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The Hellenic Presidential Guard

FOR THE FIRST TIME IN HISTORY, IN MARCH 2017

Adelaide Town Hall Reception

 

For the first time in history, the Hellenic Presidential Guard visited Adelaide for a jam-packed week of events in 2017, with the permission of the President of Greece and the support of the Government of South Australia.

Beginning with an Official Welcome reception at the Adelaide Town Hall, hosted by the then Treasurer of South Australia, Mr Tom Koutsantonis MP, in the presence of the Lord Mayor and Mayoress of Adelaide, and the Foundation’s Patron, His Honour Chief Justice Chris Kourakis of the Supreme Court of South Australia, the Evzones were introduced to Adelaide.

Then, in commemoration of the Fallen and the anniversary of the Battle of Crete, the Evzones, and their Captain and Lieutenant, accompanied by the SA Police and representatives from the Australian Army, marched along South Australia’s principal promenade to the War Memorial where they stood guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. A pre-match parade at the Adelaide Oval ahead of the annual ANZAC Australian Football League match followed.

Visits to St Basil’s Homes (SA) and Ridleyton Home for the Aged, attendance at Vespers and a Liturgy at the Greek Orthodox Church of St George in Thebarton that concluded with the procession of the icon of St George to the inaugural St George Paniyiri held at St George College, were all proudly attended by thousands of South Australians from all walks of life.

The image of the Crying Evzone, captured at the morning Liturgy by Paul Bradshaw, was broadcast all over the world, reaching over 1.5 million people and inspiring conversations about Hellenism and the connection that endures despite generations of migration. Our guests also received exposure to some Australian culture through visits to the Adelaide Zoo.

A selection of images from come of these events are recorded below. A three-volume album of highlights, including some casual moments, from the visit is available by emailing the Foundation for Hellenic Studies. ($100 plus p&h.)

                                         

 

 

 

 

 

     

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