On 5 December 2024, the Honorary Consulate-General in Queensland Brisbane marked a significant milestone with the official opening and blessing of its new premises at 239 George Street, Brisbane. The event brought together dignitaries, community leaders, and honoured guests to celebrate the consulate's return to the heart of Brisbane. The relocation signifies a renewed commitment to serving the Greek-Australian community and strengthening cultural and diplomatic ties between Greece and Queensland. Marked a significant milestone with the official opening and blessing of its new offices at 239 George Street, Brisbane. The event gathered prominent figures from the Greek-Australian community to celebrate this new chapter in the consulate's history.
The move follows the appointment of Mr George Mastrocostas as the new Honorary Consul-General for Greece in Queensland earlier this year. "This move reflects the strength and importance of our community here in Queensland," stated Mr Mastrocostas in a press release to Greek City Times. "The new offices represent a renewed commitment to serving our community and strengthening our cultural and diplomatic bonds. It is fitting that our consulate is again in the city’s centre, reflecting our dedication to proudly representing Greece.
The grand opening was attended by a host of distinguished guests, including His Excellency Stavros Venizelos, Ambassador of Greece to Australia, and his wife, Larissa Tikaidi, who travelled from Canberra for the occasion. His Grace, Bishop Bartholomew of Brisbane, presided over the blessing ceremony, sanctifying the new space and highlighting the importance of the consulate as a hub for connection and collaboration. Mr Mastrocostas and his wife, Ying Mastrocostas, also welcomed numerous clergy members and community leaders from across Queensland, demonstrating the unity and vibrancy of the Greek-Australian community.
Adding a touch of artistic brilliance to the occasion, renowned Greek artist Caroline Rovithi generously donated 19 vibrant artworks to the consulate. Ms. Rovithi, whose artistic mission is to promote Hellenism globally, explained, “I believe that ‘All you need is Greece’ – its history, culture, and enduring spirit. These works aim to connect the past with the present, blending heroic symbols with contemporary expressions of hope and strength.” The donated pieces now adorn the consulate walls, transforming the space into a vibrant celebration of Greek culture and heritage.
Further enriching the consulate's aesthetic, esteemed photographer Nick Bourdaniotis donated a striking piece from his acclaimed The Evzones Collection by Nick Bourdaniotis. Mr Mastrocostas expressed his deep gratitude for both artists' contributions, stating, “The contributions of Caroline Rovithi and Nick Bourdaniotis have transformed our new offices into more than just a consulate—they are now a living celebration of Hellenic culture and identity, infused with the heart and soul of Greece. Caroline’s vibrant artworks and Nick’s evocative photography bring Greece to life within these walls, capturing our homeland’s spirit, history, and pride in unique and moving ways. Their generosity enriches this space and inspires everyone who walks through these doors.”
Bourdaniotis explained, "Through my photography, sitting in this room and looking at the photo transports you straight back to Greece. Being in this Consulate office holds significant meaning for Greeks in the diaspora."
Nick Bourdaniotis is also the official photographer for the Greek City Times.
The relocation and grand opening of the Greek Consulate-General in Brisbane marks a new chapter for the Greek-Australian community in Queensland. The event celebrated the strong ties between Greece and Australia, showcased the vibrancy and commitment of the Greek community in Queensland, and promised a bright future for cultural exchange and collaboration.