A legal battle involving one of South Australia’s wealthiest families has reached the state’s highest court, as George Constantine Polites, 70, challenges a recent Supreme Court ruling over the estate of his late mother, Florence Gemenis Polites.
The estate, which includes a share in the multimillion-dollar family empire, has become the focus of a bitter dispute between George and his nephew, Markas Salkanovic, 54.
The appeal, lodged on Friday, December 13, contests the court’s decision to appoint an administrator to investigate the estate, which includes assets worth over $1.5 million and significant interests in the Polites Group of Companies, a real estate empire valued at over $1 billion.
Florence, who passed away in March at 102, had left a complex will that has led to accusations of financial mismanagement and family discord.
The Polites family’s fortune stems from the success of the Polites Group, which owns more than 50 properties across Adelaide and Sydney, including prime CBD locations. George Polites, who has led the family business since his father Con’s death in 2001, is known for his community involvement and personal achievements, including a career in taekwondo.
The dispute centres around the family’s longstanding tensions, particularly with Salkanovic, who has faced legal troubles, including a 2019 conviction for attempting to import drugs. Salkanovic’s strained relationship with the family became evident after his 2015 arrest, leading to years of estrangement.
The Supreme Court heard that Florence’s estate, though holding valuable assets, is burdened with significant debts. As the executor of the will, George has denied any wrongdoing, while Salkanovic has sought to contest the will in a bid to secure a larger share of the inheritance.
The ongoing legal drama highlights the deep divisions within the Polites family, with no resolution in sight.
Source: The Advertiser.
