Maria Papadopoulos

Story

My beautiful mother Maria (maiden name Soutloglou), married in St Nicholas Church in Plaka, Athens Greece in 1955 to Peter Papadopoulos of Sohoum, Russia of Greek origin, left her homeland immigrating to Australia in search for a better tomorrow.

Maria was an excellent Dressmaker and found work with the renowned Janettas Bridal Salon in Newcastle during the 70’s.

Her Journey to Australia in 1956 via the SS Gumhuryat Msr was HORRIFIC. This rust bucket – it was a miracle that it sailed at all. The Ship and its owner were heavily fined by the Victorian Sea Port Authorities, regarding the appalling state it was in and not being seaworthy enough to carry passengers.

Mums first impressions of Australia was just being anxious to see her husband again, after travelling alone and the following trauma of culture shock took its turn. Mum eventually settled in Scone NSW, where her husband had found work as a labourer working at the Glennbawn Dam. When the Dam was built they relocated to Newcastle in 1960. Son John was born in 1957 and I came in 1958 at Scone. The following years Maria worked as a dressmaker and travelled back and forth to Greece visiting her relatives and also travelling Europe.

She spread joy and laughter to all who were around her.She was a very proud Greek Lady, who was talented in Greek Cuisine and dressmaking. She always cooked for the neighbourhood and friends. Maria also loved to dress up as funny characters at formal dinners and gatherings to break the ice; she always brought the room down with laughter.

Maria sadly passed away on the 13th of May 2009. She dedicated her life to her 2 children and to all whom she loved.She is greatly missed and will always be forever remembered. We are poor without her.We love you mum.

Elizabeth Roula and John.

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