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Soccer day unites Cretan youth at 44th Cretan Federation Convention

The Greek Herald
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Soccer day unites Cretan youth at 44th Cretan Federation Convention

The Cretan Youth of Australia and New Zealand held its annual soccer sports day on Monday, January 5, as part of the 44th Cretan Federation Convention in Sydney, bringing together young participants from across the country for a day of competition and camaraderie.

The Cretan Youth of Australia and New Zealand held its annual soccer sports day on Monday, January 5.

Approximately 200 youth took part in the event, which was hosted at the Senior Campus of Saint Spyridon College in Maroubra, Sydney.

Teams from across Australia competed throughout the day under the supervision of referees Anna Kyriakou and Michael Arvanitagis.

Following a series of closely contested matches, a Sydney team claimed victory in the under-12 division, while Tasmania, the defending champions, once again secured the title in the over-13 division.

The annual soccer tournament, which began decades ago, remains a key feature of the Cretan Federation Convention, complementing its broader cultural, educational, faith-based and sporting program.

*All photos by Location Shots Media.

Next generation of Cretans come together at Sydney convention youth night

The Greek Herald
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Next generation of Cretans come together at Sydney convention youth night

Cretan youth from across Australia and New Zealand came together in Sydney on Sunday, January 4, for a vibrant youth night held as part of the 44th Cretan Federation Convention, celebrating connection, culture and community.

The event took place at Panagia Soumela Hall in Hurlstone Park, Sydney, attracting approximately 170 Cretan and Greek young people who gathered for an evening of music and socialising.

The event attracted approximately 170 Cretan and Greek young people.

Entertainment began with a set by DJ D’Angelo before transitioning into live Cretan and Greek music performed by youth musicians, creating a lively atmosphere that reflected both tradition and contemporary youth culture.

cretan youth night
Entertainment began with a set by DJ D’Angelo.

cretan youth night

cretan youth night

Hosted by the Cretan Youth of Sydney and NSW, the night provided an opportunity for friendships formed during the convention to deepen, while also welcoming new participants into the broader Cretan youth network.

Addressing attendees, the President of the Cretan Youth of Sydney and NSW, Angelique Belivanis, thanked those who had travelled interstate to attend the convention, acknowledging their contribution to the event’s energy and success.

“To everyone who has travelled interstate, we hope you’ve enjoyed your time here in Sydney – weather and all. Your presence means so much to us and adds to the spirit of this convention,” she said.

cretan youth night

cretan youth night

She also extended a warm welcome to first-time attendees, expressing hope that the convention would mark the beginning of lasting connections within the community.

The youth night formed part of a broader program of cultural, social and organisational events held during the 44th Cretan Federation Convention, highlighting the ongoing engagement of younger generations in preserving and celebrating Cretan heritage across Australia and NZ.

*All photos by Location Shots Media.

Sydney to mark Epiphany with traditional Blessing of the Waters at Carss Park

The Greek Herald
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Sydney to mark Epiphany with traditional Blessing of the Waters at Carss Park

Greek Orthodox faithful and the wider community are invited to gather at Carss Bush Park in Sydney on Sunday, January 11 for the Service of the Blessing of the Waters, a highlight of the Feast of Epiphany and one of the most significant events in the Orthodox calendar.

The traditional Blessing of the Waters service will take place from 1pm, drawing worshippers and visitors to the waterfront setting at Carss Park for a moment of prayer, reflection and spiritual renewal. His Grace Bishop Iakovos of Miletoupolis will preside over the Blessing of the Waters.

The ceremony symbolises the baptism of Christ and the sanctification of creation, and has long been a unifying event for Greek Orthodox communities across Australia.

Following the service, the day will continue with the Annual Epiphany Greek Festival, transforming the park into a vibrant celebration of Greek culture, food and family life until 9pm.

The free-entry, family-friendly festival will feature live entertainment throughout the day, highlighted by an exclusive performance by Greek singer Giannis Chatzopoulos, alongside music, dancing and a vibrant atmosphere celebrating Hellenic culture.

Visitors can also expect an extensive offering of food and market stalls, children’s activities and entertainment, making the event a popular destination for families and the wider community alike.

The festival is supported by the NSW Government, Georges River Council and Bank of Sydney, reinforcing its standing as a major cultural and community event on Sydney’s calendar.

Event Details:

  • Event: Epiphany Greek Festival 2026 & Blessing of the Waters
  • Date: Sunday, 11 January 2026
  • Time: Festival 11.00am – 9.00pm | Blessing of the Waters 1.00pm – 1.30pm
  • Location: Carss Bush Park, Carwar Avenue, Carss Park
  • Entry: Free
  • Parking: Available

Blessing of the Waters draws crowds to Mentone for Epiphany

The Greek Herald
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Blessing of the Waters draws crowds to Mentone for Epiphany

Greek Orthodox people celebrated Epiphany in Melbourne with the traditional Blessing of the Waters and the dive for the Holy Cross.

At the Church of the Archangels in Mentone, a large crowd of all ages attended as the priest blessed the sea.

The cross was retrieved by 28-year-old Matteo Ricciuti from Hampton, who was warmly applauded by participants.

The strong involvement of young people and families highlighted the ongoing preservation of Greek traditions and the unity of Melbourne’s Greek community.

Following the dive, worshippers exchanged blessings and well-wishes for health and prosperity.

Australians of Hellenic heritage among 2026 Australia Day Ambassadors

The Greek Herald
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Australians of Hellenic heritage among 2026 Australia Day Ambassadors

Several Australians of Hellenic heritage have been named 2026 Australia Day Ambassadors, celebrating excellence across arts, media, sports, and community engagement.

The distinguished group includes Yianni Johns, artist, curator, and cultural advocate; Viv Kartsounis, ultrarunner and founder of Shoes for Planet Earth; Michael Tomalaris, journalist, TV presenter, and cycling advocate; Andy Paschalidis, sports presenter and founder of Heartbeat of Football; and George Ellis, conductor, composer, and musical arranger.

Ambassadors travel across New South Wales in the lead-up to and on Australia Day, attending citizenship ceremonies, presenting community awards, delivering official addresses, and participating in local traditions.

Through their work, they connect with communities, share personal stories, and inspire national pride, reflecting the diverse contributions of Australians from all walks of life.

Paspaley family expands into hotels and luxury cruises as pearling profits fall

The Greek Herald
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Paspaley family expands into hotels and luxury cruises as pearling profits fall

The Paspaley family’s business empire, historically built on pearling, has reported a sharp decline in profits as it pivots toward hotels and luxury cruising.

According to The Australian Financial Review, new filings show Pearl Corporation of Australia profits halved to $13.5 million in the year to June 30, down from $27.8 million, while revenues dipped slightly to $316.7 million.

Hospitality now contributes $55 million, helping offset the slump in pearling revenue.

The family, estimated by the Financial Review Rich List to be worth $1.52 billion, has expanded into luxury hotels and launched a yacht cruise venture with the 53-metre Paspaley Pearl off the Kimberley coast. Other assets include property, aviation, and the Bunnamagoo Estate winery.

The pearling business remains a world-leading producer of south sea pearls, supplying global jewellers, though the Paspaley Pearling Company recorded a $7.8 million loss in the same period.

The empire employs around 1,300 staff, paid an $8 million dividend, and holds $70 million in cash, while pledging $596 million in assets across family businesses.

The Paspaleys, who began in 1919 in the Pilbara, continue to expand globally while balancing traditional pearling with hospitality and luxury ventures.

Source: AFR.

SBS found lawful in firing Efstathia Papaemanouil over work-from-home dispute

The Greek Herald
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SBS found lawful in firing Efstathia Papaemanouil over work-from-home dispute

Former SBS Greek program producer Efstathia Papaemanouil was lawfully dismissed after a court ruled her request to work from home indefinitely conflicted with the inherent requirements of her role.

Papaemanouil, who had worked remotely during COVID-19 due to chronic illness, was terminated in April 2024 after SBS concluded she could no longer safely perform the role, even with home-based work.

According to HCA Mag, the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia dismissed her claims of disability discrimination, adverse action, and underpayment, finding that studio attendance for live broadcasts and use of equipment at SBS’s Melbourne studios were essential.

The court accepted that SBS had considered medical evidence and flexible arrangements before ending her employment.

All her claims were rejected, and a decision on costs is pending.

Source: HCA Mag

John Angelis buys Rose Bay waterfront home next to father Jim’s Villa Florida

The Greek Herald
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John Angelis buys Rose Bay waterfront home next to father Jim’s Villa Florida

John Angelis, 30, and friend Yianni Gourlas, 31, have purchased the $82.5 million waterfront mansion at 14 Tivoli Ave, Rose Bay, right next to John’s father, businessman Jim Angelis’ Villa Florida.

Contrary to speculation, Alex Lyons, their friend and Raine and Horne Double Bay agent, confirmed: “They did it all themselves and John’s Dad had no involvement.”

Jim Angelis, who sold Coverforce for $411m in 2021 and rebuilt Villa Florida, did not contribute to the deposit.

John and Yianni, former Scots College schoolmates and now co-CEOs of Clearlake Insurance Brokers, started the business five years ago and report $25m in annual sales with 60 staff.

The pair plan to move into the eight-bedroom, waterfront property, which features three residences, 10 bathrooms, a pool, and a four-car garage.

Their previous Dover Heights home at 16 Napier St is set to go to auction with Lyons handling the sale.

Source: Realestate.com.au.

Communities gather across Australia to observe the Feast of Epiphany

The Greek Herald
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Communities gather across Australia to observe the Feast of Epiphany

Greek Orthodox communities across Australia marked the Feast of Epiphany with reverence and strong participation, as churches and coastal locations became focal points of worship, tradition and communal reflection.

From major cities to regional centres, congregations gathered for the Divine Liturgy and the Blessing of the Waters, a central ritual of the Epiphany observance symbolising spiritual renewal, purification and the sanctification of creation.

In both urban parishes and seaside settings, the faithful came together in large numbers, with particularly strong turnouts observed at coastal ceremonies, including along Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula at locations such as Rye, Frankston and Rosebud.

Families, parishioners and visitors alike participated in the traditional blessings, reinforcing the enduring connection between faith, culture and community life.

Across the country, services were conducted in a spirit of solemnity and unity, marked by prayer, hymnody and reflection on the baptism of Christ.

The celebrations highlighted the continuing relevance of Epiphany within Australia’s Greek Orthodox communities and the intergenerational transmission of tradition.

Heracles Almelo reportedly eye Adelaide United defender Panagiotis Kikianis

The Greek Herald
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Heracles Almelo reportedly eye Adelaide United defender Panagiotis Kikianis

Eredivisie club Heracles Almelo are reportedly considering a move for Adelaide United defender Panagiotis Kikianis as new head coach Ernest Faber looks to strengthen his squad in January.

Dutch outlet soccernews.nl reports that Heracles are “looking around Australia” following the €4.5 million (A$7.8m) sale of top scorer Jizz Hornkamp to AZ Alkmaar, and are targeting both a striker and a centre-back.

The report states that Faber views 20-year-old Kikianis, who he previously worked with during his time as Adelaide United technical director, as a “potential asset” for the club.

Despite his age, Kikianis has already made 42 senior appearances since debuting at 18. He has featured in every minute of Adelaide’s A-League matches this season except for last weekend’s 4–0 defeat to Central Coast Mariners, which he missed.

Photo: Jason McCawley / Getty Images.

The defender was also part of the Australia Under-20 squad that won the Asian Cup in March, scoring calmly in the penalty shootout victory over Saudi Arabia in the final.

Heracles currently sit 17th in the Eredivisie and have conceded 44 goals in 17 matches, the league’s worst defensive record, with seven of those coming in a heavy defeat to Feyenoord in October.

Since Faber’s appointment, they have conceded seven goals in their last two league games against PSV Eindhoven and Heerenveen.

Faber, who is expected to transition into a technical director role at the end of the season, has pledged to create a pathway between the A-League and the Eredivisie.

Heracles and Adelaide United recently signed a formal partnership, and Kikianis may become the first player to move between the clubs if a deal is completed.

Source: Football360.

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