After a five-year hiatus, thousands of Greek Australians gathered at the grounds of the Shrine of Remembrance to mark the 204th anniversary of the Greek War of Independence. Greek National Day commemoration draws thousands to Melbourne’s Shrine of Remembrance grounds.
The event, steeped in history and cultural pride, brought together dignitaries, families, students, and community leaders to honour the sacrifices made for Greece’s independence.
Master of Ceremonies L.Vlahakis guided the proceedings as wreaths were laid in tribute to those who fought for freedom. Notable attendees included Victorian Minister for Tourism Steve Dimopoulos, MP Maria Vamvakinou, and other federal and state politicians, reflecting the strong ties between the Greek community and Australian political life.
Global Commemoration of Greek Independence
March 25th is celebrated worldwide, with events taking place across the globe in countries such as the US, UK, and Canada. From New York’s iconic parade to ceremonies in London, Greek communities come together to honour the sacrifices of those who secured Greek Consul Greece General’s independence ’s Speech . Greek Consul General in Melbourne Dimitra Georgantzoglou delivered a heartfelt address, emphasising the shared history between Greece and Australia.
“It is a great honour to be here today, at this sacred place of remembrance, to pay tribute to the sacrifices made for freedom,” she said.
Return to the Shrine
Returning the parade to the Shrine after several years at South Melbourne Football Stadium was deeply significant for many. Manos Milios, who plans to serve as a marine in Greece, said, “It’s important to stay connected to our homeland, and the Shrine keeps that bond alive.”
Students like 17-year-old Stathis, a flag-bearer, agreed. “The Shrine represents our forgotten soldiers, and we should honour all those who fought for our freedom.”
The parade featured students, community groups, and heritage organisations, all proudly marching in traditional dress, waving blue and white flags.
Generational Pride
Paraskevi Stavrianakos, whose toddler marched with his kindergarten, said, “We’ve been bringing him to the parade since he was a newborn, and we’re happy this is his first experience at the Shrine.”
A Day of Commemoration
As Greek Australians gathered in celebration, 400 Turkish protesters assembled nearby at the Australian-Turkish Friendship Memorial.
the Wearing face of t-shirts Kemal emblazoned Ataturk (who is considered the leader of the Greek and Armenian Genocide), they chanted slogans as Greek families made their way to the Shrine. Their rallying cries could be heard during the wreath-laying ceremony.
A Turkish protest organiser said they were unaware of Greek Independence Day festivities. “We are here to protest the political turmoil unfolding in our country. We oppose the recent arrest request for Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu—one of the strongest challengers to President Erdogan. This is deeply concerning. We are protesting for democracy,” he said. Former Victorian politician and Parks Victoria Chair John Pandazopoulos commented on the situation: “Everyone has the right to protest. However, it can cause confusion during our annual National Day event, especially if other protests occur nearby. The Shrine area is sacred ground, and we must be mindful of that.”
The large Greek Australian police contingent helped attendees feel somewhat safer. Police inspector Eftyhis Anastasiadis told The Greek Herald that while the Greek police were there in a “ceremonial capacity” they could swing into action when needed, but added that “we have enough police to look after us today.”
A Day to Remember
Sophia Siachos, President of the Victorian Council for Greek National Day, reflected on the strong bond between Greece and Australia.
“The Greek-Australian alliance is built on shared values—democracy, justice, and a better future,” she said.
With over 1,500 participants and more than 3,000 spectators, the event’s return to the Shrine marked a powerful reminder of the enduring connection between the two nations.
