The Cretan Association of Northern Territory, under the auspices of the Cretan Federation of Australia and New Zealand, is set to host the 43rd National Cretan Federation Convention from Thursday, 2 January, to Sunday, 5 January 2025. Supported by the Greek Orthodox Community of Northern Australia, the event will take place in Darwin and is expected to draw hundreds of participants of Greek and Cretan heritage from across Australia, New Zealand, and beyond.
The four-day convention will celebrate Cretan culture and traditions through a range of events, including traditional music, dance performances, and social gatherings. Highlights include performances by renowned Cretan musicians Nikos Vezyrakis (Lyra), Giorgios Katsoulieris (Lute), and Alexandros Kazakis (Guitar), who will travel from Crete to entertain attendees.
The program will also feature Cretan dance groups from across Australia, a youth party, a soccer tournament, and official meetings of the Cretan Federation of Australia and New Zealand and its youth branch. Distinguished guests and representatives from Greece, the USA, and every Australian state and territory are expected to attend.
KEY EVENTS SCHEDULE
Thursday, 2 January 2025
Welcome Dinner: For interstate and international guests, at “The Yiros Way” Grill House, Alawa NT, from 7pm.
Βεγγέρα Night Youth Party: Hosted by the Cretan Youth of NT at “The Reserve,” Darwin City, from 7.30pm
Friday, 3 January 2025
Cretan Youth AGM: Held at H on Mitchell Hotel, Darwin City, from 10am.
Official Cocktail Party and Opening Ceremony: At the Greek School Hall, Rapid Creek, from 6.30pm.
Saturday, 4 January 2025
Cretan Federation AGM: At H on Mitchell Hotel, Darwin City, from 9.30am.
Convention Dinner Dance: Featuring live music and dance, at the Greek Community Hall, Darwin City, from 6.30pm.
Sunday, 5 January 2025
Cretan Youth Soccer Tournament: At Top End Indoor Sports Centre, Wolner NT, from 11.30am.
Farewell Dinner “Souvla Night”: At the Greek School Hall, Rapid Creek, from 7pm.
Monday, 6 January 2025
Departure of Guests and Delegates
