SYDNEY: The Armenian National Committee of Australia (ANC-AU) is proud to announce that acclaimed broadcaster George Donikian and renowned social entrepreneur John Dee will be among the stars at its 50th Anniversary Gala in Sydney on Saturday, 29 November 2025, at the Sofitel Sydney Wentworth Ballroom, celebrating five decades of Armenian-Australian advocacy.
George Donikian, a household name in Australian media, will serve as Master of Ceremonies for the evening. With a distinguished career at SBS Australia, Donikian who is of Armenian heritage through his father, brings a deep cultural connection to the role. In 2020, he produced and presented the groundbreaking documentary “Journey Through Armenia”, the first of its kind to explore Armenia’s history, culture, and people for Australian audiences, which was showcased on SBS Australia multiple times.
John Dee, 2010 Australian of the Year and celebrated social entrepreneur, will also be a special guest at the Sydney Gala. John has a long-standing connection to Armenia, beginning in 1989 with his Rock Aid Armenia project, which released an all-star version of Smoke on the Water, reaching the UK Top 40.
In 1990, Dee organised The Earthquake Album, a certified gold record selling 100,000 copies in just 10 days, featuring iconic bands including Pink Floyd, Queen, Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath, and more. Together with Ara Tadevosyan, John also initiated the construction of a music school for 220 children in the Armenian earthquake zone, opened in 2013 by the President of Armenia.
The evening will be attended by over 30 elected officials and include the presentation of the organisation’s Freedom Award, Armenian-Australian Community Friend of the Year Award and the Ben Bagdikian Media Award.
Following formalities DJ Nazo and dhol player Serj will bring the celebrations to life. This year’s Gala theme, “Honouring Our Past, Securing Our Future,” celebrates the people, achievements, and collective effort that have advocated for the Armenian-Australian community over the past 50 years.
Michael Kolokossian, Executive Director of the Armenian National Committee of Australia, said:"This 50th Anniversary Gala is a moment to reflect on our history, honour those who paved the way, and celebrate the bright future ahead. With George Donikian hosting and John Dee joining us, it promises to be a truly unforgettable evening of connection, culture, and celebration."
Tickets are now on sale and can be purchased
here.
