Community celebrates ‘Little Greece’ in Marrickville
Image: Margot Heuman in 1939 (left) and in 1947 (right).
By ERIN MODARO
The official celebration of ‘Little Greece’ in Marrickville kicked off over the weekend in a community event with Greek music and dancing, as well as a procession and concert.
Front runners of the event included MC Alex Lykos, Tassos Bouzouki and St Nicholas Church Greek Dancing Group, as well as the unveiling of a plaque by Mayor Darcy Byrne and Councillor Zoi Tsardoulias.
In 2021, the Inner West Council green-lighted naming the section of Marrickville Road ‘Little Grecce’ to recognise the Greek community and diaspora in the area. Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne said the naming was “a gesture of respect to all the Greek migrants who helped establish the Inner West as the birthplace of Australian multiculturalism”.
In a Facebook post celebrating the recent event, Mayor Byrne said that the Inner West “will continue to be a beacon of respect and diversity for many decades to come.”
“To all the Greeks who built Marrickville we say simply, efcharisto.”
Hestia’s Migration mural signifies the Greek Diaspora
A mural titled ‘Hestia’s Migration’ was painted in Little Greece by artist OxKing (Steven Nuttall).
“My artwork depicts the ancient goddess Hestia, transposed within the modern Australian context of the Greek migrant story,” Nuttall said when the mural was first unveiled.
“She is framed with panels referencing the 1821 war for independence, Saint Nicolas, the migrant ship The Patrice and Greek food culture growing roots amongst Australian soil.”
Nuttall gave a speech to the community at the recent celebration, explaining the significance of the mural to the Marrickville residents and others who came to celebrate.
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