Search
Home Blog Page 182

Federal Government boosts funding for Community Language Schools with $13m investment

The Greek Herald
-
0
Federal Government boosts funding for Community Language Schools with $13m investment

The Albanese Government is strengthening support for community language schools, extending grants for more than 580 schools across Australia under the Community Language Schools Grants Program.

An additional $13 million will be provided over four years to help young Australians learn or maintain a language other than English.

The funding will help schools modernise their digital learning tools, reach more school-aged children, and continue delivering high-quality language education and support across all year levels.

This extension delivers on the commitment made by the Albanese Government earlier in the year.

Federal Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Anne Aly, said, “Language learning opens doors and bridges divides. It helps young people understand the world around them and builds confidence in who they are.”

“For me, being multilingual has always shaped the way I connect with people. There’s something powerful about speaking to someone in their own language that creates a bond and understanding,” Ms Aly added.  

“This investment is about giving every child the chance to build those connections, strengthen their identity and grow up feeling part of a welcoming and inclusive Australia.”

Assistant Minister for Citizenship, Customs and Multicultural Affairs, Julian Hill, said community language schools play a vital role in helping young Australians stay connected to their heritage, strengthen intergenerational ties, and celebrate cultural identity.

“For decades, these schools have been woven into the story of modern Australia, reflecting the diversity that makes our nation vibrant and strong,” Mr Hill added.

“Having more Australians capable of speaking the languages of our largest trading partners and neighbours is a huge benefit to our nation, opening further employment opportunities and career paths for students, and growing economic ties with our friends and neighbours across our region.”

Applications are expected to open on 28 November 2025 on GrantConnect: www.grants.gov.au

Greece honours Australian soldier who fought in Crete

The Greek Herald
-
0
Greece honours Australian soldier who fought in Crete

Greece has paid tribute to Private Robert Findlay Rixon, an Australian soldier who served in Greece during 1940–41, recognising his contribution to the Battle of Crete.

In a ceremony, Consul General of Greece in Sydney, George Skemperis, presented a commemorative medallion to Linda Williams, Private Rixon’s niece, on behalf of the Greek government.

Skemperis said he was “proud and grateful” to deliver the Medallion to Ms Williams, honouring the military service of her uncle during 1940–41 in Greece (Crete).

“Greece never forgets those who fought on its side,” he added.

Greece celebrates UNESCO’s historic recognition of World Greek Language Day

The Greek Herald
-
0
Greece celebrates UNESCO’s historic recognition of World Greek Language Day

Greece’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has hailed UNESCO’s decision to designate February 9 as World Greek Language Day, describing the development as an event of “historic importance” for Greece and the global cultural community.

In an announcement issued on November 12, the ministry confirmed that the resolution was unanimously adopted at the 43rd Session of the UNESCO General Conference in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.

The vote marks the culmination of a process that formally began in April, when the UNESCO Executive Board approved Greece’s proposal with the backing of 90 member states.

“The international recognition of the unique and invaluable contribution of the Greek language to the world cultural heritage constitutes a decision of historic importance in the 3,000 years of its unbroken continuity,” the ministry said.

The milestone was further underscored during the General Conference, where Greek Culture Minister Lina Mendoni addressed delegates and thanked member states for their support. She described the recognition as “above all, a celebration of multilingualism,” highlighting Greek’s enduring influence on global thought, literature and scientific vocabulary.

Australia was among the co-sponsors of the resolution, reinforcing the strong cultural and historical ties between the two nations.

The proclamation of World Greek Language Day, to be celebrated annually on February 9 – the anniversary of the death of national poet Dionysios Solomos – represents a major success for Greece’s cultural diplomacy and a new platform for promoting the global relevance of the Greek language.

Source: AMNA.gr

Tsitsipas and Sakkari to lead Team Greece at 2026 United Cup

The Greek Herald
-
0
Tsitsipas and Sakkari to lead Team Greece at 2026 United Cup

Team Greece will once again feature tennis stars Stefanos Tsitsipas and Maria Sakkari at the 2026 United Cup, joining a star-studded field that includes five of the world’s top 10 men and four of the women’s top 10 players.

The mixed-team tournament, serving as a lead-in to the Australian Open, will take place from January 2–11 across Sydney and Perth, with the official draw to be held next Monday.

Top seeds Coco Gauff and Taylor Fritz will lead defending champions Team USA, while world No.2 Iga Świątek returns to bolster Poland’s bid for the title.

Photo: PA Images.

Other major contenders include Germany’s Alexander Zverev, Japan’s Naomi Osaka, and Australia’s Alex de Minaur, who will captain the host nation alongside rising star Maya Joint.

Tournament director Stephen Farrow said the 2026 event promises world-class competition. “The United Cup holds a unique position in global tennis, with the world’s best men and women committed to play in mixed teams and showcase equality in the sport,” he said.

With Tsitsipas and Sakkari again joining forces, Team Greece is expected to be among the tournament’s strongest contenders as they aim for a deep run in the prestigious mixed event.

Sydney Airport honours late pilot Jake Anastas with memorial bench

The Greek Herald
-
0
Sydney Airport honours late pilot Jake Anastas with memorial bench

Sydney Airport has unveiled a bright orange memorial bench beneath its control tower in honour of Jake Anastas, a former employee and aspiring pilot who died in a light plane crash in October 2024.

The bench, made from the wing of an old Ansett Australia aircraft, was designed by Anastas’ family, friends, and colleagues.

“The bench … is a lasting tribute in a location that reflects his love of aviation,” said Sydney Airport Chief Operating Officer Adrian Witherow, adding that “Jake is remembered with love and is deeply missed by everyone at Sydney Airport.”

Anastas, 29, was killed alongside his instructor, Qantas captain Gary Criddle, and another pilot, Khadervali Gagguturu, in what his family described as a “freak” mid-air collision near Belimbla Park.

Jake’s father, Pas, sister Breana and mother Nichole attended a small unveiling on Tuesday. Photo: Nichole Anastas.

His mother, Nichole Anastas, said her son’s love of flying began as a child and that he dreamed of becoming a commercial pilot.

“When he was a baby in a pram, [he] was always pointing up to the sky as planes were going by,” she recalled.

Jake worked as an electrician with Sydney Airport’s first response team, and following his death, his family received an outpouring of support from the community and aviation industry.

His wife, Tori, described him as “loving and caring … he loved flying and made everything brighter.”

At the recent unveiling, Jake’s parents and sister gathered to reflect on his life. “It was lovely to see how loved and respected he was from his work colleagues,” Ms Anastas said.

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau investigation into the crash remains ongoing.

Source: ABC.

Maria Psillakis calls for shark safety reforms after husband Mercury’s fatal attack

The Greek Herald
-
0
Maria Psillakis calls for shark safety reforms after husband Mercury’s fatal attack

Two months after the death of her husband Mercury Psillakis, who was killed in a shark attack at Dee Why Beach on September 6, Maria Psillakis has spoken publicly for the first time, determined to prevent other families from suffering the same loss.

“Losing Merc has put a place in my heart that I can’t really put into words. He is – was – my rock, my everything,” she said.

Mercury was surfing with friends when he was attacked by a great white shark about 80 metres offshore.

The incident occurred two weeks before the patrol season began, meaning the surf club was closed and the shark alarm was not triggered for 45 minutes.

“Not half an hour later, there were children swimming within 10 metres of where my husband was,” Maria recalled.

While acknowledging the risks surfers face, Maria is calling for better safety systems, including year-round drone patrols and stronger protections.

The shark involved was untagged, preventing detection by existing smart drum line systems.

“I want to advocate for evidence-based systems to perhaps prevent another tragedy like this,” she said.

With support from Member for Wakehurst Michael Regan, Maria is urging Premier Chris Minns to convene a roundtable with scientists, surf lifesavers, and the community to improve safety and save lives.

“I want [Mercury] to be remembered as the remarkable guy he was… is,” she said.

Source: 9News.

Greece and Cyprus to update Great Sea Interconnector project

The Greek Herald
-
0
Greece and Cyprus to update Great Sea Interconnector project

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides have agreed to update the financial and technical parameters of the Great Sea Interconnector, a major electricity cable project linking Cyprus to the European grid.

The agreement followed talks in Athens on Wednesday during the 3rd Intergovernmental Greece–Cyprus Conference.

Mitsotakis said both nations “remain committed to peaceful cooperation in a time of uncertainty,” describing Greece and Cyprus as “pillars of stability.”

“The new circumstances make the added value of interconnectivity projects already underway even more significant,” he said.

“We are proceeding with the immediate update of the financial and technical parameters of the cable link, so that it may be strengthened by the participation of new, strong investors.”

Christodoulides called Cyprus’ ties with Greece “brotherly,” adding that both countries were focused on advancing projects with “economic and geopolitical impact.”

Bill Mougios celebrates double win at 2025 Bayside Local Business Awards

Andriana Simos
-
0
Bill Mougios celebrates double win at 2025 Bayside Local Business Awards

It was a night of double celebration for much-loved Greek Australian businessman Bill Mougios and his team at the 2025 Bayside Local Business Awards, held on Monday, November 10, at the Brighton Hotel Sydney – MGallery Collection.

Mougios’ The Grand Roxy Reception Lounge in Brighton-Le-Sands took home the award for Outstanding Specialised Business, while his Meet The Greek Restaurant was crowned Outstanding Restaurant -marking a milestone year for both hospitality venues.

A post on social media said Mougios’ team was “proud” to be recognised in two categories and thanked the local community for its continued support.

The Bayside Local Business Awards, presented in partnership with Bayside Council and Precedent Productions, recognise excellence, innovation and community spirit across the local business sector.

Bayside Mayor Edward McDougall congratulated all winners and finalists, saying, “Our local business owners show that there is nothing small about local business. They form the cornerstone of our community and continually inspire and innovate as they strive for success.”

Among other Greek Australian winners on the night was Born to Bake Greek, which won Outstanding Bakery/Cake Business, Nieos Grille Express, awarded Outstanding Fast Food/Takeaway – both testament to the strong Hellenic influence in Bayside’s thriving food scene. Roza Papas from First Education Mascot won the Youth Award.

The event once again highlighted the diversity and talent within the Bayside business community – from family-run eateries to innovators driving sustainability and inclusion.

Rediscovering Pontos: Where the spirit of Hellenism endures a century after the Genocide

The Greek Herald
-
0
Rediscovering Pontos: Where the spirit of Hellenism endures a century after the Genocide

By Constantine D. Vertzayias AM

Every visit to Asia Minor is a journey of discovery and, on the whole, a reconnection with our past. After collecting our hired car in Ankara, my daughter Dioni and I travelled east to Hattusha – the sprawling archaeological site of the Bronze Age Hittite Empire. In their cuneiform tablets we find the first foreign record of the Mycenaean Greeks.

Central Anatolia was also the home of the Phrygians and Lydians who have multiple Greek connections – Kings Midas and Croesus and the goddess Kyveli.

Our next stop was Amasya, the capital of ancient Pontos, which still retains its Greek name unchanged. The tombs of the Pontian kings, carved into the rock face high above the city, is the main attraction. Sadly, Amasya was the location of the mock trials in 1921 which resulted in the execution of about 450 prominent Greeks during the Genocide.

pontos (2)
pontos (2)
pontos (2)

Leaving Amasya, we bypassed Merzifon (whose famous Anatolia College was re-located to Thessaloniki after the Genocide) and headed towards Samsun (Sampsounda/ Amisos) where Kemal landed on 19 May 1919 to commence the Nationalists’ revolution. From the Greek perspective, the date commemorates the Pontian Genocide.

A superhighway connects a string of Pontian towns along the Black Sea coast – most of them founded by the Milesians about 2,800 years ago: Tsarsamba/ Terme (Themiskyra/ Thermai); Unye (Oinoe); Fatsa (Fadissa); Ordu (Kotyora); Bulanjak (Terastios) reaching Giresun (Kerasounda) where we stayed the night. An island off Giresun has the distinction of being the last Greek territory to fall to the Turks in 1468 as darkness completely enveloped the Greek world. There would be no free Greek entity anywhere for another 332 years.

From the heights of the Giresun Castle a breathtaking view is beheld of the city and coastline. Sadly, the mausoleum of Topal Osman, one of the monsters of the Genocide, is located in the vicinity.

pontos (2)
pontos (2)
pontos (2)

Leaving Kerasounda, we travelled inland to the small town of Tonya, about 70km southwest of Trabzon. This was the goal of our journey and proved to be the highlight of our trip – far exceeding our expectations.

Tonya (anc. Thoania but called Vari by the locals), in the Majka (Matzouka) region has a substantial number of Romeyka speakers. We found Tonya as a result of the work carried out by Prof. Ioanna Sitaridou (from Cambridge University) to document this archaic Greek language still spoken by some of the local inhabitants. We spent five emotional hours conversing (with difficulty), singing, drinking raki and dancing with Mehmet, Faruk, Ahmet and a full house of Taverna patrons. An exhilarating experience which will never be forgotten.

Romeyka speakers may also be found in the Ofi (Yarli/ Giga; Bolumlu/ Zisino); Tsaykara (Uzungol/ Sarahos); Surmene (Kujuk Doganli/ Arkhanghelos) and Rize districts.

The standout monument of Pontos is its disused world-famous monastery at Soumela, about 48km south of Trabzon. The UNESCO world heritage site, perched on the mountainside, is a spectacular sight even in ruin and with damaged frescoes. Indeed, the entire region – evergreen, gushing waters, misty, forested mountains and verdant valleys must be seen to be appreciated.

pontos (2)
pontos (2)
pontos (2)
pontos (2)

Leaving Sumela and heading further south are the towns of Gumushane (Aryiroupolis), and Sebin Karahisar (Koloneia/ Mavrokastron/Yarasari/ Nikopoli). Further west we find Mesudiye and Niksar (Neo Kesareia) – all with their own (almost) forgotten history.

Trabzon (Trapezounda) has much to see – befitting the capital city of an empire and where the Greeks had a commanding presence until 1922. It, too, has an AyaSofya – now a mosque again – on a superb location overlooking the coast; the Kizlar/ Panayia Theoskepastos Monastery at the foot of Boztepe; the Molla Siyak Mosque (Ayios Andreas); the Orta Hisar (Fatih) Mosque (Panayia Chrysokefalos); the Kustal/ Peristereota Monastery (30 km southeast of Trabzon – near the village of Simsirli) and Vazelon (40 km south of Trabzon).

In the city itself there is the Frontistirion – the most impressive surviving Greek building – now a prestigious Turkish high school; the Trabzon Museum – a confiscated Greek mansion and the Ataturk Pavilion – another confiscated mansion… and much more…

It is a testament to the resilience of Pontian Hellenism that, after more than 100 years of the Genocide and uprooting, the region’s population has adopted as its own the culture – music, dancing and costumes – of the original inhabitants.

‘Fertility & Filoxenia’ event fosters open dialogue in Melbourne’s Greek community

The Greek Herald
-
0
‘Fertility & Filoxenia’ event fosters open dialogue in Melbourne’s Greek community

On Sunday, November 9, members of the Hellenic Australian community gathered for a meaningful and heartfelt afternoon at Caffe Greco in Oakleigh. Organised by the Hellenic Medical Society of Australia (HMSA) and the Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM), the Fertility & Filoxenia event created a welcoming space for open conversation, learning and genuine connection.

Guided by filoxenia – the Greek principle of hospitality and kindness to all – the event went beyond a traditional seminar. Attendees were encouraged to speak candidly about topics such as fertility, family planning and the challenges of modern parenthood, in an atmosphere filled with care and compassion.

‘Fertility & Filoxenia’ event fosters open dialogue in Melbourne’s Greek community
‘Fertility & Filoxenia’ event fosters open dialogue in Melbourne’s Greek community
‘Fertility & Filoxenia’ event fosters open dialogue in Melbourne’s Greek community

The expert panel reflected the many dimensions of fertility: medical, emotional, nutritional, psychological and relational. 

Speakers included Dr Hector Georgiou (Fertility Specialist), Dr Spiri Katsenos (Perinatal Psychiatrist), Voula Koufariotis (Fertility Dietitian) and Dr Arete Koutreris (GP), with Dr Billy Stoupas (GP) moderating the discussion. Kristie Cocotis, Director of Health Programs at the Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education (FARE), also contributed insights on health initiatives such as ‘Every Moment Matters’.

‘Fertility & Filoxenia’ event fosters open dialogue in Melbourne’s Greek community

The panel explored fertility across the lifespan of both men and women, discussing how age, lifestyle and overall health influence the likelihood of conception. They explained when fertility testing can offer helpful clarity and when it may create unnecessary anxiety. 

Other topics included the importance of nutrition, mental health and wellbeing, as well as egg freezing as an empowering option for those not yet ready to start a family.

A recurring message throughout the afternoon was that fertility is about empowerment and informed choice, not pressure. The experts emphasised that early conversations around fertility are not about rushing into parenthood, but about understanding options so individuals and couples can make thoughtful, confident decisions about their future.

In Greek culture, family has deep significance, offering continuity and belonging across generations. The discussion reflected that supporting individuals and couples in their fertility journey is about shaping the generations to come, and nurturing the community’s shared future.

‘Fertility & Filoxenia’ event fosters open dialogue in Melbourne’s Greek community
‘Fertility & Filoxenia’ event fosters open dialogue in Melbourne’s Greek community

As the event concluded, attendees lingered over coffee and sweets, engaging in thoughtful dialogue and sharing personal reflections. Many left with not only clearer information, but also a renewed sense that fertility is a topic that touches many lives in meaningful ways.

Dr Hector Georgiou said, “it was a privilege to be part of a conversation that was real, heartfelt, and needed.”

“Seeing people engage so openly, ask questions, and share their experiences reminded me just how important it is to create spaces where fertility can be discussed without judgment.  Events like this help turn what can feel like a private struggle into a shared journey of learning and support,” Dr Georgiou added.

‘Fertility & Filoxenia’ event fosters open dialogue in Melbourne’s Greek community
‘Fertility & Filoxenia’ event fosters open dialogue in Melbourne’s Greek community
‘Fertility & Filoxenia’ event fosters open dialogue in Melbourne’s Greek community

Dr Athina Pirpiris (HMSA board member) said the highlight of the event was the community engagement generated through the ability to ask questions anonymously during the session. 

“Our aim was to inform and empower individuals to make the right decisions for themselves through the sharing of evidence-based information and professional experience. We felt that we have achieved that,” Dr Pirpiris said.

An attendee said the event was so useful and important.

‘Fertility & Filoxenia’ event fosters open dialogue in Melbourne’s Greek community

“The panelists were so sensitive, thoughtful and considered in their responses. We really appreciated this opportunity to attend and to learn from experts and hope there will be more such events,” they added.

The Hellenic Medical Society of Australia expressed its gratitude to its sponsors, including DBG, Greek Media Group, Genomic Diagnostics, Zaparas Lawyers, Mantzis Family Trust, Accountancy Group and Alex Bros Jewellers. The HMSA and GCM also extended thanks to their event partners – Caffe Greco, Melbourne IVF, Meleros, Healthy Empire and Moxie – for their generosity and support.

1...181182183...1,973Page 182 of 1,973

Stay connected:

Other

© 2024 The Greek Herald. All rights reserved.