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St Spyridon College commences 2026 with the Blessing of the Waters

The Greek Herald
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St Spyridon College commences 2026 with the Blessing of the Waters

St Spyridon College marked the beginning of the 2026 academic year with the traditional Service of the Blessing of the Waters (Agiasmos), held at the Senior Campus SPACe and attended by students from Kindergarten to Year 12, staff, families and Parish President Elia Economou, and other parish representatives.

The sacred service was led by His Grace Bishop Christophoros of Kerasounta, Chancellor of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia, assisted by the Very Reverends Father Steven Scoutas and Father Stavros Ivanos.

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United in prayer, the College community sought God’s grace, guidance and protection for the year ahead.

Conveying the message and paternal blessings of His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia, His Grace reminded students and staff that every beginning in the life of the Church is strengthened through prayer, and that human effort bears fruit when illumined by God’s wisdom.

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In a message, Archbishop Makarios expressed his “great spiritual joy” at the commencement of the new academic year, offering warm wishes for a year that is both academically fruitful and spiritually enriching. His message also recognised World Greek Language Day, highlighting the enduring value of the Greek language as a living link to faith, culture and identity.

Addressing students personally, His Grace spoke warmly of his visits to the College and encouraged all to remain connected to the life of the Church and Archdiocese, assuring everyone of His Eminence’s continued pastoral care and support.

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In response, Head of College Amelia Katsogiannis expressed the College’s sincere gratitude for His Grace’s presence and blessing. She noted that the College felt deeply honoured to welcome him, describing him as “not a person in a photo or a book, but someone tangible, who has shown love, care and direction towards our College,” reaffirming the strong bond between the College, Parish and Archdiocese.

The service concluded with the sprinkling of holy water throughout the gathering, symbolising renewal, protection and God’s abiding presence.

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As the College begins another year of learning and growth, the Agiasmos reaffirmed St Spyridon College’s commitment to nurturing students academically, spiritually and culturally within the life of the Orthodox Church. Forever Excelling.

*Photography Credit: Tom Skolarikis

Cyprus Community of NSW launches student scholarship to Cyprus

The Greek Herald
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Cyprus Community of NSW launches student scholarship to Cyprus

The Cyprus Community of NSW has launched a new international student scholarship, offering two New South Wales residents the opportunity to travel to Cyprus and compete in the 9th National Skills Competition – SkillsCyprus 2026.

The initiative forms part of the Community’s Strategy – Vision 2026–2029 and is designed to position young people as active contributors to community life, with a strong focus on skills, leadership, and global engagement. Applications open on Friday, February 6 here.

The scholarship will fully cover travel costs to Cyprus, enabling the selected participants to take part in the national competition held at the State Fair (Kratiki Ekthesi) in Nicosia from 29–31 October 2026. Participants will compete alongside students and young professionals from across Cyprus, showcasing technical excellence, innovation, and vocational skill across 22 specialisations.

Honorary President of the Cyprus Community of NSW, Michael Peters Kyriacou, said the initiative was the first of its kind in the organisation’s history.

“This is a first-of-its-kind initiative in the history of our Community,” Mr Kyriacou said.

“It forms part of our broader strategy to renew, refresh, and re-engage with our youth — to be inclusive and focused on nurturing young people who will become the future leaders of our organisation and our wider community.”

Mr Kyriacou said the scholarship had been promoted across Greek schools and major Greek organisations throughout NSW and was intentionally inclusive in its scope.

“This is not purely a Cyprus-focused scholarship,” he said.

“We welcome applicants who have a connection to Cyprus, or who wish to develop one — to understand Cypriot culture and language, enhance their skills and experience, and bring that knowledge back to strengthen our Community.”

He added that part of the scholarship would be used to enrol successful candidates in a Cyprus-based tertiary institution, making them eligible to participate in the competition.

Eligible competitors must be born after 31 December 2001 and be either working in their field or studying at secondary or higher education institutions in Cyprus.

SkillsCyprus is the National Skills Competition of Cyprus, organised biennially by the Cyprus Productivity Centre. Modelled on the EuroSkills framework, it promotes technical and vocational education, highlights young talent, and serves as the qualifying event for the Cyprus National Team at EuroSkills 2027 in Düsseldorf, Germany.

Competition categories span creative, technical, and service disciplines, including graphic design, web development, mechanical design (CAD), plumbing and heating, cooking, restaurant service, and entrepreneurship. Winners receive cash prizes — €1,000 for first place, €750 for second, and €500 for third — as well as selection to the national team.

Following the 8th competition in 2024, Cyprus recorded strong results at EuroSkills 2025 in Denmark, including a bronze medal in Entrepreneurship and notable performances in Cooking and Aesthetics.

The official SkillsCyprus government website serves as the primary information portal for the competition and provides further details in Greek.

Eligible students are encouraged to apply promptly.

For competition information and eligibility details, visit www.skillscyprus.gov.cy.

Cyprus Community of NSW to host inaugural Australia Cyprus Achievement Awards

The Greek Herald
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Cyprus Community of NSW to host inaugural Australia Cyprus Achievement Awards

The Cyprus Community of New South Wales will host its inaugural Australia Cyprus Achievement Awards this month, marking a landmark new national event celebrating service, contribution and gratitude to Australia.

The Awards will be presented as part of the Community’s first Australia Thanksgiving Gathering, to be held on Thursday, 26 February 2026, at the Chau Chak Wing Museum, located at the University of Sydney.

The event will recognise Australians — including individuals and families — whose work and service have enriched the social, cultural, humanitarian, intellectual and civic life of the nation, while reflecting the enduring values of the Cypriot community.

Honorary President of the Cyprus Community of NSW, Michael Peters Kyriacou, said the Awards honour more than a century of Cypriot contribution to Australia and provide a moment to publicly express gratitude to the country that welcomed successive generations of migrants.

“This is a moment to say thank you — to Australia, and to the Australians who have quietly helped build our society through service, integrity and commitment to others,” Mr Kyriacou said.

“The Australia Cyprus Achievement Awards recognise people who lead without seeking recognition, whose impact extends well beyond their own community, and whose values strengthen Australia as a nation.”

A date of shared historical significance

The choice of February 26 holds deep symbolic meaning for both Australia and Cyprus.

On 26 February 1788, key foundations of modern Australia were established, including the colony’s first civil court and early structures of civil society. On 26 February 1959, the London–Zurich Agreements were signed, paving the way for the independence of the Republic of Cyprus.

The shared date reflects a moment of beginnings for both nations and underpins the Cyprus Community’s decision to hold the Australia Thanksgiving Gathering and Achievement Awards annually on this day.

An invitation to the community

Honorary Assistant Secretary of the Cyprus Community of NSW, Andrew Paschali, described the gathering as a national moment of reflection and unity.

“This is our first Australia Thanksgiving Gathering — a time of gratitude, reflection and pride,” he said.

“It is an opportunity for families, including children and grandchildren, to come together and celebrate Australia, while honouring achievers who have made a lasting difference to our Community and to the nation.”

The Awards will be presented annually and are open to any Australian resident who has made an outstanding contribution to the social, cultural, economic, scientific or intellectual life of Australia, promoting national cohesion and wellbeing.

Members, friends and supporters of the Cyprus Community are warmly encouraged to attend and participate in what is set to become a signature annual event on the national calendar.

Event Details

  • Event: Australia Cyprus Achievement Awards & Australia Thanksgiving Gathering
  • Venue: Chau Chak Wing Museum, The University of Sydney
  • Date: Thursday, 26 February 2026
  • Time: 6.30pm
  • Bookings: www.thecyprusclub.org.au/awards

Students invited to apply for 2027 ACER Scholarships at St Spyridon College

Andriana Simos
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Students invited to apply for 2027 ACER Scholarships at St Spyridon College

St Spyridon College at Maroubra, Sydney, has announced that applications are now open for its ACER Academic Scholarships for 2027, offering high-achieving students the opportunity to secure scholarships for entry into Year 7 and Year 11.

The scholarships are open to both existing students and external applicants, with selection based on performance in the external Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER) scholarship examinations.

Registrations close on Sunday, 8 February 2026. A non-refundable application fee of $160 applies.

The ACER scholarship test for 2027 entry will be held on Saturday, 28 February 2026, from 8.30am to 12.00pm, at St Spyridon College Senior Campus, located at 1130 Anzac Parade, Maroubra.

For Year 7 2027, scholarships will be awarded to candidates who achieve the highest standards in the ACER examinations. Successful recipients will be granted a scholarship tenure of four years, subject to annual review. Ongoing eligibility will depend on students demonstrating sustained academic effort, maintaining a top-six ranking within their year, and exhibiting exemplary conduct. Failure to meet these criteria may result in suspension of the scholarship, with the possibility of reinstatement if standards are later met.

For Year 11 2027, scholarships will be offered to top-performing candidates for a two-year tenure, covering Years 11 and 12. Continuation into Year 12 will be contingent upon diligent application to studies, high academic performance, and exemplary behaviour.

St Spyridon College encourages families seeking academic excellence within a values-based educational environment to consider applying and to complete their registration through the ACER online application process here within the stated timeframe.

More details can be found on the St Spyridon College website.

Bank of Sydney invites Australians to donate pre-loved tech to The Reconnect Project

The Greek Herald
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Bank of Sydney invites Australians to donate pre-loved tech to The Reconnect Project

Bank of Sydney has announced its back-to-school tech donation drive, in partnership with The Reconnect Project, to help close the digital divide for disadvantaged school-age children.

Currently, there are nearly 1.2 million young people in Australia without access to a digital device to support their education [1]. Meanwhile, Australians on average produce 20kgs of e-waste, compared to the global average of 7kg, with volumes expected to rise by nearly 30% by 2030 [2].

Bank of Sydney invites Australians across the country to donate pre-loved tech including laptops, smart phones, and tablets. Devices that have been factory reset can be dropped off at any Bank of Sydney branch or delivered to one of The Reconnect Project’s authorised donation stations. Alternatively, donations can be mailed directly to The Reconnect Project by requesting a reply-paid postage label from Bank of Sydney.

In September 2025, The Reconnect Project was recognised through Bank of Sydney’s Grant for Good program, enabling it to expand its work refurbishing technology, supporting disadvantaged Australians, and providing vital first jobs for neurodivergent youth.

The Reconnect Project refurbishes donated laptops, tablets and smart phones, diverting them from landfill and re-homing them with families, individuals and community groups across Australia in need. The organisation also trains and employs neurodivergent young adults as technicians, offering vital first jobs and a safe environment to learn, upskill, and gain confidence.

“This is more than an opportunity to recycle your unused tech, these devices could give Australia’s youngest and brightest a fair chance at school,” said Bank of Sydney’s Acting CEO, Kieran McKenna.

“The reality is children now require a device to get a fair education and a good start in life, but as cost-of-living pressures rise, many families are doing it tough. We’re proud to support community organisations like The Reconnect Project that make a real, lasting difference to the communities we live in, and help to ensure children have the resources they need to learn and thrive.”

The Reconnect Project CEO, Annette Brodie said, “Every child deserves the chance to learn and thrive, but without a device, so many are being left behind. As many Australians upgrade their tech ahead of the new school year, now is the perfect time to help by donating your old laptop, tablet or phone that can make a real difference for a child who needs it.

“Access to the right tools opens the door to endless opportunities for a child’s future. We’re grateful for Bank of Sydney’s support in helping us tackle both the digital divide among school children and Australia’s fastest-growing waste stream.”

About The Reconnect Project:

The Reconnect Project partners with more than 170 social service organisations, including Vinnies, Barnardos, and Glebe Youth Services to distribute its refurbished devices.

Founded in 2019 by Annette Brodie, it has grown from a $5,000 crowdfunding campaign to a thriving team of nine, and storefront in Penshurst. It’s simple motto: small actions have big impact. For donations of pre-loved devices or more information, visit https://thereconnectproject.com.au/

[1] https://www.telstra.com.au/connected/communities/telstra-foundation-australian-youth-digital-index#:~:text=While%20most%20young%20people%20have,scores%20than%20their%20city%20peers.

[2] https://www.dcceew.gov.au/environment/protection/waste/e-waste

HACCI National Federation meets incoming Greek Trade Commissioner to Australia

The Greek Herald
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HACCI National Federation meets incoming Greek Trade Commissioner to Australia

The HACCI National Federation (HNF) commenced its 2026 program of engagements with a national meeting in Sydney on Friday, January 30, bringing together representatives from HACCI Victoria, South Australia, New South Wales, Northern Territory and Western Australia.

The meeting marked the first official engagement under the rotating HNF Chair, now held by HACCI NT, Angela Tomazos, following previous terms led by HACCI Victoria’s Fotini Kypraios and HACCI WA’s Dr Elena Limnios.

HNF members met with Greece’s incoming Trade Commissioner to Australia, Christina Stefanidou, who recently commenced her posting in Sydney after serving at the Greek Embassy in South Africa. The Federation’s Patron, Hon Arthur Sinodinos AO, joined the discussion virtually from Washington.

The session provided an opportunity to welcome Ms Stefanidou to her new role and to brief her on the activities, priorities, and sectoral initiatives underway across each HACCI state and the National Federation. Members also heard Ms Stefanidou’s early objectives for strengthening Greece–Australia trade and investment ties and explored areas of alignment and collaboration.

Discussions highlighted shared opportunities across key industry sectors, pathways for facilitating company introductions, and strategies for coordinated communication between the Greek Trade Office and the HACCI network nationally.

Trade Commissioner and HACCI Federation including Patron
HNF Patron Hon Arthur Sinodinos (bottom left on screen) joining from Washington.

“This engagement with Ms Stefanidou highlighted the significant sectoral opportunities emerging across Australia and Greece. As Chair of the National Federation, I look forward to leading a coordinated national approach that supports trade, investment, and meaningful partnerships with the Greek Trade Office and our diplomatic partners,” Mrs Tomazos said.

Trade Commissioner Ms Stefanidou added: “I would like to thank HACCI’s Presidents and Patron for their warm welcome, for sharing information about current issues and for their commitment to work together with all the Greek Diplomatic Authorities in Australia, for our common target: to improve bilateral economic, business and trade relations. We are very grateful for your support.”

Mr Sinodinos said it was a pleasure to join HACCI’s chairs in meeting Greece’s incoming Trade Commissioner to Australia, Ms Stefanidou.  

“The meeting highlighted the great potential for trade and investment between Australia and Greece in both traditional and new sectors. In today’s uncertain world, mutually beneficial economic links between trusted partners like Australia and Greece is more important than ever,” Mr Sinodinos said.

The meeting marked a positive start to the year, reinforcing the shared commitment to strengthening Greece–Australia economic and business ties.

Golden Top Bakery begins rebuild after devastating Marrickville fire

Andriana Simos
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Golden Top Bakery begins rebuild after devastating Marrickville fire

The owners of Golden Top Bakery have begun to rebuild after a devastating fire destroyed their premises in Sydney’s inner west, leaving the long-standing Greek-owned business a total loss.

In an update shared with customers and the wider community, the bakery confirmed that while the damage was extensive, no one was injured. The focus has now shifted firmly to recovery and rebuilding, with demolition already completed and planning works underway.

“It is premature to estimate our reopening date,” the business said, adding that its intention is to return to operation as soon as possible and to keep supporters informed as progress continues.

The family-run bakery also thanked customers for the overwhelming messages of support, describing the response from the community as deeply appreciated during a difficult period.

The fire broke out in the early hours of Monday, November 24, at the bakery’s Barclay Street premises in Marrickville, sending thick smoke across surrounding suburbs. Fire and Rescue NSW deployed 16 fire trucks and around 60 firefighters to the scene shortly before 6.30am.

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The fire at Golden Top Bakery.

Fire and Rescue NSW Superintendent Adam Dewberry said crews initially entered the building but were forced to withdraw due to the severity of the blaze, switching to “defensive positions” outside as flames intensified. Firefighters continued to battle the fire using both ground crews and aerial appliances.

Golden Top Bakery is widely recognised within the Greek Australian community for producing authentic Greek-style pita and souvlaki bread, supplying yeeros shops across Australia. The loss of the facility has been felt not only locally, but across the national hospitality sector that relies on its products.

Despite the scale of the damage, Golden Top Bakery’s message has been one of resilience – with rebuilding now underway and a determination to return stronger when the time is right.

Greek Parliament pushes through migration law amid rights warnings

The Greek Herald
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Greek Parliament pushes through migration law amid rights warnings

Greece’s Parliament has approved new “legal migration” legislation, carried solely by the governing New Democracy, with every opposition party voting against the bill in principle.

The law establishes that migrants who entered the country irregularly are permanently excluded from legalisation.

Migration Minister Thanos Plevris said undocumented migrants would continue to be treated as illegal residents and would be subject to arrest, detention and return to their countries of origin.

He argued that the legislation creates a clear framework for labour migration, allowing foreign workers to enter Greece only through authorised channels and for defined projects, stressing that legal entry would be the sole route to employment.

While the opposition rejected the bill overall, a number of its individual provisions were nevertheless backed across party lines, depending on how rapporteurs and designated speakers voted during the parliamentary process.

Serious objections were raised by Greece’s Ombudsman, who warned that penalising people for unlawful entry conflicts with international refugee protection conventions.

The Ombudsman also criticised clauses imposing heavy penalties on members of non-governmental organisations accused of facilitating irregular entry, arguing that the measures blur the line between organised smuggling for profit and humanitarian assistance provided to people in distress.

The parliamentary debate unfolded against the backdrop of a deadly incident in the Aegean Sea. On Tuesday, a Hellenic Coast Guard patrol operating between Chios and Oinousses encountered an inflatable boat carrying approximately 40 migrants. Authorities said the vessel’s operator failed to comply with orders to stop and collided with the patrol craft, causing the inflatable to overturn.

Fourteen bodies were recovered, a woman later died after being taken to hospital, and 24 people — including 11 children — were rescued with injuries. Most survivors are from Afghanistan. A Morocco national was arrested on suspicion of smuggling, while a senior Coast Guard officer has been tasked with leading an internal investigation.

Source: Ekathimerini

Greek Air Force officer arrested on espionage charges linked to China

The Greek Herald
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Greek Air Force officer arrested on espionage charges linked to China

Greek authorities have arrested a senior air force officer on suspicion of espionage, alleging that he gathered and transmitted classified military information – including material linked to NATO – to China.

The arrest took place in the early hours of February 5 at a military facility and was carried out in coordination with national intelligence services, according to a statement issued by the Hellenic National Defence General Staff.

Authorities allege that the officer used specialised classified software to channel sensitive information to Beijing. The defence ministry said the suspect, a 50-year-old man, could face the revocation of his Greek citizenship if the allegations are substantiated.

Officials described the case as particularly grave, noting that it may amount to classic espionage. They emphasised that, based on current evidence, the matter does not involve neighbouring Turkey despite long-standing bilateral tensions, but carries broader strategic implications, including for the United States.

The investigation began several months ago after Greek authorities received intelligence from the security service of an allied nation.

Source: Euroactiv

Greece defeat Italy to claim bronze at European Women’s Water Polo Championship

The Greek Herald
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Greece defeat Italy to claim bronze at European Women’s Water Polo Championship

The Greek women’s national water polo team produced a commanding performance to defeat Italy’s women’s national water polo team 15–8 in Thursday’s bronze-medal match at the European Women’s Water Polo Championship, securing third place.

The result marks Greece’s sixth medal in the history of the European Women’s Championships – four silver and two bronze – with gold still proving elusive.

The pattern of the match closely mirrored the teams’ earlier encounter during the second phase of the tournament on January 31.

Greece set the tone early with successive defensive blocks and quickly found attacking rhythm, racing to a 5–1 lead by the end of the first quarter, despite missing a penalty when Vaso Plevritou sent her effort wide.

Italy responded through Bianconi and Bettini, but Greece remained firmly in control and went into half-time with a commanding 10–4 advantage. By that stage, the Greek side had already recorded nine different scorers, including 15-year-old Afroditi Bitsakou, who drew applause for her composure and audacity with a lobbed finish from close range.

The second half became largely procedural, as Greece never allowed Italy to threaten a comeback. On the contrary, the margin continued to grow, peaking at nine goals (15–6), before a slight relaxation in the closing minutes once the outcome was beyond doubt.

The defining moment of the match came during a timeout called by head coach Haris Pavlidis with around two and a half minutes remaining, when he congratulated his players and told them: “when we play our game, there is no team that can face us.”

Source: Zougla

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