With reverence and emotion, the annual memorial service for Greek migrants to Australia was held last Sunday at the Church of Panagia Kamariani in Red Hill.

Now a long-standing tradition for the Greek community, the event honours those who left their homeland in search of opportunity and built new lives on distant shores.

The service was officiated by His Grace Bishop Ezekiel of Dervis, accompanied by parish priest Archimandrite Irinaios Koikas. Following the Divine Liturgy, clergy, community representatives and faithful gathered at the Migrants’ Monument in the church courtyard, where a memorial prayer was offered for those who never made it back to their birthplace.

Among the dignitaries attending were Federal MP for Mornington Chris Crewther, Vice President of the Greek Community of Melbourne Anthi Sidiropoulou, President of the Cypriot Community of the Northern Suburbs Ioannis Christou, and President of the Cretan Brotherhood Ioannis Nikolakakis, along with representatives of numerous Greek associations who laid wreaths in remembrance and gratitude.

The ceremony concluded with the national anthems of Greece and Australia and a minute’s silence to honour the pioneering migrants who worked tirelessly, raised families, and left a lasting legacy in Australian society.