The Greek Orthodox Community of New South Wales (GOCNSW) has entered a new chapter with the announcement of its newly formed Board of Directors and Executive Committee for the 2025–2027 term.
Following recent elections, the Board convened last week for its first official meeting, confirming executive appointments and mapping the organisation’s initial direction under its new leadership.
The meeting was attended by 18 of the 20 elected members, with the Board noting that Dimitris Arvanitis has resigned, while Ioannis Zoumpoulis, who is currently overseas, will join the Board upon his return.
The Executive Committee elected for the coming term is as follows:
- President: Con Apoifis
- Vice President: Chris Skiladellis
- Secretary: George Diamantaris
- Assistant Secretary: Con Spiropoulos
- Treasurer: John Terzis
- Assistant Treasurer: Con Mavrokordatos
In addition, Sue Persefoni Thliveris has been appointed Chair of the Greek Festival of Sydney, one of the state’s most prominent and enduring cultural celebrations.
Other elected Board members include Olympia Houliaras, Athanasia Costa, Evangelos Zoras, Stanley Koulouris, Jim Psarros, Dimitris Bekris, Peter Tsintilas, Georgia Paschalidis/Papadopoulou, Peter Tsilioris, Peter Ronis, Ioannis Zoumpoulis, and Nikitas Katris.
A President shaped by family legacy and community roots
Speaking to The Greek Herald shortly after the announcement of the new Executive, incoming President Mr Apoifis shared his long personal and familial connection to the GOCNSW and the broader Greek Australian community. His family’s involvement dates back decades, and it has shaped his dedication to serve.
“My family has been involved with the Koinotita since the mid 50’s as my parents were instrumental in forming the first Greek language afternoon school at Bourke St Public School in Surry Hills,” he said.
“The local community support for this school and other social events in that area have motivated me to give something back to the Greek community via the GOCNSW.”
This grounding in community, language, and education forms the core of his motivation – service not merely as a duty, but as a continuation of inherited values.
A professional foundation for leadership
Mr Apoifis explained that his professional experience has equipped him with the skills needed to guide the Community’s governance and strategic direction.
“In a professional capacity I graduated with a Bachelor of Business in Accounting and I am a CPA. I was an external Auditor and had gained many years of experience working for an international accounting firm, as well as lecturing at university in Accounting and Auditing,” he noted.
“Currently I run my own wholesale building material operation and warehouse logistic companies. I believe that my professional and business and leadership experience have given me a solid base to take on the presidency of the GOCNSW.”
This blend of accounting, auditing, business management and leadership experience is expected to strengthen the Community’s financial oversight, governance, and long-term planning.
Honouring the past
Reflecting on the legacy of outgoing President Harry Danalis, Mr Apoifis emphasised continuity as well as renewal.
“Harry Danalis has led the GOCNSW for many years and we should be proud of what he and his fellow retiring board members have given to the Koinotita and the Greek community at large. Our current board can only hope to build on those foundations and take the GOCNSW to even higher levels,” he said.
This acknowledgment sets the tone for a leadership style rooted in respect, stability, and incremental progress rather than abrupt change.
Immediate priorities: Festivals, film, childcare and aged care
When asked about the new Board’s priorities for its first 12 months, Mr Apoifis pointed to both cultural and welfare-focused initiatives.
“As this is only the first week of the new Board taking over, we hope to address some very important and strategic projects, such as the Greek Festival of Sydney, Film Festival as well as ensuring that our childcare and aged care facilities are working efficiently and our ‘clients’ i.e. our children and our elderly are happy and content with what we offer,” he said.
This dual focus reflects the breadth of the GOCNSW’s work – supporting families, preserving culture, operating vital facilities, and ensuring continuity in its flagship festivals.
Unifying the new Board:
With a slate that includes both returning and first-time Directors, Mr Apoifis stressed his commitment to unity and accountability.
“I think we are all united in performing our assigned duties and that is the main priority… performance,” he said.
It is a clear and concise statement of expectations – every Board member must contribute, deliver, and remain focused on service.
Greek Festival of Sydney: Building on a strong legacy
With Sue Persefoni Thliveris stepping into the role of Festival Chair, Mr Apoifis shared his vision for the future of the Greek Festival of Sydney.
“Sue is the president of the festival committee and will have direct access to report to the Board and our vision is to build on our previous successes under the Chair of Nia Karteris, and to promote our culture,” he said.
His comments signal both continuity and ambition, cementing the Festival as a flagship project for the new Board. He also reaffirmed support for Greek film in NSW.
“Very early days yet, but our strong involvement with the Festival and the screening of Greek films is a firm commitment of our support,” he said.
A call to the community
Mr Apoifis concluded the interview with an invitation to all members of the Greek Australian community to participate in the work of the GOCNSW.
“Please join us as volunteers in any way that you can in our welfare, education, festival and any of our other committees. Please get in touch with our office,” he said.
And finally, a message of gratitude and forward momentum: “Thank you for your time and we can grow to greater strength by having your support for all of our initiatives.”
Looking ahead
As the new Executive Committee begins its work, the GOCNSW has reaffirmed its mission to serve the Greek Australian community through cultural, educational and social initiatives.
With President Mr Apoifis at the helm, supported by an experienced and enthusiastic Board, the organisation enters this term with a clear vision: service, unity, cultural strength – and taking the Koinotita “to the next level.”
