Greek currents in Australian waters: Greek-Australians and the sea, 1810s–2013

Abstract

The sea has been an important element in the history of both the ancient and modern Greeks, providing passage, local livelihoods and access to international trade. In the modern era, Antipodean waters have been part of this ongoing relationship. The sea brought the earliest Greek settlers to Australia, together with the majority of post-World War II Greek migrants, offering them employment opportunities, adventure, recreation and sport. This paper provides evidence of the significance of the Greek contribution to Australia’s maritime activities — a contribution that has helped to mould modern Australia’s connection with the sea