About Us

Behind the Australian Association of Kastorians are the wonderful people who give our Club its warmth, character and heart. Our members come from villages and towns across Kastoria, bringing with them stories, traditions, recipes and memories of their homeland.

Effie Lalopoulos – President | Nestorio
Effie has been part of the Kastorian community for many years and is a passionate advocate for keeping Kastorian traditions alive. Originally from Nestorio, she brings energy, determination and plenty of big ideas to the Club. You will often find Effie welcoming guests, organising events, sharing stories of Kastoria and making sure there is always something happening around the Club.

Dimitra Panagiotidis – Secretary |  Eptochori.
Dimitra is one of the familiar and much-loved faces of our Club. Originally from Eptahorio, she is known for her wonderful cooking, her beautiful garden and her generous nature. From preparing traditional dishes for our Sunday lunches and special celebrations to helping pass family recipes on to the next generation, Dimitra brings the true taste and warmth of Kastoria to our kitchen. Her love of cooking and tradition was also at the heart of our popular Kastorian cooking workshops.

Kosma Tzelios – Treasurer | Nestorio
Kosma, originally from Nestorio, is an important part of the team behind the scenes. As Treasurer, he helps look after the Club's financial affairs while contributing to the smooth running of our community activities. Like so many of our members, Kosma gives his time because he believes in the importance of keeping our Kastorian community strong and connected.

Loula Giopas – Nestorio
If you’ve ever walked through the doors of the Kastoria Club and been greeted with a warm smile, a plate of food, or a kind word—you’ve probably met Loula Gioupa. Loula is one of our proud Nestorio women and a valued member of our Kastorian family. With her connection to our homeland and her involvement in Club life, she represents the warmth and friendship that make our community special.

Together, our members are what make the Kastoria Club more than just a building. We are a community—a place for friendship, food, tradition, laughter and the sharing of our Kastorian heritage with the next generation.

The Australian Association of Kastorians was founded in 1988 to celebrate and promote the rich cultural heritage of Kastoria within Melbourne's vibrant Greek community. Our mission is to foster meaningful connections through traditional events and cultural activities that deepen members' understanding of Kastorian history and customs.

  Based in Coburg North, we host weekly Sunday community lunches, traditional Kastorian cooking workshops, and cultural events that are open to everyone. Throughout the year, we proudly celebrate important Greek national and religious occasions, including Greek Independence Day (25 March), the Feast Day of Saint Minas, the Patron Saint of Kastoria, Easter, Christmas, and other significant community celebrations.