Panachaian Philanthropical Association

The Panachaian Philantrhopical Association 'Paleon Patron Germanos' Limited have a number of objectives. These include:

• To promote the welfare and well-being for persons born in the district of Achaia, Greece in Australia

• To preserve and maintain national and local traditions, customs, symbols and costumes originating in the district of Achaia

• To promote and provide further information on

subjects of interest to members of the Association and members of the wider community

• To conduct and promote dinners, balls, concerts and musical entertainment for the benefit of members of the Association and others

--------------------------------------------------------------------------
One of the major annual events replicated in Australia, based on the Greek tradition, is annual Patrino Carnivale. HISTORY OF THE PATRINO CARNIVALE IN GREECE:
The Patrino Carnaivale is the largest event of its kind in Greece, more than 160 years old. Such tradition has carried through to Sydney, Australia. The events begin on 17 January and last up to "Clean Monday". The carnival of Patras is not a single event but a variety of events that includes balls, parades, hunting of hidden treasure, kids’ carnival etc. Its highlight is in the last weekend of Carnival with the Saturday evening parade of carnival groups, the extravagant Sunday parade of floats and groups, and finally the ritual burning of king carnival at the St. Nikolaos Street wharf in the harbour of Patras. Its characteristics are spontaneity, improvisation, inspiration and volunteerism.