On Wednesday, 27 November, at 6:30 pm, former Victorian Premier Jeff Kennett, a well-known supporter of Greece and its diaspora, will launch the biography of Nick Thyssen (Nikos Theodosiadis) in the Arcadia Ballroom at the Arcadian House, the headquarters of the Panarcadian Association of Melbourne and Victoria “O Kolokotronis,” located at 570 Victoria Street, North Melbourne.
The biography highlights the remarkable story of Nick Thyssen, one of the most innovative Greek Australian entrepreneurs of the past 70 years. Thyssen’s journey began in 1959 when he introduced groundbreaking ideas in the food production industry. He was the first to industrially market fresh orange juice and citrus products, natural soups, and fruit salads—offering alternatives to canned goods—and supplied them to supermarkets, restaurants, hotels, hospitals, and army barracks worldwide.
Professor Anastasios Tamis authored the book, which chronicles Thyssen’s innovative contributions, his perseverance, and his impact on Australia’s economic and social landscape. The biography also captures the struggles of 270,000 Greek immigrants in Australia during and after World War II, providing insights into their resilience and success.
Nick Thyssen reflected on his journey: “My goal was never to chase money or profit but to realise the success of the ideas born within me. Many ideas failed; some were temporary, but some transformed Australia and were acquired by multinational companies in the UK and the US. My focus was always on the success of the purpose, not financial gain. I often stayed awake at night, planning, thinking, and striving to implement my ideas. Profit was merely a by-product of success, not the objective. Even at 90, I continue to think and innovate to improve life.”
The evening will feature a reception in the Kallisto Hall on the second floor, hosted by the Thyssen family, followed by the book presentation at 7:10 pm in the Arcadia Ballroom. The event will be hosted by journalist and television presenter John Mangos, with speeches by leaders from the Greek and Australian communities. Among them are George Kotsirilos, President of the Panarcadian Association, and Dr Marinis Pirpiris, Treasurer of the Greek Community of Melbourne and Victoria.
Hellenic Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (HACCI) Chair Fotini Kipraios, along with representatives from Nick Thyssen’s business partners and the local farming community, will also deliver addresses.
The Thyssen family will distribute the book free of charge to attendees, encouraging donations to the Royal Melbourne Children’s Hospital, whose representatives will be present.
The event is organised by the Australian Institute for Macedonian Studies, with sponsorship from the Thyssen family, the Panarcadian Association “O Kolokotronis,” Procal Dairy Products, and Ellikon Fine Printers.
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