On November 11, 2024, in Sydney, Australia, the Cretan Association of Sydney and New South Wales hosted a poignant commemoration of the 158th anniversary of the Arkadi Monastery Holocaust and a vibrant celebration of the association’s 65th anniversary. The event, held on Saturday night, showcased the enduring spirit of the Cretan community, their dedication to preserving their heritage, and their deep respect for the sacrifices made for Cretan freedom.
In a night filled with reverence for Hellenic heritage and community, Ms. Chara Vamianaki opened the evening with a warm welcome, acknowledging the distinguished guests whose presence underscored the event’s significance. The gathering was attended by prominent figures from both Greek and Australian communities, reflecting a shared commitment to cultural preservation and diplomatic relations.
Among the guests was His Grace, Bishop Christodoulos of Magnesia, representing His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia and the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia. His Grace’s presence symbolized the deep cultural and spiritual connections shared between the Greek Orthodox community and the broader Australian society. The Hon. Sophie Cotsis, MP, NSW Minister for Industrial Relations and Minister for Work Health and Safety, represented the NSW Premier, The Hon. Christopher Minns, MP. Minister Cotsis expressed her gratitude for the Hellenic community’s contributions to New South Wales’ multicultural fabric.
Senator Dave Sharma, representing the Hon. Peter Dutton MP, Federal Leader of the Opposition, highlighted the enduring friendship between Greece and Australia. Mrs Anastasia Christofilopoulou, First Secretary for Public Diplomacy, represented the Consul General of Greece in Sydney, Honourable Ioannis Mallikourtis, and emphasized the role of cultural diplomacy in strengthening ties between the two nations. The Hon. Mark Buttigieg, MLC, NSW Parliamentary Secretary for Industrial Relations, Work Health and Safety, and Multiculturalism, celebrated the Cretan community’s vibrant contributions to Australia’s cultural diversity.
Also present were Mr Emmanuel Mountakis, President of the Cretan Federation of Australia and New Zealand, and Mr Nick Markogiannakis, Former President of the World Council of Cretans, who spoke about the importance of unity and cultural pride among the diaspora. Mr Peter Tsigounis, President of the Greek Returned Service League, attended to honour the contributions of Greek-Australian veterans and the shared history of courage and resilience.
Representatives from the Cretan Brotherhood Melbourne, the Pancretan Association of Melbourne, and the Cretan Association of Queensland were also present, embodying the solidarity and pride of Cretan communities across Australia. The evening was a celebration of Hellenic culture and an affirmation of the enduring relationship between Greece and Australia, united in a commitment to heritage, community, and mutual respect.
Ms. Vamianaki recounted the tragic events of the Arkadi Holocaust in 1866, emphasizing the bravery of the Cretans who fought for freedom from Ottoman rule. She highlighted the monastery’s role as a centre of resistance and the ultimate sacrifice made by those who perished within its walls. The story was a powerful reminder of the Cretan people’s unwavering commitment to their homeland and cultural identity.
The evening also marked the 65th anniversary of the Cretan Association of Sydney and NSW. Ms. Vamianaki paid tribute to the association’s founders, past and present leaders, and dedicated members who have tirelessly worked to preserve Cretan traditions, music, and dance.
A special highlight of the evening was the presence of the Tzanidakis Folklore Club from Rethymno, Crete. Ms Vamianaki introduced the group, led by founder Christos Tzanidakis, who arrived in Sydney earlier in the week to conduct dance workshops with the association’s youth and local Greek schools, sharing both traditional and lesser-known Cretan dances.
Following Bishop Christodoulos’ blessing of the meal, Mr. Emmanuel Vitetzakis, President of the Cretan Association, delivered an address welcoming the Tzanidakis Folklore Dance Group and echoing the sentiments of pride and remembrance expressed throughout the evening. Mr. Tzanidakis then spoke, his words framed by the presence of his dancers gathered around him.
The prestigious “Megalonisos” Award, recognizing outstanding contributions to the Cretan community in Sydney, was presented to Mr. Mihalis Spanoudakis, a long-time member of the Cretan Association.
The evening continued with musical performances by renowned Cretan musicians Michalis Petsakis (lute), Stelios Stamatogiannakis (lute), Kostas Kakoudakis (lyra), and Giorgos Giannakis (bass), each of whom received a plaque in appreciation.
Energetic dance performances by the association’s junior and intermediate dance groups, led by instructors Irene Vitetzakis, Christoforos Townsend, and Vagia Spanoudakis, filled the hall with vibrant energy. A memorable group photo captured the young dancers alongside the Tzanidakis Folklore Dance Group, their teachers, and the musicians.
The Hon. Sophie Cotsis, Senator Dave Sharma, Mrs. Anastasia Christofilopoulou (who relayed a message from the Consul General), and The Hon. Mark Buttigieg delivered addresses, each expressing their admiration for the Cretan community’s resilience and contributions to Australian society.
The highly anticipated performance by the Cretan Association’s performing group, under the direction of Mr. Pavlos Spanoudakis, followed, showcasing the grace and artistry of Cretan dance. The evening culminated with a captivating performance by the Tzanidakis Folklore Dance Group, bringing the rich traditions of Crete to life on the Sydney stage.
Mr. Spanoudakis delivered closing remarks and exchanged honorary plaques and gifts with the Tzanidakis Folklore Club to commemorate their visit. The evening concluded with photos capturing the shared joy and camaraderie between the youth dancers and the visiting artists. The event served as a powerful testament to the enduring strength and vitality of the Cretan community in Sydney, which they danced till 2 am to the sounds of the Cretan Band.
Images Copyright, Andrew Parliaros / Andreas Photography
