Northcote Festival celebrates 35 years of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew

The 3rd Northcote Festival was held at the Holy Metropolis of Chora to commemorate the 35th anniversary of the election and enthronement of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew (1991–2026).

During the opening of the festival, Archbishop Makarios of Australia expressed gratitude for the Patriarch’s contributions, noting that the Greek Orthodox community in Australia owes its dioceses and constitution to his leadership. The Archbishop also highlighted the role of Greek immigrants in shaping modern Australia through their faith, traditions, and community building.

The festival aims to celebrate Greek Orthodox heritage—including music, dance, and gastronomy—while fostering communication between the Greek-speaking community and the broader Australian society. The Panagia ‘Axion Esti’ Cathedral serves as the central spiritual and social hub for these celebrations.