The Hellenic Studies Foundation has proudly announced the return of the Hellenic Presidential Guard, known as the Evzones, to Adelaide, South Australia, for the ANZAC Day long weekend in April 2025. This visit promises to be a poignant celebration of the deep ties between Australia and Greece, forged through shared sacrifice and mutual respect during times of war. As the countdown begins, anticipation builds for what has become a cherished tradition in South Australia’s Greek and broader communities.
The Evzones, an elite ceremonial unit of the Hellenic Army, are instantly recognizable by their striking traditional uniforms. They feature the iconic fustanella—a kilt-like garment with 400 pleats symbolizing the years of Ottoman occupation. These soldiers are more than a visual spectacle; they embody Greece’s storied military heritage. Tasked with guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Presidential Mansion in Athens, the Evzones trace their origins to 1868, when they were established as a combatant and ceremonial force. Today, they stand as living symbols of Greek bravery and resilience.
This upcoming visit is not the Evzones’ first journey to Adelaide. Their presence has graced South Australia, leaving an indelible mark on the community. In October 2022, they participated in OXI Day commemorations, marking Greece’s defiance against Axis powers in World War II. During that visit, they were warmly welcomed by local schools and residents, showcasing their precision marching and cultural significance. Now, their return for ANZAC Day 2025 reaffirms the enduring bond between the ANZACs and Greece—a relationship rooted in the battlefields of the 20th century.
A Historical Connection: ANZACs and Greece
The connection between Australia and Greece is steeped in history, particularly through the ANZAC legacy. Australian and New Zealand forces fought alongside Greek troops in the Gallipoli Campaign during World War I. Decades later, in World War II, the ANZACs returned to the Mediterranean, playing a crucial role in the Battle of Greece and the Battle of Crete. These campaigns forged a brotherhood between the nations, with countless stories of Greek civilians sheltering and aiding ANZAC soldiers behind enemy lines. The Evzones’ visit to Adelaide is a tribute to this shared history, honoring the sacrifices made for freedom and democracy.
Rewind to 2019: The Evzones’ Memorable ANZAC Day March in Adelaide
To understand the significance of their upcoming visit, let’s revisit the Evzones’ unforgettable participation in the 2019 ANZAC Day Parade in Adelaide. On April 25, 2019, the streets of the South Australian capital came alive with the rhythmic clatter of tsarouchia—traditional red clogs adorned with black pom-poms—as a detachment of the Hellenic Presidential Guard marched through the city. Dressed in their formal attire, complete with fustanellas and intricately embroidered waistcoats, the Evzones joined Australian soldiers in a moving display of solidarity.
The parade began along King William Street, where thousands of spectators lined the route, their cheers mingling with the sound of the Evzones’ synchronized steps. Passing Government House, the contingent marched in the presence of then-Governor Hieu Van Le and other dignitaries, their rifles held proudly on their shoulders. The procession was a striking blend of tradition and remembrance, as the Evzones’ distinctive slow-motion march—a technique designed to maintain circulation during long stationary duties—contrasted with the brisk pace of their Australian counterparts.
For many onlookers, it was a historic moment. The sight of the Greek Presidential Guard alongside Australian veterans underscored the shared values of independence and camaraderie. Greek-Australians, in particular, swelled with pride, their applause echoing through the streets as the Evzones paid tribute to the “forgotten ANZACs” of Greece and Crete. The march concluded with a wreath-laying ceremony at the National War Memorial on North Terrace, a solemn reminder of the cost of war and the enduring alliance between the two nations.
Beyond the parade, the 2019 visit included a cultural flourish. That evening, the Evzones participated in Greek Orthodox Easter celebrations at St George Church in Thebarton, escorting the Epitafio through the surrounding streets. Their presence bridged military honor with cultural heritage, leaving a lasting impression on all who witnessed it.
What to Expect in 2025
While the Hellenic Studies Foundation has yet to release the full program for the 2025 visit, expectations are high. Based on past visits, South Australians can anticipate a mix of ceremonial marches, wreath-laying events, and community engagements. The Evzones will likely feature prominently in Adelaide’s ANZAC Day commemorations, potentially leading a contingent of veterans and allies through the city once more. Their schedule may also include visits to local schools, churches, and Greek community centers, offering opportunities for residents to connect with this living piece of history.
The Foundation has invited the public to honor this shared legacy, promising updates as the event draws near. For Greek-Australians and history enthusiasts alike, the Evzones’ return is a chance to reflect on the past while celebrating the cultural ties that continue to thrive in South Australia.
More details about Sydney’s visit are set to drop in the coming week, and Greek City Times will keep you in the loop with the latest on their Australia schedule as soon as it’s out.
Photo Images: Copyright Nick Bourdaniotis for Greek City Times
