Christos and Nicolista Bakopoulos from Greece celebrate their 70th Wedding Anniversary in Sydney. Credit: Courtesy of Christine Stani
Christos and Nicolista (Chris and Nicky) Bakopoulos, a devoted couple from Greece, recently celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary in Sydney, surrounded by family, friends, and fellow residents at Scalabrini Bexley.
Their platinum anniversary marks not only a lifetime of love but also a story of courage, migration, and shared dreams that began seven decades ago in Greece.
From Greece to a new beginning in Sydney
Chris, born in Kardamas, and Nicky, from Patra, met by chance in 1954 after a devastating earthquake struck Greece.
What started as a brief meeting soon blossomed into a deep and lasting connection. They married on October 30, 1954, and just days later, Chris departed for Australia to begin building a new life for them both.
Separated for more than two years, the couple stayed connected through weekly handwritten letters. In 1957, Nicky made the brave journey to Australia, reuniting with Chris and starting a new chapter filled with love, resilience, and hard work.
Building a life in Sydney
Together, they raised three daughters — Maria, Shirley, and Stella — and worked tirelessly to provide for their family.
They managed barber shops and a milk bar, eventually settling in Bexley in 1977, where they lived for nearly five decades.
Chris continued his career in barbering and later moved into real estate, while Nicky found fulfillment working in hospital services.
A legacy of love and wisdom
Now both 88, Chris and Nicky enjoy the peace and care of Toscana at Scalabrini Bexley. Their family finds comfort knowing they are surrounded by a compassionate community that values their dignity and Greek heritage.
Reflecting on their lifelong bond, Chris shared the guiding principles that have shaped their journey:
“Anything you expect others to do for you, you must be willing to do first. Love to be loved. Respect to be respected. Help to be helped.”