George Kremastiotis: A Lifelong Odyssey to Moláoi

"Moláoi aren't just a destination; they're where my heart finds its home."

 

With well wishes and warm hugs, George seen off at Adelaide Airport by his daughter, Olga, and adoring grandchildren, Stavroula, Martina, and Kostas

George Kremastiotis, a beloved member of the Pan-Laconian Society since its inception in 1966, is gearing up for his annual pilgrimage to his hometown of Moláoi in Laconia. This year's trip begins at Adelaide Airport next Tuesday, April 30th, with Qatar Airways, making a brief stopover in Doha before reaching Eleftherios Venizelos Athens International Airport.

And, at 12:30 pm on May Day, George will be on his way to Moláoi, a part of the world that holds such a special place in his heart. He also holds dear the May Day traditions, known as Protomagiá, where people traditionally venture to the countryside for picnics, flying kites, and gathering wildflowers. His journey is fuelled not only by these cherished traditions but also by the anticipation of participating in the Easter customs, such as the solemn procession of the Epitáfios on Good Friday evening. On Holy Saturday, he plans to uphold the tradition by lighting a candle at church, then returning home to bless his dwelling with the sacred flame and mark a cross over the front doorway. He then will join his extended family for a celebratory feast.

Moláoi, a town 290 km from Athens and 61 kilometers southeast of Sparti, has been George's annual summer sanctuary for an incredible 61 years. This tradition began in 1963, with only a two-year hiatus in 2020 and 2021 due to the international pandemic restrictions.

George, centre:

"I'll miss our chats at Kafeneio Lakonia, but I'll be back soon!"

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Born in Moláoi in 1932, a time when the Great Depression cast its shadow over Greece, followed by the foreign occupation of the country and subsequent Civil War, George dreamt of a brighter future in Australia. But while plumbing was his trade, Australian immigration policies at the time favoured landworkers and unskilled labourers, not tradespeople. So, in 1954, at the age of 22, opportunity beckoned in Brazil's booming oil and gas industry, and George set sail for South America.

Three years later, in 1957, George's Australian dream finally materialised, though under daring and risky circumstances. He jumped ship in Port Pirie, starting a new chapter in his life. Seven years later, in 1964, Adelaide officially became home when he married Voula Simigianni, who hailed from Lemonia in Laconia. Together, they built a family, blessed with three children and seven grandchildren.

Throughout the years, summers in Moláoi remained a constant for George. While Voula and the children often joined him, Greece held a special place in his heart. A dream of resettling there permanently never quite came to fruition, but the connection remained strong. 

The Pan-Laconian Society has been another constant in George's life. Both he and Voula were active members of the club's executive for many years, their home in Moláoi a welcoming haven for fellow Society members during their summer holidays. Their kindness and hospitality were renowned.

Back in Moláoi, George reconnects with childhood friends, many of whom, like him, are migrants from the United States and Canada, returning for the summer. They've even formed their own community group, sýllogo, and arrange shared dinners across the cluster of neighbouring villages of Eliá, Koupiá, Metamórfosi, Pákia, and Sykiá. However, their numbers are dwindling as age takes its toll.

In 2015, George suffered a heartbreaking loss with the passing of Voula. Yet, now well into his 90s and in good health, he continues his annual pilgrimage. While his return flight is booked for October 26th, you can bet you'll find him at Kafeneio Lakonia the following Wednesday, sharing stories and coffee with his fellow Society members.

George Kremastiotis is a living legend of the Pan-Laconian Society, an embodiment of resilience, and a testament to the enduring love for one's hometown. As he embarks on this year's journey, the Society wishes him a safe trip and a joyful summer in Moláoi.