MELBOURNE, Australia - In a surprise visit that underscored his close ties with the Greek community, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese joined the vibrant "Antipodes" Festival on Lonsdale Street in Melbourne this weekend.
The Prime Minister, known for his love for the area, even snuck away from a wedding where he was the best man to attend the festival. This act highlighted the strong pull the Greek community holds for him.
Bill Papastergiadis, President of the Greek Community of Melbourne, warmly welcomed the Prime Minister and his partner, offering them symbolic gifts amidst jovial references to ancient Greek warnings. Albanese, visibly upbeat, acknowledged the city's status as the largest Greek city outside of Greece itself.
Throughout his visit, the Prime Minister couldn't hide his admiration for the "Antipodes" Festival and the Greek community. He expressed his deep connection to the area, reminiscing about his youth spent enjoying the delicious food from the iconic "Stalactites" restaurant.
Now in its 36th year, the "Antipodes" Festival has become a pillar of the Greek community in Melbourne. Held annually over two days on Lonsdale Street, the festival offers an unforgettable experience filled with music, dance, and culinary delights. This year's edition, held on February 25 and 26, proved no different, continuing the tradition of celebrating Greek culture and fostering a strong sense of community.
The Prime Minister's surprise visit further solidified the warm relationship between the Australian government and the Greek community in Melbourne. His presence at the festival served as a testament to the deep cultural ties that bind the two communities together.
