31/08/2026
PRESIDENT’S SPEECH FOR 30th CHURCH ANNIVERSARY
Ladies and Gentlemen,
On behalf of the Macedonian Community of Western Australia, I would like to warmly welcome you all here today as we celebrate two significant milestones: the 30th Anniversary of our beautiful Macedonian Orthodox Church of Saint Nikola, and the 57th anniversary of the original Macedonian Orthodox Church of St Nikola, which was opened in 1969.
First and foremost, I would like to express our deepest gratitude and respect to our parish priest, Protorej Stavrofor Otec Stanko Jovanovski, who has faithfully served our Church and Community with unwavering dedication and commitment for the past 32 years.
As we reflect on the construction of this magnificent church, it is fitting to acknowledge the remarkable contributions of several individuals whose vision, generosity, and hard work made it possible.
I would like to make special mention of our highly respected Life Member, Sam Christie, who served as Chairman of the Church Building Committee and played a vital role in bringing this project to fruition.
Our sincere thanks also go to George Milankov, the designer of the church, whose vision created this beautiful building in the traditional style of Macedonian churches. Three decades on, his design continues to stand the test of time.
I would also like to acknowledge George Naoum, our engineer, for his professional expertise and support. Both George Milankov and George Naoum generously provided their services free of charge, and we remain deeply appreciative of their contribution.
Special thanks are also extended to Jim Petropoulos, our builder, whose professional services were likewise provided free of charge. His generosity and commitment to our community are greatly valued and sincerely appreciated.
A special word of recognition must be given to our exceptional iconographer, Stefan Adamche, whose magnificent icons have enhanced the beauty and spiritual significance of our church, making it one of the most admired Macedonian Orthodox churches in Australia.
Over the years, many dedicated members have contributed to the successful operation and growth of our church.
Today, I would like to recognise and thank all those who have served, both in the past and presently, including:
• Church Committee Presidents and committee members
• Pritroops and church assistants
• Choir members
• Roster volunteers, and the
• Many ladies who faithfully bake the bread and prepare chemnitsa, among various duties, for the special services conducted throughout the year
Without the dedication, hard work, and generosity of these volunteers, our church could not function with the harmony, efficiency, and spirit of community that we enjoy today.
Finally, I would like to thank all of our members and parishioners for your loyalty, generosity, and unwavering support over the years.
Your commitment has strengthened our church and ensured that it continues to flourish for future generations.
Thank you all for being part of this special celebration.
May God bless you all.
George Filev
