Memorial for the fallen heroes of the Battle of Crete in Brisbane.

On Sunday 23 May, the Cretan Association of Queensland held its annual Memorial Service at the Greek Orthodox Church of St George, Brisbane, in prayer for all heroically fallen in defence of their homeland and the free world against Nazi aggression.

Australians and Greeks fought side by side in battle, forging and re-enforcing the indelible bond between Australia and Greece.

Fr Dimitri Tsakas spoke of the day’s Gospel reading and how the hope of the Paralyzed man reflected the hope of those defending Crete. Fr Dimitri conveyed especially the blessing and love of His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia who heralds from the heroic Island of Crete. Brisbane’s Cretan community was deeply moved by the blessing and love of Archbishop Makarios.

After the Memorial Service, wreaths were laid at the Parish-Community’s Cenotaph. Hundreds gathered to honour our Greek and Australian Heroes of the Battle of Crete.

Among the many present for the Memorial were, Mr Tony Katsanevas (President of the Cretan Association of Queensland), Mr Bico Athanasas (Honourary Consular Secretary representing the Hon. Consul-General of Greece Mr Jim Raptis), President of the Greek Orthodox Community of St George, Mr Michael Anastas, President of the Parish-Community of The Dormition of Our Lady, Mr Luke Comino, President of the Parish-Community of St Anna on the Gold Coast, Mr James Nye’s, and President of the Cypriot Community of Queensland, Mr Stathe Zambis.

The majority of Brisbane’s Greek Regional Associations were represented by their Presidents and the diversity of so many Greeks present for the Service.

Very Rev Fr Dimitri Tsakas
Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia
Greek Orthodox Parish-Community of St George