This year’s commemorations of the Pontian Greek Genocide mark a significant shift in Melbourne, with a new generation stepping up to lead the organisation of events that honour the memory of their ancestors. Melbourne’s youth lead the charge in honouring the Pontian Genocide.
For the first time, the Melbourne Coordinating Committee is being led by members under the age of 30, representing four key Pontian associations based in Melbourne: Pontiaki Koinotita, Euxenos Pontos, Akrites tou Pontou, and Pontiaki Estia.
Youth coordinator Aliki Souliotis, alongside Myrto Makridis, is heading this dynamic team. Eleni Totikidis has taken on the role of secretary, with support from Desie Kyriakidis. Meanwhile, Alexia Moskofidis and Ioanna Eleftheriadis are coordinating the highly anticipated screening of the documentary Lethal Nationalism.
They are working closely with more experienced community figures, including Apostolis Alexiadis, Spiros Varetimidis, Tasos Dimitriu, Eleni Nikou, and Simela Stamatopoulos. Together, they have planned a full day of commemorative events to be held on Sunday, 18 May 2025.
To mark the 106th anniversary of the Pontian Greek Genocide, the day will begin with a Memorial Service at 9:30am at the Holy Monastery of Axion Estin, 2 Hartington Street, Northcote. This will be followed by a Wreath Laying Ceremony at 11:30am at the Monument to the Fallen, located at the rear of the church. Community organisations wishing to lay a wreath are invited to register by emailing: pontiancoorcommelb@gmail.com.
A key feature of this year’s programme is the screening of the award-winning documentary Lethal Nationalism – Genocide of the Greeks 1913–1923. This powerful film recounts the genocide of Greeks and other indigenous Christians by the Ottoman and Nationalist Turks. It is directed by Peter Lambrinatos, written by John McCarthy, and narrated by acclaimed American news anchor Bill Kurtis. The film, in English, is funded by the Asia Minor and Pontos Research Centre (USA).
The screening will take place at 5:30 pm at Pontiaki Estia, 540 Sydney Road, Brunswick. Entry is free, and all members of the public are welcome to attend.
Event Schedule – Sunday, 18 May 2025
Memorial Service
9:30 am – 11:00 am – Holy Monastery of Axion Estin, 2 Hartington Street, Northcote
Wreath Laying Ceremony
11:30 am – Monument to the Fallen, Holy Monastery of Axion Estin
Light refreshments will be served following the morning service.
Film Screening: Lethal Nationalism
5:30 pm – Pontiaki Estia, 540 Sydney Road, Brunswick
This year’s youth-led commemoration reflects a growing commitment among younger Greek Australians in Melbourne to honour their heritage, preserve historical memory, and carry the torch of remembrance into the future.
