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APL takes interim control of Mariners as ownership sale proceeds amid Hanlin bid

The Greek Herald
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APL takes interim control of Mariners as ownership sale proceeds amid Hanlin bid

The Australian Professional Leagues (APL) has taken over the management of the Central Coast Mariners on an interim basis, after the club’s existing operator – long-time chairman Mike Charlesworth – notified the league that it was forfeiting the Club Participation Agreement (CPA), prompting the APL to formally terminate the agreement and initiate a league-run sales process.

The development comes amid heightened scrutiny over the Mariners’ ownership, following The Greek Herald’s earlier reporting that a formal application had been submitted to the APL for former Sydney Olympic FC President Damon Hanlin to acquire the club.

In a statement released on Tuesday, January 12, the APL confirmed that it had taken proactive action after being notified by the club’s operator of the forfeiture of the CPA, moving to ensure stability and continuity for the Mariners during the 2025–26 season.

“The APL Board is resolute in its commitment to fans and stakeholders to protect the game’s best interests,” APL Chair Stephen Conroy said.

“As custodians of the game, we believe it is the best course of proactive action – for the short and long-term interest of the Club – to terminate the current CPA under the current ownership, and run an expedited and robust sale process to find a new and stable long-term owner for the Mariners.”

Sale process places Hanlin bid under direct APL oversight

While the APL has not commented on individual bidders, the decision to assume interim control and oversee the sale process reshapes the pathway for any prospective ownership change – including the application involving Mr Hanlin.

As previously reported by The Greek Herald, Mr Hanlin recently resigned as President and Director of Sydney Olympic FC, before stepping into senior roles across newly formed Mariners-linked entities. In September 2025, he was appointed director, secretary and sole shareholder of Central Coast Mariners Football Club Pty Ltd, followed by an appointment the following month as director and secretary of Central Coast Mariners Football Club Foundation Limited.

Those appointments, alongside his continued involvement in Sydney Olympic-related corporate entities, were expected to be examined under the APL’s ownership and integrity framework – a process that now takes on increased significance with the league directly controlling the club and the sale.

Under A-League governance rules, any ownership transfer is subject to rigorous assessment, including financial capacity, transparency, integrity checks and conflict-of-interest management.

Continuity assured as sale proceeds

The APL said its immediate focus would be to ensure the club’s ongoing obligations are met and that football operations continue uninterrupted while the sales process is underway.

There will be no changes to upcoming fixtures, with the Mariners set to face Macarthur FC at home in the Isuzu UTE A-League Men, and Perth Glory in the Ninja A-League Women at polytec Stadium this weekend.

The club’s management has indicated it will work with the APL to support the transition and forthcoming sale.

Ownership decision still pending

The APL has not provided a timeframe for completing the sale process, nor confirmed how existing applications will be treated.

However, with the league now acting as interim operator, custodian and seller, any ownership outcome – including one involving Mr Hanlin – will be determined under direct APL control and heightened regulatory oversight.

The Greek Herald will continue to follow developments as the Mariners’ ownership future unfolds.

*The Greek Herald has contacted the APL for comment

Love and luck at Port Melbourne: The real estate agent who caught the cross

Mary Sinanidis
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Love and luck at Port Melbourne: The real estate agent who caught the cross

Under a mild 17°C summer sky at Princes Pier, Melbourne’s Greek Orthodox community celebrated Theofania (Epiphany) on Sunday, January 11, 2026. The annual blessing of the waters bridges the modern Melbourne diaspora with traditions carried across generations from Greece.

For Steve (Stelios) Kikyris, 28, the leap of faith was divine. The real estate agent from St Nicholas parish in Yarraville emerged from the bay clutching the wooden cross, an honour he believes carries tangible blessings. Having recently launched his own firm, Steleo Commercial, and purchased a home in Altona North, Kikyris said he sought the cross to protect and sanctify these new beginnings.

“In 2023, we started from the sand and it was a much harder race,” Kikyris reflected, having last won three years ago. “I wanted to have this blessing again… it’s about the belief that it brings good fortune.”

He embraced his fiancé, Nicky Tzouvanellis, as he emerged from the water. She was joined by her family from Mytilene and Melbourne, cheering from the pier. Steve’s family hails from Thessaloniki, and his brother has also caught the cross in past years.

Tradition vs regulation

Competition for the cross has grown exponentially, prompting organisers to tighten the field to ensure swimmer safety. While 45 swimmers raced in 2023 and 35 in 2024, organisers imposed a strict cap of 30 divers this year. 

“We do apologise for those who missed out,” said emcee Theologia Preece Pouris.

The Greek Herald was told the cap was introduced for safety reasons, but the limit proved devastating for Scarlett Athanasia Bauwens, who had returned from Greece specifically to dive. Arriving at 12.20pm, 40 minutes before the start, she was turned away.

“It’s a pity,” she said. “Last year I was number 32, and I hadn’t read anywhere about a change in limits to just 30 divers. This week I had prayed and really felt the need to dive for the grace of God.”

A recent convert to Greek Orthodoxy, Scarlett has embraced its traditions deeply. While women were barred from the dive two years ago, a rule since relaxed, the numerical cap made her exclusion especially bitter.

Scarlett missed out despite arriving 40 minutes before the dive because a quota was set at 30.

Alexander Lefteriotis, a veteran of the old Station Pier dives, noted that female participation is a relatively recent development. 

“I never saw a woman dive at Port Melbourne until Scarlett last year,” he said.

“For me, the dive has always been a blessing. It took place at Station Pier in the olden days. I’ve participated four times but never caught the cross. I still have all four medals they give to those who dive.”

His wife, Mary Lefteriotis, a teacher, recalls broader participation in earlier years. “There were fewer people, but a greater mix of ages, young and old.”

Alexander and Mary Lefteriotis remembered how Alexander had dived four times for the cross.
Vintage photo from an old dive featuring Alexander Lefteriotis. Those days there was a greater variety in ages.

Steve Psaradellis, one of the regulars, describes the dive as “a mix of skill and luck.”

“It’s harder when you jump from the boat or run in from the beach. This year’s jump from the pier was easier,” he said, admitting he slipped through despite not being registered. 

Had he caught the cross, the result may have reignited controversy. In 2020, Mikes Legkos, one of three men excluded by that year’s 25-swimmer cap, was branded an “interloper” after diving regardless. Bishop Ezekiel intervened, and a registered swimmer was ultimately declared the winner.

Skill, luck and jellyfish

While some dive for divine favour, others bring elite athleticism. National swimmer Antonis Giotopoulos made his debut this year alongside friend Evan Christou, while 19-year-old Ignatius Scarlett is a swimming instructor.

“It wasn’t nerve-wracking,” Ignatius said, “because we know it’s not a super-serious competition. It wasn’t a tough decision.”

Veterans warn of the bay’s hazards. Peter (Panagiotis) Eleftherakis, who caught the cross eight years ago, watched from the pier with his friend Sheena from India.

“What I don’t like is the jellyfish, every metre there are jellyfish,” he said. “There was even a shark sighting a few years ago, four or five kilometres away, but we dived anyway. I do it for God. Faith is important in life.”

Former diver Peter Eleftherakis shared his culture with Sheena.

Converts and seekers

The crowd reflected Orthodoxy’s global reach. Silouane, a mother of two from Malaysia who converted in 2014, attended with her daughters, students at Aetolian and St John’s Colleges.

“I converted because something made me want to learn more about Christ,” she said. “For me, it was the true religion.”

That sense of faith was echoed from the altar.

Presided over by Their Graces Bishop Evmenios of Kerasounta and Bishop Kyriakos of Melbourne, the service included a message from His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia urging the faithful to “carry light into the world” rather than blend into its darkness.

Dignitaries in attendance included Nina Taylor MP, Lee Tarlamis MP, Port Phillip Mayor Alex Makin, Manningham Mayor Jim Grivas, Greek Community of Melbourne President Bill Papastergiadis, Cyprus Community of Melbourne and Victoria President Theo Theofanous, Hellenic Medical Society of Australia President Dr Marinis Pirpiris, and Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate Tony Tsourdalakis and Marios Kalagiannis. Dignitaries released doves into the sky, symbols of the Holy Spirit.

Greek Consul General in Melbourne Dimitra Georgantzoglou reminded the crowd that the feast commemorates the Baptism of Christ and highlighted Princes Pier’s history as a gateway for thousands of Greek migrants seeking a better life.

Today, that search continues, not through migration, but through the preservation of a faith that remains as constant as the Melbourne tide.

Epiphany at Glenelg: Faith, tradition and celebrations on Adelaide’s foreshore

Peter Tantalos
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Epiphany at Glenelg: Faith, tradition and celebrations on Adelaide’s foreshore

The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia marked the 46th year of Epiphany celebrations in Glenelg, South Australia, with a three-day festival held along the foreshore from January 9 to 11.

The event brought together families, clergy, civic leaders and visitors to celebrate faith, culture and community against Adelaide’s coastline, reaffirming an ancient Christian feast that remains central to the Greek Orthodox diaspora.

The highlight of the weekend was the Blessing of the Waters ceremony, led by His Grace Bishop Silouan of Adelaide, with clergy and faithful processing onto the Glenelg Jetty to commemorate the Baptism of Jesus Christ in the River Jordan and the revelation of the Holy Trinity.

The contest for the Cross

This year, approximately 50 competitors competed for the honour of retrieving the blessed cross. Emerging triumphant was 25-year-old Jozef Kogoj, a first-time winner from Adelaide, who claimed victory in a tight contest, outpacing the competition to secure the win. 

Baptised into the faith just one year ago, Kogoj reflected humbly on the significance of the moment, saying he “wouldn’t have thought I’d be able to win this soon.”

Kogoj is also the first winner ever from the Parish of St Sophrony in Hectorville, which is the first dedicated English-speaking Orthodox Church in SA,

Speaking to The Greek Herald, Kogoj described the personal resonance of the occasion, saying he was “feeling very blessed to have the opportunity to participate in such an amazing event” and that “seven months ago me and my wife Elena got married, so maybe this is a sign of a very special year ahead of us which we have been praying for.” 

He concluded by thanking the Archdiocese and Bishop Silouan “for organising such an amazing event that highlights the importance of the Theophany of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.”

Glendi celebrations

South Australian Premier The Hon. Peter Malinauskas MP attended the Epiphany celebrations, describing the occasion as both a religious and civic moment that reflects shared values of faith, unity and compassion.

“The Epiphany is an opportunity for us to come together,” he said, noting its significance in reflecting on baptism, community and mutual responsibility. He linked the celebration to the principles of liberal democracy in Australia, emphasising unity, respect for faith, peaceful coexistence and humanity.

The Premier also highlighted the Greek community as an example of successful multiculturalism, praising its long-standing contribution to SA and its role in fostering optimism, peace and prosperity.

Opposition Leader The Hon. Ashton Hurn MP, attending her first Blessing of the Waters, reflected on the symbolism of water as a source of life and tradition, and said the ceremony was an opportunity to pray for safety and prosperity for those who rely on the sea.

Acknowledging the significance of the event, the Government pledged, and the Opposition matched, a commitment to increasing funding to host the event from $27,000 to $40,000 annually. The funding model will also shift from year-by-year applications to a once-off grant of $160,000 across four years, aimed at securing the festival’s future. 

Preserving culture and tradition

The celebrations extended beyond the religious ceremony, with the Glenelg foreshore coming alive with music, food, and faith, that has been cherished and passed down through generations. 

This was personified by the Pontian Brotherhood of SA, Messinian Greek Dance School of SA, St George College Dance Group and St Anthony’s Youth Dance Group, who captivated attendees with traditional Greek dance performances.

The program also marked a significant milestone with the GOCSA Dance Academy being invited to perform for the first time, showcasing the strength of collaboration and strength of the Greek community.

GOCSA DANCE ACADEMY
GOCSA Dance Academy.

Reflecting on the significance of the event, Dr Vladimir Devrelis, President of the Intercommunities Council for the Holy Diocese of Adelaide, expressed his gratitude to the crowd and dignitaries, emphasising its spiritual importance. 

Dr Devrelis then acknowledged the collective effort behind the festival, thanking the volunteers for the time, energy and expertise they gave so generously to ensure the success of the celebrations and describing their contribution as both inspirational and essential.

While centred on the Blessing of the Waters, the festival also honours the legacy of Greek migrants who built new lives in SA, with Glenelg’s shores continuing to host the living practice of their faith and traditions across generations.

Other dignitaries in attendance included His Grace Bishop Silouan of Adelaide; the Hon Tom Koutsantonis MP, Treasurer of South Australia and Minister for Energy and Mining; the Hon Andrea Michaels MP, Minister for Small and Family Business, Minister for Consumer and Business Affairs, and Minister for Arts; the Hon Dennis Hood MLC, Shadow Minister for Multicultural Affairs; the Hon Connie Bonaros MLC; Mr Stephen Patterson MP, Local Member for Morphett; Ms Cressida O’Hanlon MP, Member for Dunstan; Ms Alice Rolls, State Labor Candidate for Unley, representing the Hon Steve Georganas MP, Federal Member for Adelaide; the Hon Nikolaos Varellas, Deputy High Commissioner for the Republic of Cyprus in Canberra; Colonel (Art) Kyriakos Kyriakakos, Defence Attaché of the Embassy of Greece in Canberra; Mayor Amanda Wilson, Mayor of the City of Holdfast Bay; Mayor Michael Coxon of the City of West Torrens; Ms Jane Fleming, Deputy Mayor of the City of Holdfast Bay and Liberal Candidate for Gibson; and Councillor Mary Couros, representing the Lord Mayor.

Despina Papamichail advances to second round of Australian Open qualifying

The Greek Herald
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Despina Papamichail advances to second round of Australian Open qualifying

By Bill Roumeliotis

Greek tennis player Despina Papamichail (world No. 157) produced an impressive performance today in the opening round of the Australian Open qualifying draw, defeating Sachia Vickery (No. 560) 6–3, 7–5 in Melbourne.

The 32-year-old Greek was in control from the outset, breaking early to move ahead 2–0 and later 4–2 in the first set before sealing it with another break in the ninth game. Her consistency and composure set the tone for the match.

The second set proved more competitive, with the 30-year-old American – a former world No. 73 – mounting a strong resistance. Vickery saved a double match point on her serve in the 10th game and fought back from 4–5, 15–40 to level the set at 5–5.

Papamichail, however, responded decisively, winning the next eight points to earn three match points at 0–40 in the following game. After Vickery saved one, the Greek player closed out the match with a clean down-the-line winner to secure a valuable straight-sets victory.

The win sees Papamichail advance to the second qualifying round of the Australian Open for the second time in her career, following her previous appearance at that stage in 2023. It is her fourth overall participation in Melbourne qualifying and her first in two years.

She will next face Yuliia Starodubtseva, the sixth seed in qualifying and world No. 111. Papamichail requires three wins to reach the main draw and is chasing her first-ever Grand Slam main draw appearance.

Melbourne business empire linked to Harry Hatgikyriazis faces $55 million tax debt

The Greek Herald
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Melbourne business empire linked to Harry Hatgikyriazis faces $55 million tax debt

A Melbourne-based, Greek-owned business empire including Gasmere, Arden Medical and Biotempus has entered voluntary administration, leaving the Australian Taxation Office pursuing $55.2 million in outstanding taxes and penalties.

According to The Herald Sun, the companies are linked to former ASX director Harry Hatgikyriazis, who declared bankruptcy in May 2025 and was disqualified from managing corporations for five years after pleading guilty to failing to disclose shareholdings in Equus Energy (formerly Copper Strike).

Hatgikyriazis was sentenced to six months in jail, although he did not ultimately serve any time.

Hatgikyriazis’ sister, Rania, has been the director of Gasmere, Arden Medical and Biotempus, since he was sentenced in November 2024. There is no suggestion of wrongdoing by Rania.

His mother, Theodora Hatgikyriazis, held a 95 per cent stake in Gasmere before her death in 2022.

Administrators Shaun Matthews and Daniel Juratowitch reported that Gasmere still holds at least $8.3 million in assets, mainly publicly listed shares, while Arden Medical and Biotempus have minimal debts but were unable to operate due to a Federal Court freezing order.

Gasmere had failed to lodge income tax returns from 2000 to 2017, prompting ongoing Federal Court proceedings and appeals.

The companies are now under administration, with creditors likely to consider liquidation next week.

Source: Herald Sun.

Alleged AN0M drug trafficker Michael Theoharis denied smartphone access

The Greek Herald
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Alleged AN0M drug trafficker Michael Theoharis denied smartphone access

Michael Theoharis, the 29-year-old software developer facing 21 drug trafficking charges linked to the AN0M app, has been denied access to his smartphone by the Adelaide Magistrates Court.

On Wednesday, Theoharis sought to have his bail conditions amended to allow him to use a smartphone, arguing his work as “head of site operations” was severely restricted by the non-internet Nokia phone he was limited to.

He also requested the return of several phones seized by police during October’s Operation Ironside raids.

Photo: NewsWire / Emma Brasier.

Prosecutor Peter Longson accused Theoharis of “magistrate shopping,” noting his application had already been refused in December.

Magistrate Justin Wickens rejected the request, citing the seriousness of the charges and that the devices remained evidence. He advised Theoharis to use an iPad or laptop instead.

Theoharis, representing himself, was granted bail at Rostrevor to care for his children and manage a shoulder injury. He will return to court in three weeks.

White Fox owners Georgia and Daniel Contos face scrutiny for missing financial reports

The Greek Herald
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White Fox owners Georgia and Daniel Contos face scrutiny for missing financial reports

White Fox founders Georgia and Daniel Contos, the couple behind Australia’s teen fashion sensation and Baddest Bod self-tanning brand, are under regulatory scrutiny for failing to lodge mandatory financial statements with ASIC.

Despite the company’s estimated $500 million-plus revenue and rapid global expansion across Australia, the UK, and the US, the fashion powerhouse has allegedly skirted obligations under the Modern Slavery Act 2018 and avoided key compliance reporting.

ASIC is reportedly in discussions with White Fox over potential penalties.

The Contos’ built White Fox from a 2013 garage startup into a global digital-first brand, leveraging influencer marketing and social media to reach millions of followers.

The company recently opened warehouses in the US and UK and is constructing a $70 million Sydney headquarters.

While their empire continues to grow, the couple’s regulatory lapses highlight ongoing concerns about transparency in Australia’s fast-growing private fashion sector.

Source: The Australian.

Giannis Chatzopoulos’ moving visit to elderly residents at St Basil’s NSW & ACT

Andriana Simos
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Giannis Chatzopoulos’ moving visit to elderly residents at St Basil’s NSW & ACT

International Greek singer Giannis Chatzopoulos brought music and joy to residents at St Basil’s NSW & ACT in Lakemba, Sydney during a special visit last week.

Chatzopoulos performed well-known Greek songs and spent time speaking with residents individually, listening to their stories. Staff and residents described the visit as deeply moving and uplifting.

In a statement on social media, Chatzopoulos said it was a great honour to be in Australia at the invitation of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia and to visit its aged care homes. He praised the staff for their care, respect and love, describing the facilities and overall approach as exemplary.

The singer was originally scheduled to perform at the Epiphany Greek Festival at Carss Park over the weekend, which was cancelled due to strong winds.

Instead, his visit to St Basil’s became a meaningful moment of connection, highlighting the power of music and human dignity.

Cricketer Sam Konstas dropped by Sydney Thunder

The Greek Herald
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Cricketer Sam Konstas dropped by Sydney Thunder

Less than a year after cementing his place in the Australian Test side, Sam Konstas has been dropped from the Sydney Thunder for their Big Bash clash against the Brisbane Heat.

Thunder coach Trevor Baylis made the selection decision following a run of poor form, with Konstas failing to pass 50 in his last four T20 innings and struggling in Shield cricket.

This slump also saw him lose his spot to Jake Weatherald for the Ashes series and drop out of the Australian squad picture.

Ex-Australian cricketer Mike Hussey said he was “a little bit surprised” by the axing.

“Yes, he has been battling a little bit with form in the last few innings and is probably a little bit low on confidence… maybe this is just a circuit breaker for him to get back in the nets, do some good work. Hopefully, we can see him back in the last few games.”

While the Thunder posted 180, their bowling attack faltered and the Heat chased down the total with ease, led by Usman Khawaja’s 78 off 48 balls.

Source: News.com.au.

Cyprus Community of NSW launches Cyprus EU Presidency Essay Award

The Greek Herald
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Cyprus Community of NSW launches Cyprus EU Presidency Essay Award

The Cyprus Community of NSW has recently launched the Cyprus EU Presidency Essay Award as part of a broader Cyprus EU Presidency Program commemorating Cyprus’ Presidency of the Council of the European Union.

The Community has been celebrating Cyprus’ leadership through a comprehensive program of events highlighting European values and human rights.

The Community’s Honorary President, Michael Kyriacou, said the Community, like the EU, has long been a champion of fundamental human rights – the cornerstone of the EU’s foundation and an essential part of Australian society.

“We often take our freedoms and liberties for granted – the freedom to buy, sell, move around Australia and express opinions with very few limits. These rights are always under scrutiny and in recent times, they are increasingly being questioned and, in some instances, attacked,” Mr Kyriacou said.

He noted that the Cyprus Community has been a staunch advocate for human rights, including the right to safety, life, and freedom of movement. Unfortunately, many Cypriots living in the occupied territories of Cyprus do not enjoy these same rights.

Australia is a tolerant, pluralist society that does not discriminate. Minorities are free to practice their religion, preserve their language, and contribute to the rich fabric of the nation, Mr Kyriacou said.

Honorary Secretary Kyriakos Panayi added that these are values shared with Europe, and they are the values the Community seeks to instil in young people so they may become future leaders who continue the Community’s tradition of advocating for human rights.

“We looked at the most accessible way to reach our younger members while also engaging the wider Australian community, and at the same time highlighting the plight of Cyprus, which remains home to the last divided capital city in the world,” Mr Panayi said.

In recent times, the Cyprus EU Presidency has highlighted the security challenges faced by the EU as it grapples with complex issues on multiple fronts.

The Cyprus EU Presidency Essay Award was launched specifically to engage junior students and encourage greater involvement with the Community.

Honorary Assistant Secretary Andrew Paschali said: “The essay competition is a very accessible way to motivate students to think about the freedoms we all enjoy, while encouraging young people to promote the values of equality, fairness, progress, tolerance, respect, and the protection of human dignity.”

Mr Panayi added that following extensive consultation with educators, stakeholders, and Community members, the Community carefully considered how best to engage young people and mark the Cyprus EU Presidency in a meaningful way.

“We decided on an essay competition because it is something most students can relate to. With the vast amount of information available online, this initiative encourages independent thinking, analysis, and the expression of personal opinions. It is a valuable exercise in civic responsibility and in recognising Cyprus’ work in the field of human rights,” Mr Panayi said.

Mr Kyriacou described the essay competition as a world-first initiative.

“What better way to motivate critical thinking about the freedoms we enjoy, while also raising awareness of the plight of Cyprus and its people, as well as many others around the world who have had these freedoms taken away,” he said.

The Essay Competition is open to NSW-based students aged 10 to 18, whether enrolled in primary school, high school, university, or TAFE. Essays may be submitted in either English or Greek.

First place winner will receive a $2,000 prize, a commemorative medal, and a certificate of achievement. The top five shortlisted essays will received $200 each.

“We have engaged with many educational institutions and encouraged them to invite their students to submit essays describing, in their own words, the importance of these values and the consequences when they are not respected,” Mr Kyriacou said.

Eligibility criteria, application details, and terms and conditions are available online at:
https://thecyprusclub.org.au/scholarships/ 

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