On Saturday, December 7, 2024, the staff, parents, and students of Nestoras College gathered at Stars International for a special event marking the conclusion of the school’s 50th anniversary celebrations. The evening was filled with pride and nostalgia, reaffirming Nestoras College’s dedication to preserving Greek traditions and fostering Hellenic culture.
Founded in 1975 by educators Konstantinos and Dimitra Karanikolopoulos, Nestoras College began with a vision to maintain and promote the Greek language and identity within Australia. Over five decades, the school has grown significantly, now offering classes across three Melbourne locations—Thomastown, Doncaster, and Thornbury—catering to students from kindergarten to VCE.
The anniversary event commenced with the presentation of honorary plaques to the school’s exceptional educators, dance instructors, and volunteers. Principal John Kostarakis expressed his gratitude for their dedication to Hellenic education, highlighting individuals who have served the college for decades.
George Kapnias, a distinguished parent, served as the evening’s MC. He introduced each honoree with a brief biography, inviting them on stage to receive their plaques. The audience greeted each educator with warm applause, acknowledging their heartfelt commitment to the school and its mission.
Among the honorees were: Zoe Bozoviti, Stratoula Kefala, Maria Kollia, Charalambia Faklari, Achilles Giangoulis, Nikos Papaefthymiou, Christiana Fanariti, Mary Nima, Patroklos Georgiou, Evangelia Aloimonou, Charikleia Kontelia, Edmond Kaderoglou, Konstantinos Sarakintsis, Sofia Kemeridou, Amalia Vasileiadou, Theodora Koliampa, Vasiliki Parker, Sotiria Triantou, Matthaios Kokkinakis, Voula Tselepou-Karydakis, Angeliki Kounadi, Dimitris Nasiopoulos, Kyriaki Antoniou, Giannoula Kalakia, Jenny Iliou, Sotiris Sotiriou, Lampis Anastasiadis, and Thanasis Makrygiorgos.
A particularly emotional highlight was the recognition of the school’s founders, Konstantinos and Dimitra Karanikolopoulos. Fifty years after establishing Nestoras College, they remain integral members of the community, with their contributions continuing to shape its success. Sharing their journey, Mr Karanikolopoulos recounted how, in 1974, he and his wife left secure teaching positions in Greece to begin anew in Australia, bringing with them their two young children. The name “Nestoras” was inspired by their hometown of Pylos, where the mythological King Nestor once ruled. The school’s rapid success affirmed their bold decision, paving the way for a lasting legacy.
Mrs Karanikolopoulos, moved by the occasion, thanked the staff and families who have entrusted Nestoras College with their children’s education for decades. She reflected on the joy of seeing former students return as parents, continuing the tradition of passing down Greek heritage to the next generation.
“I feel like a soldier on an important mission,” she said on 3XY Radio Hellas on Friday. “The stories from our former students about the impact of Greek lessons on their lives give me strength to keep going.”
Principal John Kostarakis, who took the helm in 2010, was also honored for his leadership. Under his guidance, Nestoras College has flourished, staying true to its mission of promoting Greek language and culture. “He is the pillar of our school,” Mrs Karanikolopoulos noted. “We are proud, grateful, and inspired by his dedication to our heritage.”
The evening concluded with awards for academic excellence. Congratulations were extended to Christina Kapetanea (class of 2023) and Eleni Konstandarou (class of 2017), who both achieved perfect VCE scores of 50.
With pride and enthusiasm, Nestoras College looks to the future, pledging to continue empowering students to embrace their Greek heritage and keep Hellenic culture alive far from their ancestral homeland. Happy 50th anniversary, Nestoras College! Here’s to the next 50 years!
For enrollment information, contact Principal John Kostarakis at 8300 0270 or admin@nestorascollege.vic.edu.au.
