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The Greek Community of Melbourne was proud to present the Greek Writers Festival which made its debut at the Greek Centre for Contemporary Culture on Friday 31 May 2019.

The Festival was officially opened by Boon Wurrung Traditional Land Owner, Gheran Steel.

Hosted by Professor Vrasidas Karalis, Sir Nicholas Laurantus Professor Modern Greek Chair at the University of Sydney the first panel featured writers Maria Katsonis and Dmetri Kakmi discussing Growing Up Greek and Rebellious.

Greek Writers Festival ran for five big days from 31 May to 8 June with an impressive line-up of over 50 writers and 30 events. These include panels, readings, performances and workshops that challenged and entertained audiences with the aim of fostering a broader cultural, political and literary dialogue.

In 2019, the theme of the festival was DIASPORIC DIALOGUES highlighting the intention that writers and performers from different diasporas and communities in Australia have so much to share and learn from each other; as well as to encourage and nurture cultural and artistic relationships. The programme showcased Chinese, Vietnamese, Indian, African, Middle Eastern, Jewish and Australian First Nations writers and performers as well as those who identify as queer.

For those who attended, it was an invaluable opportunity to listen to writers views on various issues concerning contemporary writing and arts in Australia’s multicultural society.