The Cretan Association of Sydney & New South Wales brought its commemorative weekend to a warm and creative close with a sold-out Arkadi Monastery Paint Night at That Art Place in Carlton on Monday, 10 November.
The Sydney event formed part of the wider 159th anniversary commemorations of the Holocaust of the Arkadi Monastery.
Led by artist Andronika Troulis, the Paint Night offered participants a step-by-step creative experience inspired by the historic Arkadi Monastery – a symbol of Cretan courage and resistance.
The evening welcomed participants aged 13 and above, including international musicians from Crete – Vangelis Kimionis, Klearchos Manolioudis and Michalis Lymakis.
Attendees painted, danced, and shared stories in a relaxed atmosphere that celebrated intergenerational connection and the enduring pride of the Cretan diaspora. The studio transformed into a vibrant hub of art, music and cultural unity.
“My heart is full,” Ms Troulis said after the night.
“This event was especially meaningful for me, as both my parents hail from Crete. Having them there, alongside my daughter, and seeing other grandparents, parents and children – all painting, sharing stories, laughter and tradition – was incredibly moving.
“The studio was alive with music, dancing and heartfelt connection as participants compared their artworks and celebrated the spirit of unity that defines Cretan culture.
“My heart is full, watching families come together through art and keeping our traditions alive… Words can’t explain that feeling. I’m overwhelmed with emotion and feel so proud of my Cretan heritage.”
The Arkadi Monastery Paint Night was a joyful conclusion to a weekend of remembrance and reflection, highlighting how art and creativity can serve as powerful expressions of cultural memory and pride.
Sydney, get ready! The Greek Orthodox Community of NSW (GOCNSW) and the Greek Festival of Sydney is once again transforming Bay Street, Brighton-Le-Sands into a seaside celebration of culture, community, and summer spirit on Sunday 16 November 2025, from 11am to 10pm.
Expect a day bursting with live music, dance, food, and Greek hospitality – a true feast for the senses by the beach! With free admission and entertainment for all ages, the Greek Fest @ Bay Street is one of this summer’s must-attend community events.
Leading the day’s celebrations will be MC Anthony Locascio, one of Australia’s favourite Greek Australian comedians, bringing his signature humour, charm, and energy to keep the crowd laughing and celebrating all day long.
The festival will also spotlight incredible local Greek Australian talent, led by Thanasi Pylarinos of Bouzouki Entertainment. Enjoy performances by rising bouzouki star Kosta Benetatos, percussionist Damascus Economou, and DJ James Maestro, spinning the best mix of traditional hits and contemporary Greek dance anthems. Adding a soulful touch, Georgio Svolos on clarinet will fill the air with the nostalgic sounds of the Greek islands.
Throughout the day, IHO NYX and DJ Georgie D will keep the energy and rhythm alive, creating an atmosphere filled with excitement and a vibrant summer vibe.
And of course – it wouldn’t be a Greek festival without food! Bay Street will come alive with the aromas of sizzling souvlaki, juicy gyros, sweet loukoumades and many more. Visitors can indulge in authentic Greek flavours while enjoying live music and dance just steps from the beach.
Traditional culture will also take centre stage, with spectacular performances by the GOCNSW Dancing Group, the Pontian Brotherhood “Pontoxenitieas” of NSW, the Cretan Association of Sydney & NSW, Kalymnian Association of NSW Dance Group and many more – bringing colour, rhythm, and passion to the heart of Brighton-Le-Sands.
“This festival is a celebration of who we are – a vibrant community built on culture, connection, and care for one another,” Harry Danalis, President of the GOCNSW, said.
“The Greek Fest @Bay Street is not just for Greeks, but for everyone who wants to experience the warmth, energy, and hospitality that define our heritage.”
Nia Karteris, Chair of the Greek Festival of Sydney, added, “The Greek Fest @ Bay Street showcases the incredible local talent that makes our community so special. It’s also about celebrating our youth – the future of our community – by giving them the opportunity to perform and share their passion for Greek culture.”
NSW Minister for Multiculturalism and Member for Rockdale, Stephen Kamper, said: “I cannot wait to celebrate our amazing Greek culture, heritage, and cuisine at Greek Fest this week at Brighton-Le-Sands in the heart of my electorate.”
“Brighton-Le-Sands is filled with a large and vibrant Greek Australian community, and the Greek Fest will celebrate these traditions while sharing them with families from across Sydney,” Mr Kamper added.
“The Minns Labor Government is proud to support this year’s festival, and I encourage everyone to pop down on Sunday for some gyros and loukaniko, Greek music and dancing, and a great party!”
Bayside Mayor Edward McDougall added: “Greek culture has long been a cornerstone of Bayside’s identity – from the early families who settled here to the thriving businesses, cafes, restaurants, churches, and community organisations that enrich our daily life.”
“We are rightly proud that Brighton-Le-Sands has been the centre of Greek hospitality in Sydney for generations. Council continues to support this event, and it is wonderful to see this vibrant celebration of Greek food, culture, and entertainment back in Bayside – where it all began,” Mayor McDougall said.
“So grab your friends, bring the family, and join us for a full day of food, music, and dancing by the beach. Whether you come for the bouzouki, the loukoumades, or to have fun with friends – there’s something for everyone at the Greek Fest @ Bay Street, Brighton-Le-Sands!”
The Hellenic Writers’ Association of Australia (SELSA) proudly presented the 38th issue of its literary magazine “O Logos”, at an event held in Melbourne dedicated to acclaimed author Dionysia Mousoura.
The launch attracted a strong turnout from the Greek Australian literary community, marking another milestone for the long-standing publication which continues to champion Greek language and literature in Australia.
A moving tribute to Dionysia Mousoura
The main address of the evening was delivered by Dina Gerolymou, Author and Journalist, who presented the latest issue of O Logos with great success, engaging the audience with her eloquent remarks and thoughtful reflections on Mousoura’s contribution to contemporary Greek Australian writing.
Visibly moved, Mousoura expressed her gratitude to the organisers and readers, reflecting on her literary journey.
Distinguished speakers and contributors
Short addresses were also given by Evangelos Plokamakis, Vice President of SELSA, who served as MC; John Sachinidis, President of SELSA; Maria Triantafyllou, Deputy Coordinator of Education for Australia and New Zealand; and Paola Haidouli, Treasurer of SELSA.
Special acknowledgements were made to Evelina Karakasi, for the magazine’s captivating cover design, and Frixos Ioannidis, for his meticulous layout work, both of whom contributed to the professional quality of the publication.
Student Literary Competition Awards
The evening concluded with the presentation of awards for the Student Literary Competition, celebrating young writers who showcased their creativity and love for the Greek language.
Winners were as follows:
Primary School Category: Petra Dongiti
High School Category (Group Participation): Alexandra Barbagiannis, Maria Voudouris, and Angeliki Konstas
Senior High School Category: Eirini Katsouli
Awards were presented by Odysseas Kripotos, member of the evaluation committee, and Mr Sachinidis, President of SELSA. The winning works are published in this latest issue of O Logos.
Music and appreciation
The atmosphere was enriched with live music performances by Evangelia Baxa (mandolin and vocals) and Maria Andaras Dalamagas (accordion and vocals), adding a melodic touch to the celebration.
In closing, SELSA extended its heartfelt thanks to the sponsors of “O Logos” – the National Bank of Greece, Barton Sach Lawyers, Merri-bek Real Estate, and Socrates Tsourdalakis – whose generous support made the printing of the magazine possible once again this year.
The Australian Hellenic Council (AHC) of Western Australia has successfully reconvened after a period of inactivity, marking a new chapter of unity, cooperation and community focus for the state’s Greek organisations.
The General Meeting was held on 28 October, Greece’s National OXI Day, and brought together representatives from across Perth’s vibrant Hellenic community to discuss priorities and actions for 2026.
The meeting was chaired by lawyer, Evangelos Kakulas, who also serves as National President of the Australian Hellenic Council. In attendance were leading figures from several major organisations, including:
Apostolos Afkos OAM, President of the Hellenic Community of Western Australia and Vice-President of the AHC.
Savvas Papasavvas, President of the Australian Institute for Macedonian Studies (WA Chapter) and Coordinator of the Community’s Greek language program at Notre Dame University.
Nikolaos Konstantinou, President of the Cretan Association.
Sam Albanis, President of the Cypriot Community of Western Australia.
Kevin Kannis, President of the Castellorizian Association of WA.
Chris Athanasiou, President of the Florinian Brotherhood.
Along with representatives from Floreat Athena Football Club, Estia, and the Hellenic-Australian Cultural Association of WA.
Also present were AHC Board members Petros Sardelis and Pantelis Zafeiris, Treasurer Zak Chrysostomou, and Hellenic-Australian Association of Senior Citizens President Theodoros Sarris. The meeting was further supported by chemist and businessman Kostas Berbatis, a long-time advocate of the Council.
Call for renewed engagement
In his opening remarks, Mr Kakulas called on community representatives to reinvigorate their involvement in the Australian Hellenic Council and take a more active role in advocating for Hellenic education, culture and national issues.
“The promotion of Greek language learning and the systematic engagement with our national issues are entering a period of great trial at a pan-Australian level,” he said.
“The values of Greek civilisation – which formed the foundation of Europe – are being tested. We modern Greeks possess knowledge and progress, but we remain far from the education of values our forebears bequeathed to us.”
Together with Mr Afkos, he urged representatives to unite under the Council’s framework and “fulfil their duty as Greeks of the diaspora,” especially in Western Australia – the largest yet most geographically isolated state in the Commonwealth.
Key issues and priorities
The Assembly addressed several key topics, including the preservation of Greek language and culture, the status of Christian populations in Turkey, the Cyprus issue, and the implementation of the Prespa Agreement concerning North Macedonia.
This was the first democratically organised AHC meeting in Australia involving all Greek associations after a long hiatus in national coordination.
A call to all states
Reflecting on the broader challenges facing the diaspora, Mr Kakulas spoke candidly about the need for reform and stronger national communication.
“I sense a general complacency within the community – a state of inertia,” he said.
“No Chair of Hellenic Studies currently leads to a full degree; there is no Federation of Greek Communities ensuring national coordination; and our intercommunity communication has serious gaps. Visits from Greece often lack strategic value, and our consulates remain understaffed, with months-long delays for basic appointments.”
Despite these concerns, Mr Kakulas highlighted several reasons for optimism: “Our day schools continue to thrive and make us proud, as do our aged-care facilities. But as the first generation of Greek migrants ages, we must develop strategies to fill the gap they leave behind.”
He concluded with a nationwide call to action: “I urge our compatriots in every state to follow Perth’s example – convene general assemblies, elect new members of the Australian Hellenic Council, and reunite once again in Canberra for a Pan-Australian General Assembly, so we may continue from where we left off.”
The Hellenic Women’s Network VIC – HELIADES Inc, EEAMA, AHEPA Victoria and ESTIA have proudly concluded the second part of their highly successful lecture series featuring distinguished Greek Psychologist, Family Counsellor and Author, Tenia Makri.
More than 200 attendees gathered to hear Mrs Makri deliver her thought-provoking talk on “The influences that make us who we are – heredity, the role of parents, and social and cultural factors.”
Her insightful presentation captivated the audience, offering profound reflections on the psychological and emotional forces that shape identity and relationships within families and communities.
Organisers praised Mrs Makri’s “depth of knowledge and magnetic presentation style,” noting her ability to connect deeply with the audience through her warmth, wisdom and humour.
“We thank you wholeheartedly, Mrs Makri, for bringing and sharing with us the light of wisdom from the country of light and civilisation – our beloved homeland, Greece,” said a joint statement from the organising bodies.
Many attendees remarked they had long admired Mrs Makri from Greek television, and felt privileged to finally meet her in person during her Australian tour.
“It was a joy to listen to her, to engage with her insights, and to absorb the beauty and significance of all she shared,” organisers added.
As part of her program, Mrs Makri also offered an additional lecture on Monday, November 10, at the Aetolian Greek School of Yarraville, specifically tailored for students, parents and friends of the school community.
The collaborating organisations – EEAMA, AHEPA, Estia and HELIADES – extended their warmest wishes to Mrs Makri for a safe journey home and expressed their hope for future collaborations.
“Your visit has left a lasting impression on Melbourne’s Greek community,” said Niki Matziaris-Garay OAM, President of HELIADES. “We look forward to welcoming you again soon.”
Oakleigh Grammar students have proudly honoured the Greek language and culture by excelling in two significant cultural and educational competitions.
Participation in competitions dedicated to the Greek language and culture provides students with a meaningful opportunity to celebrate and preserve their heritage. Through these experiences, students strengthen their language skills, deepen their understanding of Hellenic history and values, and feel proud of their identity and cultural roots.
Once again, students of Oakleigh Grammar achieved excellent results in the annual Australian Hellenic Memorial Student Competition. Students from Years 5, 6 and 7 participated enthusiastically in this important competition, which encourages young learners to explore Greece’s role in World War II, focusing on historical events such as the Greek Campaign, the involvement of the ANZACs in Greece, and the Battle of Crete.
The competition is open to all Victorian schools where Greek is taught, offering students from Year 1 to Year 12 the opportunity to engage with significant chapters of shared Greek and Australian history.
The award ceremony took place on Saturday, October 18, at the Australian Hellenic Memorial, where Oakleigh Grammar students achieved impressive results and specifically receiving First and Second Place in the Secondary Category, Second Place in the Primary Category, and nine Encouragement Awards for their efforts. Students demonstrated that a love for language and history can inspire thoughtful research, reflection, and creativity.
Equally impressive were the results at the 13th Greek Student Film Festival, where Year 8 students presented two short films in the Secondary School Category, proudly winning First and Second Place.
The festival, organised by the Greek Film Festival, the Greek Community of Melbourne, the Education Office of the Consulate General of Greece in Melbourne, the Department of Education and Training, and the Modern Greek Teachers’ Association of Victoria, gave students the opportunity to express themselves creatively in Greek through the art of filmmaking.
This year’s theme, “Democracy,” inspired students to explore a timeless concept deeply connected to Hellenic values with imagination and reflection. Their creativity, teamwork, enthusiasm, and passion for the Greek language and culture led them to these outstanding results.
Oakleigh Grammar warmly congratulates all students for their dedication, effort, and talent. These achievements demonstrate that the Greek language and culture remain alive and continue to inspire new generations to carry forward the Hellenic tradition with love and pride in Australia.
Fourteen years after launching Throwback out of a 10-square-metre storeroom at a local basketball gym, founder Michael Lazaris is turning a long-held dream into reality by moving into a 2000sqm heritage warehouse at 100 William Lane, Alexandria, a space with a deeply personal history.
The property, leased with the assistance of John Skufris of RWC South Sydney, isn’t just any warehouse. It was once the training facility and head office of the Sydney Kings, the same space where Michael’s father, Andrew Lazaris, helped build one of Australian basketball’s greatest success stories in the late 1990s.
“I had my 10th birthday in this building,” Michael said. “Thirty years later, I’m moving my business into the same warehouse where my dad once ran the Kings. We walked through it together the other day, and he was pointing out where his office used to be. It’s a full-circle moment.”
Andrew, a pioneer in Australian sport and recipient of the Order of Australia Medal, was a co-founder of the Sydney Kings and part of the first private consortium to own a professional sporting team in Australia, a structure inspired by American sports ownership, particularly in basketball. His passion for grassroots development has spanned over five decades, and that influence has clearly shaped his son’s journey.
Michael’s own story began with a background in graphic design and a love for basketball.
“One day the idea just hit me, I converted an old storeroom at the gym into a little shop. It was 10 square metres,” he said.
That shop became Throwback, launched officially on 11/11/11, with his mum as his first employee. “She still runs the books 14 years later. We’ve never had investors, just reinvested every dollar and built it steadily.”
From that modest start, Throwback has grown into Australia’s leading basketball lifestyle brand and custom teamwear supplier. Its flagship 250sqm store in Darlinghurst had become a destination for hoop enthusiasts, with the company blending retail, culture, and community like few others.
“For the past decade, we’ve led basketball retail in the country,” Michael said. “We play an important role in giving brands cultural credibility. If it’s in Throwback, people know it’s cool. That stamp of approval adds serious value because we are authentic.”
The Alexandria move represents more than just a business expansion. Throwback is relocating from a 500sqm space into a purpose-built 2,000sqm headquarters that will house its retail operations, warehousing, and office functions under one roof.
“This isn’t just a workspace,” Michael said. “We’re creating an ecosystem, a fully immersive space for basketball culture. There’s going to be a café, experiential retail zones, and even a training facility.”
The centrepiece of the space is a 1990s-era basketball court, an iconic piece of Australian basketball history, once owned by NBA champion Luc Longley, who played alongside Michael Jordan on the Chicago Bulls. The court had been sitting in storage for two decades before Michael negotiated a deal with the Sydney Kings to bring it back to life. The rings, well they’re the original rings from the Sydney 2000 Olympics!
“I’m laying the court this week,” he said. “It’s the same surface the Kings trained on, and now it’s going to be seen, used, and celebrated again. There’s huge demand in Sydney for unique courts like this, we already have a dozen groups lining up to lease it.”
Michael is personally overseeing much of the fit-out using his own skills.
“I’ve done it in a really creative way, and we’re building something special, not just retail, but a destination,” he said. “We’ve even got a dedicated Jordan area. We’ve had a Nike account for eight years, and with Jordan retros being reintroduced to our assortment we were able to creative the ultimate experience.”
The timing couldn’t be better, with the NBA & NBL seasons under way. The new Alexandria headquarters is already generating buzz in the basketball community, and Michael hints at more surprises to come, including a planned Sydney Kings reunion.
“Some of the 90s legends have already dropped by. Seeing their reaction when they recognise the space, it’s been amazing,” Michael said. “They probably never thought they’d step foot in here again. And now, it’s not just about memories, it’s about building the future of the game.”
The Greek Book Fair is back with the 2025 edition to be held at the Greek Centre on Saturday, 6 December 2025.
Greek Book Fair ‘25 brings together writers, publishers and book retailers from across our community promoting publications from Greek and Greek Australian authors and publishers.
Visitors to the event will have the chance to meet with authors and browse a wide range of books in Greek and English that cover contemporary fiction, poetry, history and children’s publications.
With the festive season approaching, the Greek Book Fair is the perfect opportunity to choose a meaningful Christmas gift for friends and family – one that celebrates culture, language, and imagination.
Entry is free, and everyone is welcome to attend!
Authors, publishers & retailers interested in trading at Greek Book Fair ‘25 are invited to register at https://www.trybooking.com/DGEQS.
Aviation Online has announced its appointment as the official General Sales Agent (GSA) for AEGEAN Airlines, the largest carrier in Greece, in Australia and New Zealand. The agreement also includes the subsidiary airline, Olympic Air.
The partnership will strengthen sales and marketing representation of AEGEAN Airlines in the region, supporting at the same time the growing demand for travel to Greece and the broader Mediterranean region.
The partnership enables AEGEAN Airlines to establish dedicated local sales, marketing, and trade support, giving travel advisors in Australia and New Zealand direct access to the airline’s expanding network, award-winning onboard product, and leading connectivity through Athens.
Konstantinos Panoras, AEGEAN Regional Sales Manager AMEAA, praised the partnership.
“Australia and New Zealand have long been key markets for AEGEAN Airlines, and we are pleased to appoint Aviation Online as our on-the-ground representative to support these markets,” Mr Panoras said.“We recognise the significant growth potential in the region and the sustained demand for Greece as a preferred destination.”
Anthony Cassar, Managing Director, Aviation Online, added: “AEGEAN Airlines is a well-respected European carrier and member of the Star Alliance with an exceptional network into Greece and beyond. We are very happy to represent AEGEAN Airlines and excited to help grow the presence in Australia and New Zealand.”
AEGEAN Airlines is a BSP Australia member, with plans to join the New Zealand BSP soon.
Oakleigh Grammar students and staff gathered on Tuesday morning at Saints Anargiri Church for a moving Remembrance Day Service, honouring all who have served and sacrificed for peace and freedom.
The assembly offered the school community a moment to reflect, remember, and pay tribute to those who gave their lives in service.
The service began with the ceremonial entrance of a wreath, carried by Larissa (Year 6) and Chris (Year 5), followed by an Opening Prayer and Doxology led by School Chaplain and Parish Priest Father Stavros Kakavas.
Raksa (Year 10) welcomed the community, highlighting the significance of Saints Anargiri Church, one of Australia’s few War Memorial Churches, dedicated in 1973 to honour Australians and Greeks who fought and died for freedom.
Students shared reflections throughout the service, offering insight into the history and symbolism of Remembrance Day. Jack and Gia (Year 9) spoke about the origins of the day, while Sienna (Year 11) and Filip (Year 7) explained the meaning of the red poppy.
Sebastian and Adriana (Year 4) read “The Inquisitive Mind of a Child”, and Jasmine (Year 3) delivered the Ode of Remembrance.
The ceremony concluded with the Last Post, a minute of silence, the Rouse, and the singing of the Australian National Anthem, before the wreath was carried to the School’s ANZAC Memorial by student representatives, Executive Team and Father Stavros.
Reflecting on the service, Principal Mark Robertson emphasised the importance of pausing to remember and honour the sacrifices of those who served.
Oakleigh Grammar was also represented on Sunday, November 9 at the Oakleigh and District War Memorial Remembrance Service, with SRC Coordinator and Hellenic Culture Coordinator Natasha Spanos attending on behalf of the Battle of Crete Committee. The school’s participation demonstrates its ongoing connection to the local community and commitment to preserving the memory of those who served.
Through both services, students and staff paid tribute with respect and gratitude, commemorating the courage, resilience, and dedication of all who contributed to peace and freedom.
