The Melbourne Greek Ensemble recently released their highly anticipated album to a sold-out crowd at Brunswick Ballroom on Sunday, March 9.
Titled ‘Journey to Rebetika,’ the album is a collection of classic Rebetiko songs that highlight the ensemble’s repertoire, encompassing both Smyrneika and Rebetiko.
Formed in January 2024, Estudiantina of Melbourne — meaning “students of Melbourne” — is more than just a musical ensemble; it is a passionate advocate for traditional Greek music, especially Smyrneika, which is deeply rooted in the cultural fabric of Greece.
With a profound appreciation for the diverse influences that shape Smyrneika, including Greek, Turkish, Jewish, and Armenian traditions, the ensemble creates a mesmerising fusion that breathes new life into this ancient genre. Their music, enhanced by instruments such as the oud, bouzouki, violin, kanun, and guitar, resonates with an authenticity that captivates audiences.
Beyond Smyrneika, the ensemble also explores the world of Rebetiko, another powerful form of Greek folk music. Born from the struggles and triumphs of Greece’s urban working class, Rebetiko’s soul-stirring melodies and evocative lyrics reflect themes of adversity, displacement, and resilience.
Through the harmonious interplay of instruments like the bouzouki, baglama, and accordion, Estudiantina of Melbourne creates a soundscape that honours the rich cultural heritage of Greece.
Their debut album aims to capture the journey the ensemble has taken so far.
The band is currently touring this album scheduled to play shows in regional Victoria, Sydney Greek Festival and also Dark Mofo Tasmania.
The University of Sydney’s MacLaurin Hall was filled with applause on Sunday, March 9, as the Dionysios Solomos Awards 2025 honoured New South Wales’ top students in Modern and Classical Greek for the 2024 Higher School Certificate (HSC).
The prestigious ceremony—supported by the NSW Education Standards Authority and organised by the Greek Orthodox Community of NSW (GOCNSW)—formed a highlight of the 43rd Greek Festival of Sydney, celebrating excellence in Greek language education and the preservation of Hellenic heritage.
The Dionysios Solomos Awards, named after the Greek national poet who wrote Hymn to Freedom, recognise the top-ranking HSC students in Greek language studies each year, rewarding their dedication and encouraging them to continue their academic and cultural journey with Greek.
The Dionysios Solomos Awards 2025 honoured New South Wales’ top students in Modern and Classical Greek for the 2024 Higher School Certificate (HSC).
The ceremony was attended by distinguished guests and officials from the Greek Australian community and beyond, including Harry Danalis, President of GOCNSW; Ioannis Mallikourtis, Consul General of Greece in Sydney; The Hon. Mark Buttigieg, MLC, Parliamentary Secretary for Multiculturalism; Anastasia Christofilopoulou, First Secretary for Public Diplomacy, Consulate General of Greece in Sydney; Professor Vrasidas Karalis, Sir Nicholas Laurantus Chair in Modern Greek and Byzantine Studies, University of Sydney; Elfa Lillis, Head of School, All Saints Grammar; Penny Pachos, Principal of St Euphemia College; Sana Zreika, Principal, Secondary College of Languages, Kogarah; and George Vithoulkas, President of the Zakynthian Association of Sydney & NSW.
The evening commenced with Master of Ceremonies Maria Kakali, a past recipient of the Dionysios Solomos Award, Minister’s Award, and HSC Modern Greek high achiever, who welcomed the audience and encouraged students to continue their Greek studies beyond high school.
“Without you, the future of our language and culture in institutions like this [the University of Sydney] could be at risk,” she said, setting an inspiring tone for the evening.
A series of insightful speeches followed, focusing on the importance of Greek language education, cultural preservation, and policy changes to support bilingualism in Australia.
Mr Danalis highlighted the ongoing struggle to maintain the Greek language in Australia, emphasising that it requires community-wide dedication.
Harry Danalis, President of GOCNSW.
“Successive Australian governments have not paid as much attention to the teaching of languages, and we must continue the struggle to preserve our heritage,” he said.
Mr Danalis praised teachers, parents, and students for their collective efforts in keeping Greek studies alive and called for greater institutional support for language education.
The Consul General Mr Mallikourtis spoke about the Greek language as a foundation of identity and a link between generations.
Consul General of Greece in Sydney, Ioannis Mallikourtis.
“Language is more than a tool of communication; it is the foundation of identity and a symbol of our heritage,” he stated.
He also acknowledged institutional challenges that make language retention difficult, such as HSC subject scaling and the need for greater family engagement in language learning at home.
Representing the NSW Government, Mr Buttigieg delivered a special recognition, announcing that the Dionysios Solomos Awards had been officially acknowledged in NSW Parliament.
The Hon. Mark Buttigieg, MLC, Parliamentary Secretary for Multiculturalism.
“Fostering mother tongues like Greek is crucial, as each language provides a unique perspective on humanity,” he said.
Mr Buttigieg explained that he had moved a motion in the NSW Legislative Council to formally recognise the significance of the Dionysios Solomos Awards and the contributions of Greek language education in New South Wales. The motion acknowledged the achievements of HSC Greek language students, the role of the Greek Orthodox Community of NSW in promoting Greek studies, and the broader cultural importance of language preservation in a multicultural society.
To mark the occasion, Mr Buttigieg presented a framed copy of the motion to Mr Danalis, reinforcing the government’s appreciation for the efforts of students, educators, and community leaders in sustaining the Greek language in Australia.
Professor Karalis delivered a passionate speech, advocating for policy changes to support bilingual and trilingual Australians.
“Australia must recognise that multiculturalism means multilingualism. We must encourage all citizens to be bilingual or trilingual,” he urged.
Professor Karalis called for government reforms to ensure that heritage languages like Greek receive more support in schools and universities, arguing that multilingualism strengthens Australia’s social and intellectual fabric.
Professor Vrasidas Karalis.
The evening’s highlight was the presentation of awards to the top 10 HSC students in Modern and Classical Greek, as well as the Minister’s Awards for Excellence and Greek Orthodox Community of NSW Greek Afternoon Schools’ Outstanding Achievement Awards.
Following the awards, Vasileios Manis, the 1st place recipient in HSC Modern Greek Extension, delivered a vote of thanks on behalf of all the awardees, expressing gratitude to teachers, parents, and the community for their support in their language studies.
Vasileios Manis.
Award winners
HSC Modern Greek – Beginners
1st – Ellie Marmara (NSW School of Languages) 2nd – Ioanna Kalergis (NSW School of Languages) 3rd – Ferenique Bris (NSW School of Languages) 4th – Anna Tzotsika (Endeavour Sports High School) 6th – Stylianos George Vasill (Newington College) 7th – Ta Xanthis (NSW School of Languages) 8th – John Kontellis (Endeavour Sports High School) 9th – Gabrielle Papas (NSW School of Languages) 10th – Maria Soldatos (NSW School of Languages), Eirini Vlachaki (Endeavour Sports High School)
HSC Modern Greek – Continuers
1st – Mary Glekas (St Euphemia College) 2nd – Alexandros Vidiniotis (St Euphemia College) 3rd – Eleni Koinaris (Secondary College of Languages, Kogarah) 4th – Evangelia Zotos (Secondary College of Languages, Kogarah) 5th – Mikayla Epsimaris (St Euphemia College) 6th – Evangelia Miyakis (NSW School of Languages) 7th – Stefania Gounara (Secondary College of Languages, Kogarah) 8th – Vasiliki Delimarkou (Secondary College of Languages, Kogarah) 9th – George Gianna (NSW School of Languages) 10th – Athanasios Karras (NSW School of Languages)
HSC Modern Greek – Extension
1st – Vasileios Manis (All Saints Grammar) 2nd – Mary Glekas (St Euphemia College) 3rd – Alexandros Vidiniotis (St Euphemia College) 4th – Leah Katsaros (All Saints Grammar) 5th – Mikayla Epsimaris (St Euphemia College) 6th – Eleni Koinaris (Secondary College of Languages, Kogarah) 7th – Nikolaos Dallas (Secondary College of Languages, Ashfield Boys Campus) 8th – Stefania Gounara (Secondary College of Languages, Kogarah) 9th – Evangelia Zotos (Secondary College of Languages, Kogarah) 10th – Spyridoula Karagiorgou (St Spyridon College)
The Dionysios Solomos Awards 2025 once again proved to be a vital celebration of Greek language education in Australia, reinforcing the importance of keeping the Greek language alive for future generations.
Hundreds of people gathered at Mytilenian House in Canterbury, Sydney, for a spectacular Mytilenian Glendi on Sunday, March 9, with many travelling from Melbourne to take part.
Hosted as a successful joint effort between the Mytilenian Brotherhood of New South Wales and Palesviaki Enosis of Melbourne & Victoria, the event was a vibrant celebration of Lesvian culture, heritage, and community spirit.
The energy in the room was electric from start to finish. With a live band setting the rhythm, guests danced throughout the day, fully immersing themselves in the festive atmosphere.
The energy in the room was electric from start to finish. All photos copyright The Greek Herald.
A highlight of the event was a dance presentation by the Mytilenian Brotherhood of NSW, which captivated attendees and brought an extra burst of enthusiasm to the gathering. Delicious food was served, adding to the warm and welcoming environment.
Adding to the significance of the event, the committees of both co-host organisations were in attendance, showing their strong support for this historic gathering.
A memorable and emotional day
Reflecting on the event, President of the Mytilenian Brotherhood of NSW, Peter Psomas, described it as “one of the most memorable and emotional days” of his presidency.
“Melbourne meeting Sydney and feeling the warmth of emotion, watching relatives hugging each other was a priceless moment. You could hear people saying, ‘He was my friend growing up in the village,’ and ‘This is my cousin’,” Mr Psomas said.
His words perfectly captured the deep emotional connections rekindled at the Glendi, as families and friends reunited in a way that only a celebration of shared culture and history could provide.
The event was a vibrant celebration of Lesvian culture, heritage, and community spirit.
Honouring heritage and strengthening bonds
During the formal proceedings, Mr Psomas took the stage to congratulate the Melbourne association on the recent sale of their property and their exciting journey towards acquiring a new one. He emphasised that this milestone represents a significant step forward for the Palesviaki Enosis of Melbourne & Victoria, ensuring a stronger foundation for the future of the Lesvian community in Melbourne.
In return, President of the Palesviaki Enosis of Melbourne & Victoria, John Karanikolas, addressed the attendees, reinforcing the importance of unity and collaboration between the two organisations.
As a symbolic gesture of their bond, the Melbourne association presented a plaque to the NSW Brotherhood, while the latter gifted an ornament honouring Lesvian heritage – a meaningful exchange reflecting their ongoing commitment to cultural preservation and cooperation.
There was a meaningful exchange reflecting an ongoing commitment to cultural preservation and cooperation.
A special guest in attendance was NSW Minister for Workplace Relations, Sophie Cotsis, a proud Lesvian herself, who was joined by her family in celebrating this historic and heartwarming event.
This joint event was a resounding success, reinforcing the strong ties between the Lesvian communities of Sydney and Melbourne.
Sophie Cotsis MP (right) attended the event with her family.
Both presidents confirmed their commitment to continuing this relationship and fostering more opportunities for collaboration in the future.
With a packed venue, endless dancing, heartfelt speeches, and priceless moments of reunion, the Mytilenian Glendi was truly a testament to the strength and vibrancy of the Greek community in Australia.
On Sunday, March 9, Archbishop Makarios officiated at the 2nd Lenten Vespers of Holy and Great Lent at the venerable Patriarchal Church of Saint George, at the Phanar.
Later, the Archbishop also took part in the celebration of the Sunday of Orthodoxy at the Holy See of the First-Throne Church of Constantinople.
The Divine Liturgy for the Sunday of Orthodoxy was presided over by His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, concelebrated by His Beatitude Metropolitan Epiphaniy of Kyiv and All Ukraine.
The service featured a sermon by Archimandrite Isidoros Katsos, Assistant Professor of Theological Epistemology and Philosophy at the School of Theology of the University of Athens.
The ordination service.
A significant moment during the Divine Liturgy was the ordination of subdeacon Athanasios Karagiannidis to the rank of Deacon by the Patriarch. The new cleric, named Germanos, will serve in the Holy Metropolis of Ireland.
After the Dismissal, Patriarch Bartholomew, alongside Metropolitan Epiphaniy, celebrated the Trisagion for the repose of the souls of those who fought for the Orthodox faith.
Following the procession of the Holy Icons, the Patriarch and the Metropolitan blessed the faithful from the balcony of the Patriarchal House.
South Australia’s Chief Justice, Chris Kourakis, has declined to disclose the reasons for his recusal from the Operation Ironside case, stating that his decision “was not a judgment or order” and does not require release.
The decision was made in response to requests for the sealed reasons following his recusal in the case involving two alleged users of the AN0M app.
Kourakis explained that revealing his reasoning “at this point in time” could compromise the proper administration and enforcement of criminal law.
His refusal contrasts with previous rulings where he emphasised the principle of open justice and the public’s right to access court documents.
Photo: AFP.
The Advertiser had reportedly sought access to Kourakis’ reasons for recusal, arguing that the same principles from a previous case, in which he ruled to allow public access to documents, should apply.
However, Kourakis clarified that a recusal is a decision not to continue hearing a case, and as such, it does not constitute a judgment or order.
Kourakis further noted that his recusal was made to preserve procedural fairness, and, under Section 131 of the Supreme Court Act, permission is required to access his reasons.
He ultimately denied this request, citing concerns over the potential impact on the ongoing enforcement of criminal law.
The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has appealed the prison sentences given to two con artists who defrauded the owners of a motel out of nearly $3 million.
The DPP argues that the sentences for David Stakic and Apostolos Lapatis were “manifestly inadequate.”
Stakic, 72, and Lapatis, 54, swindled the owners of Fawkner Airport Motor Inn, Robin and Roslyn Nagorcka, of $2.9 million between December 2013 and January 2018, claiming the money was needed to fund a secret court case.
Stakic was sentenced in September 2024 to a minimum of 20 months and a maximum of two-and-a-half years for obtaining property by deception.
Fawkner Airport Motor Inn.
Lapatis received a minimum sentence of three years and two months, with a maximum of four years and nine months.
During an appeal hearing in the Court of Appeal on Monday, Stakic argued his sentence was fair, citing his age, early guilty plea, lack of prior convictions, and the delays in his case.
Lapatis also defended his sentence, stating that the judge had considered the significant delays in his case, his admissions to the police, and his positive rehabilitation prospects.
Both men requested the court dismiss the appeal, with judgment reserved.
The NRL Integrity Unit is investigating a complaint regarding an alleged confrontation between Sydney Roosters Chairman Nick Politis, Director Mark Bouris and referee Mitch James during the NRL Vegas Nines competition last month.
James, who officiated a match between the LA Roosters and Brisbane Veterans on February 28, claims that after the game, Bouris and Politis approached him on the sideline and criticised his officiating.
Bouris confirmed the incident, stating, “We were not in his face, I made sure we stayed our distance. We were not threatening, and we didn’t abuse him and didn’t swear. I do not believe I said to him he ‘reffed us out of the game’.”
Bouris also clarified that they filed a complaint about the refereeing standard during the tournament.
Sydney Roosters Board members.
James further alleged that after the confrontation, he was removed from officiating the Greece versus USA match later that day, despite being originally appointed.
He expressed his frustration, stating the removal reinforced the perception that influential individuals were exerting undue pressure on officials.
Bouris, however, denied having any involvement in the decision to remove James, suggesting the change in duties likely stemmed from the formal complaint filed against James.
James, who also raised concerns about ongoing abuse faced by referees, stated that his complaint aimed to address broader issues affecting the officiating community.
An NRL spokesperson confirmed the complaint has been received and is under investigation.
Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred made landfall on Bribie Island around 8pm local time on Saturday, March 8, and moved west onto the mainland by 9pm, according to the Bureau of Meteorology.
Over 350,000 properties in Queensland and New South Wales lost power as the storm hit eastern Australia.
Energex reported that power restoration in south-east Queensland, where about 321,600 homes were affected, could take more than a week. Around 31,000 properties in northern NSW were also impacted by outages.
As Cyclone Alfred swept through Queensland, the Cypriot Community Association of Queensland was also impacted by the storm.
Structured tent collapses outside the Cypriot Community building.
President of the Cypriot Community, Stathis Zampas, confirmed that the Community’s building had been hit. Photos showed the entire structured tent in front of the building had collapsed due to strong winds.
This isn’t the first time the Community building has been hit, with Mr Zampas telling Alpha News the building had also been impacted by the devastating floods of 2011 and 2022.
Today, heavy rainfall continues across south-east Queensland and northern NSW, with both regions on high alert for flooding.
Dozens of emergency warnings are in place in NSW, and thousands of people are under evacuation notices. In Queensland, only one emergency warning remains.
WA Liberal’s Basil Zempilas celebrated his Churchlands election victory on Saturday, March 8, with a lively party, embracing his Greek roots.
After a tense election night race with Labor MP Christine Tonkin, Zempilas secured 52% of the primary vote, leaving Tonkin with 28%.
In footage shared on his wife Amy’s Instagram, Zempilas thanked his supporters and apologised for the late hour.
“Thank you everybody but firstly I apologise because it’s such a late night because it’s taken so long to get here with hopefully the news that you’ve all been waiting to hear,” he said.
The celebration featured traditional Greek dancing, including Zorba’s Dance, as Zempilas and his supporters marked his victory.
“A bit of Greek dancing to celebrate the win last night,” Amy posted on Instagram.
THANK YOU Churchlands 💙
What an honour to be elected to represent the people of my home electorate.
Despite the tight race, Zempilas remained confident, noting, “I knew it was going to be close, I knew it was going to be tight.”
He also reflected on the challenges, saying, “If a $1 million smear campaign has no effect, then what’s the point. I’ve withstood that and I’ve won the seat of Churchlands.”
WA Labor celebrated another strong victory, with Premier Roger Cook securing a clear mandate. Cook dismissed claims of a smear campaign, instead focusing on Labor’s continued dominance.
“This is an emphatic victory for WA Labor and it’s a vindication of the strong government that we have provided for the people of Western Australia,” Cook said.
Could a leadership spill be on the cards for WA Liberals?
Photo: ABC News / Andrew O’Connor.
While some see Zempilas as a potential future leader, he dismissed speculation about leadership changes within the Liberal Party.
“This is not a time for anything rash. We should wait and see what this full picture of this result is,” he said.
“Today’s not the day for any decisions about anybody’s future.”
Current Liberal Leader Libby Mettam acknowledged the party’s poor performance and said the decision on leadership would be left to her colleagues.
She emphasised the need for continuity ahead of the 2029 election, stating, “Whoever the leader is going into the 2029 election they need four years to work as a leader.”
The vibrant spirit of the Cypriot community, recently showcased at the bustling Halloumi Festival, is now fuelling a transformative development project in Brunswick East.
The Cypriot Community of Melbourne and Victoria (CCMV) is forging ahead with plans for a six-storey “Greek village” at 495 Lygon Street, a project destined to become a cultural and community cornerstone.
CCMV President Theo Theophanous’ vision is ambitious: a 600-square-metre function room, a traditional kafenio, retail spaces, community offices, a potential after-hours school, a consular office, a rooftop garden, and 50 apartments, all anchored by underground parking. However, the path to realisation has presented its share of challenges.
An artist’s impression of the original 10-storey development that is no longer going ahead.
Merri-bek City Council confirmed planning is underway.
“Conditions of the planning permit require the submission of revised plans and other expert reports to be approved by Council before the development can proceed,” a Council spokesperson told The Greek Herald.
Theophanous confirmed to The Greek Herald that these documents have been submitted, and the project is now navigating the amendment process.
“We have sent through required documentation, but there has been a to-and-fro process and some obstacles,” he explained.
“We resolved the noise issue, and after submitting documents, we need a few more amendments. Getting the plan endorsed is only part of the issue. We have to make a few adjustments to the endorsed VCAT plan, not in terms of height, but in terms of the car park.”
CCMV President Theo Theophanous at this year’s Halloumi Festival.
Specifically, soil tests revealed a high water table, necessitating adjustments to the car park’s design.
“Soil tests showed that the water table is at a certain level that allows us two levels [of underground parking],” Theophanous said, highlighting the need for detailed revisions. “I estimate that the amendment would just take a couple of months.”
“My objective is to knock down the building before the end of the year,” he affirmed.
The old Cyprus Community of Victoria building.
He also stressed the importance of securing pre-sales for 15-16 apartments to trigger the developer’s contractual obligations.
“We are providing leads of people who may be interested in buying, especially those who would be attracted to living in a Greek, Cypriot building,” he said, adding that several CCMV board members are also considering buying apartments.
“It is exciting because it is close to the tram line, central, surrounded by restaurants.”
The CCMV redevelopment project’s potential for community enrichment is undeniable. The new building will serve as a vital hub for cultural events, gatherings, and essential community services and is a significant investment in the Cypriot community’s future and the broader Merri-bek area.
The CCMV redevelopment project’s potential for community enrichment is undeniable. Pictured: VIP guests at this year’s Halloumi Festival.
Theophanous hopes the popular Halloumi Festival will gain even more momentum with the new building, jump-starting a mini-Antipodes Festival. Successful even without government funding, Theophanous hopes that the government will see its value sooner or later.
“Merri-bek City Council welcomes applications from community groups to reserve venues and public spaces available for special events,” a Council spokesperson said.
Theophanous is already looking at next year’s Halloumi Festival venue and is open to all suggestions.
