Cretan Federation of Australia and New Zealand’s Successful 43rd National Convention
Darwin, Australia – The Cretan Federation of Australia and New Zealand (CFANZ) successfully held its 43rd National Convention in Darwin from January 2-5, 2025. This highly anticipated four-day event drew hundreds of attendees of Greek and Cretan heritage from across Australia, New Zealand, and internationally.
Organised by the Cretan Association of Northern Territory and supported by the Greek Orthodox Community of Northern Australia, the convention was a spectacular celebration of Cretan culture and traditions. Renowned Cretan musicians Nikos Vezyrakis, Giorgios Katsoulieris, and Alexandros Kazakis travelled from Crete to entertain attendees.
“The 43rd National Cretan Federation Convention in Darwin was a resounding success. We’re thrilled to have shared this unforgettable experience,” said Mr. Emmanuel Mountakis, President of the Cretan Federation of Australia and New Zealand.
The convention program included the following events:
▪ Wreath-Laying Ceremony:
▪ Welcome Dinner for interstate delegates
▪ Youth Night
▪ Cretan Youth of Australia and New Zealand AGM
▪ Official Opening Cocktail Party
▪ Cretan Federation of Australia and New Zealand AGM
▪ Traditional Strata/Kantada
▪ 43rd Annual Cretan Convention Dinner Dance
▪ Youth Sports Day
▪ Farewell Dinner
The convention was attended by guests from across Australia as well as from Greece and the USA. These include: His Grace Bishop Silouan of Adelaide representing His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia, Professor Yiannis Chrysoulakis, Former Secretary General for Greeks Aboard and Current Chairman of the AHEPA International Committee, Mr Nikos Kastrinakis, President of the World Council of Cretans, The Honourable Robyn Cahill MLA, Minister for Trade, Business and Asian Relations representing the Honourable Lia Finocchiaro, Chief Minister of the Northern Territory, The Hon. Marie-Clare Boothby MLA, Attorney-General, Minister for Tourism and Hospitality, Minister for Major Events, Minister for Parks and Wildlife, and Minister for Racing, The Honourable Luke Gosling OAM, MP Federal Member for Solomon and Mr Michael Koulianos, President of the Greek Orthodox Community of North Australia.
“I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks and congratulations to the Cretan Association of Northern Territory, the executive team of Cretan Federation of Australia and New, our member associations and generous sponsors. Your selfless dedication, tireless efforts, and unwavering commitment to our community made this convention an unforgettable success. As we celebrate this achievement, we also look forward to the 2026 Convention.”
The Cretan Federation of Australia and New Zealand is pleased to announce that the 44th National Convention in 2026 will be held in Sydney.
