Steve Georganas (Adelaide, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise today to commemorate Oxi Day, a day which represents the Greek determination through its strong refusal of fascism and the fight for freedom. We remember the sacrifices and struggles of those who fought for us. On this day, 28 October, Greeks all over Australia will commemorate and celebrate the day as Oxi Day.

In 1940, Greece refused to surrender to the Axis forces and said no to allowing their troops into Greece. Despite the odds being stacked against them, their brave act greatly influenced the tide of the war. The strength and determination of the Greek army resulted in the first victory for the Allied forces and the first setback for the Axis forces. The delay of the Axis plans, through Greece's defiance, greatly shaped the Allied victory.

Oxi Day is held as a significant day, especially in my electorate with its big community of Greek Australians who will be commemorating this weekend. We will be laying wreaths at different points across Adelaide to remember those who fought bravely and to remember the determination of the Greek people throughout World War II and other wars they have fought in.