The European Union’s border protection agency, Frontex, announced on Tuesday, April 8, that it is investigating multiple allegations of human rights violations by Greece in its handling of illegal immigration.
The agency is reviewing 12 serious incidents, mostly from 2024, but did not provide further details.
Frontex spokesperson Chris Borowski stated that the agency recently strengthened its complaint mechanism. There has been no immediate response from the Greek government.
Greece has faced growing international criticism, particularly after a 2023 migrant boat tragedy off its southern coast that claimed hundreds of lives.
A Frontex vessel takes part in a search and rescue operation, after the capsizing of a boat carrying migrants, off the coast on the northeastern Aegean Sea island of Lesbos, Greece, Thursday, April 3. Photo: AP Photo / Panagiotis Balaskas.
In January, the European Court of Human Rights ruled that Greece’s use of summary expulsions, known as “pushbacks,” was systematic.
The Greek government denies these accusations, arguing that its coast guard has rescued over 250,000 migrants in distress at sea and that its actions comply with both national and international law.
Greece maintains that it focuses on deterring illegal crossings to its eastern islands, a primary entry point into the EU, but does not carry out summary deportations.
Frontex, which typically refrains from criticising host countries, emphasised its commitment to addressing the alleged violations in cooperation with Greece.
Borowski affirmed, “Every Frontex officer deployed is trained and obligated to report potential violations… We believe change comes from partnership, not passivity.”
Stefanos Tsitsipas bounced back from a set down to defeat Australia’s Jordan Thompson 4-6, 6-4, 6-2 on Tuesday, April 8, advancing to the third round of the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters.
The three-time champion showed resilience after Thompson fought back from a break down in the second set to level at 4-5.
Tsitsipas responded by winning seven of the final nine games to improve his record to 4-1 in their ATP Head2Head series.
“I really didn’t know what to expect, you don’t know what your opponent is capable of,” Tsitsipas said after the match.
“He showed a good first set, he seemed to be playing quite reserved and wasn’t giving me much to work with. I was just trying to find something to reignite that consistency within my game.”
Thompson, ranked No. 38, served well in the opening set, dropping just four points on serve. However, Tsitsipas’ change to a more aggressive return position in the second set proved crucial, with the Greek No. 1 moving inside the baseline to apply pressure on Thompson’s service games.
“I tried to work around my serve… Once that felt more consistent, I tried to focus on my return. Trying to return from far back didn’t seem to work much, so I had to rely on closer returns, and it seemed to work well,” Tsitsipas explained.
Thompson ultimately faltered, missing a key smash in the third set, which allowed Tsitsipas to gain a decisive break lead.
Tsitsipas, who has won three of the last four editions of the Monte-Carlo Masters, will next face Nuno Borges or Pedro Martinez in the third round.
Tsitsipas, now with a 21-3 record in Monte-Carlo, is aiming for a fourth title, which would make him the second-most successful player in the event’s history, behind only Rafael Nadal.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and his election rival Peter Dutton clashed in their first debate ahead of the May 3 federal election.
The debate, hosted by Sky News and The Daily Telegraph, focused heavily on cost of living issues and US President Donald Trump’s tariffs.
Polls suggest a tight race between Albanese’s Labor Party and Dutton’s Liberal Party, with the potential need for either side to form a coalition with independent MPs or minor parties.
Sky News declared Albanese the winner of the debate, based on a vote by 100 undecided voters who also asked the questions during the event.
Inflation is down. Wages are up. Interest rates have started to fall.
During the debate, the issue of rising living costs was front and centre, with many in the audience raising their hands when asked if they were struggling financially.
Dutton described the response as “a very confronting scene,” while Albanese highlighted his efforts to lower inflation, raise wages, and reduce interest rates.
The leaders also discussed topics like a potential cut in fuel excise taxes and the increasing costs of general practitioner visits.
Peter Dutton tried to abolish bulk billing in Australia when he was Health Minister. pic.twitter.com/8MBaJWPmYg
The first question of the night focused on Trump’s tariffs, with Albanese asserting that Australia was well-prepared, emphasising his negotiations with the US.
“We’ll continue to negotiate, of course, with the United States looking for a better deal for Australia,” he said, stressing that Australia does not impose tariffs on US goods.
Dutton, referencing his previous experience with the Trump administration, argued that Australia needs a leader who can stand up to “bullies” and ensure the country’s safety.
The completion of the Greek Community of Melbourne’s (GCM) long-awaited multi-function community theatre space at St Dimitrios in Windsor is now supported through a pre-election commitment by Federal Labor to bring the project to life.
The announcement was made at the historic High Street location by Assistant Minister for Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs and Member for Bruce, the Hon. Julian Hill; Member for Macnamara, Josh Burns; and Labor’s Candidate for Melbourne, Sarah Whitty.
They were welcomed and hosted by GCM President Bill Papastergiadis OAM, Vice President Anthie Sidiropoulos, Board Member Helene Hiotis, and local members of the Greek Community.
The commitment will support the next stage of works at St Dimitrios Hall, aiming to transform the currently incomplete hall next to the much-loved church into a modern, multi-functional community space.
The redeveloped venue will be capable of hosting events, meetings, performances, workshops, and other community-focused activities that will serve Melbourne’s southeast.
This next stage follows the ongoing refurbishment currently underway as part of the Federal Government’s infrastructure investment across the GCM’s four suburban community halls located in Yarraville, Brunswick, Thornbury, and Windsor.
Announcing the commitment, Minister Hill said: “I am delighted to announce that a re-elected Albanese Labor Government will support the redevelopment of St Dimitrios Hall — retaining its beauty and traditions while also making it fit for purpose in a growing and diverse community.”
“The Greek community in Windsor and its surrounding suburbs is part of the fabric of Melbourne, and community hubs like these are vital places for preserving and sharing linguistic and cultural heritage,” Mr Hill said.
Member for Macnamara, Josh Burns, added: “What makes our local community so special is our diversity. The Greek community has called Macnamara home for decades, and they’ve generously welcomed us all to share in their incredible culture.”
Labor Candidate for Melbourne, Sarah Whitty, also commented: “I’m so pleased to see this investment coming to life with the completion of Stage 2. The hall redevelopment means so
much to the Greek community in Melbourne. It’s essential to have well-designed, safe spaces where communities can come together.”
GCM President Mr Papastergiadis welcomed Labor’s renewed support, saying: “This announcement has significant and far-reaching implications for the GCM’s ability to develop cultural offerings. It cements the GCM’s role as a leading provider in this dynamic and evolving space.”
“The funding will also allow us to expand collaborations with other community groups, promoting a holistic approach to engagement — not just among Greek organisations, but with Melbourne’s wider multicultural community,” Mr Papastergiadis said.
“At the same time, this is a long-term investment in the infrastructure of the GCM. It gives us the ability to create accessible, modern facilities that will serve the community for decades. This is a much-needed venue for Melbourne’s southeast and will support our cultural, educational, and community outreach programs.”
GCM Vice President and Cultural Committee member Anthie Sidiropoulos added: “We’ve seen firsthand how these halls become spaces where community members feel safe and welcome. They’re powerful platforms for delivering our cultural and community programs.”
GCM Board Member Helene Hiotis also commented: “Creating spaces that support our programs — including early learning education, cultural expression, and performance — is a vital part of our vision for the Community’s educational and cultural development.”
After a successful debut of their university ball in 2024, Melbourne University Greek Association (MUnGA) continued the event with the 2025 ‘Encore’ ball.
Held on Friday, 4 April, hundreds of university students entered the beautiful Aerial event space in South Wharf for an evening filled with Greek dancing, cocktails, laughter, and a fun photo booth. The space was elegantly decorated with floral centrepieces, sparkling fairy lights, and a view of Melbourne’s skyline.
It’s rare to find an event where you’re greeted with nothing but beaming faces everywhere you turn, but this year’s MUnGA Ball was just that. All attendees I saw on the night were buzzing with excitement as the night flew by.
For Angeliki Katahiotis, this year’s “amazing” MUnGA Ball was her first university ball, and she raved that “the atmosphere was electric.”
“It was so lovely seeing our Greek culture and customs being maintained through traditional Greek dances and music,” she said.
The evening included a mix of Greek and English music, with an obvious emphasis on traditional Greek music which was accompanied by the ever-talented bouzouki player Antonis Pistikakis.
In addition to the music and dancing, the MUnGA committee impressed their attendees with an array of raffle prizes. The prizes highlighted their connection with many Greek Australian businesses.
Countless Greek restaurants in Melbourne had vouchers up for grabs, including the newly opened Taverna in Brunswick East, The Greek Providore, Bahari, and The Golden Fleece Hotel. Other prizes came from The Hellenic Museum and Greek brands like Voir Vodka and Thematikos. The most impressive prize of the evening was an art print by Thalassea valued at over $1,000.
2024/2025 MUnGA President Jamie Gallos reflected on the evening: “We had an opportunity to make a sequel to our now established event that will hopefully be ongoing in the MUnGA calendar.”
Jamie emphasised how the sold out nature of the ball and the presence of Greek youth “shows there’s an avenue for continual growth in our university spheres… separate to NUGAS and the Greek clubbing scene.”
MUnGA’s Vice President Kanella Pirpiris added that “the energy of the guests… [and] the flow of the night” made the ball “memorable and enjoyable.”
Kanella also referenced the four major sponsorships the club received from Moray & Agnew, LV Furniture, Accountancy Group, and Active Orthoapaedic Clinic.
“We are deeply grateful to all our sponsors for their generous donations and to our committee for their hard work in putting together a magical event,” she said.
MUnGA Ball attendee Xen Papas attended MUnGA’s event last year and spoke highly of this year’s ball. He said the MUnGA Ball is “without a doubt my favourite Greek night of the year! Can count on [it] to always be full of the best music, dancing and parea.”
Towards the end of the evening, I overheard another guest remark that the ball was the “pinnacle of Greek events.” The classy nature of the MUnGA Ball has most definitely set the standard for the remaining 2025 university balls.
The highly anticipated fifth season of The Chosen, the international hit series depicting the life of Jesus Christ, premiered in Sydney last month to an enthusiastic crowd, including fans, faith leaders, and special guests. Among them was Greek Australian actor George Xanthis, who plays the Apostle John in the series.
Held at HOYTS Entertainment Quarter, Moore Park, the red-carpet event marked the only Australian premiere for The Chosen: Last Supper, which opens in cinemas across Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific Islands on 10 April.
The highly anticipated fifth season of The Chosen, the international hit series depicting the life of Jesus Christ, premiered in Sydney last month. All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Panayioti Zoupantis.
For Xanthis, returning to Australia for the premiere was especially meaningful.
“I actually feel a really strong connection to John because of my Greek heritage,” he told The Greek Herald in an interview on the day.
“John wrote his book in Greek… so there’s are so many synergies with the character.
“But it’s also very special to be able to watch the show I associate with my life overseas and to come back home and have this amazing welcome from all these amazing fans, in a theatre that I used to frequent when I was a kid. It’s a dream come true.”
George Xanthis mingled with guests at the premiere.
Season 5 of The Chosen focuses on Holy Week, the most profound and emotional period in the Christian calendar, leading up to Christ’s crucifixion. Xanthis said the show’s portrayal of Holy Week brings both joy and sorrow to life.
“It’s not just about the sad times, like the Last Supper, but also the triumphant entry. The joy that they all felt… reminds us that they thought their Messiah was going to come as a warrior,” Xanthis said.
“I just love how our show depicts every single high and low of Holy Week. It’s very educational for people who may not have known how Holy Week unfolded.”
Season 5 of ‘The Chosen‘ focuses on Holy Week.
The series, which began as a crowd-funded project, has since grown into a global phenomenon, with nearly 900 million episode views and over 17 million social media followers. This season’s key art was revealed in NY’s Times Square, photographed by renowned artist Annie Leibovitz, and the trailer quickly topped YouTube’s trending charts.
One attendee at the premiere, Christina Rochios, reflected on how powerfully the series resonates with modern audiences.
“Not only have we found The Chosen to be a really enjoyable show to watch, it’s also been really educational for us, helping us understand the context of the New Testament and connect with the early Church Saints on a personal level,” Christina said.
Attendees really enjoyed the premiere.
After viewing the premiere episodes, Christina added: “The content, the character development, the story line—everything was really well thought out and executed! With Holy Week and Pascha only a few weeks away… the release of Season 5 couldn’t have been timed better.”
As Easter approaches, The Chosen: Last Supper offers a moving and accessible way for audiences to reflect on the final days of Jesus’ life, told through intimate storytelling, historical depth, and heartfelt performances.
*All photos from the Sydney premiere copyright The Greek Herald / Panayioti Zoupantis
In recent weeks, both parties have issued detailed correspondence to stakeholders. The CCL Board wrote to shareholders on 21 March 2025, alleging that the administrators had underpaid their entitlements and that delays in resolving the dispute were preventing shareholder returns, including an expected “uplift” on their investment.
In response, EY issued a public update to CCNSW members on 7 April 2025, rebutting several claims and providing a breakdown of the disputed amount.
CCL’s Position: Uplift payments withheld
Cyprus Capital board member Dorothy Costa talking to Morgan Kelly from EY at a members meeting. Photo copyright The Greek Herald.
In its letter to shareholders, CCL claimed it had repaid investors their original capital plus 3% interest but could not yet distribute the anticipated uplift because EY had not transferred the full loan repayment amount. CCL asserted that EY used outdated figures from November 2024 and ignored updated payout calculations provided in February 2025, just prior to the court-approved refinancing.
CCL also said it had provided the administrators with evidence of additional enforcement costs, receiver fees, and updated interest calculations. However, according to the letter, EY refused to break down the withheld $1.091 million and instead paid the amount into court, pending resolution.
The board criticised EY’s legal approach, suggesting that the matter could have been narrowed through negotiation and that court action was costly and unnecessary. It noted that nearly $500,000 of the withheld amount related to receiver and manager fees, which CCL disputed had ever been agreed or approved.
EY Responds: Disputed amount clearly defined
Morgan Kelly from EY at a members meeting. Photo copyright The Greek Herald.
In its 7 April update, EY firmly rejected the claim that it had failed to explain the withheld amount. The administrators said they had made 13 separate attempts since November 2024 to obtain a clear payout figure from CCL, including legal enforcement costs, and only received the necessary information under court order in February 2025.
EY stated that the amount paid to CCL on 28 February 2025—$5,846,603—included the full principal plus the agreed 30% interest uplift for the major loan component, as well as 10% on a smaller related facility. These figures, they said, came directly from CCL’s own legal representatives.
EY detailed the $1.092 million currently in dispute and held in court as follows:
$492,742: Claimed Receivers and Managers’ fees (disputed) — referring to Neil Cussen and Michael Billingsley
$383,833: Enforcement costs and legal fees claimed by CCL
$215,748: Discrepancy between November and February payout figures
The administrators maintain that these amounts require court oversight due to inconsistencies and late-stage changes in CCL’s claims, and to ensure transparency and protection of CCNSW’s interests.
Looking ahead
The back-and-forth has added complexity to an already fraught administration process. While CCL had requested a response from EY by 28 March to avoid further delays, EY’s public response did not suggest any change in its legal course.
As it stands, the withheld funds remain with the Supreme Court of NSW. The final outcome may not be determined until further proceedings clarify the legitimacy of each disputed component.
For members and stakeholders, this latest dispute underscores the lingering tension between the previous lenders and current administrators. With an expected exit from administration now delayed until mid-year, the Cyprus Community of NSW must await the resolution of these financial disagreements before turning the page.
Immerse yourself in the enchanting melodies of Greece’s cinematic golden era with “Τα Κινηματογραφικά: Songstresses of the Golden Age of Greek Cinema,” a captivating concert experience.
This extraordinary event will transport audiences back in time, celebrating the timeless songs that graced the silver screen and captured the hearts of generations.
Under the baton of the esteemed conductor, George Ellis, and featuring the mesmerising vocals of Dioni Vertzayas, this concert promises an unforgettable musical journey. Experience the magic of iconic film songs brought to life with passion and artistry, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Greek cinema.
The performance will take place in the prestigious Verbrugghen Hall at the Conservatorium of Music, renowned for its exceptional acoustics and architectural elegance. This premier venue, located at 1 Conservatorium Rd, Sydney NSW 2000, provides the perfect setting for an evening of musical brilliance.
Event Details:
WHAT: Τα Κινηματογραφικά: Songstresses of the Golden Age of Greek Cinema
WHEN: 11 May 2025 | 6:30 PM
WHERE: Verbrugghen Hall, Conservatorium of Music, 1 Conservatorium Rd, Sydney NSW 2000
PERFORMERS: George Ellis (Conductor), Dioni Vertzayas (Vocalist)
“We are thrilled to present this unique concert, celebrating the unforgettable music of Greek cinema,” Harry Danalis, President of the Greek Orthodox Community of NSW (GOCNSW), said.
“George Ellis and Dioni Vertzayas will deliver a truly magical performance, bringing these beloved songs to life in the stunning Verbrugghen Hall.”
Nia Karteris, Festival Chair, Vice President & Secretary at GOCNSW, said, “We cannot wait to be transported back in time and experience the magic of nostalgic Greek Cinema Golden era music delivered by such a powerful and acclaimed performing duo.”
Conductor George Ellis said, “The beauty of the music of Greek films from the mid-twentieth century – the Golden Age – is unparalleled. This concert celebrates the songs of composers such as the late great Manos Hadjidakis – music that was made famous by the star female performers of the time, including Melina Mercouri and Aliki Vouyouklaki.”
Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the nostalgia and beauty of the golden age of Greek cinema through its timeless melodies.
Ahead of Holy Week, young volunteers from the Greek Orthodox Parish and Community of Kogarah brought hope and compassion to Sydney’s streets, joining forces with the St. Elesa Food Initiative to distribute warm meals and Easter treats to those experiencing homelessness.
The outreach, held on Wednesday, April 7, saw the Kogarah Orthodox Youth (KOY) visit Woolloomooloo and Martin Place, where they handed out lovingly prepared food and chocolate Easter eggs to vulnerable members of the community.
In a heartwarming addition to the evening, NRL player Peter Mamouzelos from the South Sydney Rabbitohs joined the effort, offering not only support but genuine conversations with those doing it tough.
A spirit of giving was evident throughout the night, as youth volunteers engaged in moving discussions with Sydney locals. One conversation brought attention to the growing need for action, referencing City of Sydney data showing a 25% increase in homelessness over the past year.
The St. Elesa Food Initiative, a vital ministry of the parish, currently prepares over 500 home-cooked meals each week, delivering them to shelters and directly to people living on the streets. It’s a mission grounded in faith, dignity, and service, particularly meaningful during the Easter season—a time of renewal, compassion, and hope.
As the youth continue their Lenten journey, their message is clear: no one is forgotten, and small acts of kindness can carry great weight.
Round 3 of the Basketball NSW Mens Waratah League saw the St George Saints White hit the road for their first away game of the season as the faced off against the Central Coast Waves.
The Saints came into the game with a lot of momentum on the back of a first wins of the season after last weekend’s frantic home doubleheader.
The youthful Saints were looking to utilise their quickness and strong outside shooting that they demonstrated last week, against a vastly more experienced Central Coast side.
A slow start to the first half saw the Saints fight their way back to reduce the deficit to just ten points at half time, but they knew it would take a lot of grit and tenacity to be able to come away with the win.
The Waves piled on the points in the second half, going on a huge run to end the 3rd quarter up by 30 points.
The Saints continued to fight and grind despite the insurmountable deficit, keeping the 4th quarter very tight, however the Waves’ experience was too much for the youthful Saints to overcome, going down 125-90.
Saints head coach George Aliferis admitted post-game that the Saints’ carelessness on both sides of the ball was a major factor in the heavy loss.
“I was very disappointed with the result,” he said.
“The 20 turnovers didn’t help, and the foul count (26-14) certainly went against us, which didn’t allow us to get into any rhythm.”
Star players Jayden Tanevski and Yianni Trikillis shone yet again for the Saints with Tanevski notching up his third straight 30+ point game (averaging 33.6 ppg over the last three games) finishing with 30 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assists.
Trikillis finished with 21 points (averaging 25 ppg to start the regular season), 3 rebounds and 5 assists.
The Saints battle to stay in the top 4 when they return home to face the Sutherland Sharks on Saturday 12 April at 6pm live from Hurstville Aquatic & Leisure Centre.
St George Saints Senior Reps results – 5 April 2025
Youth League Mens
St George Saints Red 113 – 97 Dubbo Rams
Marrickville Spirit 96 – 82 St George Saints White
Waratah League Mens
Central Coast Waves 125 – 90 St George Saints White
St George Saints Senior Reps results – 6 April 2025
Youth League Mens
St George Saints Red 92 – 95 Sydney Comets
Youth League Womens
St George Saints 58 – 73 Hornsby Ku-Ring-Gai Spiders
