march
His Eminence Archbishop Makarios laying a wreath before the Eternal Flame. Photo credit Christine Filippidis.
At 12.30pm, about a five minute drive from the church, a wreath laying ceremony and memorial service was held before the Eternal Flame in the Second World War Forecourt of the Shrine of Remembrance, paying tribute to service men and women.
Officials in attendance included His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia, Greek Ambassador to Australia, Stavros Venizelos, Consul General of Greece, Dimitra Georgantzoglou, Victorian Minister, Steve Dimopoulos, as well as many Sate MPs, and President of The Greek Community of Melbourne, Bill Papastergiadis.
On behalf of all honourable dignitaries present, Makarios expressed his gratitude while highlighting the significance of the universal values of “democracy, justice, and multiculturalism” in maintaining the Greek Australian alliance.
“(Your presence) is a testament to your enduring friendship between Greece and Australia … the story of Greek independence is not just a chapter in history, it is a living lesson for all nations,” he stated.
Service held in St Eustathios Greek Orthodox Church, South Melbourne. Photo Credit Christine Filippidis.
He also highlighted the profound connection between faith and the pursuit of freedom.
“This is something that should never be forgotten – without spiritual freedom, there is no freedom at all.”
As voices grew louder with passionate reflection, the anticipation of another Independence Day march drew closer.
Victorian Council for Greek National Day Chair, Sophia Siachos emphasised the magnitude of inextinguishable “sacrifice” and “unyielding belief” on Greek legacy.
“The flame that burns here recalls the one lit in 1821, where the people, long denied their liberty, rose with courage and faith to claim their right to self-determination. That fire was sustained by sacrifice, by an unyielding belief in justice, and by a conviction that human dignity cannot be extinguished,” she said.
Victorian Council for Greek National Day Chair, Sophia Siachos laying a wreath before the Eternal Flame. An Australian Army officer standing resolute nearby. Photo Credit Christine Filippidis.
Representing the Premier of Victoria, Jacinta Allen, Steve Dimopoulos MP also shared that “in recognition of the greatest gifts that Greece has given us and the world,” The Victorian Government will officially be renaming a site near Parliament House “Democracy Place.”
In between the speeches and Hope Zorbas’ captivating performances of both Greek and Australian national anthems, the calls of “Ζήτω η Ελλάς” … “Ζήτω” echoed alongside Australian Army salutes as the growing crowds prepared for the annual parade nearby.
Thousands lined Birdwood Avenue in support of their family and friends, while the beating of drums set a defining rhythm.
Agapi Care Inc marching strong. Photo credit Christine Filippidis.
Greek Community schools, cultural groups, and care, veteran, and youth organizations were among those marching, braving the rising temperatures
to ensure a large-scale display of pride and unity for all.
From quiet prayer, to marching remembrance, the Greek diaspora’s dedication to preserving this honourable celebration continues to strengthen.
The sequence of Greek Independence Day events will culminate in a final commemorative gathering at Federation square on March 25, just after midnight, where the Greek flag will be raised as buildings illuminate in white and blue.
Representing schools preparing to march in honor of Greek Independence Day. Photo credit Christine Filippidis.
