Greece’s women’s tennis team has earned promotion to Group I of the Billie Jean King Cup after Maria Sakkari and Despina Papamichael sealed a 2-0 victory over South Africa in Banja Luka.
Needing two wins in the promotion play-off from Group II of the Euro-African zone, Greece delivered, with Papamichael (No.163) defeating Isabella Kruger 6-2, 6-3 to give her side a 1-0 lead.
Sakkari then secured the tie, overcoming Janie Van Zyl (No.1109) 6-4, 6-1, meaning the doubles match was not required.
The result capped a strong campaign for Greece, which recorded four wins in Group A before facing South Africa, runners-up in Group B, in Saturday’s promotion final.
Greece will now compete in Division 1 of the Billie Jean King Cup for the third time and, in 2027, will have the chance to push beyond participation by targeting qualification for the next stage.
Elsewhere, Bulgaria claimed the second promotion spot from Banja Luka with a 2-0 win over Cyprus.
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis attended the Resurrection Service on Holy Saturday at the Monastery of Saint John the Forerunner and Baptist in Korakies, Chania, alongside his wife Mareva Grabowski-Mitsotakis.
In his Easter message, he said light always prevails over darkness, describing the celebration as a source of hope and optimism for Greeks, and a day that highlights unity and faith as key to overcoming challenges.
Across Greece, traditional Easter customs were also observed, including the “Botides” in Corfu, where crowds gathered as residents hurled clay pots from balconies, the crash symbolising the banishing of evil and renewal.
In Preveza, hundreds of pots were smashed simultaneously as church bells rang, a custom rooted in the Ottoman period.
The event has gained national recognition, with efforts underway to secure UNESCO cultural heritage status, while drawing strong tourism interest with high hotel occupancy and community celebrations.
US President Donald Trump says the United States will begin blockading the Strait of Hormuz after negotiations with Iran broke down, putting a fragile two-week ceasefire at risk.
Announcing the move, Trump said the US Navy would stop ships entering or leaving the strait and target vessels that had paid tolls to Iran, while also clearing mines he claimed Tehran had deployed.
“Effective immediately, the United States Navy, the Finest in the World, will begin the process of BLOCKADING any and all Ships trying to enter, or leave, the Strait of Hormuz,” he said.
He warned: “Any Iranian who fires at us, or at peaceful vessels, will be BLOWN TO HELL!”
The escalation follows marathon talks in Islamabad, the first direct US-Iran negotiations in more than a decade, which failed to end six weeks of conflict that has killed thousands and shaken global markets.
US Vice President JD Vance said the lack of agreement was “bad news for Iran much more than it’s bad news for the United States of America.”
Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf accused Washington of failing to build trust, saying the US must decide “whether they can earn our trust or not,” while Iranian media cited disagreements over nuclear demands and control of the strait.
Trump insisted Tehran had refused to abandon its nuclear ambitions, stating: “IRAN IS UNWILLING TO GIVE UP ITS NUCLEAR AMBITIONS!”
Despite the impasse, calls to maintain the ceasefire continued, with Pakistan urging restraint and Pope Leo calling for a lasting truce.
Meanwhile, Israel pressed ahead with strikes on Hezbollah targets in Lebanon, highlighting the risk of broader regional escalation.
Victorian Deputy Premier Ben Carroll joined Melbourne’s Greek Orthodox community for a Good Friday service at The Annunciation of Our Lady Greek Orthodox Church (Evaggelismo), marking his first attendance at a Greek Orthodox Easter service.
The service, held at the historic East Melbourne church, included the traditional Epitaphios procession through surrounding streets, drawing large crowds of faithful who gathered to commemorate the burial of Christ in one of the most solemn observances of the Orthodox calendar.
Candles illuminated the night as parishioners followed the flower-adorned Epitaphios, reflecting a deeply rooted tradition that continues to unite generations of Greek Australians across Melbourne. As the oldest Greek Orthodox church in the city, Evaggelismo holds a special place within the community, particularly during Holy Week.
Mr Carroll described the experience as both meaningful and symbolic, highlighting the spiritual significance of the occasion.
“Greek Orthodox Easter celebrates the triumph of life over death, light over darkness, and hope over despair,” he said.
“This is my first Greek Orthodox Easter mass and it’s fitting that I was at the oldest Greek Church in Melbourne – Evaggelismo. I thank Bill Papastergiadis for the invitation to be a part of this church service on Friday night and to follow the επιτάφιο through the streets surrounding this historic church.”
His attendance was warmly received by community leaders, reflecting the strong and ongoing relationship between Victoria’s Greek community and public representatives.
President of the Greek Orthodox Community of Melbourne and Victoria, Bill Papastergiadis, said the Deputy Premier’s presence was welcomed by the parish and broader community.
“It was heartening to have Ben Carroll with us at Evaggelismo Church for the Friday service,” Mr Papastergiadis said.
“His presence solidifies our faith with the broader community. Many people in our παροικία, and particularly I have a strong connection with Ben Carroll and we thank him for his ongoing support and commitment to our community.”
The Good Friday service at the Annunciation Church formed part of wider Greek Orthodox Easter commemorations across Melbourne, with parishes throughout the city observing Holy Week through a series of services leading to the celebration of the Resurrection on Easter Sunday.
For many in the Greek Australian community, these traditions remain central to cultural and spiritual life, bringing together faith, heritage and community in one of the most significant periods of the year.
As Chef Georgia Koutsoukou — the Kalamata-born chef known as “SoulChef” — continues her SoulChef Sundays series with The Greek Herald, she brings together the defining dishes of Greek Easter, from the moment of the Resurrection to the Sunday feast.
A table of tradition, faith and family
Greek Easter is a journey — from the quiet of the Resurrection night to the abundance of Sunday. It is a time when families gather, traditions are honoured, and food becomes the centre of connection.
Magiritsa – The Resurrection Dish
Ingredients
1 lamb pluck (liver/lights, blanched and chopped)
2 lettuces, finely chopped
5–6 spring onions
Fresh dill
2 eggs
2 lemons
Method
Sauté spring onions and pluck.
Add lettuce and dill, simmer for 40 minutes.
Prepare avgolemono and add to the pot.
Slow & Low Lamb with Mediterranean Herbs
Ingredients
2 kg lamb (leg or shoulder)
1.5 kg potatoes
3 cloves garlic
Oregano, salt, pepper
Lemon juice
Olive oil
Method
Place lamb and potatoes in roasting pan.
Insert garlic and season well.
Roast at 180°C for 2.5–3 hours until tender.
A Message from SoulChef
Easter is about the people around the table, the memories we create, and the love we share. Oceans may separate us, but the soul of our kitchen is one.
Every spring, vast peach orchards in northern Greece transform into a stunning sea of pink, drawing thousands of visitors, according to Apnews.com. Located around Veria, the country’s largest peach-producing area becomes a seasonal attraction for both domestic and international travelers.
“It’s something that people must experience and see at least once in their lifetime, because it’s a huge area,” said Gianna Pilitsidou, president of the Veria Tourism Club. Spanning around 170 square kilometers, the plains are completely covered in blossoms, creating a striking visual landscape.
To celebrate this natural spectacle, the Veria Tourism Club has introduced a variety of activities in recent years. These include photography events, cycling routes through the orchards, and initiatives promoting local agricultural products.
“Every year we welcome spring with celebrations in the fields, inviting people to visit us and experience it,” Pilitsidou said.
The initiative also aims to raise awareness of lesser-known destinations in Greece. “I want the people in Holland and Belgium to know what amazing spots there still are besides all the places that people already know,” said Dutch travel blogger Wesley van Eijk. “For example Veria. I mean more and more people get to know it, but you have to feel it and be here.”
Local farmers see the events as both recognition and support for their work. “For all of this to happen, it takes a lot of hard work – a lot of effort from us farmers,” said Anastasios Chalkidis.
The blossoming season, typically from mid-March to mid-April, has also boosted tourism, with visitors like Andrea Lachnit from Germany calling it “stunning and beautiful and heavenly.”
The Greek island of Sifnos has been recognized as one of the top travel destinations for 2026 by the Swedish platform News55.se, which highlights locations that offer authentic experiences away from mass tourism, according to tovima.com. Ranked second on a global list of five destinations, Sifnos stands out for preserving its cultural identity and traditional Cycladic charm.
Known for its unspoiled character, Sifnos has managed to avoid large-scale commercial tourism despite increasing international attention. The island offers a more genuine and relaxed experience, particularly outside the peak summer months. Visitors are drawn to its scenic hiking trails, picturesque villages, and classic Cycladic architecture, with places like Kastro and Apollonia noted for their unique atmosphere.
The report also highlights Sifnos as a major culinary destination, often described as the “gastronomic heart of Greece.” This reputation is rooted in its rich food heritage and the influence of Nikolaos Tselementes, a key figure in modern Greek cuisine. Local traditions emphasize fresh, regional ingredients and artisanal practices, including pottery, which remains closely connected to the island’s cooking culture.
Sifnos joins other destinations such as Basel, Northumberland, Galway, and Kanazawa on the list, all recognized for their strong cultural heritage and preserved environments.
According to local officials, this distinction reflects ongoing efforts to promote alternative tourism, focusing on gastronomy, nature, hiking, and cultural experiences. Increased international exposure, including participation in major travel events, has also boosted interest among travelers seeking more meaningful and less crowded destinations.
Federal Liberal Leader Angus Taylor has extended his Easter wishes to Greek Australians, highlighting the importance of faith, family and tradition, while recognising the community’s enduring contribution to Australian society.
Full Message in English:
As Greek Orthodox Easter approaches, I am pleased to extend my warmest wishes to the Greek Australian community across Australia.
Easter is a time for family, faith, and reflection. It is a moment to come together, honour long-standing traditions, and celebrate the values that sustain our communities. It reminds us of the importance of resilience, determination, and the bonds we share with family and friends.
The Greek Australian community has made extraordinary contributions to our nation through hard work, enterprise, and strong family values. These are the very principles that protect and enrich our Australian way of life: the importance of family, the spirit of aspiration, and a tireless commitment to building a vibrant, cohesive society.
On behalf of the Coalition, I hope this special occasion brings joy, peace, and renewed energy to your homes.
Καλή Ανάσταση!
Yours sincerely, ANGUS TAYLOR Leader of the Opposition
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has extended his Easter message to Orthodox Christians across Australia, acknowledging the deep spiritual significance of the season and the enduring cultural traditions upheld by the Greek Australian community.
Full Message in English:
At Easter, Christians around our nation unite in contemplation of the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ, and in celebration of the profound grace at the heart of their faith.
For those of the Orthodox tradition, this is a moment of all-encompassing significance. It is a time for gathering in homes and houses of worship to uphold the rituals of an ancient and beautiful culture shared by millions of people around the world.
As Australia’s Greek community comes together to share in the treasured traditions of this time – the prayers and hymns, bread and lamb, red-dyed eggs and koulouria – I know you will feel blessed and energised by all that connects you to your history and heritage.
I also join you in celebration for the immense contribution that generations of Greek Australians have made to our nation with your extraordinary drive, hard work, aspiration and love of country. You are a cherished and intrinsic part of the story of our nation.
At this special time of love, joy and peace, I wish you a happy and a holy Easter.
Καλό Πάσχα!
The Hon Anthony Albanese MP Prime Minister of Australia
Greek and Cypriot politicians and diplomats have issued messages to Australia’s Greek diaspora to mark Orthodox Easter.
Message by Greece’s Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister for Greeks Abroad, Ioannis Michail Loverdos
Dear compatriots,
Although the distance from Greece is great, during my recent visit to Australia I observed that the bonds with the motherland remain alive and strong.
The message of the Resurrection takes on even greater significance this year amid the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, reminding us of the power of hope, reconciliation and peace.
I wish that the Resurrection of the Lord fills your hearts with hope and optimism, spiritually bringing you closer to our homeland, as love for Greece, our traditions and our values always keep us united wherever we may be during these Holy Days.
Happy Easter to all Greek women and men of Australia!
Ioannis Michail Loverdos Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Greece
Message by the Ambassador of Greece in Australia, Stavros Venizelos:
I wish that this year’s Easter may give us all strength and joy. Its universal message is first and foremost a message of personal rebirth and love towards our fellow man. The celebration is reviving our hopes for peace and prosperity.
I wholeheartedly wish to all Greek friends in Australia, a Happy Easter with your loved ones. Χρόνια πολλά!
Stavros Venizelos Ambassador of Greece to Australia
Message by the High Commissioner of Cyprus in Australia, Antonis Sammoutis:
Dear compatriots,
On the occasion of the Easter celebrations — of the Passion of the Lord, the Cross and His three-day Resurrection — I wish you health and family happiness. The relationship of Greeks everywhere with these holy days is unique. It reaches far back, even to the pre-Christian era, with the death and rebirth of the god Dionysus or the return of Persephone from Hades and the coming of spring. For indeed, Easter and the Resurrection of the Sweet Spring are a celebration of spring in our homeland.
Life is not lost but is reborn, faith saves humankind, and love and kindness — which can extend even to sacrifice — give meaning and worth. And the Cross is always followed by the Resurrection! This is what we firmly believe as Greek Cypriots, 52 years after being uprooted from our homes and churches in the occupied part of our island. We firmly believe that the day will come when “Christ is Risen” will be heard again and the bells will ring joyfully in every corner of our small homeland.
Here in distant Australia, our diaspora placed the Church at the centre of its spiritual life from the very beginning. All our great celebrations, after all, are intertwined with our liturgical life. As every year, so too this year, we will ascend with reverence alongside the Crucified to Golgotha on Holy Thursday and accompany Him with the Lamentations on Good Friday to the Tomb. On the night of Holy Saturday, however, we will proclaim “Christ is Risen” and celebrate the Resurrection in radiant joy. And on Easter Sunday, we will all gather around the shared table, with roast lamb, kokoretsi, eggs and tsoureki.
Alongside faith and the lived experience of our Church, we always keep our traditions alive. In this beautiful multicultural country, we preserve our identity in its pure form. This identity, moreover, for centuries has encompassed all the values of your new homeland — love, solidarity, respect and offering to our fellow human beings. And it is this identity that guarantees progress and prosperity for all.
Wishing everyone a joyful Resurrection!
Antonis Sammoutis High Commissioner of the Republic of Cyprus in Australia
