The 70th issue of the bilingual magazine ‘Antipodes’, dedicated to Cyprus, was launched last Sunday in a packed Andronikos Centre at Alphington Grammar School. The Greek-Australian Cultural League of Melbourne (GACL) organised the event that captured the essence of Cypriot history and culture, delighting attendees with audiovisual presentations, heartfelt speeches and traditional Cypriot delicacies. The afternoon offered a sensory journey into the rich history and heritage of Cyprus.

The event attracted many notable guests, including the President of the Greek Community of Melbourne and Victoria Bill Papastergiadis, Federal Labor MP Maria Vamvakinou, Northcote MP Kat Theophanous, Education Coordinator for Australia Maria Triantafyllou, and President of the Cypriot Community of Melbourne Theo Theophanous. The special guest and keynote speaker was Antonis Samoutis, the High Commissioner of Cyprus to Australia.

(L-R) Dr Harris Georgiou, Cathy Alexoopoulos, Andrea Garivaldis, Antonis Samoutis, Giannis Milidis, and Sotiris Sotiriou. Photo: Supplied

A cultural milestone

The Greek-Australian Cultural League was founded in 1969, and the first issue of the ‘Antipodes’ literary magazine followed in 1974. Since then, it has become one of the longest-running publications of its kind, becoming a cornerstone of Greek-Australian literature, reflecting the diverse voices and experiences of the Hellenic diaspora.

At the event, GACL President Kathy Alexopoulos OAM expressed her pride in the magazine’s rich legacy.

“Its longevity should inspire us all. We are very pleased to once again present this significant, exemplary, and innovative publication. It has become a valuable cultural artifact and reference for future generations,” she said.

Alexopoulos highlighted the importance of this 70th issue, dedicated to Cyprus, a nation that has withstood centuries of conflict and foreign occupation. “It is the resilience, perseverance, and determination of the Cypriots that have kept their faith, language, and culture thriving,” she said.

High Commissioner of Cyprus in Australia, Antonis Samoutis, with Labor Federal MP Maria Vamvakinou. Photo: Supplied

Honouring Cyprus

Vice President of GACL Andrea Garivaldis, led the program, overseeing the proceedings and showcasing the league’s hard work in making this milestone issue a reality. In her opening remarks, President Alexopoulos thanked the contributors of this issue with their articles and personal stories. She also praised the editorial committee, particularly Stavros Messinis, for his efforts in designing and printing the magazine.

High Commissioner Antonis Samoutis underscored the importance of preserving Cyprus’s cultural identity through such initiatives. He spoke passionately about the contributions of artists and writers in shaping national consciousness.

“Culture and intellect are essential pillars in the collective effort to preserve our heritage, language, unique customs, and traditions—elements that enrich the vibrant multicultural mosaic of Australia,” he said.

His words resonated with the audience, particularly those of Cypriot descent, who continue to feel the lasting impact of the 1974 Turkish invasion of Cyprus. The pain of displacement and the ongoing struggle for reunification were recurring themes throughout the speeches.

(L-R) The president of the Cypriot Community of Melbourne, Theo Theofanous; Antonis Samoutis; the president of the AHEPA (American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association), Cathy Alexopoulos; the president of the Greek Community of Melbourne, Bill Papastergiadis; and Pavlos Andronikos. Photo: Supplied

Speeches that stirred the soul

Federal MP Maria Vamvakinou described ‘Antipodes’ as a publication close to her heart, stressing the ongoing relevance of the Cyprus issue.

“Cyprus faces many issues beyond reunification. A country with such great potential should not be hindered. We must keep the Cyprus issue alive and on the global agenda,” she said.

Her remarks were echoed by education coordinator Maria Triantafyllou, who highlighted the role of Cyprus in shaping the Greek diaspora’s collective memory.

“The Greek-Australian Cultural League of Melbourne, with its longstanding history, is a key pillar in promoting and preserving the Greek language, culture, and spirit in Australia.”

One of the most moving moments came when Northcote MP Kat Theophanous spoke of Cyprus’s living history and her own family’s experiences.

“The stories, poems, and reflections in this magazine capture the soul of Cyprus—its pain but also its resilience, determination, and strength. For Cypriots, the invasion and occupation are not history—it is a story we live every day, in our families and in our hearts.”

A cultural feast for the senses

In addition to the speeches, the event featured an array of cultural performances that celebrated Cyprus’s vibrant traditions. Young singer Tabitha Bourakis opened the artistic segment with a rendition of the iconic Cypriot song ‘Chrysoprasino Phyllo’, while the Caryatid Dance, a nod to the Olympic year, was performed to great applause.

Later, Sotiris Sotiriou from the Pegasus Dance School—Melbourne’s only school specialising in Cypriot dances—performed traditional dances reminiscent of the villages of Cyprus. The afternoon concluded with a musical tribute to Cyprus by Pavlos Andronikos and Argyris Argyropoulos, whose emotional rendition of “Me Tou Kaemou Ta Xeilia” left few dry eyes in the room.

As guests admired a painting exhibition showcasing works inspired by Cyprus, they were treated to traditional Cypriot delicacies.

A collectible issue for future generations

‘Antipodes’ contains a treasure trove of historical articles and poems, offering readers a deep dive into the cultural and historical wealth of Cyprus. The cover art, by renowned Cypriot engraver Hambis Tsangaris, depicts the tragedy of the 1974 invasion, serving as a reminder of the island’s turbulent history.

For those who wish to own a copy of this collectible edition, they can become members of the Greek-Australian Cultural League and receive it for free by contacting 0428968715 or emailing infogaclm@gmail.com.

This special edition of ‘Antipodes’ stands as both a tribute to Cyprus and a testament to the enduring spirit of its people—an issue that not only reflects on the past but also looks toward a brighter future.