Australia's Greek Day Memories 3 - South Melbourne's Mrs Mott's Greek Day Appeal

Anzac Honour Certificate issued by the City of South Melbourne. Source: Museum of Victoria

In April 1941 one of South Melbourne's local residents led a significant effort to raise funds as part of Melbourne's Greek War Victims Appeal.
Mrs A Mott led a small band of enthusiastic volunteers set up a fundraising stall and wheel for the Appeal in South Melbourne in late February.
The stall was stocked with goods donated by local residents.

Engraving of the then Emerald Hill Town Hall

After the drive, Mrs Mott convened a meeting at South Melbourne Town Hall to report the results. A total of 129 pounds was raised - 74 pounds was collected "in the boxes" and 55 pounds on the wheel. Greek Day badges were also sold on the day, possibly in return for donations into the boxes. A special drive in support of the Red Cross raised an additional 22 pounds.
The day was such a success that Mrs Mott and her volunteers immediately planned to continue their effort, this time for the sale of Anzac Day token. Planning for the fundraising events was undertaken at South Melbourne Library.

South Melbourne Library, 1940's. Source: City of Port Phillip

Source: Record (Emerald Hill).
 

Greek Day
Following the Italian invasion of Greece, major fundraising efforts were organized across Australia, supported by the Australian government, to assist Greek war victims. Special fundraising days were organized which became known as Greek Days. Special buttons and badges were produced - Greek Day badges - and flags combining the British and Greek flag. These were sold throughout Australia as fundraisers. This is the first of many posts commemorating Australia's Greek Days.

Lest we forget.

Jim Claven
Secretary
Lemnos Gallipoli Commemorative Committee