President of the Federation of Greek Elderly Citizen Clubs of Melbourne & Victoria (FGECCMV), Soteris Mavrommatis has announced his intention to step down from the Presidency, citing serious family circumstances while also raising concerns about ongoing challenges within the organisation.
Speaking at a Special General Meeting on 2 October 2026, Mavrommatis said a close family member is facing a serious health issue and requires his time, presence and support.
He indicated that the election of a new President is expected to take place at the Federation’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 15 November 2026.
Reflecting on his term, Mavrommatis said he accepted the Presidency with the belief that the Greek community, particularly its elderly members, deserved meaningful representation, respect and a strong voice. He stressed that he took on the role to serve the community rather than for personal recognition or benefit.
He also acknowledged that his term had been marked by disagreements, complaints and difficulties in achieving the level of cooperation he believed was necessary for the effective operation of the Federation.
Mavrommatis expressed concern that continued conflict could distract the organisation from its primary purpose of serving the community and, particularly, its elderly members.
“I make my decision to step down with a clear conscience,” he told the meeting, adding that he believed he had served the organisation “to the best of my knowledge, ability and intentions.”
He described his decision as “an act of respect for the institution” and said that stepping aside, under the current circumstances, was an act of responsibility, dignity and respect.
Mavrommatis also made clear that his decision was not a change of principles.
“I am not stepping down because I have changed my principles, but because I do not want to lose my principles while trying to defend them in an environment of continuing conflict,” he said.
He expressed his hope that the Federation would move forward with unity, cooperation and a renewed focus on the people it was established to serve.
“I leave with respect for the institution, for its members and for the Greek community,” he said.
