Oakleigh Grammar proudly commemorated Greek Independence Day with a special whole-school assembly, bringing together students, staff and distinguished guests to honour the courage, sacrifice and enduring spirit of those who fought for Greek independence in 1821.
The assembly was attended by special guests including His Grace Bishop Kyriakos of Melbourne, Mrs Dimitra Georgantzoglou, Consul General of Greece in Melbourne, Mrs Maria Triantafyllou, Acting Coordinator for Educational Affairs Australia and New Zealand, and Mr Tony Tsourdalakis, President of the Intercommunities and Parishes Council of Victoria.
Members of the Oakleigh Grammar Board of Management, Board Chair Chris Damatopoulos and Board Treasurer Sam Vassos, were also present and were joined by Principal Mr Mark Robertson and other members of the Executive Leadership Team.
The assembly reflected both the historical and spiritual significance of the occasion. His Grace Bishop Kyriakos led the opening prayer and later addressed the assembly, sharing reflections on the enduring values of faith, freedom, and heritage that continue to shape the Greek Orthodox tradition.
Principal Robertson and the Consul General also gave speeches to those present, emphasising the importance of Greek Independence Day to the whole school community and reinforcing the HARK school values of Humility, Aspiration, Respect and Kindness.
Students played a central role in commemorating the occasion, sharing performances that highlighted the history, language, and traditions of Greece. Prep students performed the traditional song Φεγγαράκι μου λαμπρό, Year 3 students performed Τα κλεφτόπουλα, and Year 4 students performed Δέκα παλικάρια. The assembly also featured a bouzouki performance by Year 7 student Vasili Kaimakamis.
The assembly concluded with vibrant traditional Greek dancing performed by Year 6 students together with the Middle and Senior School dancing groups, celebrating the enduring strength of Hellenic culture and the importance of community, heritage, and identity.
The event provided a meaningful opportunity for the Oakleigh Grammar community to reflect on the significance of Greek Independence Day, bringing together students and staff of all backgrounds to celebrate the spirit of democracy and freedom.
