Stefanos Tsitsipas secured his 350th career tour-level win on Wednesday, February 26, at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, defeating Karen Khachanov 7-6(4), 2-6, 6-4 to reach the quarterfinals.
The Greek No. 11 seed, who has reached the Dubai finals in 2019 and 2020, improved his head-to-head record against Khachanov to 9-1. Tsitsipas had previously beaten Lorenzo Sonego in the first round.
The 26-year-old, who is chasing his first title since Monte-Carlo in April 2023, displayed aggressive play in the third set, winning 80% of his first-serve points and clinching victory after 2 hours and 29 minutes.
Tsitsipas’ win adds to a career that includes 11 tour-level titles, including the Nitto ATP Finals in 2019. He is the 13th active player to reach 350 wins, joining the ranks of Novak Djokovic, Richard Gasquet and Marin Cilic.
Next, Tsitsipas will face Matteo Berrettini, who defeated Australian Christopher O’Connell 7-6(2), 6-2 in his second quarterfinal appearance of the season.
Ahead of the second anniversary of the deadly Tempi train collision, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis addressed his cabinet on Wednesday, February 26, emphasising the need for truth and justice.
Mitsotakis called the crash, which occurred on February 28, 2023, a national tragedy that should unite Greek society in demanding accountability and a safer public transport system.
“A national tragedy which must unite our society behind a common demand. The demand for truth and justice,” Mitsotakis said, urging the need to confront mistakes and delays within the state mechanisms highlighted by the incident.
He acknowledged that many citizens would gather in the coming days to honour the victims and demand justice.
While emphasising the right to protest, the Prime Minister cautioned against using the tragedy for political destabilisation.
“Some wish to turn this collective grief into an opportunity for a new divide,” Mitsotakis stated, criticising those who had used provocative language, including accusations of a “government of murderers.”
Mitsotakis stressed that the majority of Greeks wanted truth and justice, not a climate of instability.
He also reminded that, in a few days, the government would be presenting its case in Parliament and that opposition parties were welcome to propose any motions, including a no-confidence vote.
He concluded by saying that the government’s priority was to unite Greece, noting that the Tempi tragedy should serve as a catalyst for modernising the country’s railway system, just as the 2018 Mati fires prompted improvements in civil protection.
“I think that is the best way to truly honour the memory of our 57 fellow citizens,” he added.
The National Aviation and Railway Accident Investigation Organization (EODASAAM) is set to release its findings on the crash on Thursday.
These findings will be forwarded to judicial authorities for inclusion in the case file. Further reports, including an analysis from the National Technical University of Athens and police surveillance footage, are also expected.
Kouroumblis, who appeared via video link from Melbourne Assessment Prison, attended a brief administrative hearing at Melbourne Magistrates Court on Wednesday, February 26.
This was his second court appearance since being extradited from Italy in December, where he faces charges of two murders and one count of rape.
Both the prosecution and defence requested the adjournment to allow time for DNA analysis to be completed.
Perry Kouroumblis is accused of killing Suzanne Armstrong and Susan Bartlett at an Easey St property. Photo: Anita Lester.
Magistrate Brett Sonnet, overseeing the case, emphasised the need for swift progress, stating, “This matter should be given the highest priority. The court stands ready to hear a committal.”
The committal hearing will determine whether there is enough evidence for Kouroumblis to stand trial.
The murders of Suzanne Armstrong, 27, and Susan Bartlett, 28, occurred in their Collingwood home in January 1977, with their bodies found three days later. Armstrong’s 16-month-old son, Gregory, was unharmed.
Kouroumblis has not yet entered a formal plea but has consistently maintained his innocence and intends to contest the charges.
Police claim a breakthrough in the case after matching DNA evidence from the crime scene to Kouroumblis, nearly 47 years later. He is set to return to court on June 3.
The Greek Orthodox Community of St. Albans has issued a message of solidarity ahead of the second anniversary of the Tempi train tragedy on February 28.
Full message in English:
The Greek Orthodox Community of St. Albans, echoing the feelings of the wider Melbourne community, shares the tremendous effort made by the “Association of Relatives of Tempi Victims 2023” to bring the whole truth to the surface and to stop the cover-up and cover-up of the crime.
We also join our voices from Melbourne to express our solidarity in your sacred struggle, in order to ensure justice is served and those responsible for the Tempi tragedy are convicted.
On Friday, February 28 at 12 noon, we will also go to the Greek Consulate to demand that the diachronic responsibilities of the Governments, current and previous, for the tragic state of the railways be meted out.
We also send our unwavering support, our hugs and our love to the relatives of the victims. We may live far from Greece and be on the other side of the world, but you are very close to our hearts and we feel the heavy burden of pain in the ordeal you are going through.
For the Board of Directors Areti Akamati President 25/02/2025
The Supreme Court of New South Wales has handed down significant rulings in the financial battle over the Cyprus Community of NSW, ordering Cyprus Capital Limited (CCL) to cooperate with the voluntary administrators and facilitate the refinancing of the organisation’s debts.
The ruling, delivered by Justice Nixon on 18 and 21 February 2025, is a major step towards financial stability for the Cyprus Community. It ensures the Community can finalise a $13 million refinancing deal with Avari Capital Partners, which will allow it to repay secured creditors, end receivership, and regain control of its assets.
However, a $1.09 million dispute over fees claimed by Cyprus Capital remains unresolved, with a further hearing set for March 2025.
The administrators have spent months attempting to refinance debts owed to Cyprus Capital Limited and Sydney Wyde Mortgage Management Ltd. However, Cyprus Capital had repeatedly failed to provide a payout figure, delaying the refinancing process, applying to the Court to remove administrators (unsuccessfully) and increasing financial uncertainty.
The matter was also heard earlier on 12 February 2025, when Cyprus Capital attempted to alter the cost order made against them following their unsuccessful bid to remove the administrators. The court dismissed Cyprus Capital’s application, upholding the original cost order against them. Further costs were ordered against Cyprus Capital for bringing the application to vary the cost order.
The Greek Herald sources have revealed that the estimated legal costs of the failed challenge are between $500,000.00 to $600,000.00 which either Dr Costas Costa or Cyprus Capital must pay, affecting the shareholders (and those members who invested in Cyprus Capital), from receiving a full payout.
Key Court orders
Following the failure of Cyprus Capital to provide a payout figure for months, the Supreme Court issued a series of orders to ensure the refinancing deal could proceed. The rulings also addressed Cyprus Capital’s delayed cooperation and set strict deadlines to finalise the process.
1. Cyprus Capital ordered to provide payout figure
Cyprus Capital was ordered to submit a final payout amount by 4pm on 20 February 2025.
Cyprus Capital provided a payout figure of $6,938,926.37, calculated as of 25 February 2025.
However, $1,092,323.86 of this amount is disputed, as the administrators argue it includes unauthorised fees and costs, including the costs of the application to remove the administrator which was unsuccessful. This disputed amount has been paid into court while awaiting a decision on 3 March 2025.
2. Cyprus Capital must release security and end receivership
The court ruled that Cyprus Capital must sign documents to release its mortgage over Cyprus Community’s property and terminate the appointment of receivers and managers by 24 February 2025.
If Cyprus Capital fails to sign, the Supreme Court Registrar is authorised to sign the documents on its behalf.
However, The Greek Herald sources revealed that Cyprus Capital had already terminated the appointment of the receivers before the court hearing date, with this only being formally advised to the court on 21 February 2025.
3. Administrators’ liability limited
The court granted an order under section 447A of the Corporations Act 2001, ensuring that the administrators are not personally liable for the refinancing loan from Avari Capital Partners.
4. Registration of Avari Capital’s security interest extended
The court extended the registration deadline for Avari Capital’s security interest, ensuring the refinancing process can proceed smoothly.
Financial Breakdown of the Refinancing Deal
The Supreme Court’s orders have now paved the way for the implementation of the refinancing agreement with Avari Capital Partners. The following figures outline the financial structure of the deal and how it impacts the Cyprus Community moving forward:
Total debt of Cyprus Community of NSW: $13 million
Total value of real estate assets: $57 million
Refinancing loan from Avari Capital Partners: $13 million
Payout to Cyprus Capital Limited: $5,846,602.51
Payout to Sydney Wyde Mortgage Management Ltd: $7.5 million
Disputed Amount (held in court pending resolution): $1,092,323.86
The refinancing restructures the organisation’s debts, consolidating its financial obligations into a single lender (Avari Capital) and removing Cyprus Capital’s involvement in the organisation’s finances.
What happens next?
The next key date is 3 March 2025, when the Supreme Court will consider the future case management of the dispute over Cyprus Capital’s entitlement to the $1.09 million in disputed fees or if those funds must be returned to the Cyprus Community of NSW.
If the refinancing proceeds as planned, all secured debts will be repaid, receivership will be lifted, and the Cyprus Community of NSW will regain full control of its assets. The ruling marks a significant step in the organisation’s efforts to stabilise its finances and ensure its long-term sustainability.
*The Greek Herald will continue to follow this case closely and provide updates on the next Supreme Court hearing.
Athens-based photographer Petros Kaminiotis presented his stunning exhibition, Modern AθENS In The Backdrop Of Antiquity, at Luna Studio Gallery in Newtown, Sydney on Tuesday, February 25.
The event is part of the Greek Festival of Sydney, supported by the Athenian Association of NSW.
Modern AθENS In The Backdrop Of Antiquity showcases Kaminiotis’ unique approach to portraying contemporary Athens, blending modern architecture with the ancient city’s rich history.
The exhibition received a warm reception at its launch, attended by a large crowd.
Photo supplied by Effy Alexakis.
On the night, speeches were delivered by President of the Athenian Association of NSW, Cathy Valis, artist Petros Kaminiotis, Chair of the Greek Festival of Sydney, Nia Karteris, and Father Irenaeus Triantis.
The event was emceed by a young member of the Athenian Association. The Trade Commissioner of Greece in Australia, Chrysa Prokopaki was also in attendance.
Photo supplied by Effy Alexakis.
The exhibition is open daily until March 1, 2025, from 10am to 6pm, with the final day on Sunday, March 2, 2025, from 10.00am to 2.00pm. Entrance is free and no bookings are required.
This event is part of the 43rd Greek Festival of Sydney, which runs from February to May 2025, and features a variety of cultural events, including music, exhibitions, and lectures, all aimed at celebrating Greek heritage.
Peter Ppiros, the newly elected President of the Greek Orthodox Community of South Australia (GOCSA), brings a wealth of experience to his role.
Born in Cyprus, Ppiros migrated to Australia as a refugee and has been an active member of GOCSA since 1986, dedicating a decade to various Administrative Council positions.
His recent election victory, where his Independent Community Progressive Party secured 11 out of 15 council seats, comes amid ongoing discussions about the direction of GOCSA, including matters of governance, unity and cultural preservation.
In an exclusive interview, Ppiros discusses his plans for GOCSA, including balancing Greek heritage with evolving Australian identities, increasing youth engagement, and addressing key structural and administrative challenges. He also shares his thoughts on the role of language retention, the importance of a bilingual administration, and how he intends to navigate differing views within the community.
Peter Ppiros has been an active member of GOCSA since 1986.
Thank you for your time today, Peter. With the evolving identity of 3rd and 4th generation Greek Australians, how do you plan to balance the preservation of Greek heritage, language, and culture with the integration of contemporary Australian values?
That is a continuing challenge that we face and we will use both traditional methods that have served us well including to introduce innovative E-technology.
There has been a large emphasis and growth of youth engagement over the past two years in your community. Are there any specific initiatives you plan to implement to ensure that GOCSA continues to engage with and inspire our younger generation? How will you encourage them to become more involved in the decision-making processes that affect their future?
Involvement in GOCSA also requires accepting responsibility from conceptual development through to implementation and reassessment.
Peter Ppiros is looking at introducing innovative E-technology.
You have highlighted the importance of being a bi-lingual administration and the importance of language retention and learning. What is your plan to further promote the learning of the Greek language and to make it more accessible?
GOCSA adheres to the present day Australian multicultural values that will need to be reworked to fit into our evolving 21 century society.
500 community members met on Sunday, October 27 for the EGM to vote on unity with the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia. Photo: Greek Orthodox Community of SA.
GOCSA is bound to follow the members’ decisions taken at various Special General Meetings e.g. 1966, 1972, 1973 and 1992. That being said, we are also listening to our members every day and noting their steadfast support and attendances at our Churches. Members have an expectation for a consistent application of GOCSA’s past General Meeting decisions that cannot be changed on a whim contrary to GOCSA’s Constitution which is the law the Council is legally obliged to follow.
As a new Administrative Committee, only in our role for the last month, we will continue to discuss and formulate precise strategies in each of the important areas of activity. At the moment, the focus is on getting an understanding of the management and operation of the many diverse activities of GOCSA and the key and immediate priority issues we need to address to ensure our Community continues to function well and deliver high-quality services.
I would like to stress that any future decisions, and strategies on all sectors of GOCSA, will be discussed at future direct consultation with our members.
The Autocephalic Greek Orthodox Church has been without any spiritual Head for over five years; Is there a plan to address this? How will you ensure regular functioning of the Community churches?
GOCSA remains committed to implementing GOCSA’s past determination of allegiance to the AGOCAA (Autocephalic Greek Orthodox Church) and recognise the challenges; as we also recognise the Australian Constitution provides for freedom of religion and recognition of the AGOCAA under Australian laws.
You have said that you will revive/reactivate the Federation of Greek Orthodox Communities. How will you do this and how will this benefit the Greek Orthodox Community of SA?
Peter Ppiros (centre) standing next to President of the Greek Community of Melbourne, Bill Papastergiadis (fourth from right) at this year’s Antipodes Festival 2024.
GOCSA has always maintained that it will benefit the whole of the Greek community of Australia to have an assertive collective voice addressing the wide range of secular issues; and taking into account the erosion of our multicultural society, updating the Australia-Greece Bi-Lateral Agreements plus mutual recognition of our secular laws. The Australian Government is currently being deprived of the collective wisdom of the Greek Community speaking with one voice-state representation. There is no substitute for a concerted group submission, e.g. for an annual update of topical issues concerning our Community as a whole.
What do you believe to be the biggest challenge for you as the new President of the Community?
The challenge is to have an Administrative Council that takes the leadership responsibility (including myself as a Councillor) rather than leaving responsibility to a few Councillors. That also aims to address the issue of unity within GOCSA i.e. “practice what the Council is doing as a team.”
His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia led the Sanctification (Agiasmos) Service to mark the start of the new year of activities for the Youth Groups of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia in New South Wales (NSW GO Youth Fellowships) on Monday, February 24.
The service, held at the Greek Orthodox Parish of the Resurrection of Christ in Kogarah, Sydney, was attended by over 300 young men and women, along with Their Graces Bishop Iakovos of Miletoupolis and Bishop Christodoulos of Magnesia, and many other clergy.
Following the service, Archbishop Makarios addressed the youth with words of spiritual guidance. He encouraged them to stay focused on Christ amidst life’s challenges and distractions, stating, “In Him we find true meaning and purpose.”
The Archbishop also emphasised the importance of the youth staying connected to their Orthodox roots.
“We are not just individuals wandering through life,” he said, “but we are heirs to a great and sacred heritage, shaped by the struggles and successes of those who have lived before us.”
He reminded the youth of their ancestors’ sacrifices, urging them to honour their heritage and live devotedly as Orthodox Christians.
In his final remarks, Archbishop Makarios underscored the significance of fellowship, noting, “As Orthodox Christians we do not walk in isolation. We are called to walk together, to support one another and strengthen one another, with love.”
He concluded by stressing that the bonds formed within youth groups are sacred, as they help members remain steadfast in Christ.
St Euphemia College’s Taverna Night, held on Saturday, February 22, was a resounding success, bringing together students, families, and the local community for an unforgettable celebration of Greek culture.
The event featured vibrant Greek dance performances by the students, along with delicious taverna-style cuisine and live entertainment that kept guests dancing throughout the night.
Held on the school’s grounds in Bankstown, Sydney, the event ran from 6pm to 11.30pm and offered a true taste of Greece, blending music, food, and traditional performances in a lively atmosphere.
Attendees enjoyed an evening full of culture and community spirit, making it a memorable night for all.
The Greek Orthodox Community of New South Wales (GOCNSW) has issued a message of solidarity ahead of the second anniversary of the Tempi train tragedy on February 28. Protests are planned across the world, including in capital cities in Australia.
Full message in English:
The President, Board of Directors and members of the Greek Orthodox Community of New South Wales express our sincere and profound condolences to the families of the deceased, mainly children, who lost their lives in the terrible Tempe accident. We also express our support and solidarity with the struggle of the families of the victims to investigate the causes that caused this fatal accident.
It is unacceptable for the Government, after two years since the accident, that the investigation has not yet been completed and that there is no clear decision on what happened that day, and who is responsible for the accident.
The Government should not cover up the causes that caused this terrible accident, and that those responsible should be held accountable and punished, whoever they may be.
The Government should take measures to prevent such tragic and fatal accidents from happening again in the future and finally, that a deep cut and reform of the railways of our Homeland be made.
We also raise our voices together with the voices of the families of the victims and the Greek people in the protest of 28th February 2025 for the investigation of the accident and we stand as helpers next to them.
We, the Greeks of distant Australia, will support in every way possible the struggle of the families of the victims for justice and we hope that the appropriate measures will be taken to prevent another “Tempi tragedy” from happening again.
With patriotic greetings
From the Board of Directors of the Greek Orthodox Community of NSW.
