Members of Melbourne’s Epirote community came together on Sunday 22 February to mark the 113th anniversary of the liberation of Ioannina, in a moving commemoration organised by the Panepirotic Association of Melbourne and Victoria.
The event served as both a tribute to history and a celebration of Epirus’ enduring legacy on Australian soil.
Proceedings began with a formal doxology at the Holy Monastery Axion Esti, led by Bishop Evmenios of Chora. Addressing attendees, the Bishop reflected on the courage of the fighters of Bizani and the long struggle of the people of Ioannina, who reclaimed their freedom after five centuries of occupation while preserving their faith, culture and identity.
He spoke of Ioannina’s remarkable role as a centre of learning even during periods of hardship, and urged the community to carry forward the same values of freedom, education and spiritual heritage for future generations in Australia.
A wreath-laying ceremony followed at the monastery memorial, conducted in a solemn atmosphere of remembrance and pride. Association President Dimitrios Tsitos laid a wreath in honour of those who gave their lives for Epirus, paying respect to all who fought for the region’s liberation.
The commemorations continued later at the Epirotic House in Abbotsford, where members and friends gathered for a celebratory function and traditional glendi. Accompanied by clarinet melodies and Epirote folk songs, the community shared moments of joy and togetherness, reaffirming that Epirus is more than a homeland — it is a living heritage, a shared identity, and a guiding spirit passed from one generation to the next.
