By Shamsiya Hussainpoor
The charming village in the Dandenong Ranges, Kallista is gearing up for a big celebration in March 2025, to mark its 100 years since the town changed its name from South Sassafras to Kallista.
The anniversary event, happening on Saturday 29 March 29, promises to be a day full of fun, history, and community spirit, made possible thanks to $10,000 in grants from Community Bank Monbulk and District and Yarra Ranges Council.
The celebration will kick off at 2pm with a special Welcome to Country ceremony by Uncle Maro Jingi, who will also host a yarning circle to share the First Nations people’s history of the area.
From there, the town will come alive with a street parade, local choirs, and a variety of activities that reflect Kallista’s unique cultural and natural beauty.
One of the standout features of the day will be the Light Up Kallista display, where images of the town’s past and present will light up buildings and trees around the area, giving a magical feel to the evening.
The event will also include performances at the iconic Kallista Mechanics Hall, which will host a writer’s forum, a bush dance, and a jazz performance in the spirit of the 1920s.
A committee member, Julie Athanasiou behind the celebration, spoke about how special the centenary is to her and the community.
“To me personally, this celebration is all about the things that make Kallista a unique place,” she said.
“We’ve always been different from other villages on the mountain, and this event is a chance to honour the people and history that have made Kallista what it is today.”
The name ‘Kallista’ – meaning “most beautiful” in Greek – was chosen a century ago to reflect the stunning natural surroundings of the area.
Ms Athanasiou explained how the event would shine a light on the town’s artistic history, with displays of local artworks and the chance to dress up in 1920s-style clothes.
“We’re encouraging everyone to get into the spirit of things and dress up in vintage fashion,” she said.
“There will even be vintage cars for people to take photos with.”
The Dr Jazz event will be one of the highlights of the evening, offering a chance for people to learn the Charleston dance, and then show off their moves at the party.
“It’s going to be great fun, you can even take a dance lesson and then hit the dance floor at the jazz event later on,” Ms Athanasiou said.
With plenty of activities for all ages – from old-world games to a photo booth for kids to dress up in historical gear – there’s something for everyone.
And, with food trucks lining the streets, the celebration will be a chance for everyone to enjoy the local food and music while soaking in the town’s atmosphere.
Ms Athanasiou said the how important support from Community Bank Monbulk and District and Yarra Ranges Council has been in making the event possible.
“Without their support, this would have been a much smaller event. Thanks to them, we can put on a big celebration for the community,” she said.
The event is free to attend, with no registration required.
It’s a chance for everyone – locals, past residents, and visitors alike – to join in and celebrate Kallista’s special place in the heart of the Dandenongs.
Ms Athanasiou’s message to anyone thinking of attending?
“Come along, dress up, have fun, and enjoy what makes Kallista such a unique and beautiful place.”
The celebrations will run from 2pm until late, with the event winding up around 10 pm, when the evening’s final band takes the stage.
Ms Athanasiou is hoping the day will bring the community closer together and leave everyone feeling proud of Kallista’s rich history.
“It’s about celebrating who we are, where we’ve come from, and where we’re headed as a community.”
