Greek Orthodox Blessing of the Waters goes ahead despite water pollution concerns

PARTICIPANTS at today’s Blessing of the Waters at Frankston Pier were told to close their eyes and mouths and asked to sign waivers amid ongoing water pollution warnings.

Theo Demetriou, 28, from Clayton was the first among a group of swimmers to retrieve the cross thrown into the waters off Frankston Pier. Picture: Jason Sammon

CONCERNS about polluted water didn’t deter 14 men from jumping off Frankston Pier at today’s Greek Orthodox Blessing of the Waters event.

Frankston Council health officials advised the men to keep their eyes and mouths closed and immediately have showers after they got out of the water.

Blessing of the Waters participants were willing to risk entering the water for a possible year of good luck. Picture: Jason Sammon

The men were also asked to sign waivers by organisers acknowledging they participated at their own risk.

But Theo Demetriou, who emerged triumphant at today’s event, said he was undeterred by the health warnings.

An EPA water lab boat in the waters off Frankston Pier. Picture: Jason Sammon

The 28-year-old finance analyst from Clayton was the first to retrieve a wooden cross after it was thrown from the pier by the Greek Orthodox Bishop Iakovos.

EPA warns against swimming at Melbourne beaches due to poo contamination

“I came so close (to being first) last year. I gave it a good crack this year,” he said.

Of the health warnings, he said: “It’s a sacrifice I was willing to make.”

Triumphant swimmer Theo Demetriou, 28, from Clayton, with his mum Photini who celebrated her birthday and name day today. Picture: Jason Sammon

Greek Orthodox community members believe the first to retrieve the cross will have a year of good luck for their efforts.

Mr Demetriou received a blessing and a gold cross from Bishop Iakovos for his success.

His family was rapt, particularly as it coincided with mum Photini’s birthday.

EPA declares 33 of 36 Melbourne beaches OK to swim in again

“It makes me happy and proud to be part of this celebration,” Photini Demetriou told the Leader.

A huge crowd packed Frankston Pier for the event, which celebrates Christ’s baptism in the River Jordan by John the Baptist.

Frankston Greek School dancers Maria Goudas, 7, and her brother John, 9. Picture: Jason Sammon

Speaking to the crowd, Bishop Iakovos urged people to come closer together and learn to live in harmony.

“May this year be peaceful,” he said.

Frankston Mayor Brian Cunial said it was great to see so many people attending the event, which included music, dancing and food.

A large crowd gathered to watch the annual spectacle. Picture: Jason Sammon

Greek Orthodox Community of Frankston and Peninsula spokesman Con Demopoulos described health warnings about the water quality as a precaution.

A large sign at the beach stated Frankston Council advised people against swimming due to possible contamination.

“Swimming poses an unacceptable risk of illness,” the sign said.

It was a close race to retrieve the cross thrown by Greek Orthodox Bishop Iakovos. Picture: Jason Sammon