On Friday, November 15, the Plaza Ballroom’s chandeliers lit up not just the room, but the spirits of everyone attending the 38th annual HACCI Excellence Awards.
Hosted by the Hellenic Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (HACCI), this year’s gala was an opportunity for Melbourne’s Hellenic Australian community to celebrate the achievements and ongoing contribution of Greek businesses, visionary entrepreneurs, and exceptional professionals to the economic and social fabric of Australia. It was also a cultural showcase celebrating the rich tapestry of the Hellenic-Australian community.
This year’s distinguished guest list included political and community leaders who gathered to applaud their peers’ outstanding contributions across diverse sectors. The attendees included Steve Dimopoulos MP, Victorian Minister for Environment and Tourism; John Pesutto MP, Leader of the Victorian Liberal Party; Lee Tarlamis MP; Viv Nguyen, Chair of the Victorian Multicultural Commission; and Emmanuel Kakavelakis, Greek Consul General to Melbourne, among others.
The HACCI board is grateful to the Award sponsors and partners, who were also present at the Melbourne Town Hall to attend the event: the Stamoulis family, who present the Lifetime Achievement award; Melos Sulicich, CEO of Bank of Sydney, HACCI’s Chamber Partner; Elpis Korosidis, representing PRONIA; Elpis Korosidis; Kostas Siolis, representing Directed Technologies; John Kallitsas from Salary Masters; Peter Zervos from BDO Australia; Steve Tsalikidis from Heidelberg United FC; and Stavros and Con Saristavros, who presented the Chris Saristavros Young Achiever award.
MC Zoy Frangos, a celebrated figure in musical theatre, showcased his charisma throughout the night, weaving songs into his presentation. He also made a special mention to his dual heritage, highlighting his Greek and Indigenous Australian roots with pride and setting the stage for an evening of high achievements and heartfelt stories.
The 2024 awardees are as varied as they are impressive:
- Spiro Stamoulis Lifetime Achievement Award: Mike Zafiropoulos AM, whose five-decade career has bridged cultures and fostered multicultural understanding.
- Bank of Sydney Business Excellence Award: James Stevens, the floral innovator behind Mr Roses, known for his community-focused business model.
- Professional Excellence Award, presented by BDO Australia: Professor Jonathan Carapetis AM, who has made groundbreaking strides in pediatric health.
- Innovation Award, presented by Directed Technologies: John Konstantopoulos, whose AI innovations are revolutionizing healthcare.
- Woman of Influence Award, presented by SalaryMasters: Martha Oplopiadis, a pioneer in engineering and an advocate for women in STEM.
- Community Service Award, presented by PRONIA: Anastasia Darras AM, celebrated for her transformative work with TLC for Kids.
- Sport Award, presented by Heidelberg United FC: Andrew Paschalidis, known for his dual legacy in sports broadcasting and heart health advocacy.
- Chris Saristavros Young Achiever Award: Jane Aslanidis, a leader in international commerce and innovation, with a notable impact on global initiatives.
The awards were presented by HACCI Board Members Vicky Alexiou and Helen Kapalos. Flowers Vasette created the spectacular flower arrangements given to the Award winners, and Melvourni coffee set up a Greek coffee station, brewing the signature hot beverage at the end of the opulent, three-course meal.
The gala was also a feast for the senses, featuring performances that ranged from Evangeline Victoria’s soul-stirring violin solos to Elisa Colla’s soaring soprano, each act adding layers of Greek cultural heritage to the evening.
A very special moment came with the presence of the Psaltries Choir of Melbourne, whose byzantine hymns filled the room with emotion.
As the night drew to a close with a vibe of Greek dance party, courtesy of DJ Vath featuring Steve Gold on the bouzouki, the awards left attendees inspired, reflecting on the community’s vibrant contributions to Australia’s multicultural mosaic.
“The HACCI awards are a beacon of excellence, shining a light on individuals and organizations that uplift us all. They remind us of the strength found in our collective stories and the boundless potential of the Hellenic-Australian community,” HACCI Chair, Fotini Kypraios, said.
