Students from the Greek Ethnic School of Saint Anna on the Gold Coast paid tribute to Greece’s wartime history through poetry, traditional dance and art during an OXI Day commemoration on Wednesday, October 21.
Held at the Hellenic Function Centre, the event brought together students, families and members of the Greek community to commemorate the historic events of October 28, 1940, when Greece rejected an ultimatum from Fascist Italy, and to honour the 85th anniversary of the Battle of Crete.
Students presented traditional Greek poetry reflecting on the courage and sacrifice of the Greek people during the Second World War, while older students paid particular tribute to those who fought in the Battle of Crete in 1941.
The commemorations also featured performances by the Saint Anna Junior, Intermediate and Senior Dance Groups, under the guidance of teachers Jen Sakley and Anastasia Dakin.
Dressed in traditional costume, the students performed Cretan dances celebrating the island’s cultural heritage and the resilience of its people. The performances concluded with a traditional syrtaki accompanied by music from the late Greek singer Marinella, in a tribute to her memory.
Among the special guests was 93-year-old Miron Katsanevas, who was just eight years old when the Battle of Crete took place in 1941.
Mr Katsanevas, who lived on Crete during the battle, attended alongside his son, Anthony Katsanevas, President of the Cretan Association of Queensland.
His presence brought a deeply personal connection to the history being commemorated, bridging the experiences of a generation that witnessed the war with young Greek Australians learning about their heritage.
Mr Katsanevas was particularly moved by artwork created by the students to mark the battle’s 85th anniversary.
The moment highlighted the importance of preserving firsthand memories of Greece’s wartime experiences and ensuring they continue to be shared with future generations.
Guests were welcomed by Saint Anna Parish-Community Committee President Sandra Voukelatos and Greek School Principal Maria Stavrinos.
Through poetry, dance and creative expression, the commemoration offered students an opportunity to connect with their Greek identity while honouring the courage, sacrifice and enduring legacy of those who defended Greece during the Second World War.
