«Νιώσαμε ότι δεν μας ξέχασε η ζωή»

Κείμενο: Κυριακή Κάππα

Φωτογραφίες: Anastasia Mavrides 
Αναδημοσίευση από τον «Νέο Κόσμο» Αυστραλίας,
Σάββατο, 9 Αυγούστου

Χαρά και συγκίνηση χάρισε στους ηλικιωμένους του Παλλακωνικού Συλλόγου Νότιας Αυστραλίας η επίσκεψη μαθητών ελληνικής καταγωγής, στους οποίους μίλησαν για τις προσωπικές τους ιστορίες.

 

Με μεγάλη χαρά και συγκίνηση υποδέχθηκαν οι ηλικιωμένοι του Παλλακωνικού Συλλόγου Νότιας Αυστραλίας νεαρούς μαθητές, με τους οποίους μοιράστηκαν τις ιστορίες της ζωής τους.

                         

 «Δεν το βλέπεις κάθε μέρα να μπαίνουν νέα παιδιά στο καφενείο, να κάθονται, να είναι έτοιμα να παίξουν ένα τάβλι μαζί σου, να ακούσουν, να ρωτήσουν», δήλωσε στον «Νέο Κόσμο» ο Dimitri Katsambis, μέλος του Παλλακωνικού Συλλόγου Νότιας Αυστραλίας, και πρόσθεσε:

 

«Νιώσαμε ότι δεν μας ξέχασε η ζωή. Μας έδωσαν ζωή με την παρουσία τους».

«Σαν να ξανάζησα τα χρόνια μου. Τα διηγήθηκα και τα ένιωσα ξανά. Και ένιωσα και περήφανος, γιατί κάποιο παιδί θα πάρει την ιστορία μου και θα την κρατήσει. Δεν θα χαθεί».

Ο κ. Katsambis δήλωσε επίσης ιδιαίτερα εντυπωσιασμένος από τη «ζεστασιά και το ενδιαφέρον» που εισέπραξε από όλα τα παιδιά.

Όπως είπε «δεν ήταν μια τυπική επίσκεψη».

«Φαινόταν ότι είχαν προετοιμαστεί με αγάπη και σεβασμό … Μου άφησαν την αίσθηση ότι στα σχολεία των παιδιών και των εγγονών μας γίνονται πολύ όμορφα πράγματα. Κι αυτό μας γεμίζει ελπίδα».

Η επίσκεψη των μαθητών στο Καφενείο Λακωνίας πραγματοποιήθηκε στο πλαίσιο της ευρύτερης πρωτοβουλίας «Our Greek-Speaking Community»

Τόνισε δε πόσο σημαντικό είναι για τα παιδιά να μαθαίνουν για την καταγωγή και την ιστορία τους «γιατί αλλιώς», όπως είπε, «ξεχνιέται ο τόπος, η γλώσσα, οι άνθρωποι».

«Αν δεν τα πεις στα παιδιά, θα χαθούν όλα. Κι εμείς από τους παλιούς τα μάθαμε, και τώρα ήρθε η ώρα να δώσουμε τη σκυτάλη. Να ξέρουν από πού κρατάνε».

Πρόσφατα, μαθητές ελληνικής καταγωγής της τάξης Year 9 του Adelaide High School κάθισαν και συνομίλησαν με ηλικιωμένους του Παλλακωνικού Συλλόγου Νότιας Αυστραλίας στην Αδελαΐδα, με σκοπό να καταγράψουν και να διαφυλάξουν τις ιστορίες της ζωής των παλαιών, για να μαθαίνουν οι… νέοι.

Κάθε μαθητής/τρια που συμμετείχε στην εν λόγω πρωτοβουλία διασύνδεσης γενεών, θα δημιουργήσει στη συνέχεια μια σύντομη βιογραφία και ένα βίντεο-αφιέρωμα για τα άτομα με τα οποία συνομίλησαν.

Τα έργα καταγραφής ιστοριών θα παραδοθούν ως ενθύμια στις οικογένειες των ηλικιωμένων «πρωταγωνιστών» και θα αποτελέσουν μέρος ενός ευρύτερου αρχείου, ως ένα είδος παρακαταθήκης για τις μελλοντικές γενιές.

Η επίσκεψη των μαθητών πραγματοποιήθηκε στο Καφενείο Λακωνίας του Συλλόγου, στο πλαίσιο της ευρύτερης πρωτοβουλίας «Our Greek-Speaking Community», και είναι αποτέλεσμα συνεργασίας μεταξύ της Neoléa, του Adelaide High School και του Παλλακωνικού Συλλόγου Νότιας Αυστραλίας (Pan-Laconian Society of SA).

Μαθητές ελληνικής καταγωγής κάθισαν και συνομίλησαν με ηλικιωμένους του Παλλακωνικού Συλλόγου Νότιας Αυστραλίας στην Αδελαΐδα. Φωτογραφίες: Anastasia Mavrides

Όπως δήλωσε στον «Νέο Κόσμο» ο Manos Nikolaidis, ένας εκ των μαθητών του Adelaide High School, η εμπειρία της αλληλεπίδρασης με μέλη της παλαιότερης γενιάς της ελληνικής κοινότητας υπήρξε «πραγματικά αποκαλυπτική».

«Με έκανε να συνειδητοποιήσω τις δυσκολίες που αντιμετώπιζαν τότε οι άνθρωποι στην Ελλάδα. Μας δίδαξαν επίσης πολλά μαθήματα ζωής, όπως το ότι η οικογένεια είναι πάνω απ’ όλα, καθώς και ότι πάντα πρέπει να συμπεριφέρομαι με σεβασμό (be a gentleman)».

Ο Manos εντυπωσιάστηκε ιδιαίτερα από το γεγονός ότι οι ηλικιωμένοι με τους οποίους συνομίλησε «είχαν πάντα θετική διάθεση» και «δεν είπαν ούτε μία φορά κάτι αρνητικό για τη ζωή τους», καθώς μοιράζονταν τις ιστορίες τους, από τα χρόνια τους στην Ελλάδα έως τη μετεγκατάστασή τους στην Αυστραλία.

Για τη μαθήτρια Ruby Grivas, αυτό που ξεχώρισε ήταν το ότι τα μαθήματα ζωής που μοιράζονταν οι περισσότεροι ηλικιωμένοι με τους μαθητές είχαν έναν κοινό παρονομαστή: την αξία της οικογένειας.

«Οι στιγμές που μου έμειναν περισσότερο ήταν όταν οι περισσότεροι ανέφεραν ως μάθημα ζωής το ‘η οικογένεια πάνω απ’ όλα’».

«Ήταν όμορφο να βλέπω πως όλοι είχαν την ίδια άποψη πάνω σε αυτό».

Οι μαθητές προσέφεραν στον Παλλακωνικό Σύλλογο Νότιας Αυστραλίας ένα χειροποίητο παγκάκι ως δώρο

Χαρακτήρισε την εμπειρία ιδιαίτερα «ευχάριστη», η οποία, όπως δήλωσε η Ruby στον «Νέο Κόσμο», τής πρόσφερε την ευκαιρία να κατανοήσει «τα σκαμπανεβάσματα και τις δυσκολίες στη ζωή των άλλων».

Ιδιαίτερο ενδιαφέρον προκάλεσε στη μαθήτρια Sofia Gonis, το πόσα κοινά σημεία εντόπισε σε πολλές από τις εμπειρίες της μετανάστευσης που άκουσε.

«Μια ιστορία που μου έκανε ιδιαίτερη εντύπωση ήταν όταν άκουσα για τα πλοία με τα οποία έφτασαν όλοι, τα περισσότερα ήταν τα ίδια, και για το πώς κάποια από τα μέλη (του Συλλόγου) πιθανόν να γνωρίζονταν χρόνια πριν (συναντηθούν στην Αυστραλία)».

Η Dimitra Rozaklis, καθηγήτρια Ελληνικών στο Adelaide High School, εξέφρασε την ευγνωμοσύνη της προς τη Neoléa «για την καταγραφή αυτών των πολύτιμων στιγμών μεταξύ γενεών».

«Η ευρύτερη κοινότητα εμπλουτίζει τις ζωές των μαθητών μας. Η καλοσύνη και η φιλοξενία των Λακώνων και φυσικά το νόστιμο φαγητό έκαναν αυτή την ημέρα αξέχαστη».

«Νιώθω πραγματικά ευλογημένη που προέρχομαι από μια τόσο υποστηρικτική κοινότητα».

Η πρόεδρος της Neoléa, Anastasia Mavrides, ανέφερε ότι η συνεργασία με την κα Rozaklis και το Adelaide High School ήταν ιδιαίτερα ευχάριστη, υπογραμμίζοντας πως η εν λόγω πρωτοβουλία επικεντρώνεται στο «χτίσιμο γεφυρών ανάμεσα στις γενιές».

«Το να βλέπεις τον χώρο γεμάτο συζητήσεις, μουσική και γέλια ήταν μια δυνατή υπενθύμιση του τι σημαίνει κοινότητα».

Εκτός από τις συνεντεύξεις, οι μαθητές προσέφεραν στον Παλλακωνικό Σύλλογο Νότιας Αυστραλίας ένα χειροποίητο παγκάκι ως δώρο.

Δύο μαθητές παρουσίασαν μια μουσική παράσταση, ενώ οι παρευρισκόμενοι απόλαυσαν γεύμα που ετοίμασαν μέλη του συλλόγου.

Η Neoléa —μια πρωτοβουλία που έχει ως στόχο να ενθαρρύνει νέους Ελληνοαυστραλούς να εξερευνήσουν την πολιτιστική τους κληρονομιά και να οικοδομήσουν το μέλλον τους με βάση την παρακαταθήκη των προγόνων τους— συνεργάζεται με σχολεία όπου διδάσκεται η ελληνική γλώσσα, υλοποιώντας δράσεις που κυμαίνονται από συνεντεύξεις προφορικής ιστορίας έως δημιουργικές δραστηριότητες, με στόχο την ενεργή συμμετοχή των νέων στην κοινότητα.

On This Day, 17 March 1821: How Mani and Laconia Lit the Flame of the 1821 Greek Revolution

“The hour has struck, the time has come for us to take up arms and fight for our faith and our homeland!” 

— Petros Mavromichalis, addressing the Maniot clans in Areopoli, 17 March 1821

These words, thundered by Petros Mavromichalis, the Bey of Mani, marked the decisive moment when Greece’s struggle for independence shifted from whispers of rebellion to open war. On this day, 17 March 1821, in the windswept town of Areopoli, perched on the rocky Mani Peninsula of Laconia, a band of fierce warriors and clan leaders gathered to light the fuse of Greek independence. While 25 March is celebrated as the symbolic start of the Greek War of Independence, it was here, eight days earlier, that the revolution’s first formal proclamation rang out—a bold act of defiance that shattered centuries of Ottoman subjugation.

The Maniots: A People Forged in Resistance 

The Mani Peninsula, a rugged, semi-autonomous region in Laconia, had long resisted Ottoman dominance. Its fiercely independent clans, led by figures such as Petros Mavromichalis, chafed under Ottoman taxation and conscription. By early 1821, clandestine networks of the Filiki Eteria (Society of Friends) had been mobilising support for rebellion. However, it was the Maniots—exhausted by oppression and galvanised by news of uprisings in the Danubian Principalities—who acted first. 

17 March 1821

On 17 March 1821, chieftains and elders gathered in Areopoli’s Church of Taxiarchis. Under Mavromichalis’ leadership, they swore an oath to fight for freedom, declaring “Victory or Death”. Within hours, Maniot forces marched north, swiftly capturing Ottoman-held Kalamata on 23 March. This bold strike demonstrated the revolution’s viability, inspiring neighbouring regions to join. 

Why 25 March Prevails in Public Memory 

The prominence of 25 March stems from its symbolic alignment with the Feast of the Annunciation, a key Orthodox Christian feast. Bishop Germanos’ ceremonial act at Agia Lavra—whether factual or mythologised—resonated deeply with the Greek populace, intertwining religious faith with national liberation. Additionally, the Peloponnesian leadership’s coordination from 25 March provided a unifying narrative, overshadowing regional uprisings like Mani’s. 

Reconciling the Dates 

Historians acknowledge that the revolution unfolded in stages rather than a single day. Mani’s proclamation on 17 March was a catalyst, proving Ottoman forces could be challenged. The Peloponnesian uprising from 25 March, meanwhile, marked the revolution’s formal expansion. Both events were critical: Mani provided the initial spark; later proclamations broadened the revolt into a collective struggle. 

Conclusion: Honouring a Complex Legacy 

The 17 March proclamation in Areopoli underscores the revolution’s decentralised nature. While 25 March remains a potent national symbol, recognising Mani’s contribution enriches our understanding of the revolution’s grassroots origins. As Greece reflects on its past, acknowledging both dates fosters a fuller appreciation of the sacrifices and strategies that birthed a nation. 

In revisiting history, we honour not just the symbols that unite us, but the myriad acts of courage that made independence possible. The people of Mani, gathering in Areopoli’s shadowed streets, deserve their place alongside the storied banners of Agia Lavra. 

Vale Thymios Traiforos (1939–2025)

We are saddened to announce the passing of our valued member, Thymios Traiforos, on Tuesday, 4 March 2025, at the age of 85.

Born on 10 June 1939 in Kosmas, Kynouria, Thymios remained deeply connected to his birthplace throughout his life. Seeking new opportunities, he migrated to Australia aboard the Patris, arriving on 28 March 1964. Through hard work and determination, he built a life that earned the respect and admiration of many.

A dedicated member of our Society, Thymios was known for his commitment, wisdom, and friendship. His contributions enriched our community, and he will be greatly missed.

We extend our sincere condolences to his wife, Rina, their children, grandchildren, and extended family. May his memory live on in the lives he touched.

Αἰωνία του ἡ μνήμη.
May his memory be eternal.

Weaving the Past into the Future: Geraki Hosts a Celebration of Art and Tradition

“I am thrilled to present this paper in Geraki as part of the celebration for the publication of ‘Weaving Dreams: Kilims from Geraki, Lakonia.’” – Dr. Sharon Gerstel, UCLA 

Geraki of Lakonia came alive on 22nd and 23rd February as the Cultural Association of Geronthres hosted a two-day event celebrating the history, present, and future of the region’s art and culture. Supported by the Ministry of Culture, the Municipality of Evrotas, and the Peloponnese Region, the event brought together renowned speakers, a captivating photographic exhibition, and a heartfelt celebration of Geraki’s rich weaving traditions. 

The festivities began on Saturday with a series of insightful talks by distinguished guests. Dr. Sharon Gerstel, Professor of Byzantine Art and Archaeology at UCLA and Director of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Center for the Study of Hellenic Culture, delivered a fascinating presentation on the deep connection between Geraki and its iconic kilims. She was joined by Sofia Pitouli, a PhD candidate in Byzantine Art, and George Manginis, Academic Director of the Benaki Museum, who explored the artistic and cultural significance of Geraki’s weaving heritage.

Dr. Gerstel shared her enthusiasm, saying, “I am thrilled to present this paper in Geraki as part of the celebration for the publication of ‘Weaving Dreams: Kilims from Geraki, Lakonia.’” She emphasised the importance of preserving and promoting this ancient craft, which has been a cornerstone of Geraki’s cultural identity for generations.

The event also featured an emotional speech by Chrysoula Stamatopoulou, local master weaver and instructor, who spoke passionately about her craft. Attendees described her words as “a true testament to the soul of weaving,” capturing the deep personal and cultural significance of the tradition.

Local Member of Parliament Thanasis Davakis, who attended the event, reflected on the multifaceted identity of Geraki, stating, “Geraki is many things at once: it is Guy de Nivelet and his castle from the Frankish era, its Byzantine churches, the art of weaving with its kilims, the dynamic cultivation of edible olives, and its restless and creative people.” He praised the Cultural Association of Geronthres for organising the event, noting how the history and themes of Geraki’s kilims were “unfolded before our eyes,” alongside the stories of the women who wove them with their “blessed hands” on looms for generations.

On Sunday, the focus turned to the future of cultural heritage, with talks by Katerina Frentzou of Branding Heritage and Elli Sfika of Amaltheia Athens. They discussed innovative approaches to preserving and promoting traditional arts in a modern world, offering fresh perspectives on how to keep these practices alive.

One of the highlights of the event was the photographic exhibition “Outside the Walls” by Afroditi Voulgaraki, a local schoolteacher. Her striking images, displayed on upright looms, beautifully captured the everyday life and people of Geraki, blending tradition with contemporary artistry. The exhibition was widely praised for its creativity and emotional resonance.

The two-day event concluded with heartfelt congratulations to the Cultural Association of Geronthres for their dedication to bringing Geraki’s cultural memory into the present. As Theodoros Veroutis, the Deputy Regional Governor of Lakonia, aptly remarked, “The best is yet to come for this collective effort to highlight the culture of our homeland.” The event not only celebrated Geraki’s past but also laid the foundation for a vibrant future, ensuring its traditions continue to inspire for generations to come.

Call to Pan-Laconian Members: Rest Under the Shade of History at Elafonisos’ Historic Cedar

“These ancient trees are living witnesses to the struggles and dreams of our ancestors. They deserve their place in history.” 

– Gianna Angelopoulou-Daskalaki, President of the “Greece 2021” Committee

In a celebration of Greece’s rich revolutionary heritage, a majestic cedar tree located opposite the Church of Agios Spyridon on Elafonisos has been officially added to the “Network of Monumental Trees of the Greek Revolution.” This inclusion marks another step in preserving the living memory of the Greek War of Independence, as the tree is believed to have witnessed pivotal moments in the nation’s fight for freedom. Now, visitors, especially members of the Pan-Laconian Society, are encouraged to rest under its shade, just as the revolutionaries did, and connect with the enduring spirit of 1821.

The cedar, now part of the “Δέντρα Ελευθερίας” (Trees of Freedom), joins a distinguished list of ancient trees in Laconia that have been recognised for their historical significance. These trees, many over 200 years old, are not just natural wonders but also silent witnesses to the bravery and resilience of Greek revolutionaries.

Angelos Tsirigotakis, Mayor of Elafonisos, highlighted the importance of the cedar’s inclusion, remarking, “This tree is a symbol of our history, a living connection to the stories and struggles of 1821. Its recognition ensures that these stories will be passed down to future generations.” He also expressed heartfelt gratitude, stating, “I feel a deep need to sincerely thank Panagiotis Laloumis for his meticulous work in compiling the historical documentation. Highlighting the cultural heritage of our region is a priority.”

The “Network of Monumental Trees of the Greek Revolution” is part of a broader initiative under the commemorative research program “1821 – 2021,” which aims to document and honour trees that were alive during the early 19th century. These trees, including plane trees, olives, willows, and oaks, are not only ecological treasures but also cultural landmarks.

In Laconia, the list of monumental trees now includes:
- Elafonisos: Cedar, Municipality of Elafonisos
- Vachos: Oak, Municipality of East Mani
- Kastania: Plane Tree, Municipality of East Mani
- Apidia: Olive Tree, Municipality of Evrotas
- Arna: Plane Tree, Municipality of Sparta
- Georgitsi: Plane Tree, Municipality of Sparta

Gianna Angelopoulou-Daskalaki, President of the “Greece 2021” Committee, emphasised the symbolic importance of these trees: “The ancient trees—plane trees, olives, willows, and oaks—are surviving witnesses to the battles fought by our ancestors 200 years ago. They deserve a place of honour in our commemorative celebrations. Under their shade, Greek fighters rested, quenched their thirst, and found inspiration. Many of these trees were destroyed by Ibrahim, who understood their vital role not only in the survival of the Greeks but also in fuelling the revolutionary spirit.”

The addition of the Elafonisos cedar to the “Trees of Freedom” network is a poignant reminder of the enduring connection between nature and history. As these ancient trees continue to stand tall, they serve as living monuments to the courage and determination of those who fought for Greece’s independence.

When members of the Pan-Laconian Society next holiday in Greece, we urge them to make a detour and visit these remarkable trees. Like our ancestors, take a moment to rest under their refreshing shade, quench your thirst, or even sing a song. These trees are not just part of our history—they are a living connection to the courage and spirit of those who fought for Greece’s freedom. Let their enduring presence inspire you as they once inspired the revolutionaries of 1821.

Our Sister Club "The 300 Spartans of Quebec" to Host a Spectacular Ancient Tribute Evening

Celebrating the enduring legacy of Sparta with poetry, music, and an immersive cultural experience

On the evening of March 15th, our sister club, the 300 Spartans of Quebec, Canada, will host a remarkable cultural event celebrating the heritage and legacy of ancient Sparta. This immersive evening will transport guests back in time through traditional hoplite attire, ancient music, poetry, and an authentic Greek feast. Open to all Hellenes and Philhellenes, the event offers a unique opportunity to connect with our enduring history and traditions.

According to Vrasidas Giannopoulos, a prominent member of the Laval Greek community, the venue will be transformed into a setting reminiscent of classical Greece, evoking the grandeur of the past. Upon arrival, guests will be welcomed by hoplites in full armour, a tribute to the legendary 300 Spartans, while the melodies of ancient Greek music set the tone for an unforgettable experience.

The evening’s program includes a ceremonial wreath-laying, followed by captivating speeches and recitations of ancient Greek poetry and texts, offering a profound glimpse into the wisdom and artistry of the classical era.

We extend our best wishes to our sister club in Canada for a successful and memorable event, celebrating the timeless legacy of ancient Sparta.

A Flavourful Fiesta: Pan-Laconian Society’s “Goat ’n Pasta” Sunday Sells Out

"A full house, a warm meal, and a thriving community—tradition is alive and well among Adelaide Spartans"

Adelaide’s Pan-Laconian Family Centre started the year with a bang, hosting its first Sunday event to celebrate the beloved dish, Katsikaki Kokkinisto me Makaronia. This signature meal—a tender goat stew served with pasta—has become a hallmark of the Pan-Laconian Society, and its popularity continues to grow. The event was a resounding success, drawing a full house of eager patrons.

So, what made this gathering so special? Four key reasons stand out:

A Taste of Tradition
The dish is deeply rooted in Laconian heritage, offering a nostalgic connection to the flavours of Sparti, Taygetus, and Parnon. For many, it’s more than just a meal—it’s a cherished link to their roots.

Community Spirit
The Pan-Laconian Family Centre is more than just a venue; it’s a vibrant hub for cultural celebration. The event brought together generations of families and friends, united by their love of food and shared heritage.

Unmatched Culinary Craftsmanship
The cooks behind Katsikaki Kokkinisto me Makaronia have mastered the art of balancing rich, robust flavours with tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat, ensuring every bite is a delight.

Changing of the Guard
Another highlight of the function was the celebration of the ongoing rejuvenation and changing of the guard within the Pan-Laconian Society, a transition that has gained momentum following the recent AGM. While Dina Houssos continues to lead with distinction as president, and George Vlahos remains a cornerstone of the club’s success, a new wave of younger Laconians has joined them, stepping into key roles and leadership positions. Dimitri Argiridis, the newly elected secretary, addressed the gathering with confidence and was met with warm applause, as were vice-president Kathy Kontos, assistant secretary Aaron Angelakos, and Vangelis Katsambis, each embracing greater responsibilities. This dynamic generational shift not only injects fresh energy into the club but also ensures it remains vibrant, forward-looking, and deeply rooted in its rich heritage. 

Patrons’ Praise
The event left a lasting impression on attendees, with many sharing their enthusiasm:

- “This dish is pure comfort food—it’s like a warm hug from my yiayia,” said a regular at the Centre.

- “The Pan-Laconian Society always knows how to bring people together. The food is incredible, but it’s the sense of community that keeps me coming back,” remarked a long-time member.

- A first-time attendee added, “I was blown away by the energy and hospitality. It’s my first time here, but it certainly won’t be my last.”

As the year unfolds, the Pan-Laconian Society promises more unforgettable gatherings, ensuring that the traditions, flavours, and friendships that define this vibrant community continue to thrive.

The lively atmosphere of the day was beautifully captured by photographer Eleni Koutsoviti Mavraidis, whose images show the joy, laughter, and togetherness that filled the club.