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St Nectarios Burwood youth spread Christmas cheer to refugee families

The Greek Herald
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St Nectarios Burwood youth spread Christmas cheer to refugee families

For the seventh year, Youth In Action, the youth group of The Greek Orthodox Parish and Community of Burwood and District St Nectarios, has prepared 120 Christmas hampers for refugee families, to be delivered through Metro Assist next week.

The youth held a successful fundraising event, Rock Around The Clock Trivia Night, in November, which raised $3,942 for this important cause, allowing the youth to shop for groceries for the hampers. Parishioners also donated additional groceries and made further donations towards the shopping.

Youth In Action representatives spent five hours last Saturday, sorting grocery donations and then shopping for the balance of groceries needed. The final step was to pack the hampers earlier this week, which saw local youth and other Parishioners, friends and volunteers joining together, with a great spirit of fun and camaraderie to pack the hampers, ready for delivery.

An official Christmas Hamper presentation day for refugee families takes place at Metro Assist next week, with Youth In Action representatives to meet and greet the recipients and help Metro Assist staff hand out the hampers.

“This is definitely one of the highlights of the year for Youth In Action,” Nicole Economos, Youth In Action Coordinator, said.

“Everyone really gets behind this important cause and it’s such a great feeling to know we’re genuinely spreading some love and showing compassion to families who have experienced unimaginable challenges.

“We are so proud to deliver some cheer and share in the true meaning of Christmas with those less fortunate.”

This year, eight volunteers from global bank BNP Paribas also offered their assistance to Youth In Action, to assist with the hamper packing. This was part of the bank’s 1MillionHours2Help program, which sets a target for the bank’s global employees to work a collective total of one million volunteer hours per year, supporting charitable causes.

Including the 2024 efforts, Youth In Action has to date raised funds for and donated a total of 840 Christmas Hampers to refugee families through Metro Assist, as well as about 100 toys each year – a truly remarkable achievement.

Odysseus Elytis Academic Award presented to Sydney student Nicholas Haralambous

Andriana Simos
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Odysseus Elytis Academic Award presented to Sydney student Nicholas Haralambous

The Mytilenian Brotherhood of Sydney and New South Wales continued its proud association with Kingsgrove North High School on Thursday, December 12, presenting the prestigious Odysseus Elytis Academic Award for Excellence.

The annual award, named in honour of the renowned Greek poet from Lesvos, was presented to Nicholas Haralambous for his exemplary academic performance.

The award was presented by the President of the Mytilenian Brotherhood, Peter Psomas, alongside committee member Helen Kouroulis.

The presentation highlighted the enduring relationship between the Brotherhood and Kingsgrove North High School, underscoring their shared commitment to academic excellence and cultural heritage.

“We would like to wish Nicholas and all the other students the very best in their future studies,” the Mytilenian Brotherhood wrote on Facebook, reflecting their ongoing support for student achievement.

On behalf of the committee, the Mytilenian Brotherhood also took the opportunity to acknowledge and thank the school’s principal, Angelo Stassos, for his remarkable 40 years of service in the education sector.

As Mr Stassos prepares to step down from his role, the Brotherhood extended their best wishes for his future endeavours and expressed gratitude for his dedication and support over the years.

The Odysseus Elytis Academic Award remains a significant marker of excellence, inspiring students to strive for academic success while honouring the cultural legacy of one of Greece’s most celebrated literary figures.

Alphington Grammar School marks 35 years with outstanding VCE success

The Greek Herald
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Alphington Grammar School marks 35 years with outstanding VCE success

The release of VCE results is always a momentous occasion for students, families, and staff. This week’s ATAR results prompted Alphington Grammar School‘s Principal Dr Vivianne Nikou to express her pride in the Class of 2024, highlighting their impressive performance with a median study score of 30.

Dr Nikou elaborated that as an open-entry school committed to encouraging students in scored pathways, their smallest Year 12 cohort faced unique challenges, particularly the VCAA exam material leakage. This uncertainty understandably added stress to the examination process. Despite these potential disruptions, the students demonstrated remarkable resilience and focus.

  • Top ATAR: 97.85
  • Median Study Score: 30
  • Average ATAR: 75
  • Percentage of ATARs >80: 48%
  • Percentage of ATARs 90: 21%

The School announced this year’s Dux and Valedictorian, Joudy Sallam, who achieved an ATAR of 97.85, placing her in the top 3% of students across the state. She excelled in English Literature, Legal Studies, Chemistry, Mathematical Methods, including a perfect score of 50 in Business Management. She aspires to pursue a double degree in Bio Medicine/Commerce at Monash University.

alphington grammar vce results
Dux and Valedictorian, Joudy Sallam.

This year, 12.4% of the School’s students earned study scores of 40 or above, a benchmark that reflects the calibre of their efforts. Notably, perfect scores of 50 were achieved by:

  • George Mouratidis in General Maths
  • Joudy Sallam in Business Management.

Subjects in which students excelled with study scores above 40 include English, English Literature, General Mathematics, Psychology, Business Management, Visual Communication and Design, Legal Studies, Global Politics and Biology.

“This is a wonderful way to finish off our 35 year celebrations,” chair of School Council, Michael Karamitos, said.

alphington grammar vce results
alphington grammar vce results
Alphington Grammar’s award ceremony to celebrate its Year 12 students.

In a letter to parents and the Greek community, Dr Nikou expressed her praise saying, “these results reflect the diverse talents of our students, who not only excel academically but also contribute richly to our school community through House and School Events, Sports, Music, and the Performing Arts. Many also balanced part-time work, club sports and community commitments alongside their studies, embodying a holistic approach to success.”

The School board extended their best wishes to the Class of 2024 and all that lies ahead and thank the Principal and the staff for all their hard work.

Passenger flight from Melbourne will take priceless Benaki Museum artefacts back to Athens

Mary Sinanidis
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Passenger flight from Melbourne will take priceless Benaki Museum artefacts back to Athens

Next week, two commercial flights will leave Melbourne Airport for Athens. Passengers won’t know it, but in the storage area beneath their feet will be priceless artefacts from the Benaki Museum on loan for the Hellenic Museum’s exhibition Gods, Myths & Mortals: Greek Treasures Across the Millennia.

The artefacts span over 8,000 years of Greek civilisation, from 5,800 BC to the Greek War of Independence, and their return to Greece is a meticulous process.

In a statement to The Greek Herald, Hellenic Museum Director Sarah Craig said “the Gods, Myths and Mortals exhibition has been an important part of our [the museum’s] story over the last 10 years.”

“While we are sad to see the collection return to the Benaki Museum in Athens, we are committed to the relationship we have built with the Benaki team and look forward to collaborating with them again in the future,” Ms Craig added.

sarah craig
Sarah Craig.

‘Their current condition is exceptional’

Naoum Kokkalas, a Benaki Museum conservator, will leave with the first lot of antiquities at the start of next week. Accompanied by heavy security, he will take off on an undisclosed flight.

Speaking with fellow Benaki Museum conservator Eleftheria Gkoufa at the HACCI Christmas party on Thursday, December 12, she said the artefacts have already been examined and are ready to be sent home.

“Being a conservator comes with a strong responsibility,” Ms Gkoufa said. “We checked their current conditions, and I can tell you, everything was exceptional.”

She emphasises that she has the authority to stop the flight if she notices anything suspicious.

“I can stop everything if I suspect there is risk to the artefacts, but I have flown with precious artefacts below and have never had to stop a flight,” she explained.

benaki museum hellenic museum
Inside the exhibition.

Decades-long exhibition returns home

Ms Gkoufa feels sentimental remembering the artefacts’ journey to Australia 10 years ago during a landmark deal valued at over $5 million, which included the refurbishment of the Hellenic Museum’s galleries to host the display.

“It’s amazing what you can achieve when great minds come together,” Ms Gkoufa said, recalling the charisma of museum chairman Harry Stamoulis, who flew to Athens at the peak of Greece’s debt crisis to propose the collaboration.

Even Greece’s Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis praised the Benaki Museum’s collaboration with the Hellenic Museum, calling it “an example of how we can bring Greek culture to Australia.”

When asked why Melbourne is the only city with such a collaboration, Ms Gkoufa pointed to the city’s unique character.

“You’ve kept Greek values and traditions that are slowly disappearing in Greece. Hellenism beats with such strength, appetite, spirit, values, and vision,” she said. “You’ve shown this vision in a contemporary way. I’m lucky to see how you embrace Greek culture.”

Benaki Museum conservator Eleftheria Gkoufa. Photo copyright The Greek Herald / Mary Sinanidis.

The Hellenic Museum’s next chapter

Ms Gkoufa also hinted at an exciting new display that is currently in the works.

“It’s going to be a huge new display. You’ll be impressed once the announcement is made, but I can’t spoil the surprise,” she teased.

“All I can tell you is that even though the Hellenic Museum’s new venture is not with the Benaki, it’s collaboration with our museum definitely helped secure it.”

Hellenic Museum Director Ms Craig added that whilst she too, can’t share too much about the next chapter, “we are excited about what lies ahead and are working hard to develop a new, compelling international exhibition.”

A night with Greek football legends at Sydney’s Olympus taverna

The Greek Herald
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A night with Greek football legends at Sydney’s Olympus taverna

Sydney’s newest Greek dining hotspot, Olympus, was abuzz on Thursday evening as guests gathered for an exclusive event featuring Greek football legends Giorgos Karagounis, Theodoros Zagorakis, and Angelos Charisteas.

The night, hosted by Liberty IT, celebrated not only the achievements of these iconic players but also the 20th anniversary of Greece’s historic UEFA Euro 2004 victory.

Liberty IT CEO John Dimitropoulos warmly welcomed an esteemed guest list, which included the Consul General of Greece in Sydney, Yiannis Mallikourtis, renowned supporter Paul Nicolaou, CEOs, industry leaders, members of the media, and representatives of the Football Brilliance Academy.

greek football legends at olympus
(L-R) Giorgos Karagounis, Theodoros Zagorakis, and Angelos Charisteas. All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Takis Triadafillou.
greek football legends at olympus
greek football legends at olympus
greek football legends at olympus

In his opening remarks, Dimitropoulos thanked the Academy for its pivotal role in organising the evening and set the stage for what was to come.

With drinks and cocktails in hand, guests erupted into applause as the football legends were introduced. The evening’s co-emcee, Marina Paul, shared her personal connection to the UEFA Euro 2004, reminiscing about her time reporting on the monumental event in Athens. She facilitated a panel discussion with the players, blending football insights with personal anecdotes.

greek football legends at olympus

The discussion revolved around the importance of teamwork in sports and business. The players shared motivational stories, including one about a coach whose rallying speech inspired a team to go undefeated for 15 games, rising to the top 10 in world rankings. Insights into the Greek national team’s defensive strategies, pivotal in their Euro 2004 success, also captivated the audience.

Zagorakis reflected on his life post-football, including his time in the European Parliament, and shared advice about playing to one’s strengths and persevering in the face of challenges.

greek football legends at olympus

The engaged audience took full advantage of the Q&A session, posing questions about soccer strategies, including how the team exploited Portugal’s defensive weaknesses in the historic 2004 final. The players also highlighted the importance of nurturing young talent, suggesting the involvement of Greek legends in training Greek Australian players.

Dinner followed, featuring Olympus’ signature dishes, including tender octopus and succulent lamb. The culinary delights perfectly complemented the evening’s celebrations.

Guests at the event enjoyed the event. All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Takis Triadafillou.

Later, an auction, led by Nicolaou, saw signed jerseys of the football stars go under the hammer, raising significant funds for the Football Brilliance Academy.

As the night concluded, guests had the opportunity to engage directly with the football icons, capturing selfies and exchanging stories.

greek football legends at olympus

The event seamlessly combined culinary excellence, football nostalgia, and community spirit, leaving attendees with unforgettable memories and inspiration.

For those who attended, it was a night to cherish, celebrating the legacy of Greek football while strengthening connections within the Greek Australian community.

*All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Takis Triadafillou.

Australia to tax tech giants to fund news journalism

The Greek Herald
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Australia to tax tech giants to fund news journalism

The Australian government will introduce a new tax requiring tech giants like Facebook, Google, and TikTok to support Australian journalism, even if they do not host news content.

The tax will apply to companies with Australian revenue over $250 million, but can be reduced to zero if they sign funding agreements with media outlets.

This plan follows Meta’s threat to stop hosting Australian news, similar to its 2021 blackout. The government aims to prevent such moves while compelling platforms to support journalism.

Federal Minister for Financial Services, Stephen Jones called independent journalism “absolutely critical” and emphasised the platforms’ responsibility to contribute.

Tech companies like Google and Meta have criticised the plan, warning it could undermine existing agreements. Meanwhile, major media organisations, including the ABC and Nine, have welcomed the move as a step toward securing sustainable funding for public interest journalism.

Legislation will be introduced in 2024, with the tax backdated to 1 January. The government has not revealed the tax rate, allowing room for negotiation with tech giants.

Source: ABC News.

Metropolitan of Rethymno and Avlopotamos officially welcomed to Australia

The Greek Herald
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Metropolitan of Rethymno and Avlopotamos officially welcomed to Australia

His Eminence Metropolitan Prodromos of Rethymno and Avlopotamos has been officially welcomed to Australia, marking a significant spiritual event for the Greek Orthodox community.

The visit, which coincides with the 100th anniversary of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia (GOAA) and the 200th anniversary of the martyrdom of the Four New Martyrs of Rethymno on Crete, has been highlighted by the presentation of sacred relics and a series of ceremonial gatherings.

On Thursday, December 12, Metropolitan Prodromos visited the Greek Consulate in Sydney, where he was greeted by Consul General Ioannis Mallikourtis. Metropolitan Prodromos was joined by His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia and an entourage of other clergy.

Expressing his gratitude for the visit, Mallikourtis emphasised the importance of the occasion and extended heartfelt thanks for the honour of welcoming the delegation.

Official Doxology service in Sydney

Later on Thursday, a grand Doxology service was held at the Cathedral of the Annunciation of our Lady in Redfern, Sydney.

During the service, Archbishop Makarios welcomed Metropolitan Prodromos and assured him that “Australia is your second home.”

In response, Metropolitan Prodromos expressed gratitude for the warm reception, reflecting on his positive impressions from a previous visit to Australia in September 2023 during the Clergy-Laity Assembly of the GOAA.

Metropolitan of Rethymno and Avlopotamos officially welcomed to Australia
Sacred relics from the Four New Martyrs of Rethymno — Saints Manuel, Angelis, George, and Nicholas.

The service was then marked by the Metropolitan’s presentation of sacred relics from the Four New Martyrs of Rethymno — Saints Manuel, Angelis, George, and Nicholas. Metropolitan Prodromos requested the relics be enshrined in the Cathedral, “to bless your sacred mission, the clergy, and the Christ-loving faithful of your Church.”

As the visit continues, the Greek Orthodox community in Australia celebrates this spiritual milestone, inspired by the presence of the sacred relics and the strong ties with the Church of Crete.

Oakleigh Grammar celebrates VCE excellence of its Year 12 students

The Greek Herald
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Oakleigh Grammar celebrates VCE excellence of its Year 12 students

Oakleigh Grammar has announced the outstanding success of its Year 12 cohort in the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) exams for 2024, marking another year of academic excellence and student resilience. The remarkable achievements of this year’s graduates reflect their hard work, determination, and the steadfast support of the school community.

Leading the accolades is the 2024 School Dux, Sotiris Bakalis, who achieved a commendable ATAR of 94.15. Sotiris’ result is an extraordinary achievement given he was struck by an untimely hospitalisation and surgery for appendicitis only weeks prior to the examination period.   

Sotiris-with-his-mother-and-sister-
Sotiris with his mum and sister.
Dux-Sotiris-Bakalis
Dux Sotiris Bakalis.

Sotiris’ dedication to academic excellence was evident through his committed and continual preparation to study throughout the year with VCE Study Scores in the high 30s in Mathematical Methods and Physics, a testament to his commitment and passion for learning.

Sotiris now looks forward to entry into Astrophysics at Monash University, representing Oakleigh Grammar on a prestigious academic stage.

Sotiris-with-Principal-Mark-Robertson
Sotiris with Principal Mark Robertson.

The Dux Proximus for 2024 is Christian Dunn, securing an ATAR of 93.3 and excelling in Mathematical Methods and Physics, with Study Scores in the high 30s. Christian’s aspirations are to secure entry into Science at Melbourne or Monash University, highlighting a promising future that builds upon his impressive achievements.

Principal Mark Robertson commended the graduates, stating, “I am incredibly proud of the hard work and determination shown by our VCE students this year.”

“Their commitment to their studies, combined with the unwavering mentorship and support of our dedicated teachers, reflects the spirit of Oakleigh Grammar. Together, they have achieved personal growth and accomplishments that extend beyond results, preparing them for a bright future,” Mr Robertson said.

Sotiris-and-Christian-with-Principal-Mark-Robertso
Sotiris and Christian with Principal Mark Robertson.

Other standout performances include:

  • Arietta Apostolopoulos, who achieved an ATAR of 89.15 and aspires to study Commerce / Law at Deakin University.
  • Daniel Carmody, with an ATAR of 87, planning to pursue Science / Engineering, and has received a scholarship offer to study at the University of Melbourne.
Arietta-Sotiris-Christian-and-Daniel-
Arietta, Sotiris, Christian and Daniel.

Oakleigh Grammar expressed their pride in each graduate and wished them continued success in their future endeavours.

These achievements are a testament to the dedication of Oakleigh Grammar’s students and the support of the School’s passionate educators, who continue to cultivate an impressive environment of academic excellence that all can thrive within.

Kyrgios and Kokkinakis reunite as doubles partners at Australian Open

The Greek Herald
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Kyrgios and Kokkinakis reunite as doubles partners at Australian Open

Nick Kyrgios and Thanasi Kokkinakis will team up once again as doubles partners at the 2025 Australian Open, rekindling the fan-favourite ‘Special Ks’ duo.

Kyrgios returns to grand slam action after two injury-plagued years, entering the singles draw with a protected ranking of 21. He will kick off his season in Brisbane before heading to Melbourne Park.

Kokkinakis, who starts his season in Adelaide, is optimistic about Kyrgios’ form, noting his improved fitness and potential to be a “dangerous threat.”

Kokkinakis Hints at Potential Reunion with Kyrgios for 2025 Australian Open Doubles
Nick Kyrgios and Thanasi Kokkinakis at the ATP Finals in 2022. Photo: Getty Images.

The pair last played together at the 2022 Australian Open, where they thrilled crowds by winning the men’s doubles title. Reflecting on the experience, Kokkinakis said, “Everyone loved it last time — we loved it last time. It was so much fun.”

While their main focus remains on singles, the duo aims to delight fans once more with their on-court chemistry and playful energy.

“We feel that we owe it to people to get back out there and have some fun,” Kokkinakis said.

Kokkinakis, ranked No. 77, is targeting a top-50 breakthrough next season, confident his game is on par with the world’s best.

Source: nine.com.au

Greek and Australian officials discuss strengthening cooperation to combat wildfires

The Greek Herald
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Greek and Australian officials discuss strengthening cooperation to combat wildfires

Greece’s Minister for Climate Crisis and Civil Protection, Vasilis Kikilias, met with the Australian Ambassador to Greece, Alison Duncan, this week to discuss joint efforts in addressing the escalating climate crisis and preventing forest fires.

Central to the talks was the upcoming visit of senior executives from Greece’s Fire Service to New South Wales, Australia. The visit aims to facilitate the exchange of expertise and best practices in wildfire prevention and response.

“Together, we continue to face the challenges of our time,” Kikilias said on X after the meeting.

Ambassador Duncan echoed this sentiment, emphasising the importance of bilateral collaboration in addressing wildfires, which have increasingly threatened both Greece and Australia in recent years.

“Great to catch up with Minister for Climate Crisis and Civil Protection Kikilias to discuss Greek-Australian collaboration to combat wildfires,” Duncan said on X.

The cooperative effort comes at a critical moment as both countries face longer and more intense wildfire seasons due to climate change.

Greece’s devastating wildfires during the summer of 2023 highlighted the urgent need for more effective strategies and international partnerships to mitigate the impact of such disasters.

In early June 2004, Queensland company McDermott Aviation, along with Pays Air Services, sent 28 firefighting aircraft to Greece, along with a crew and support staff of more than 200 people.

This marked the fifth fire season where McDermott Aviation have sent helicopters to support Greece throughout the summer.

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