With perfect weather and attendance exceeding all expectations, Dimitria 2025 concluded last Sunday with a spectacular celebration in the lush grounds of the Greek Museum in central Melbourne. Dimitria 2025 concludes with a spectacular grand finale at the Hellenic Museum.
The event — marking the first major collaboration between the Museum and the Pan-Macedonian Association of Melbourne and Victoria — was a historic milestone for the cultural life of the Greek-Australian community, bringing together dignitaries, families, and friends for a day full of emotion and pride.
The bright sun and gentle breeze created the ideal atmosphere for closing one of the most rich and substantial Dimitria festivals in recent years. Over the previous months, the program included a lecture on Byzantine monasteries, traditional dance workshops led by the renowned Pipilas from Naousa, and the successful Dimitria student competition themed on the myth of the Mermaid.
A highlight of the day was the powerful recitation of the Oath of the Macedonian by Eleni Kalimniou, who inspired the audience of all ages with grace, clarity, and emotion, reaffirming a strong and enduring Macedonian identity.
Official attendance and speeches
The event was honored by the presence and speeches of:
- His Eminence Bishop Kyriakos of Melbourne, who gave his blessings and praised the role of Dimitria in preserving Macedonian and broader Greek traditions.
- Greek-Australian Minister Steve Dimopoulos, representing Premier Jacinta Allan, highlighting the longstanding relationship between the State and the Greek community.
- MP Chris Crewther, representing Opposition Leader Jess Wilson, emphasizing cross-party support for multicultural initiatives.
- Mr. Spyros Alatsas, CEO of Greek Media Group and representative of the Greek Museum, noted the significance of the unprecedented collaboration with the Pan-Macedonian Association.
- Mr. Vasilis Papastegiadis, President of the Greek Community of Melbourne, congratulated the organizers for showcasing Macedonian cultural heritage.
Pan-Macedonian Association President Panagiotis Stefanidis said:
“Dimitria 2025 proved once again that Hellenic Macedonian culture remains vibrant, dynamic, and open to the world. Guided by the tradition of hospitality and inspired by Alexander the Great, we continue to build cultural bridges, unite communities, and inspire the next generation. Today’s success confirms our vision: Macedonian identity is not just history, but a living future.”
Dance spectacle by the Manasis School of Tradition and Culture
The event was masterfully presented by Demosthenes Manasis, Director of the Manasis Greek Dance and Culture School. The school’s dance ensemble impressed the audience with a wide range of traditional dances from across Greece, with particular emphasis on Macedonian cultural heritage. The performance received enthusiastic applause and became one of the day’s highlights.
Visitors enjoyed music, food, children’s activities, and — in an exceptional cultural gesture — free entry to the Greek Museum throughout the day.
The local dance group Periklis Dancing Group also performed, delighting the audience. Dance groups from the Assyrian and Indian communities also participated, strengthening the spirit of hospitality and intercultural dialogue that defines Dimitria, with performances by the Ashur Assyrian Dancing Group and the Shanthi Ramakrishnan Indian Dance School.
The event was broadcast live by 3XY Radio Hellas with Nikos Loupos and John Paganis, bringing the festive atmosphere to the homes of Greek-Australians across Victoria and beyond.
The Pan-Macedonian Association expressed its heartfelt thanks to the Greek Museum for its excellent cooperation and hospitality, and to 3XY Radio Hellas for its ongoing support and promotion of Greek and multicultural initiatives.
The success of Dimitria 2025 confirms the Association’s dedication to expanding cultural participation, strengthening inter-community relations, and creating meaningful opportunities for young people to experience, express, and continue our Hellenic and in particular our Macedonian traditions.
Meanwhile, the Anagennisi Band gave an impressive performance, entertaining guests throughout the day. The band created a welcoming atmosphere that encouraged dancing and singing. The musicians’ energy and skill were well received, making their performance one of the highlights of the event.
