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.

 

Vale George Mitris (1955–2025)

 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of George Mitris, aged 69.

Born on 16 December 1955 in Adelaide, George was a beloved son of Katerina Mitris and the late Nikos Mitris, founding members of the Pan-Laconian Society, originally from Geraki, Laconia.

George grew up deeply connected to the Pan-Laconian Society, embracing its traditions and values, and was a cherished member of our community. His support, kindness, dedication, and warmth will be dearly missed by the Society and all who knew him. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family during this difficult time.

May his memory be eternal. Αιωνία η μνήμη του.

Παλλακωνικός Σύλλογος Νότιας Αυστραλίας: Με επιτυχία στέφθηκε η Ετήσια Γενική Συνέλευση 2025

«Ο Σύλλογός μας, ζωντανός πυρήνας ενότητας, προόδου και αδιάκοπου κοινοτικού πνεύματος, είναι έτοιμος για το μέλλον.»

Ο Παλλακωνικός Σύλλογος  Νότιας Αυστραλίας πραγματοποίησε την Ετήσια Γενική Συνέλευσή του για το 2025 την Κυριακή 5 Ιανουαρίου. Σαράντα ένα οικονομικά τακτοποιημένα μέλη συγκεντρώθηκαν στο Παλλακωνικό Οικογενειακό Κέντρο για να αναλογιστούν τις επιτυχίες του περασμένου έτους και να θέσουν στόχους για το μέλλον.

Ενός Λεπτού Σιγής στη Μνήμη των Εκλιπόντων

Σύμφωνα με την παράδοση, η συνέλευση ξεκίνησε με ενός λεπτού σιγή ως ένδειξη σεβασμού και τιμής προς τα μέλη που έφυγαν από τη ζωή στο διάστημα από την προηγούμενη συνάντηση. Αυτή η συγκινητική στιγμή σιωπηλού στοχασμού υπενθύμισε σε όλους τη διαρκή συμβολή τους στον Σύλλογο από την ίδρυσή του το 1966.

Πρόοδος και Ενότητα στο Επίκεντρο της Ομιλίας της Προέδρου

Η συνέλευση, με προεδρεύοντα τον Δημήτρη Κατσάμπη, ξεκίνησε ακριβώς στις 13:00. Ο γραμματέας Γιώργος Βλάχος παρουσίασε τα πρακτικά της προηγούμενης Γενικής Συνέλευσης, τα οποία εγκρίθηκαν ομόφωνα έπειτα από πρόταση της Ελένης Κουτσοβίτη Μαυραειδή και υποστήριξη του Χρήστου Βλάχου (Γερακίτη).

Η πρόεδρος, Ντίνα Χούσου, παρουσίασε αναλυτικά την πρόοδο του Συλλόγου τα τελευταία χρόνια. Αναφέρθηκε στις προκλήσεις της πανδημίας και εξήρε την ανθεκτικότητα των μελών. Κύρια σημεία της ομιλίας της περιλάμβαναν τις εκτεταμένες ανακαινίσεις και την αναζωογόνηση του Παλλακωνικού Οικογενειακού Κέντρου, που έχει μετατραπεί σε έναν δυναμικό χώρο για εκδηλώσεις και δραστηριότητες.

Η Ντίνα τόνισε επίσης την τεράστια επιτυχία των κοινωνικών πρωτοβουλιών του Συλλόγου, όπως οι εκδηλώσεις Κατσικάκι Κοκκινιστό με Μακαρόνια, που έχουν κερδίσει την ευρεία αποδοχή της ελληνικής κοινότητας της Αδελαΐδας. Επιπλέον, εξήρε τα εξαιρετικά αποτελέσματα του νέου προγράμματος Καφενείο Λακωνίας, το οποίο έχει ενισχύσει τις σχέσεις μεταξύ των μελών, ιδίως των ηλικιωμένων, που έχουν αγκαλιάσει με ενθουσιασμό τις δραστηριότητες του Συλλόγου. Η ομιλία της προέδρου προκάλεσε θερμά και αυθόρμητα χειροκροτήματα από τους παρευρισκόμενους. 

Η Ντίνα εξέφρασε και την περηφάνια της για τον ιστορικό εορτασμό της 2.500ής επετείου της Μάχης των Θερμοπυλών, που πραγματοποιήθηκε στις 17 Φεβρουαρίου στο Παλλακωνικό Οικογενειακό Κέντρο. Στην εκδήλωση συμπεριλαμβανόταν και τα αποκαλυπτήρια ενός πίνακα του Βασιλιά Λεωνίδα, δημιουργία του ντόπιου Λάκωνα καλλιτέχνη Αντώνη Μαλαβάζου. Η εκδήλωση, που οργανώθηκε από τον Παλλακωνικό Σύλλογο και την Κοινότητα Καριτσιωτών Ν.Α., περιελάμβανε εμπνευσμένες ομιλίες, διακεκριμένους καλεσμένους, καθώς και την τελετή αποκαλυπτηρίων από τους προέδρους των δύο οργανισμών, την Ντίνα και τον Μιχάλη Μαλαβάζο. Ο πίνακας, που προσφέρθηκε γενναιόδωρα από τον Δημήτρη Τσαγκούρη, θα αποτελέσει το κεντρικό στοιχείο του ανακαινισμένου Παλλακωνικού Οικογενειακού Κέντρου. Ο Αντώνης προσέφερε επίσης ένα ακόμη έργο του για δημοπρασία, στηρίζοντας πολιτιστικές πρωτοβουλίες του Παλλακωνικού Συλλόγου. Θερμές ευχαριστίες στον Δημήτρη και τον Αντώνη για τη γενναιοδωρία τους, που αντικατοπτρίζει το διαχρονικό πνεύμα και την κληρονομιά των Λακώνων.

Η ομιλία εγκρίθηκε ομόφωνα, με πρόταση της Άννας Ζούνη και υποστήριξη της Νασούλας Βλάχου.

Οικονομική Σταθερότητα

Ο ταμίας Στέλιος Χάγιας παρουσίασε λεπτομερή οικονομική έκθεση, διαβεβαιώνοντας τα μέλη ότι, παρά τις σημαντικές επενδύσεις στις ανακαινίσεις, ο Σύλλογος παραμένει οικονομικά σταθερός. Ο Κώστας Κατσάμπης, εκ μέρους της Εξελεγκτικής και Εφορευτικής Επιτροπής, επιβεβαίωσε ότι τα βιβλία και οι λογαριασμοί του Συλλόγου είναι σε ικανοποιητική κατάσταση. 

Νέα Εξελεγκτική και Εφορευτική Επιτροπή

Πραγματοποιήθηκαν εκλογές για την Εξελεγκτική και Εφορευτική Επιτροπή.

Τα μέλη της Εξελεγκτικής και Εφορευτικής Επιτροπήςπου εκλέχθηκαν είναι: 

• Κώστας Κατσάμπης
• Ιωάννα Πάντου
• Άννα Ζούνη

Νέο Διοικητικό Συμβούλιο

Στη συνέχεια αναδείχτηκε νέο Διοικητικό Συμβούλιο που αποτελείται από: 

• Αγησίλαος Αγγελάκος
• Δημήτρης Αργυρίδης
• Στέλιος Χαγιάς
• Ντίνα Χούσου
• Καίθη Κοντού
• Βαγγέλης Κατσάμπης
• Ελένη Κουτσοβίτη Μαυραειδή
• Χρήστος Δ. Βλάχος (Γερακίτης)
• Χρήστος Ν. Βλάχος (Σκαλιώτης)
• Γιώργος Βλάχος

Οι θέσεις προέδρου, αντιπροέδρου, γραμματέα, βοηθού γραμματέα, ταμία και βοηθού ταμία θα αποφασιστούν στην πρώτη συνεδρίαση του νέου Διοικητικού Συμβουλίου..

Αναζωογόνηση Εθελοντισμού

Η Γενική Συνέλευση ανέδειξε επίσης την αναζωογόνηση του εθελοντισμού, με πολλά μέλη να δηλώνουν την πρόθεσή τους να στηρίξουν τις δραστηριότητες του Συλλόγου. Ανάμεσα στους αφοσιωμένους εθελοντές ήταν οι: Αργύρης Αντωνίου, Κούλα και Λεωνίδας Οικονομοπούλου, Γεωργία Χαγιά, Γιώργος Κρεμαστιώτης, Άννα Λάμπρου, Ιωάννης Θεοδωρακάκος, Γιάννης Μανούσος, Γιώργος Μαυραειδής, Γεωργία Βλάχου, Νασούλα Βλάχου και Γαρυφαλλιά Βλάχου. Επίσης, ο Δημήτρης Κατσάμπης θα συνεχίσει ως συντάκτης της ηλεκτρονικής ενημερωτικής έκδοσης Παλλακωνικό Δελτίο και ως υπεύθυνος των λογαριασμών κοινωνικής δικτύωσης του συλλόγου. Η συλλογική αυτή διάθεση εθελοντισμού απέσπασε θερμά χειροκροτήματα από όλους τους παρευρισκόμενους. 

Αισιοδοξία για το Μέλλον

Η Ετήσια Γενική Συνέλευση 2025 του Παλλακωνικού Συλλόγου Νότιας Αυστραλίας ανέδειξε τη δύναμη, την ενότητα και τη συνεχή πρόοδο της λακωνικής κοινότητας στην Αδελαΐδα. Με μια αφοσιωμένη ηγετική ομάδα και ενεργά μέλη, ο Σύλλογος είναι έτοιμος να συνεχίσει την αποστολή του για τη διατήρηση και προώθηση της λακωνικής κληρονομιάς, ενισχύοντας το αίσθημα του ανήκειν μεταξύ των γενεών.

Pan-Laconian Society of SA Holds Successful 2025 AGM

"Our club, a vibrant hub of unity, progress, and unwavering community spirit, is poised for an exciting future."

The Pan-Laconian Society of South Australia marked its 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Sunday, January 5, with 41 financial members gathering at the Pan-Laconian Family Centre to reflect on the past years' achievements and outline future goals.

A Solemn Tribute to Those We Have Lost 

In keeping with tradition, the AGM commenced with a solemn one-minute silence, observed as a heartfelt tribute to honour and remember the members who have passed away since the previous gathering. This moment of quiet reflection served as a poignant reminder of their enduring contributions to the Society since its inception in 1966.

Progress and Unity Highlighted in President’s Report

The meeting, chaired by Dimitri Katsambis, began promptly at 1:00 pm. Secretary George Vlahos presented the minutes from the previous AGM, which were unanimously approved following a motion from Eleni Koutsoviti Mavraidi and seconded by Christos Vlachos (Gerakitis).

President Dina Houssos provided an in-depth report, detailing the Society’s remarkable progress in recent years. She acknowledged the challenges posed by the global pandemic and commended the resilience of the members. Key highlights included the extensive renovations and revitalisation of the Pan-Laconian Family Centre, transforming it into a dynamic hub for events and activities.

Dina also highlighted the remarkable success of the Society's community initiatives, including the beloved Katsikaki Kokinisto me Makaronia events, which have gained widespread popularity throughout Adelaide's Greek community. She further celebrated the outstanding achievements of the newly launched Kafeneio Lakonias, an initiative that has surpassed all expectations by fostering stronger connections within the community. This program has been particularly impactful for seniors, who have enthusiastically embraced the club's activities. Her remarks resonated deeply, eliciting a spontaneous and heartfelt ovation from the members in attendance.

Dina expressed pride in the historic commemoration of the 2,500th anniversary of the Battle of Thermopylae on 17 February at the Pan-Laconian Family Centre, which included the unveiling of a portrait of King Leonidas by local Laconian artist Tony Malavazos. Organised by the Pan-Laconian Society and the Karitsa Community of SA, the event featured inspiring speeches, distinguished guests, and the ceremonial unveiling by the presidents of the two organisations, Dina and Michael Malavazos. The portrait, generously provided by Dimitris Tsagouris, will be the centrepiece of the newly refurbished Family Centre. Tony also donated another artwork for auction, supporting cultural initiatives. Heartfelt thanks to Dimitris and Tony for their generosity, reflecting the enduring Laconian spirit and heritage.

The President’s report was met with enthusiastic approval, and a motion to accept it was made by Anna Zounis and seconded by Nasoula Vlachos.

Financial Stability and Leadership Transition

Treasurer Stelios Hagias delivered a comprehensive financial report, assuring members that despite significant investments in renovations, the club remains financially secure. Con Katsambis, on behalf of the Auditing and Electoral Committee, confirmed that the club's books and accounts were in sound order.

Elections were held for both the Auditing and Electoral Committee and the Executive Committee. The following members were elected to the Auditing Committee: 

• Con Katsambis
• Joanna Pandos
• Anna Zounis

The newly elected Executive Committee is comprised of: 

• Aaron Angelakos
• Dimitri Argiridis
• Stelios Hagias
• Dina Houssos
• Kathy Kontos
• Vangeli Katsambis
• Eleni Koutsoviti Mavraidi
• Chris D Vlachos (Gerakitis)
• Chris N Vlachos (Skaliotis)
• George Vlahos
  

The office-bearers, including the president, vice president, secretary, assistant secretary, treasurer, and assistant treasurer, will be elected at the first meeting of the new executive committee.

Volunteer Spirit Rekindled

The AGM also celebrated a renewed spirit of volunteerism, with many members stepping forward to support the Society’s endeavours. Among the dedicated volunteers were Argyris Antoniou, Koula and Leonidas Economopoulos, Georgia Hagias,  George Kremastiotis, Anna Lambros, John Manousos, George Mavraidis, John Theodorakakos, Georgia Vlachos, Nasoula Vlachos, and Garyfalia Vlahos, all pledging their ongoing assistance. Additionally, Dimitri Katsambis will continue as editor of the Pallakoniko Deltio online newsletter and manager of the club's social media accounts.

This collective enthusiasm exemplifies the members' steadfast commitment to fostering and expanding the Pan-Laconian Society's vibrant volunteer culture, a dedication that earned resounding applause from all in attendance.

Looking Ahead with Optimism

The 2025 AGM of the Pan-Laconian Society of South Australia demonstrated the strength, unity, and forward momentum of the Laconian community in Adelaide. With a dedicated leadership team and an engaged membership, the Society is poised to continue its mission of preserving and promoting Laconian heritage while fostering a sense of belonging across generations.