An intimate reception at Parliament House this month brought together Greek businesses, professionals and community leaders to recognise the long‑standing contribution of the Greek community to the Northern Territory’s economic and social life.
The event, hosted on behalf of Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro MLA by Jinson Anto Charls MLA, highlighted the enduring role of Greek entrepreneurship, leadership and investment across the Territory.
The reception brought together HACCI NT representatives, generational Greek businesses, and professionals whose families have contributed to the Territory across generations. Their presence reflected the continuity and resilience of the Greek story in the Top End — a community whose progress today is built on the foundations laid by earlier generations.
The evening also acknowledged HACCI NT’s role within the HACCI National Federation, with the Northern Territory holding the National Chair for 2026. This position has seen HACCI NT contribute to national discussions on business, trade and diaspora engagement, ensuring that regional and Territory perspectives are represented.
HACCI NT Chair Angela Tomazos said the evening was an opportunity to reflect on the community’s legacy and the responsibility carried forward today.
“We appreciated the chance to come together in such a meaningful setting. HACCI NT exists because of the generations who shaped the Greek story in the Territory, and we carry that responsibility with humility as we continue to represent our community,” Ms Tomazos said.
Members of the HACCI NT Committee — Rossi Kourounis, Magdaline Coleman, Jimmy Bouhoris and Michael Kalidonis — were also in attendance. All were born and raised in Darwin to parents or grandparents who migrated from Greece, reflecting the continuity of Greek enterprise and community leadership across generations in the Territory.
The reception also included representation from the Hellenic Australian Lawyers Association, with Suzi Kapetas, Chapter Chair of the NT, and Judge Tass Liveris, former NT Law Society President and current HACCI NT Honorary Member, in attendance. Their presence highlighted the strong professional networks within the Greek community and the contribution of Greek legal professionals to the Territory’s civic and judicial life.
A special tribute was made to the late John Halikos, whose vision, generosity and long‑standing contribution helped shape the Northern Territory’s business and community landscape. HACCI NT presented a certificate in his honour, which was accepted by his son, Tony Halikos, on behalf of the Halikos family.
The gesture recognised Mr Halikos’ legacy, including his leadership of the JH Group and his role as an Honorary Member of HACCI NT, a distinction he accepted last year. His recent passing has been deeply felt across the community, and the tribute served as a moment of collective respect and remembrance.
The event was generously hosted by the Office of the Chief Minister, with Minister Jinson Anto Charls MLA leading the evening and Khoda Patel MLA supporting the program as MC.
The reception was further strengthened by the presence of The Hon John Anictomatis AO, HACCI NT Patron and Honorary Consul General for Greece in the Northern Territory, and Michael Koulianos, President of the Greek Orthodox Community of North Australia. Their participation underscored the unity and shared purpose that continue to define the Greek community’s contribution to the Territory.
*Photos supplied by Office of Chief Minister
