The People’s Club Is More Than Just A Slogan

The People’s Club is more than just a slogan – it signifies the fabric of a club that unites and inspires its diverse community of supporters from all backgrounds.

As part of its 65th anniversary, nearly 500 guests in attendance at La Mirage Reception celebrated in style at a Gala Ball.

Hosted by great friend of the club, Andrew Paschalidis, the evening showcased the rich heritage of the club formed in 1958 through the vision of Florinian immigrants from northern Greece.

To set the tone of honoring the achievements of the club throughout its rich history, a short video was shown, highlighting great moments spanning more than six decades.

Keynote speakers during the evening included club President Steve Tsalilkidis, Chairperson Arthur Evriniadis, the Honorable Lee Tarlamis (OAM), MP and the Consul General of Greece in Melbourne, Mr Emmanuel Kakavelakis.

During the evening, guests also heard speeches from other dignitaries, including Deputy Mayor of Banyule, Alida McKern, and President of the Greek Orthodox Community and Commissioner of the Victorian Multicultural Commission, Bill Papastergiadis.

Football Australia Chairman Chris Nikou sent an emotive and congratulatory video message to the club, noting its great legacy in the Australian football landscape.

Football Victoria CEO Kimon Taliadoros presented the club with a framed jersey he wore representing the club in its 1993 NPL Cup victory, to be placed in the club’s honor room in the new facility to be constructed.

As part of the event entertainment, guests were treated to traditional dance groups performing. Both the Akrites Australia (Ακρίτες του Ποντου) and Florina Aristotelis Dance Group gave attendees a special glimpse of dance routines of the Pontus and Florina regions in a dazzling display.

Such an event could not have happened and come together so seemingly effortlessly without much preparation and organisation. Special thanks to Angela Palapasidis and her organising committee for their efforts in putting it all together.

As one of the speakers noted – Alexander the Great (the original name of the club) will still be at the forefront of its community in 65 year’s time & as the host of the evening succinctly says: “Long live Alexandros!”