On 29th June this year we hosted a very special concert – “A classical Journey Around the World” – featuring the newly named WollCon Symphony Orchestra. The concert also celebrated the 80th anniversary of the establishment of the first Wollongong City Orchestra which played on the very same stage.

Stephen Zantiotis who was WollCon’s special guest for the evening was a violinist in that very first orchestra in 1944.  We were delighted that he joined us in the Town Hall along with his family, for our musical celebration.

According to Stephen that very first orchestra started during the war with a few string players who had previously played during the silent movie days. He was pictured at the WollCon Symphony Orchestra concert (below right) with conductor Mikaela Johnson and CEO David Francis.

It is with great sadness we share the news of Stephen’s passing on the 29th July. He was 96.

We thank Stephen’s family for ensuring he was able to attend the concert “A classical Journey Around the World”. It meant so much to members of the orchestra to know he enjoyed the performance and the choice of music.

Stephen’s funeral was held Tuesday 6th August in Wollongong, and we thank all friends and family who have kindly donated (in lieu of flowers) to the WollCon Symphony Orchestra to support its members and musical activities.

For further enquiries about the WollCon Symphony Orchestra please email: [email protected]