Hellenic Culture

Celebrating and preserving Hellenic culture continues to be an important part of life at Oakleigh Grammar. Throughout the first part of Term 2, our students proudly participated in a number of significant cultural, commemorative and community events that strengthened their understanding of Greek heritage, history and traditions. These experiences provided valuable opportunities for students to honour the past, connect with the wider Greek-Australian community and proudly represent the values of our school.

On Saturday 26 April, members of the Oakleigh Grammar community attended the ANZAC Commemoration Event at the Parish of the Transfiguration of Our Lord. The day commenced with a Divine Liturgy presided over by Bishop Evmenios of Chora, followed by a commemorative ANZAC Day Service and wreath laying ceremony at the Hellenic-Australian Memorial Northern Suburbs. Representing the school with pride and respect, Year 9 student Alexandra Hatzipanagiotou laid a wreath on behalf of the Oakleigh Grammar community, honouring the courage and sacrifice of those who served during WWI and WWII.

In another important act of remembrance, members of the SRC proudly represented Oakleigh Grammar at the 85th Anniversary of the Battle of Kalamata on Sunday 3 May. The ceremony, which took place at the Australian-Hellenic Memorial, recognised the bravery and sacrifice of both Hellenic and Allied forces during World War II. SRC members Chrisanthy Psaras and Maria Kaimakamis laid a wreath on behalf of the school community, paying tribute to those who fought with courage and resilience. Through their participation, students reflected on the enduring friendship between Australia and Greece, built through shared history, loyalty and mutual respect.

On Sunday 17 May 2026, students also attended the memorial service commemorating the Pontian Greek Genocide, organised by the Coordinating Committee of Pontian Associations in Melbourne. The service took place at the Cathedral of Our Lady Axion Estin and was followed by a wreath laying ceremony at the Monument to the Fallen at the garden of the Cathidral. Representing Oakleigh Grammar with dignity and respect, students Danai Pavlou and Eva Bakalis laid a wreath in memory of the thousands of Pontian Greeks who lost their lives. The event served as a meaningful reminder of the importance of remembrance, identity and historical awareness.

Oakleigh Grammar students also proudly participated in the GOAANSE Games in Sydney, with this year’s event proudly hosted by St Euphemia College. Students showcased their talents and passion for Greek culture through the Spoken Arts Festival. The theme for this year’s festival, “All Around Your Table,” celebrated the importance of family, tradition and connection within Greek culture. Our students delivered an outstanding performance of traditional Greek dances, bringing together culture, identity and community spirit. It was especially heartwarming to see students from non-Greek backgrounds enthusiastically participating and embracing Hellenic traditions, highlighting the inclusive and welcoming nature of our school community.

We congratulate all students who participated in these important events and thank them for representing Oakleigh Grammar with pride, respect and enthusiasm. Their commitment to preserving and celebrating Hellenic culture continues to strengthen the connection between our school and the wider Greek-Australian community.

Natasha Spanos 

Hellenic Culture Coordinator