PRESS RELEASE - 16 October 2001

Melbourne - The 47th National Convention of AHEPA was held in Melbourne, Victoria from Saturday 29th September to 6th October. Over ninety delegates from all States and New Zealand attended the Convention.

It was with great pleasure that AHEPA welcomed Andrew Banis, President, AHEPA USA, Canada, Greece and Cyprus, together with Joanne Booras National President of Women's Section, USA, Canada, Greece and Cyprus, George Booras and Pete Kotzambasis, Past National Governor.

Mr Banis addressed the Convention and outlined the activities of the AHEPA USA with special respect to the Greek Heritage programs - the Kyklos Mural which will be placed at Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport in Greece and their meetings with Government officials in Greece and Cyprus regarding the Cyprus issue.

A visit was made to His Grace, Bishop Ezekiel by the members of the National body of AHEPA Australasia together with the American delegation. A cheque of $2,100 was presented to His Grace for St Andrews Theological College in order to uphold AHEPA's annual commitment.

A further donation of $1,400 was made to the Children's Hospital to satisfy an annual commitment of AHEPA.

Mr Zafiris Vachlas was re-elected as National President of AHEPA Australasia. Helen Katsaros was re-elected as National Vice President.

Internally, AHEPA continues to exert pressure on the British Government to return the Parthenon Marbles to Greece. Representatives will meet with Greek Government officials soon regarding the Parthenon Marbles.

A trip to Greece to meet with the USA AHEPANS is being planned in the near future.

AHEPA's work for philanthropic, educational and heritage programs continues for the good of all the Community.

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