This past weekend, the Cypriot Community of Melbourne and Victoria once again brought together thousands of visitors for the 5th Annual Halloumi Festival, held at their community centre on 495 Lygon Street, Brunswick.
With deep respect for Cypriot traditions and a commitment to preserving Cyprus’s cultural heritage, the festival demonstrated once more the dynamic presence of the Cypriot community in Australia.
From the very first moment of the event, visitors were delighted and excited to taste authentic Cypriot halloumi, whether grilled or raw. The festival provided not only a chance to enjoy this beloved cheese, but also an opportunity for learning and participation. Chef Eleni Tziortzi, along with cheesemakers Eleni Koliou and Chrysoula Dimitriou, showcased the process of making halloumi, allowing guests to observe the art of crafting this traditional cheese firsthand.
A wide variety of Cypriot delicacies and beverages was available, enhancing the authenticity of the event, with fresh halloumi and traditional treats filling the tables. At the same time, small vendors added to the festive atmosphere, creating a welcoming and family-friendly environment.
The official opening of the festival took place on the evening of Saturday, with the President of the Cypriot Community, Mr. Theo Theophanous, welcoming the guests. He discussed, among other topics, the ongoing construction of the community’s new multi-storey building and encouraged the public to express interest in purchasing apartments in the building, which is expected to enhance the community’s activities.
Notable personalities attended the event, including Mr. Antonis Sammoutis, High Commissioner of the Republic of Cyprus, Mrs. Dimitra Georgantzoglou, Consul General of Greece, and Bishop Evmenios of the Cypriot Orthodox Church. They all congratulated the Cypriot Community for its continued efforts to preserve its cultural heritage and expressed their best wishes for the future.
Also present was Mr. Peter Khalil, a member of the Australian Federal Parliament from the Labor Party, who represented the Federal Government and Prime Minister Mr. Anthony Albanese. In his speech, Mr. Khalil reminded the Prime Minister of the need for generous funding for the new community building, prompting a warm round of applause from the audience.
Other distinguished guests included Mr. Evan Mulholland, Liberal Party member for Northern Metropolitan, Ms. Maria Vambakinou, federal member for Calwell, Ms. Melisa Horne, MP for Williamstown, Ms. Kat Theophanous, MP for Northcote and Assistant Minister for Women’s Health, Merri Bek, City Councilor, and Mr. Vasilis Papastergiadis, President of the Greek Community.
The artistic program was vibrant, showcasing traditional music and dance performances. Groups like the Cretan Brotherhood, the “Aristotelis” Club of Florina, the Pontian Associations “Acrites of Pontus” and “Panagia Soumela”, along with the Pegasus Dance Academy and the “Paroikia” Choir, thrilled the audience with their cultural presentations. A highlight of the event was the live demonstration of halloumi making, accompanied by music from the “Aetos” Orchestra led by Sotiris Stylianou, which captivated the attendees.
Students from local schools such as Oakleigh Grammar, the “Agios Panteleimon” School of the Dandenong Community, the “Zinon” Educational Centre, the Cypriot Community, and the Cypriot Community of the Northern Suburbs presented dances and songs, further adding to the festive spirit of the event.
One of the standout moments was the performance of 8-year-old Vasilis Kaimakamis from Oakleigh Grammar, who impressed the audience with his skill on the bouzouki. The “Halloumania” competition also brought moments of laughter and excitement to the participants, while the raffle gave out wonderful prizes, capping off the festival with a joyful and festive atmosphere.
The event concluded with the organizers’ heartfelt thanks and warm congratulations to all participants. Through this festival, the Cypriot Community once again confirmed the power of culture and tradition, which it continues to keep alive in Australia. We look forward to next year!
(Photo credit: Facebook – Cypriot Community of Melbourne and Victoria)
