Ross Savas is understood to have played a key role in brokering Australia’s most expensive home sale, with a grand Toorak mansion changing hands for a record-breaking $150 million.
The Italianate estate, known as Coonac, was previously owned by Toll Holdings founder Paul Little and University of Melbourne chancellor Jane Hansen.
Situated on over a hectare of prime land, the 20-room residence is one of the last surviving mansions from Toorak’s original Crown allotments offered in the mid-19th century.
Ross Savas is said to have brokered the historic deal.
While the buyer’s identity remains unknown, Kay & Burton managing director Mr Savas and chairman Gerald Delany are said to have handled the transaction.
The sale surpasses the previous Australian record of $130 million, set in Sydney’s Point Piper in 2022. It also eclipses Melbourne’s highest property sale of $80 million, paid by Stake.com billionaire Ed Craven for a Toorak mansion in 2022.
Michael Kriticos found himself at the centre of a violent incident involving former bikie Mark Sandery, who has now been jailed for over four years.
In November 2022, Sandery confronted Kriticos at his Exeter home in South Australia over an earlier dispute. When Kriticos’ neighbour, Jodie Wakeling, called the police, she became entangled in the altercation. Sandery’s son was involved in a scuffle with Wakeling, though no charges were laid.
Moments later, Sandery attacked Wakeling, throwing her to the ground and stomping on her head in front of police officers. He was heard shouting, “you bashed my son you… dog.”
Mark Sandery.
The court heard that Sandery’s extreme response stemmed from a “hypersensitivity” regarding his children’s safety, influenced by past violence against his family.
According to The Advertiser, Sandery was found guilty of causing harm with intent but cleared of charges related to Kriticos. His lengthy criminal history, including 13 prior violent convictions, factored into the sentencing.
On Friday, February 7, Judge Michelle Sutcliffe sentenced Sandery to four years and five months jail, with a non-parole period of three years and two months. The sentence was backdated to December 12.
In a letter to AHEPA NSW Inc dated 28 January 2025, the Sydney Olympic Park Authority (SOPA) has confirmed the DiscobolusMonument in Stockroute Park will not be demolished nor disposed of in any inappropriate way.
AHEPA NSW Inc also held meetings with SOPA in November 2024, following the release of the draft Sydney Olympic Park Master Plan 2050 late last year.
In its written submission to the NSW Minister for Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, AHEPA NSW Inc highlighted that “the published draft Sydney Olympic Park Master Plan 2050 had a major omission which has caused great concern amongst our community. The lack of reference to the future of Stockroute Park, which hosts the Hellenic Olympic Tribute – Discobolus – raised fears of the future of this unique monument of Olympic heritage. Essentially, it is feared the public artwork would be demolished.”
The submission continued: “The Media Release of the Olympic Co-ordination Authority (dated Tuesday 21 December 1999) attached to our submission, the Hellenic Olympic Tribute – Discobolus – makes it clear that it was one of the ‘large scale, permanent outdoor public art projects at Homebush Bay and venues in Western Sydney. The AHEPA NSW Inc-led community gift was perceived as being a ‘permanent’ contribution to Sydney Olympic Park’.”
The public artwork will be “relocated.”
Background
In 1998, in the lead-up to the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games, AHEPA NSW Inc formed the Hellenic Olympic Tribute Committee. Its purpose was the creation of a public art gift from the Australian Hellenic community to our city, an idea borrowed from the American Hellenic community who developed a similar public artwork in Atlanta four years earlier. Fundraising efforts secured some $500,000 for the project.
Shortly before the Opening Ceremony of the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games, the Hellenic Olympic Tribute by renowned artist Robert Owen – the Discobolus – was unveiled in Stockroute Park at Sydney Olympic Park.
Designed as a lasting acknowledgment of Greece’s contributions to the Olympic movement, the park has since become a significant cultural and historical landmark, and was officially recognised by the NSW Geographic Names Board in 2010.
The park and its installations were enhanced between 2009 and 2010 in preparation for the Sydney Games’ 10th anniversary. Collaborations between Greek Australian groups and international Greek institutions introduced interpretive signage and artistic elements that celebrated Greece’s contributions to the Olympics.
AHEPA NSW Inc has been corresponding and meeting with SOPA regarding the maintenance needs of the Discobolus for many years. In particular the faded inscriptions on the marble markers, honouring the associations, businesses and individuals who contributed to the project.
Moving forward
AHEPA NSW Inc has welcomed the assurances of the SOPA regarding the future relocation of the Hellenic Olympic Tribute – Discobolus.
The multifaceted monument – consisting of the Robert Owen sculpture, a set of mature olive trees with marble plinths bearing (now faded) dedicatory inscriptions and the dedication plaques explaining the public artwork and listing its donors – all need to remain part of the relocated commemorative space.
US President Donald Trump has stated he will give “great consideration” to exempting Australian steel and aluminium exports from new tariffs, shortly after Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed the exemption was “under consideration.”
Following a “constructive and warm” discussion with Mr Trump, Mr Albanese said both leaders agreed on the public wording, confirming that a carve-out for Australia was being reviewed.
However, in a later press conference, Mr Trump initially ruled out exemptions before acknowledging that Australia’s case would be seriously considered. Describing Mr Albanese as a “fine man,” he noted Australia’s unique trade surplus with the US.
President Trump signs a 25% tariff on steel producers UNLESS they make their product in the United States.
"It's time for our great industries to come back to America."
Australia exported 223,000 tonnes of steel and 83,000 tonnes of aluminium to the US in 2023, valued at $377 million.
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton warned that the tariffs could harm US-Australia relations, stressing bipartisan support for their removal.
During a previous Trump administration, it took nearly a year for Australia to secure an exemption from similar tariffs. Mr Albanese declined to speculate on the outcome but reaffirmed the commitment to working with the US to strengthen economic ties.
Takis Oikonomopoulos, one of the greatest goalkeepers in Greek football history, has passed away at the age of 81.
He had been hospitalised in intensive care after suffering a stroke in the days before his passing.
Η οικογένεια του Παναθηναϊκού θρηνεί την απώλεια του κορυφαίου Έλληνα γκολκίπερ, ενός ανθρώπου που αφιέρωσε σχεδόν όλη τη ζωή του στο Τριφύλλι. Αγάπησε τον σύλλογο όσο λίγοι και έγραψε «χρυσές» σελίδες στην ιστορία του Τριφυλλιού. https://t.co/yGY1fh1afqpic.twitter.com/het2SSId65
Oikonomopoulos was a key figure in Panathinaikos’ historic journey to the 1971 European Cup final, playing a crucial role in the club’s greatest achievement. He also represented the Greek national team and was widely respected for his contributions to the sport.
His death comes shortly after the passing of another Panathinaikos legend, Mimis Domazos, who captained the team during their Wembley final.
The loss of these two icons marks a sombre moment for Greek football.
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis met with French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday, February 10 at the Élysée Palace in Paris, France for an hour-long discussion covering key geopolitical and economic issues.
Their talks included European security concerns following Donald Trump’s re-election as US President, developments in the Eastern Mediterranean and Syria, as well as European competitiveness in Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Both leaders agreed on the need for greater fiscal flexibility for EU member states investing in defence, a stance that aligns with Greece’s push for stronger European defence initiatives.
Macron reaffirmed France’s commitment to supporting Greece on security matters, particularly in light of regional tensions.
Regarding the alleged sale of Meteor missiles to Turkey, Macron backed Greece’s position but clarified that France is not leading the sales initiative, as the Meteor missile system is developed by the multinational MBDA consortium.
The meeting reinforced the strong strategic partnership between Greece and France, highlighting their shared priorities in defence, economic competitiveness, and European stability.
In response to the persistent earthquakes, residents who are yet to flee from Santorini held a religious procession on Sunday, February 9 to pray for the seismic activity to stop.
Holding banners, Greek flags, and sacred relics – including those of Saint Haralambos, honoured by the Greek Orthodox Church on February 10, the icon of Panagia Prousiotissa, and the skull of Saint Prosdokimos – the faithful from the village of Emporeio in southern Santorini processed through the streets, praying for divine protection and peace for their land.
Thousands have fled from the island. Photo: AP Photo / Petros Giannakouris.
The procession, deeply rooted in the island’s religious traditions, reflected both devotion and anxiety as tremors persisted.
The frequent earthquakes has seen authorities implement precautionary measures on Santorini, including traffic restrictions and the closure of schools, to ensure public safety.
The Hellenic Lyceum of Sydney held its second inter-generational Ypapanti Dance in traditional paniyiri style at the Greek Community Club on Saturday, February 8.
The night was thoroughly enjoyed by the 240 guests in attendance, with more than half of them under 30 years of age. The success arose from the active participation of so many young people and community associations, including the Cretans, Thessalians, Pontians, AHEPA, Samians, Peloponnesians and islanders.
Everyone was taken on a new journey embracing old traditions through music and dance under the guidance of the Lyceum’s new dance instructor Vas Aligiannis and Dance Ephor Irene Tsenkas.
A special touch was added by the musicians led by the Lyceum’s very own incredible vocalists Olga Kremissis and Dionysia Dragonas, accompanied by traditional instruments played by Eric Fotiadis (Pontian Lyra), Christopher Lampropoulos (Gaida), Aris Paraskakis (Cretan Lyra), Alexander Mountakis (laouto and askomandoura), George Siganakis (laouto), Peter Tsenkas (Daouli ), Peter Mangafas (bouzouki ), Tasos Tsagaris (percussion), and DJ Tones.
The Lyceum Dancers put on their own very special floor show rendering a memorable tribute to the beautiful Hasapiko.
Speeches were given by Lyceum President Liana Vertzayias who explained the meaning of the Ypapanti Feast.
Ms Tsenkas mentioned that artists such as musicians and dancers are also historians and curators of culture and provide a sense of identity and continuity.
The success of the event proves that the Hellenic Community has a bright future by involving the youth and immersing them in their traditions and culture.
Canberra came alive with the vibrant sights, sounds and flavours of Greece over the weekend as the National Multicultural Festival once again showcased the rich Hellenic culture through the much-loved Greek Glendi.
Held from Friday, February 7, to Sunday, February 9, the event was a resounding success, drawing thousands of festival-goers eager to experience Greek hospitality, traditional performances and authentic cuisine.
The festival’s Greek presence was powered by dedicated volunteers from various community organisations, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all attendees.
The Philoptochos Ladies from the local St Nicholas parish and members of the Greek Orthodox Community and Church of Canberra & Districts (GOCCC) delighted the crowd with freshly made loukoumades, while the Canberra Olympic Football Club wowed festival-goers with their succulent lamb souvlakia and lamb souvla. Meanwhile, volunteers from the Cyprus Community of Canberra and ACT served up grilled halloumi and olive pites, providing a true taste of Cypriot tradition.
The Greek Glendi was officially opened on Sunday, February 9, by Attorney General and ACT Minister for Government Business Tara Cheyne MLA, a longtime supporter of the event. Also in attendance were ACT Multicultural Affairs Minister Michael Pettersson MLA, Ambassador of Greece to Australia His Excellency Stavros Venizelos, and High Commissioner of the Republic of Cyprus to Australia, Antonis Sammoutis, who addressed the crowd with inspiring speeches. John Loukadellis, President of GOCCC, was also present.
The opening coincided with International Greek Language Day, adding a meaningful cultural dimension to the celebrations.
Entertainment was a highlight of the Greek Glendi, with the Canberra Hellenic Dancers captivating audiences with their spirited performances. Their dazzling display of traditional Greek dance left spectators cheering, while the beloved local Greek band KEFI ensured the festival atmosphere remained electric with their infectious live music.
As the National Multicultural Festival wrapped up for another year, the Greek community reflected on a weekend filled with joy, community spirit and cultural pride. With its overwhelming success, anticipation is already building for next year’s Greek Glendi, promising yet another unforgettable celebration of Hellenic heritage in the heart of Canberra.
Two cousins, Danielle and Vicki Vlahos, who founded the $7 million fashion label Portia & Scarlett, are embroiled in a legal battle over personal loans and the sale of their company.
The dispute, heard in the NSW Supreme Court this week, follows a breakdown in their relationship, which began when Vicki sought to sell the business in early 2023.
Danielle, a former head designer, is trying to recover a $170,000 loan she provided to help Vicki pay a divorce settlement, claiming it was never repaid.
In contrast, Vicki alleges she is owed $645,000 by Danielle, referencing an oral agreement for a home loan, which Danielle claims has already been repaid with interest.
The cousins founded fashion label Portia & Scarlett. Photo: portiaandscarlett.com.
The court is also deliberating on the cousins’ company loans, after a receiver sold off business assets, with $7 million in the account awaiting final disbursement.
The hearing revealed deep personal tensions, including allegations of verbal abuse between the cousins. Vicki argued that Danielle’s claims for repayment were part of a “double dipping” strategy, as funds were used to settle Vicki’s divorce.
Additionally, Vicki is seeking reimbursement for trade show expenses, unpaid annual leave, and accommodation services, which Danielle contests, calling the business arrangements informal.
The case, which continues before Justice Scott Nixon, highlights the personal and professional rifts that led to the collapse of their once-thriving fashion empire.
