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Delacroix masterpiece to visit Greece for historic anniversary

Eugène Delacroix’s celebrated 1826 oil painting “Greece on the Ruins of Missolonghi” will travel to Greece this April for the first time since it was created. The landmark loan coincides with the 200th anniversary of the heroic Exodus of Messolonghi, when the town’s besieged defenders made their historic stand, according to an article by Maro Vasiliadou in ekathimerini.com.

Widely regarded as the crown jewel of the Bordeaux Museum of Fine Arts collection—often compared to the Mona Lisa in importance—the painting rarely leaves France. Its most recent loan was in 2018 for a major retrospective at the Louvre and later at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Museum director Sophie Barthelemy explained that the exceptional decision followed a 2021 visit to Greece, where she encountered numerous reproductions of the artwork on display. “I said to myself that for this anniversary year, we will make an exception,” she said.

The masterpiece will be exhibited at the Xenokrateion Archaeological Museum in Messolonghi, bringing the powerful Philhellenic symbol to the very place that inspired it two centuries ago.

Source: ekathimerini.com

Femicide in Greece: Statistics, stories and the struggle for change

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Femicide is referred to as the intentional killing of a female because she is female, with Wikipedia specifying “… murder that disproportionately targets women or girls.” This crime, enacted more often by a partner, ex-partner, or family member, is usually preceded by domestic violence. It is an ongoing problem in Greece and around the world.

Many cases of femicide go unreported. The European Observatory of Femicide records the following figures for Greece:

  • 2020: 19 deaths
  • 2021: 31 deaths
  • 2022: 26 deaths
  • 2023: 15 deaths
  • 2024: 15 deaths
  • 2025/26: not yet recorded.

There were 105 femicides in Australia in 2024. Italy’s statistics are similar – 106 in 2024. As of last year though, Italy joined thirty countries worldwide who have accorded femicide as a separate crime within their national legal systems. Greece and Australia have not.

In Greece (and not just), the already existing “homicide” or “manslaughter” laws, regardless of victim gender, are considered sufficient by many who claim femicide is hard to categorise. In 2012, for example, the Vienna Declaration on Femicide recognised 11 different forms of femicide:

  • intimate partner killings
  • killings within the family (so-called honour killings, sex selection before or after birth, dowry-related killings, widow burning)
  • killings in connection with the commission of gender-based crimes such as sex offences, assault and battery, and stalking
  • killings in connection with organised crimes such as sex trafficking; and
  • killings as an expression of hate and other gender-related killings such as those committed by so-called incels and those committed in the context of intersectional discrimination.

Others – individuals and organisations in Greece, such as the Diotima Centre, the Bodossaki Foundation, Action for Women, etc – state that the motives of femicide are uniquely gender-based. They consequently advocate for femicide to be treated as a separate crime to murder or manslaughter.

Perhaps the reason that femicide has not yet been acknowledged as a separate issue/term in law (apart from in the aforementioned “thirty countries”) goes deeper. A writer for an Australian memorial organisation that pays homage to women and children killed violently says: “… those in power would have to recognise the full extent of our femicide epidemic – and that would mean having very uncomfortable conversations with the men who keep them in power.” (S. Moodey, 27/11/2025, The Red Heart Movement)

These “uncomfortable conversations” would involve opening a can of worms by acknowledging the vested interests inherent in maintaining current power structures and, in turn, unjust social hierarchies. This may include a fear of women’s true potential (for more nurturing and peaceful forms of societal administration perhaps) being kept oppressed.

The above quote and interpretation is not about ‘radicalism’, ‘Marxism’ or even feminism. It is about humanitarianism. Christianity, embodied in the Greek Orthodox tradition of my culture, specifically states that men should respect women (and vice versa). A Greek Orthodox local priest here in Athens, where I live, stressed murder as an abomination, and specifically that of women: “We do not see the husband as authoritarian, but as sacrificial. He has a Christ-like responsibility as the first servant of Christ to treat his wife and all females with equality, honour and dignity.”

Unfortunately, there are aspects of common culture that oppose this priest’s civilising views. They encourage males to view violence towards women as natural or even honourable. Some popular Greek songs are among the culprits. “Crimes of passion” and “honour killings” are often themes in many of these older Greek “murder ballads”. For example, a song by Tsitsanis, Ximeroni kai vradiazi, includes lyrics like: “… You under the ground and me in prison”.

In Ta Nea Tis Alexandras, told by Alexandra’s uncle – her murderer and sexual abuser – and then written by Kostas Yiannidis, lyrics included are: “I will take revenge on her, I will burn her / kill her”. It’s a true story.

There’s also the song, with its joyous, playful music, called Thelo Ta Opa Mou (I Want My Fun), sung by various big-name female singers throughout the years, written by Aleko Sakellariou, with lyrics: “I want/need my slap from the man I love.” And there are some pretty bad lyrics in more ‘modern’ Greek songs.

Culture shapes behaviours, and unfortunately there also seems to be a backlash to the #MeToo movement with false and/or exaggerated stereotypes of macho identity, encouraged by online forum indoctrination:

“… the feminist paradox means that the more equal women become, the more hatred and violence they face. Today we can see misogyny… everywhere, including new forms of violence such as cyberbullying. It is a proven fact that misogynist violence is constantly on the rise – that is, violence specifically directed at women, such as domestic violence, femicide, sexual assault, stalking, hate speech, and pathological attempts to control their lives.” (Dr R. Sancho, On the Necessary Transgressions of #MeToo, 2026, Max Planck Institute)

The Greek government is taking many proactive measures to reinforce that domestic violence and femicide will not be tolerated. The European Institute for Gender Equality 2025 shows, in terms of commitment to the promotion of gender equality, that “Greece scored 10.2 out of 15 points, which is above the EU average of 9.4 and shows progress compared with its 2021 score of 9.5”.

Last year, the Greek government wisely banned the use of “crime of passion” as a mitigating factor in courts of law. Furthermore, it has also developed a specialised preliminary investigations police structure of 73 Domestic Violence Services working in conjunction with 63 specifically established Domestic Violence Offices comprised of trained personnel.

There’s also a phone “Panic Button” application for immediate, discreet intervention by the police for victims in danger. Other support structures include 40 Counselling Centres, administered by the General Secretariat for Family Policy and Gender Equality or local councils; and an SOS 15900 Helpline available 24/7, as well as over 20 shelters for women and children.

Sentencing for perpetrators of domestic violence and, of course, femicide is now much more severe, codified by a 2025 law for stricter enforcement and faster judicial procedures. In terms of education, the Greek government specifies that schools must focus on gender equity. Unfortunately, underfunding for such relevant programmes is an issue, as is serious implementation and teacher training.

As for the Greek public’s views of femicide, a focus group study (FocusBari, Femicides in Greece, 2024) of 1,000 males/females aged 18+ equated domestic violence as the number one cause leading to femicide. Mental illness was classed as second. Next mentioned were stereotypes against women, lack of education, substance abuse/addiction, and poverty.

With over 90% of perpetrators being intimate partners and/or spouses, the study group rated jealousy as their main motive, then “the need for control”, followed by mental illness, revenge, misogyny and financial disputes.

Greece saw a horrific increase in femicide during the COVID pandemic: “The consequences of lockdown – financial insecurity, restriction, fear of disease and death, increased alcohol consumption and drug use – created the conditions in which abuse of women was enhanced. Many houses were turned into places of torture.” (N. Vrantsis, 2021, Missing Perspectives)

Though cases of femicide in Greece have dropped since 2021, there was an upward spiral again from 2024. This includes recent acknowledgment of more ‘silent’ cases of women over 60 killed by family members such as spouses and sons.

Testimonies of domestic violence I have come across in Greece include mothers being verbally and even physically abused by frustrated, often unemployed sons; also, women being bashed by their male partners for decades, threatened with murder if they told anyone; and young women sexually assaulted by a relative over years, being hit and threatened that their other immediate family members would be killed if they confessed.

I have also accompanied a son and wife caught up in repeated domestic violence to a local police station at their request. Here, their verbally threatening and emotionally abusive alcoholic husband/father was reported. The police in this case were very helpful and attentive, driving us to one of their domestic violence specialist centres where an official report was lodged. The abusive man was held overnight and appeared in court the next day, sentenced to nine months’ jail, with three years’ probation or in-house attendance of a rehab programme for alcoholics for at least a year.

Alexandra Frosterus-Såltin, Finland 1858 (public domain)

This was in 2022, and ironically and unfortunately, this initial police station in Athens was the same one where a police officer failed to assist a young woman – 28-year-old Kyriaki Grivas – in 2024. She was subsequently murdered by her ex-boyfriend in front of this very police station; stabbed to death while seeking help there.

Femicide stems from deeply rooted social perceptions and gender stereotypes, devaluing and marginalising females; a punishment used by men for centuries to intimidate, oppress and control women. Most people are decent and wish to live in peace, and so we must fight against domestic violence and femicide. We need to utilise our humanity, our spiritual faith and the ever-improving resources available in this war against femicide.

Sifnos named top 2026 Greek island escape for Australian travelers

Sifnos, a tranquil jewel of the Cyclades, has been crowned the leading 2026 destination for Australian travelers. Celebrated for its authenticity and unspoiled charm, the island offers a refreshing alternative to Greece’s busier hotspots, according to travelandtourworld.com.

What makes Sifnos stand out is its deep connection to tradition, land, and community. Visitors are drawn to its vibrant whitewashed villages, cobbled alleys, and warm local hospitality. Life here unfolds at a natural pace, allowing travelers to experience genuine Greek culture rather than staged tourism.

The island is especially renowned for its culinary heritage. Local tavernas serve seasonal dishes crafted from fresh, homegrown ingredients, turning every meal into a memorable sensory experience. Food in Sifnos is more than dining-it’s a reflection of history and community.

Nature lovers are equally captivated. An extensive network of hiking trails winds through rolling hills, past centuries-old monasteries, and along dramatic coastlines overlooking the Aegean Sea. These paths reveal breathtaking panoramas while connecting walkers to the island’s rich past.

Sifnos also preserves a proud tradition of ceramic craftsmanship, with local artisans continuing techniques passed down through generations.

By focusing on sustainable and experiential travel, Sifnos has successfully balanced rising international interest with the preservation of its identity. For Australians seeking an authentic Mediterranean escape in 2026-defined by culture, cuisine, and coastal beauty-Sifnos promises an unforgettable journey.

Source: travelandtourworld.com

Australia–Cyprus Achievement Awards honour service, scholarship and the next generation

The enduring bond between Australia and Cyprus – forged through migration, resilience and shared democratic values – was celebrated in a moving evening of gratitude and recognition at the Australia–Cyprus Achievement Awards and Thanksgiving Gathering, held at the Chau Chak Wing Museum at the University of Sydney on Thursday, February 26.

Hosted by the Cyprus Community of New South Wales, the inaugural awards brought together political leaders, diplomats, academics, clergy, community representatives and families to honour individuals and institutions whose contributions have strengthened both Australian society and Cypriot Australian civic life.

Dignitaries included the High Commissioner of the Republic of Cyprus in Australia, Antonis Sammoutis; Federal Member for Kingsford Smith, Matt Thistlethwaite; and President of the Cyprus Community of NSW Michael Peters Kyriacou.

The inaugural awards brought together politicians and community leaders. All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Andriana Simos.

A gathering rooted in gratitude and history

Opening the evening, Master of Ceremonies Ellise Voulgarakis welcomed guests in a spirit of thanksgiving – acknowledging the opportunities Australia has provided to generations of Cypriot migrants and affirming the values of inclusiveness, respect and fairness that have enabled the community to flourish.

A formal Acknowledgement of Country paid respect to the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, recognising the enduring custodianship of culture and land, before honouring the pioneers who established the Cyprus Community of NSW in 1929 and preserved language, faith and identity through decades of change.

Archimandrite Father Irenaeus Triantis, representing His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia, conducted a small prayer service and offered greetings and congratulations by the Archbishop.

cyprus australia achievement awards

The reflective tone of the evening was further deepened through a student contribution by nine-year-old Andreas Prodromou of the Cyprus Community Greek School, who delivered a heartfelt “Note to Australia” expressing gratitude, belonging and responsibility – a moment that underscored the intergenerational spirit of the gathering.

Youth reflection on legacy and responsibility

Following the student reflection, Vasili Panayi, Honorary President of the Cyprus Community of NSW Youth Committee, delivered a thoughtful address framing the evening as both a celebration and a call to responsibility.

He described Australia and Cyprus as “two nations, two islands”, shaped by challenge, resilience and shared values, and reflected on his late grandfather’s migration from Cyprus to Australia in 1959 – arriving with little more than faith, hard work and hope, yet building a life through quiet contribution to family, community and country.

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Vasili Panayi, Honorary President of the Cyprus Community of NSW Youth Committee (left) advocates for the youth.

Mr Panayi highlighted the growing engagement of young Cypriot Australians across community leadership, volunteering and cultural preservation, while also excelling in professional life across Australia.

Speaking among the Cypriot and Indigenous artefacts of the Chau Chak Wing Museum, he noted the shared themes of endurance, storytelling and continuity, describing the gathering as a moment of gratitude – and a reminder of the responsibility younger generations carry in preserving and strengthening the legacy entrusted to them.

cyprus australia achievement awards
Vasili Panayi.

Diplomatic reflections and a call for unity

Addressing the audience next, High Commissioner of the Republic of Cyprus to Australia, Antonis Sammoutis, conveyed congratulations on behalf of the President of Cyprus and reflected on the long presence of Cypriots in Australia, noting their contributions not only to the economy and culture, but also to Australia’s defence during both World Wars.

He emphasised that moments of challenge within community life can become turning points for renewal, provided they are met with honesty, inclusiveness, professional governance and meaningful youth participation – principles he identified as essential for the Cyprus Community of NSW as it approaches its centenary.

Honouring lifetime contribution and humanitarian leadership

The centrepiece of the evening was the presentation of the Australia–Cyprus Achievement Awards, recognising individuals and families whose service has often been rendered quietly and without expectation of reward.

Among the major honourees was Neophytos Stavrou, recognised for a lifetime of service to commerce, culture, faith and philanthropy. Over more than seven decades, Mr Stavrou has combined professional excellence with deep commitment to cultural stewardship, philanthropy and the preservation of Byzantine music, embodying integrity, humility and civic responsibility.

cyprus australia achievement awards
Among the major honourees was Neophytos Stavrou (second from left).

The Theocharides Family was honoured for exceptional humanitarian leadership through A Touch of Kindness, one of Australia’s largest charitable support missions. Sustained entirely through voluntary effort, their work provides weekly nourishment, care and dignity to more than 800 people in need, reflecting compassion in action and moral leadership Citations all three.

cyprus australia achievement awards
The Theocharides Family.

Hall of Fame honour accompanied by a targeted scholarly donation

The 2026 Australia–Cyprus Achievement Hall of Fame Award was presented to Professor Emeritus Richard Green, recognising his outstanding contribution to classical and Cypriot archaeology and his pivotal role in advancing Australia–Cyprus scholarly relations.

Over a distinguished career spanning more than sixty years, Professor Green led landmark archaeological excavations, shaped international scholarship and educated generations of students at the University of Sydney. His research into Cyprus — a historic centre of Hellenistic civilisation — has significantly deepened global understanding of the island’s cultural heritage while strengthening enduring academic and cultural ties between Australia and Cyprus.

Unable to attend the ceremony in person, the award was accepted on his behalf by Craig Barker, Director of the Chau Chak Wing Museum and Director of the University of Sydney’s archaeological excavations in Cyprus.

cyprus australia achievement awards
The award was accepted on Richard Green’s behalf by Craig Barker, Director of the Chau Chak Wing Museum.

In accepting the honour, Dr Barker conveyed Professor Green’s gratitude and confirmed that the charitable component of the Hall of Fame Award — made in the recipient’s name — will be directed to support the University of Sydney’s Cyprus archaeology program, including ongoing research, student training and excavation work in Paphos.

The decision reflects Professor Green’s lifelong commitment to academic mentorship and to ensuring that future generations of Australian scholars continue to engage directly with Cypriot history and heritage.

Dr Barker noted that Professor Green has long viewed archaeology not only as research, but as a bridge between nations — one that brings students, institutions and communities into sustained dialogue. The donation, he said, transforms recognition into practical investment, reinforcing the scholarly partnership between Australia and Cyprus that Professor Green has spent decades building.

cyprus australia achievement awards
The honourees.

Investing in youth and cultural continuity

A defining feature of the evening was the strong emphasis on youth, reflecting the Cyprus Community of NSW’s commitment to structured leadership development and cultural continuity.

The Young Australian–Cyprus Achievement Awards, supported through the Community’s Bequest Programme, recognised students from the Dance School and Greek School for excellence in education, cultural participation and civic responsibility.

cyprus australia achievement awards
A defining feature of the evening was the strong emphasis on youth.

Recipients included:

  • Mikey Ganis, Valani Kalavitis and George Keremea for educational excellence and cultural engagement in dance;
  • Kyriacos Kyriakides and George Gregory for community service and civic responsibility;
  • Leo Papadopoulos, Andreas Prodromou and Nicholas Kanellakis for excellence in Greek language learning, cultural identity and multicultural service Citations all three.

The awards honoured the legacy of Chrysanthi Peters Kyriacou and Jack Passaris OAM, whose lifelong service continues to inspire new generations through dedicated educational bequests.

cyprus australia achievement awards

Youth Achievement Award recognises emerging leadership

The Australia–Cyprus Achievement Award (Youth) was presented to Jacquelene Tsovolos, recognised for her exceptional commitment to civic responsibility, professional excellence and community leadership.

Professionally, Ms Tsovolos has excelled in Australia’s financial sector, while her community service includes her role as Vice President of the Cyprus Community of NSW Youth Group and Executive Member of NEPOMAK Australia & New Zealand. Her work has focused on strengthening youth engagement, safeguarding cultural continuity and encouraging civic participation among young Cypriot Australians.

In accepting the award, Ms Tsovolos reflected on the sacrifices of previous generations, acknowledging that today’s opportunities rest on the resilience, labour and vision of parents and grandparents who migrated in search of a better future — a legacy, she said, that carries with it responsibility as well as pride.

A shared future

Delivering the commemorative address, Assistant Minister for Immigration and Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Matt Thistlethwaite MP, spoke of the thousands of Cypriots who arrived in Australia after the Second World War with little more than a suitcase and hope.

He praised their courage, resilience and contribution, noting that the strength of Australia–Cyprus relations lies in the successful transmission of culture, language and values to future generations.

cyprus australia achievement awards
Assistant Minister for Immigration and Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Matt Thistlethwaite MP.

The evening concluded with a powerful affirmation from the Cyprus Community of NSW’s emerging leadership programme:

“We honour the past.
We serve the present.
And together — we build the future.”

*All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Andriana Simos

Odeon of Herodes Atticus to close for three years for major upgrade

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The Herodion will shut its doors at the end of July for a three-year restoration program aimed at preserving and modernizing the historic monument, according to en.protothema.gr. When it reopens, the ancient theater will feature a new entrance directly linking it with the Acropolis, a roof over the stage, upgraded lighting, improved acoustics without speaker towers, and an expanded forecourt.

The plans were approved by the Central Archaeological Council (KAS) following studies conducted by the National Technical University of Athens. The project falls under the program “Dynamic Method for the Promotion and Protection of Archaeological Sites through Documentation and Analysis of Monumental Complexes. Preparation of proposals for the development of necessary operational infrastructures for archaeological sites to integrate them into the natural landscape and connect them with the wider built environment – Application at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus on the south slope of the Acropolis.”

Works will focus on both conservation and infrastructure improvements. Structural repairs will address significant wear, especially along the curved wall of the cavea and unstable stone elements on the façades. A side doorway at the third tier will be restored to allow visitor access between the Acropolis and the theater, also serving as an emergency exit.

The stage will gain a metal roof designed to provide protection and natural light, while the mosaic floor beneath will be revealed and preserved. Lighting systems will be redesigned, speaker towers removed, and modern acoustic controls installed.

Additional upgrades include expanded public spaces, new water and sewage networks, and year-round facilities for visitors.

Source: en.protothema.gr

Brad Pitt filming his new movie on Hydra island

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Hollywood star Brad Pitt has arrived on the cosmopolitan island of Hydra and is currently filming scenes for his latest project, The Riders, according to tovima.com.

Reports from the Saronic Gulf island say excitement is building among locals as preparations intensify for the major international production. Producers and part of the crew have already been on Hydra since Monday, with the total production team projected to reach approximately 300 people.

The Municipality of Hydra has officially welcomed the film project, which has already boosted the island’s off-season activity. February accommodation rates have surged to unusually high levels, as visitors and industry professionals arrive ahead of filming.

Although Hydra is famously car-free, preserving its traditional character and charm, authorities have granted the production a special temporary permit to use a limited number of vehicles necessary for transporting equipment and personnel.

Filming is scheduled to run through March 5.

This production marks only the second time a major Hollywood film has been shot on Hydra. The first was the classic 1957 film Boy on a Dolphin, starring Sophia Loren, which helped cement the island’s international allure decades ago.

Source: tovima.com

‘Greek Australian Conversations’ hosts civic forum in Melbourne’s Brunswick East

Greek Australian Conversations held a public discussion on Sunday 22 February 2026 at PATRIS in Brunswick East, drawing approximately 70 attendees from across generations and backgrounds.

Titled “Indigenous Sovereignty / Republic / Bondi – Connecting the dots… Where do Greek Australians stand?”, the forum explored themes relating to civic identity, constitutional reform and the role of culturally diverse communities within Australia’s broader national conversation.

The afternoon opened with an Acknowledgement of Country delivered by Kosta Karamarkos, who paid respect to the Traditional Owners of the land and to Elders past, present and emerging.

Organisers said the event emerged from discussions held over several years among Greek Australians of different generations – including both Australian-born members of the diaspora and more recent arrivals from Greece – about the need for a public space where ideas could be exchanged openly and respectfully.

The intention, they explained, was to create a forum not only for matters concerning the Greek community or Greece’s relationship with the diaspora, but also for issues affecting Greek Australians as citizens within the wider Australian society.

Those involved in establishing the initiative have, over time, participated in a range of civic and social campaigns touching on questions of equality, democracy and human rights, both in Australia and in Greece. Sunday’s event was presented as part of that broader engagement with public life.

Speakers

The forum featured two prominent Greek Australian academics and commentators.

Esther Anatolitis is an Honorary Associate Professor at RMIT School of Art and Co-Chair of the Australian Republic Movement. With more than two decades of leadership across the arts, media and civic sectors, she has served on boards including the National Gallery of Australia and the Australian Centre for the Moving Image, and previously co-chaired the Antipodes Festival. Anatolitis was Editor of Meanjin from 2022 to 2025 and is the author of Place, Practice, Politics (2022), editor of Essays that Changed Australia (2024), and author of When Australia Became a Republic (2025). Her academic background spans architecture and philosophy.

George Vassilacopoulos is an Adjunct member of the Philosophy Program at La Trobe University, where he previously taught philosophy. A community activist since arriving in Australia in 1974, he is the co-author of A Genocide Alphabet (2025) and Τίνος πατρίδα είναι; (2025), as well as the poetry collection Ashpoems.

Framing the conversation

The discussion was structured around questions concerning the relationship between Indigenous sovereignty and Australia’s republican debate, and whether these broader constitutional and civic themes intersect with the experiences of multicultural communities.

Speakers and attendees reflected on whether Greek Australians, shaped by their migration history and long-standing participation in Australian public life, have a role in contemporary national conversations, and if so, how that contribution might be expressed.

Following the dialogue between the speakers, the floor was opened to audience participation, with attendees invited to share perspectives and suggest topics for future forums.

Organisers indicated that this was intended as the first in a series of public discussions aimed at encouraging thoughtful and respectful engagement on issues of civic importance.

Rare Olympic medals at auction, including 1896 original

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Collectors now have the opportunity to bid on historic Olympic medals, including one from the first modern Games, according to popsci.com. Stack’s Bowers Galleries is offering several pieces from the Richard Jewell Collection in its February 2026 Collectors Choice Online Auction of Ancient & World Coins, with live bidding beginning at 9:00 a.m. PST on February 27.

1896 Athens Gold Medal

GAMES OF THE I OLYMPIAD: Athens. Participants’ Gilt Bronze Medal, 1896. Austrian (Pittner) Mint. Image: Stacks Bowers Galleries.

Awarded at the first modern Olympic Games in Athens, this gold medal features Nike, the Greek goddess of victory, with the Parthenon in the background. The 1896 Games brought together athletes from 14 nations and marked the revival of the ancient Olympic tradition.

1904 St. Louis Bronze Medal

GAMES OF THE III OLYMPIAD: St. Louis. Octagonal Participants’ Bronze Medal, 1904. New York (Dieges & Clust) Mint. Image: Stacks Bowers Galleries.

From the first Olympics to award gold, silver, and bronze medals for first, second, and third place, this medal recalls a Games remembered for its marathon scandal. American runner Fred Lorz was disqualified after traveling part of the race by car, leaving Thomas Hicks as the official champion.

1924 Chamonix Winter Games Bronze

I OLYMPIC WINTER GAMES: Chamonix. Participants’ Bronze Medal, 1924. Paris Mint. UNCIRCULATED. This item is considered very rare. Image: Stacks Bowers Galleries.

Struck for the inaugural Winter Olympics in France, this medal represents the debut of winter sports on the Olympic stage, including figure skating, ski jumping, and ice hockey.

1932 Lake Placid Winter Bronze

III OLYMPIC WINTER GAMES: Lake Placid. Obverse Foundry Cast for Winners’ Bronze Medal, 1932. New York (Tiffany) Mint. Image: Stacks Bowers Galleries.

Issued during the Games that introduced women’s speed skating, this medal also reflects the only time a mass-start racing format was used in Olympic speed skating competition.

1932 Los Angeles Summer Medal

GAMES OF THE X OLYMPIAD: Los Angeles. Participants’ Bronze Medal, 1932. New York (Whitehead-Hoag) Mint. CHOICE UNCIRCULATED. Image: Stacks Bowers Galleries.

This medal comes from the first Olympics to feature a winners’ podium and national flag ceremonies, as well as an Olympic Village for male athletes.

1956 Cortina Winter Medal

VII OLYMPIC WINTER GAMES: Cortina. Winners’ Bronze Medal, 1956. Milan (Lorioli) Mint. UNCIRCULATED. Image: Stacks Bowers Galleries.

Awarded at the Cortina Winter Games, this medal marks the Soviet Union’s Olympic debut, where it topped the medal standings and signaled a new era of competition.

Source: popsci.com.

Prespa declared an ‘Untrodden Mountain’ to safeguard biodiversity

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The Greek government has officially designated the mountainous Prespa region in northwestern Greece as an “Untrodden Mountain,” aiming to strengthen environmental protection in one of the Balkans’ most ecologically sensitive areas, the Ministry of Environment and Energy announced, according to ekathimerini.com.

Much of the region lies within two Natura 2000 protected zones and is considered a crucial natural landscape of wetlands and forests that sustain rich biodiversity. Under the new status, strict safeguards will apply, including a ban on new road construction and artificial surfaces, measures intended to prevent ecosystem fragmentation-one of the primary drivers of biodiversity decline.

Prespa is widely recognized as a biodiversity hotspot, home to rare plant species and important wildlife populations such as brown bears, wolves, and wild goats. Its lakes provide essential refuge for uncommon waterfowl and shorebirds.

“Prespes is a biodiversity treasure and a unique ecosystem that we must safeguard responsibly,” Environment and Energy Minister Stavros Papastavrou said. “We protect our nature as a living legacy for future generations.”

“Untrodden Mountains” are defined as Roadless Areas (RAs) along with a one-kilometer buffer zone. Within these high-protection zones, the construction of new motor vehicle roads and other interventions that could alter the natural landscape are strictly forbidden.

The designation will remain in force while a Special Environmental Study is finalized and presidential decrees establish permanent land-use regulations.

The initiative, launched at COP26, has gradually expanded to include several major mountain ranges across Greece, with Prespa now among the most recent additions.

Source: ekathimerini.com

Sydney Olympic FC members urge Life Members to mobilise ahead of March AGM

Life Members of Sydney Olympic FC have been urged to mobilise ahead of an Annual General Meeting (AGM) scheduled for 24 March 2026, as concerns continue to mount over the club’s governance, finances and future direction.

The call comes from a member-authorised Steering Committee, established by Sydney Olympic FC members – not the club itself – at a meeting held on February 2.

As first reported by The Greek Herald, members voted to create the committee after weeks of growing unrest and what they described as repeated failures by the club’s Board to respond to formal information requests or convene an EGM.

L-R-Damon-Hanlin-Matthew-Phelps-newly-appointed-director-Rodolf-Salem-and-Chris-Charalambous.-Photo-by-The-Greek-Herald
Members voted to establish the committee following weeks of unrest, citing repeated failures by the Board to respond to formal information requests or call an EGM.

In an urgent announcement issued this week, the Steering Committee said the club is facing a “critical period” in its history and stressed the importance of Life Member participation in safeguarding Sydney Olympic’s transparency, values and long-term sustainability.

Life Members have been asked to confirm their details and participation ahead of the March AGM by contacting: ian@ignifylegal.com.au or peter@cappe.com.au.

Governance concerns and unanswered questions

Key concerns raised at the February 2 meeting included the club’s financial position, governance arrangements and the basis on which major decisions affecting the club’s future have been made, with members expressing frustration at the lack of direct communication from the Board.

A major focus of discussion was uncertainty surrounding the club’s constitution, with members seeking clarity on which version is currently operative and whether amendments had been properly registered with ASIC and approved by Football NSW.

Speakers stressed that constitutional clarity was essential before any meaningful reform could occur.

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A major focus of discussion at the member’s meeting was uncertainty surrounding the club’s constitution.

Role of the Steering Committee

As part of its mandate, the Steering Committee has been tasked with pursuing pathways to convene an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM), seeking information on behalf of members, and engaging with Football NSW, regulators and legal advisers where necessary. Members were repeatedly told the committee does not constitute a new Board and that any future board would be elected by members through a formal EGM process.

The Steering Committee authorised by members includes Peter Katholos, Angelo Hasouros, Andrew Bernal, Ian Agamalis, Peter Andrios, Peter Drivas, Nick Nicholas, Louie Apostolovski, Gary Peroy, Sam Skontos, John Petropoulos and George Mpliokas.

Members reiterated that Sydney Olympic FC is a members’ club — not a private entity — and said restoring transparency and member confidence will be critical as the club approaches the March 2026 AGM.