Image courtesy of the Sidiropoulos Family
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Theo Sidiropoulos
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Stand-Up Speak Out - Theo Sidiropoulos
A Memorial to the late Theo Sidiropoulos 
(b. 1924 – d. 1998) by artist Jenny Steiner
Theo Sidiropoulos was born in Katerini, Greece on 24 July 1924 and migrated to Australia in 1954.
He made outstanding contributions to Melbourne’s social, political and civic life through his community and political activism, belief in social justice and support of migrants’ rights. Theo was a community leader in Collingwood and the surrounding areas of Fitzroy, North Fitzroy, Clifton Hill, Abbotsford and Richmond, as well as within Melbourne’s Greek Community. He also played a significant and visionary role at a State and national level.
Theo was:
- Councillor, City of Collingwood (1968-1978)
- Mayor City of Collingwood (1977)
- MLA (Member of Legislative Assembly) for Richmond (1977-1988)
Theo stood up and spoke out for many. He paved the way for migrants and minorities to have a voice. This memorial commemorates Theo’s life and contribution. It also invites people to stand up and speak out for themselves and for the rights of others.
About the Memorial
Stand-Up Speak Out memorial by Jenny Steiner
The memorial reflects aspects of Theo’s personal and political life. It is symbolic of a speakers’ mound, a place where all people can have their say and be heard. The use of strong, natural materials such as stone and timber, and the use of steel, expresses Theo’s strength of character and unpretentious nature. The diversity of languages is a sign of Theo’s support and connection to migrant communities. Theo’s own cultural heritage is represented by the backgammon elements in the seat design and the Greek key pattern of the timber railway sleepers. His determination despite his broken English is symbolised by the broken line in the blue stone seat. The red carnation signifies passion and also final respects.
About the Memorial Commissioning Process
In 2002, the Theo Sidiropoulos Trust approached Council with the idea of creating a memorial to recognise the outstanding contribution to Melbourne’s social, political and civic life by Theo Sidiropoulos.
The City of Yarra, in partnership with the Theo Sidiropoulos Trust and with funding through the Victorian Multicultural Commission’s Strengthening Multicultural Communities program, commissioned this unique memorial.
Through an expression of interest process, artist Jenny Steiner’s Stand Up – Speak Out design was selected and commissioned. The project was driven by a working group involving Cr Annabel Barbara, representatives from Arts & Cultural Services, Recreation and Open Space and the Theo Sidiropoulos Trust.
Further information
Arts & Cultural Services c/o Richmond Town Hall,
333 Bridge Rd, Richmond
Telephone 9205 5029
Email info@yarracity.vic.gov.au
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