Nearly 300 guests gathered at the Hilton Adelaide on Friday, June 12, for the Hellenic Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry South Australia’s (HACCI SA) inaugural Gala, marking a landmark moment for the organisation and the South Australian Greek Australian business community.
The black-tie evening brought together leaders from business, government and the broader community for a night of celebration, connection and recognition, highlighting the growing influence and contribution of the Hellenic community in South Australia.
Hosted by respected journalist, broadcaster and HACCI Victoria Board Member Helen Kapalos, the gala featured premium dining, cultural performances, inspiring addresses and an atmosphere of elegance befitting one of the standout community events of the year.
Among the distinguished guests were Justice Rachael Gray of the Supreme Court of South Australia, Consul General of Greece in Adelaide Alexandra Theodoropoulos, South Australian Treasurer and Minister for Energy and Mining The Hon Tom Koutsantonis MP, Federal Member for Adelaide The Hon Steve Georganas MP, Member for Colton, The Hon Aria Bolkus MP, South Australian Multicultural Commission member Bernadette Belej and City of Adelaide Councillor Dr Mark Siebntritt.
In his address, HACCI SA Chair Alex Demetriou reflected on the significance of the evening as the organisation’s first gala, acknowledging the collective effort behind its success and the strength of the chamber’s growing community.
He thanked fellow board members Kosta Koutsonas, Lambro Manouras, Voula Tsoutsikos, Elias Demourtzidis, Vas Marinos and Sylvia Villios for their commitment and contribution to HACCI SA’s continued development.
Expanding on HACCI SA’s broader mission, Demetriou highlighted the Chamber’s place within a national federated HACCI network, underscoring the importance of combining local connection with national reach and international pathways for members.
He noted that as Australia and Europe continue to strengthen economic ties, including discussions around the EU-Australia Free Trade Agreement significant opportunities are emerging across business, investment, education and cultural exchange, particularly given access to a market of more than 450 million people.
“HACCI exists to help enable that,” he said, outlining the Chamber’s role as a connector locally in SA, nationally and globally; an advocate for its members; and a platform providing access to strong networks, ideas and opportunity.
Demetriou also acknowledged HACCI’s leadership and advisory structure, including National Patron the Hon. Arthur Sinodinos AO and Advisory Board members Theo Maras, Christine Locher, Joanne Chapley, Mary Couros and Harry Patsouris, describing their contribution as an invaluable asset to the organisation’s ongoing direction and evolution.
The Chair then extended thanks to HACCI SA’s sponsors and partners for their support.
One of the evening’s most talked-about features was the Wine Wall, proudly sponsored by BYZTEK Construction Consultancy. Featuring more than 100 bottles of premium wine including a highly coveted bottle of 2021 Penfolds Grange, the activation proved a popular highlight, generating excitement and anticipation among guests throughout the night, alongside the coveted auction items, ranging from a bespoke artwork, sports memorabilia, and an unparalleled dinner experience at Parliament House.
A cultural highlight of the evening was provided by the Manasis School of Greek Dance and Culture, whose two vibrant performances showcased the richness of Hellenic tradition and were warmly received by attendees.
The evening also saw the presentation of the HACCI SA Excellence Awards, recognising outstanding individuals whose achievements and service have made a lasting impact across business, professional life and the broader community.
Lawyer and The Greek Herald journalist Peter Tantalos received the Young Achiever Award, while Helen Aggeletos was honoured with the Business Excellence Award for the global achievements of Venus Citrus.
Professor Peter Psaltis was presented with the Professional Excellence Award for his distinguished achievements and leadership in his field, and Mr Patsouris received the Community Service Award for his longstanding commitment to serving and strengthening the community.
The evening culminated in the presentation of the prestigious Hermes Award to South Australian Treasurer Mr Koutsantonis.
Named after the ancient Greek messenger god Hermes, the patron of commerce, communication and enterprise, the award represents HACCI SA’s highest honour, recognising exceptional achievement across professional excellence, business leadership and community service.
Presenting the award, Mr Koutsonas reflected on the symbolism of Hermes within the Chamber’s identity, noting its representation of connection, commerce and the bridging of communities.
Mr Koutsantonis was recognised for his distinguished public service and enduring contribution to SA, embodying the values of leadership, achievement and civic commitment the award seeks to honour.
Throughout the evening, guests enjoyed the opportunity to reconnect, build new relationships and celebrate the achievements of SA’s Greek Australian community in a spirit of pride and optimism.
HACCI SA’s inaugural Gala has firmly established itself as a significant addition to the South Australian business and community calendar, reflecting the Chamber’s growing momentum and its commitment to fostering leadership, connection and opportunity across the Hellenic diaspora and beyond.
*All photos: gcanatselisphotography.
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