Potential challenges loom over unexpected GOCSA election outcome

·

The Greek Orthodox Community of South Australia (GOCSA) saw a record-breaking turnout at its Administrative Council elections held on Saturday, January 11, with 600 members casting their votes at Olympic Hall in Adelaide.

The electoral contest saw Peter Ppiros and his Independent Community Progressive Party securing 11 out of the 15 positions on the Council, leaving Peter Gonis’ Leading the Community Party ticket with four.

peter ppiros
Peter Ppiros.

Ppiros, reflecting on the results of the election, highlighted the significance of the outcome amid challenging circumstances.

“It was a very difficult electoral contest during which 600 members voted, the largest number to have voted in our Community’s elections in many years. Our team… managed to win 11 out of the 15 positions on the Council, which we consider a very good result given the extremely difficult circumstances we had to face,” he said.

Ppiros said his focus will now be on the need for unity, economic recovery, and the protection of GOCSA’s democratic principles and assets. He also expressed gratitude to voters and the election organisers, while extending well-wishes to all elected members.

peter gonis

Meanwhile, Gonis, who had previously served as Vice President of GOCSA and campaigned for re-election, acknowledged the disappointment in the outcome but maintained an optimistic outlook.

“Although the election outcome was not what we had hoped for, I am humbled by the support shown by so many members of our community,” Gonis said.

“Whilst the election brought different perspectives to the forefront, I firmly believe that collaboration and respect are key to ensuring a strong and unified path forward.”

Gonis also reiterated his dedication to the community and his willingness to work with the new Council.

“I extend my congratulations to the newly elected Council and trust they will prioritise the best interests of the community with a continued focus in our youth and cultural programs,” he said.

The elections, held during the New Year period, were marked by intense competition and pre-election tensions. Despite this, the process concluded peacefully, though reports suggest the electoral process might face formal challenges.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Historic ties remembered as Greece’s Evzones march in Adelaide’s ANZAC Day parade

During a Dawn Service at West Torrens on Friday, April 25, the Evzones stood guard alongside Australian army battalion in remembrance.

Greek glamour meets Aussie pop: Inside the colourful universe of Stavroula Adameitis

Adelaide-born designer Stavroula Adameitis is a creator of bespoke pieces that she describes as ‘wearable art.’

Melbourne seminar to focus on the odyssey of Michel ‘Pablo’ Raptis

Michel Pablo was a twentieth century revolutionary whose life and ideas remain relevant and inspirational until today.

Lawyer Greg Masselos warns NSW workers’ comp changes could devastate frontline workers

Greg Masselos has warned that proposed changes by the NSW government to raise the threshold for claims could have devastating consequences.

Niki Louca shares how to make Focaccia Bread

Niki Louca from My Greek Kitchen shares her favourite recipe for pita bread with The Greek Herald. You can follow her on Instagram.

You May Also Like

‘Same Greeks, different city’: Team Greece arrive in Sydney for United Cup

It's that time of the year again where Greeks across Sydney, Australia will turn up in droves to the Ken Rosewall Arena to witness...

Funeral of much-loved Greek Australian Nick Andrianakos held in Nafplio

The funeral of Nick Andrianakos, the late Greek Australian billionaire who passed away on March 16, was held on Wednesday in Nafplio, Greece.

Greek community gathers at ‘Little Greece’ in Sydney for annual OXI Day ceremony

People gathered at 'Little Greece' in Sydney's Inner West on Saturday, October 26 for the annual OXI Day commemoration event.