Former NT politician Nick Dondas AM remembered at state memorial service

·

Former Northern Territory politician Nick Dondas AM has been remembered as a larger-than-life character at a state memorial service on Monday, November 18.

Dozens gathered at Darwin’s Christ Church Cathedral on Monday for the state memorial. His daughters, Katrina and Amelia, both spoke of his legacy.

“Dad, we will forever miss your optimistic spirit and compassion you had for those around you, and your resilience and strength in trying times,” Amelia said.

NT Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro said Mr Dondas was “one of the Territory’s greats.”

Mr Dondas, born in 1939 to a Greek migrant family in Perth, became a prominent figure in the Northern Territory’s political and business landscape.

nick dondas
Nick Dondas in 1996.

After moving to the NT in 1955 to assist his uncle, Mick Paspalis, at Hotel Darwin, Dondas pursued diverse ventures, including playing grade rugby league across Australia and England, running a premium car service in Hong Kong, and managing several iconic Darwin businesses such as Take 5 Cafe and Beef Baron.

Entering politics in 1976, Dondas became a founding member of the NT’s first Legislative Assembly. Over two decades with the Country Liberal Party, he served as Deputy Chief Minister, Speaker, and held multiple ministerial roles. His political career extended briefly to federal politics, representing the NT from 1996 to 1998.

In 1995, he was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for his contributions to politics and the NT Legislative Assembly.

Mr Dondas also left a lasting legacy in the Greek community and as a founding figure of Rugby League in the NT. He passed away on September 8, 2023, at the age of 84.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

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

Advertisement

Latest News

Sydney Olympic at a crossroads: Damon Hanlin on Belmore, finances and the future

As construction threatens its home, Sydney Olympic enters a new era - chasing stability, respect and results on the national stage.

Cypriot community gathers in Sydney to mark 65 years of the Republic of Cyprus

The Cyprus Community of NSW hosted a special commemoration on Sunday, marking 65 years since the establishment of the Republic of Cyprus.

Sydney’s Lemnian community marks 113 years since the liberation of Lemnos

The Lemnian Association of Sydney and New South Wales “Maroula” marked the 113th anniversary of the liberation of Lemnos.

Pan-Macedonian Association marks 42 years of Dimitria Festival in Sydney

With full formality, the Macedonian celebrations “Dimitria” began on Sunday, October 5, 2025. This year marks the 42nd consecutive year.

Australian Embassy in Athens hosts book launch on Australia’s first Greek female settler

The Australian Embassy in Athens hosted the launch of Η Πρώτη Έποικος (The First Settler) on Wednesday, 1 October 2025.

You May Also Like

Heartbeat of Football to celebrate history of the Matildas at Sydney event

Heartbeat of Football is pleased to announce our marquee fundraising event - celebrating the wonderful history of our Matildas.

Rare Apollo mission moon rock returns to Cyprus after 50 years

A rare moon rock which was brought back by US astronauts has been returned to its original destination, the island of Cyprus.

Dakos salad takes first place in top 100 world’s best salads list

The Creten salad Dakos has recently taken first place in TasteAtlas’s list of 100 best-rated salads in the world.