Thousands of residents and tourists are fleeing Santorini as persistent seismic activity continues to rattle the popular Greek island. Over the past few days, more than 1,200 tremors have been recorded, with the strongest reaching a magnitude of 5.1.
The ongoing seismic swarm has led to growing anxiety, prompting around 10,000 people to leave, despite no official evacuation order being issued.
The sudden spike in departures has placed immense pressure on transport services. The Greek Coast Guard confirmed that more than 4,600 people have left by ferry since Sunday, February 2, while Aegean Airlines reported that nearly 1,300 people flew out of Santorini on Monday, February 3, alone. Additional flights have been scheduled to accommodate the demand, as ferry and flight bookings continue to surge.
Although no significant structural damage has been reported, authorities have taken precautionary measures. Schools on Santorini, Amorgos, Ios, and Anafi have been ordered to close until further notice, while emergency teams have been deployed as a precautionary step.
Photo: AFP / Getty Images.
The government has also instructed hotels and residents to empty swimming pools to prevent potential hazards in the event of stronger tremors.
Seismologists monitoring the situation have indicated that the current seismic activity is not linked to Santorini’s volcanic system but rather to nearby underwater faults. They warn that this pattern of tremors could persist for days or even weeks.
Santorini, one of Greece’s most renowned tourist destinations, is now facing uncertainty as the tremors disrupt daily life. While many residents and visitors have left, some tourists remain, experiencing an unusually quiet island.
Local businesses, already facing economic challenges, are concerned that prolonged uncertainty could severely impact tourism, especially with the peak travel season approaching.
As authorities continue to monitor the situation, residents and tourists remain on high alert. Officials are reassuring the public that they are prepared for any developments while urging caution.
Reports from Greek media outlets suggest that former Xanthi FC owner, Bill Papas (Vasilis Papadimitriou), has been sentenced to seven years in prison without parole by the Single-Member Misdemeanour Court of Xanthi. The ruling, issued on Friday, 31 January, was based on charges that, as the club’s owner, he failed to pay employees of the professional football team their wages and legally mandated bonuses, including Christmas and Easter gifts and holiday allowances.
This case marks the first major criminal trial against Papas in a Greek criminal court since he acquired Xanthi FC in 2020. The sentencing resulted from four separate cases heard at the Xanthi courthouse, involving a total of 20 different employees.
The trial saw several former employees testify, including head coach Nikos Kechagias, goalkeeping coach Alekos Maladenis, and longtime club caretaker Hussein Tsitak, who had been with Xanthi FC since the era of former owner Christos Panopoulos.
Despite these testimonies, some former administrative staff members appeared as witnesses for the defence, claiming they had been properly paid by Papas. Among them were ex-team manager Kostas Tsalikis, administrative employee Maria Alexopoulou, and club gardener Memet Tsetah. This reportedly left a negative impression on many of the unpaid employees in attendance. Other former workers who had been compensated before the club’s bankruptcy allegedly avoided attending the hearing altogether.
Papas did not appear in court Papas did not appear in court for the trial and was instead represented by an assistant lawyer from Thessaloniki. Notably, this lawyer stated that he was only representing Papas in one of the four cases, citing that the businessman did not have the financial means to secure legal representation for all four trials.
Imprisoned if found Under Greece’s new Penal Code, the ruling is immediately enforceable, meaning Greek police are required to arrest and imprison Papas if they locate him within the country. However, there is no confirmation of his current whereabouts, and it remains uncertain whether he is still in Greece or has left the country.
This is not the first time Papas has been sentenced for unpaid wages at Xanthi FC. Last year, he was sentenced to nine months in prison on similar charges, but this time, the ruling carries a much heavier sentence with no possibility of suspension.
Ongoing legal issues in Greece and Australia Beyond his troubles in Greece, Papas has been convicted in an Australian civil court for a massive fraud case involving hundreds of millions of dollars against Australian banks. However, this ruling remains at the civil level rather than criminal—though potential criminal proceedings could follow.
Due to the Australian case, the Greek Anti-Money Laundering Authority has frozen all of his assets in Greece for nearly three years, including his shares in the now-liquidated Xanthi FC.
While Papas is expected to file an appeal, Greek law dictates that any appeal will not suspend the execution of his sentence. This means that if found, he will be taken to prison immediately, regardless of the appeal process.
Having represented the diverse Melbourne electorate of Calwell for 24 years, Maria Vamvakinou MP will leave behind a lasting legacy of championing multiculturalism in Parliament.
After so many firsts—including being the first Greek-born woman to serve in Australia’s Parliament—now come the lasts. On this final visit to Canberra, she stays in the same room at the East Hotel—her second home.
Next Monday, she will take the floor for the last time to deliver her valedictory speech. This past Sunday, she introduced former senator Kim Carr at her final Arthur Calwell lecture at Patris, a multi-purpose venue set up by her daughter Stella Michael and Johnny Hasan, Vamvakinou’s Bangladeshi son-in-law.
Called Patris in honour of the ship that brought Vamvakinou to Australia, the venue embodies a rich tapestry of cultural heritage. It promises to be a hub of multicultural activities, offering unique events like Fish and Flaouna Fridays while fostering community connections through food and culture. Inside, retro armchairs from Vamvakinou’s own home set the tone. Walls are filled with artworks by Dr. Michalis Michael, Vamvakinou’s Cypriot husband, who has stood beside her as she battled in the political arena.
A family photo outside the soon-to-be-launched Patris. Dr Michalis Michael, Maria Vamvakinou, Stella Michael and Johnny Hasan. All photos by The Greek Herald / Mary Sinanidis.
A dinner dance invitation from the Patris, offered by Mary Elizabeth Calwell.
Former Senator Kim Carr talks about Arthur Calwell as Maria looks on.
Former senator Kim Carr, Kostas Karamarkos and Maria Vamvakinou.
Maria Vamvakinou’s successor Besem Abdo.
Maria Vamvakinou.
Mary Elizabeth Calwell points to photographs from her family collection.
Mary Elizabeth Calwell, the daughter of the legendary Labor leader Arthur Calwell, also gave a speech on Sunday. She then offered Vamvakinou a framed invitation from the Patris, the venue is named after. A photo collection on the wall featured moments from Arthur Calwell’s life, including a faded black-and-white picture of young Mary Elizabeth curtsying to Queen Elizabeth with former Prime Minister Ben Chifley and her father in the frame. There are photos of Bonegilla, from Calwell’s time as Minister for Immigration, who oversaw the creation of Australia’s expanded post-war immigration scheme.
“My father was very involved in the Greek community, he was always going to brotherhood meetings,” Mary Elizabeth remembers. “Greeks retained their identity but still became very active Australians. We attended lots of events, and we had Greek friends and went to a number of Greek Orthodox weddings.” Speaking of Greek friends, she looks to Vamvakinou.
Navigating multicultural Australia
Born in Lefkada, Greece, Vamvakinou migrated to Australia with her family in 1963 at the age of four. Her political journey began in high school, inspired by solidarity with classmates who were refugees. She initially pursued a career in teaching before making history as the first Greek-born woman elected to Federal Parliament.
“My background in teaching has helped me in this role,” she says, especially when it comes to achieving democratic consensus to drive change.
“I’ve learned that advocacy works. I think my teaching background constantly kicks in, and I hope to find a way to do that post-parliament. I know how to agitate, and I know how the system works, and I will continue to put that to use.”
Despite her reasonable demeanor, she has not shied away from challenges. “I’m not a Jacqui Lambie politician in terms of style. I believe you need to build consensus, especially around social cohesion and multiculturalism; and you need dialogue, especially bearing in mind the nature of the community I have represented in Parliament, especially following the stress of September 11.”
Mary Elizabeth Calwell and Maria Vamvakinou. Photo: The Greek Herald / Mary Sinanidis.
The community she represents is the largest Turkish constituency in Australia. “I am fascinated by the Australian community and the impact of migration, and that is my story as well. I am a product of what I have grown up with. And though I have strong views, I moderately pursue them because I believe in democratic consensus. People may disagree, but there is always common ground to be found,” she says, attributing this as the secret of her longevity. “Oh, and I also separate politics from humanity, looking at our similarities.”
Vamvakinou officially endorsed Basem Abdo, a Palestinian Australian, as her successor for the Calwell seat. With a deep understanding of international conflicts and strong ties to local communities, Abdo is poised to carry forward Vamvakinou’s legacy.
From Howard to Albanese
Reflecting on her years in politics, Vamvakinou noted the evolution of Australia through significant events, from the Howard era when she joined Parliament to contemporary challenges brought by Anthony Albanese. Her departure from Parliament marks the end of an era, but her influence on Australia’s multicultural landscape will be enduring.
She has enjoyed her role shaping Australia.
“I’m an Australian first,” she says. “If you had asked me this at 15, I may have said it the other way round, but I am a modern Australian.”
A quarter of a century in the political arena has changed her.
“As much as I didn’t want this job to define me, I think it has,” she says, remembering her 12-hour days in Melbourne and the community, attending after-hour requirements and working on the weekends.
“Imagine my children were six and eight, and now they are 30 and 32. It is a demanding role, and your family has to work around this. I really do want my time back.”
Mary Elizabeth Calwell adds some final touches to her speech. Photo: The Greek Herald / Mary Sinanidis.
That doesn’t mean she’ll sit idly by. Her daughter Stella says her mum is already eager to learn how to use the coffee machine at Patris.
“I suspect she’ll be here a lot,” Stella says.
Vamvakinou laughs when she hears this.
“I envision retirement where I set my diary and my own agenda. Apart from joining my daughter and being involved at Patris to bring conversation and dialogue to the venue, I also have family who live overseas, and my husband and I will go to Greece and Cyprus. We are already looking forward to this.”
She is also interested in doing a photography course and spending time with her first grandchild.
“I will still be involved in the community, however, because that’s just who I am. I’m not retiring from that. You haven’t seen the last of me.”
In a recent interview with AFR, Katrantzou who founded her eponymous label 15 years ago, reflected on her new role and the evolution of her collaboration with the luxury brand.
In her latest venture with Bulgari, Katrantzou has spent four years studying the brand’s heritage and culture before launching her debut collection of bags and silk scarves.
Her work with Bulgari began with high-jewellery collaborations and expanded into fragrance and accessories.
This has led to her signature “Calla” fan motif, inspired by Rome’s Terme di Caracalla, which now graces a range of luxury bags.
“There had to be a statement of intent,” Katrantzou explained, referring to her approach to the collection’s design.
Photo: Bulgari.
The new bags, including the Serpenti Duo tote and Serpenti Sugarloaf shoulder bag, feature meticulous embellishments and a fusion of high jewellery craftsmanship with leather goods.
“We’ve created special pockets within each category that feel almost like the ‘high jewellery’ of bags,” Katrantzou said, highlighting a $16,750 forest-green tote with a sequinned design that mirrors Bulgari’s iconic Tubogas spiral viper necklace.
Katrantzou’s personal touch is evident in her designs, such as the upcoming Ginkgo clutch, which reflects her admiration for the ginkgo leaf—a symbol of resilience and strength in South-East Asian cultures.
“It’s a more minimal approach, but in every drop, I want there to be more diverse offerings,” she said.
Balancing her own label and her Bulgari role, Katrantzou works from both Athens and Florence, managing a small team for her brand while collaborating with Bulgari’s larger development team.
Despite the challenges, she finds joy in the creative process, calling her current phase one of “highly creative instinct.”
With her vision now taking shape at Bulgari, Katrantzou continues to break new ground in both fashion and luxury accessories.
The family of Debbie Markey, one of the victims of a deadly car crash in Strathmerton, Victoria, has formally appealed the sentence given to Christopher Joannidis, the driver responsible for the collision that killed five people in April 2023.
Joannidis was sentenced to five-and-a-half years in prison however, he will be eligible for parole after serving just three years for causing the crash, which also claimed the lives of four foreign workers and Markey’s dog.
The incident occurred when Joannidis, on his way to a wedding, crashed into Markey’s ute, sending it into the path of a milk tanker. Markey, 62, and the four workers—Pin-Yu Wang, Hsin-Yu Chen, Wai-Yan Lam, and Zih-Yao Chen—were killed.
The crash was one of the deadliest in Victoria in over a decade. Joannidis had been warned earlier by police about the area’s road toll and was also issued a speeding ticket before the fatal incident.
The wreckage from Victoria’s worst collision in more than a decade. Photo: Ian Currie.
Debbie Markey’s son, Daniel Montero, expressed his outrage over the “insulting” sentence in a letter to the Director of Public Prosecutions, stating that the punishment did not reflect the gravity of Joannidis’ actions.
“We strongly believe that the sentence does not reflect the gravity of his actions,” Montero said. “Specifically, we wish to draw attention to the undue weight given to his mental health condition, OCD.” Montero clarified that Joannidis’ actions on the day of the crash were unrelated to his OCD.
Montero also shared a deeply emotional victim impact statement in court, describing the pain of losing his mother and the ongoing hardship for the victims’ families. “It has been an unbearable rollercoaster,” he said.
Retired homicide detective Charlie Bezzina has also criticised the sentence, calling it “absolutely disgusting.”
Videos shared by Montero online have garnered over 60,000 views, with many commenting on the perceived leniency of the justice system.
Montero stated, “There is a common perception that our justice system is soft, giving offenders a mere slap on the ‘wrist’.”
The Greek Community Cup 2025 concluded with two thrilling finals, showcasing the passion and quality of community football at Warner Reserve.
In an electrifying final, South Melbourne emerged victorious over Port Melbourne Sharks in a match filled with skill, resilience, and spectacular goals.
Both teams fielded youthful squads, and the opening minutes saw Port Melbourne create early opportunities, only to be denied by South Melbourne’s in-form goalkeeper. It was South who struck first in the 33rd minute, as Daniel Hudson capitalised on a well-worked attacking play. The Sharks responded swiftly, with Phillip Markovski finding the net to level the score at 1–1 by halftime.
All photos by Kostas Deves.
South Melbourne returned for the second half with renewed energy, quickly regaining the lead through a clinical finish. Their momentum continued as they extended their advantage to 3–1, seemingly putting the match out of reach. However, Port Melbourne refused to back down, reducing the deficit to 3–2 with a well-executed goal, igniting hopes of a comeback.
Just as the Sharks pressed for an equaliser, Thiery Papin delivered a moment of brilliance with a stunning long-range strike that curled into the top corner, sealing a 4–2 victory for South Melbourne. The match was a fitting finale to a remarkable tournament, with both teams demonstrating exceptional skill and determination.
The Shield Final saw Heidelberg and Bentleigh Greens face off once again, following their group-stage encounter where Heidelberg had secured a 3–1 win. Under sweltering conditions, the rematch was a fiercely contested battle.
The first half was a cautious affair, with both teams prioritizing defensive solidity. The breakthrough came midway through the second half when Heidelberg took a 1–0 lead. Bentleigh Greens, however, fought back relentlessly and found a dramatic equaliser just before full time, sending the game into a tense penalty shootout.
With the scores tied after the initial penalties, the contest moved into sudden death, where Heidelberg ultimately prevailed 7–6, lifting the Shield in dramatic fashion. The match was a testament to both teams’ resilience and composure under pressure, leaving the large crowd captivated until the very last kick.
The Greek Community Cup 2025 was a resounding success, celebrating the spirit of football and community. Congratulations to South Melbourne and Heidelberg for their hard-fought victories, and to all participating teams for making this year’s tournament an unforgettable event.
The Northern Territory’s first industrial manslaughter trial is set to investigate the 2020 death of 60-year-old Alan Dinning, who fell through a void at a Bayview construction site.
Witnesses from across Australia and Greece are expected to testify in the landmark case.
Contractor Craig Williams, charged with industrial manslaughter in March 2023, will face trial next month. This marks the first case of its kind in the NT Supreme Court since industrial manslaughter laws were introduced in 2020.
However, Nick Papas, from the Work Health Authority, said there was a “faint possibility” the case might be resolved before trial.
“For the moment we’re nowhere near that,” he stated.
Worksafe NT and the police investigated the fatal incident at a worksite in Bayview in April 2020. Photo: Che Chorley.
Defence lawyer Luke Officer suggested his client might consider pleading to a lesser charge, but noted that the two-year statute of limitations for non-manslaughter charges made it unlikely.
Justice Stephen Southwood also raised concerns about the complexity of the case, warning that the jury might struggle with the detailed facts.
Papas explained that the jury would be instructed on the employer’s duties and when a breach of duty leads to a fatality.
“If a duty fails to such a degree that it causes a death… then they’re guilty,” he said.
The trial will continue with a pretrial mention scheduled for February 17.
The Australian High Commissioner to Cyprus, Fiona McKergow, recently received a special literary delivery from Australia—Nick Thyssen: The Story of a Great Innovator to Remember, written by Professor Anastasios M. Tamis. The book was personally delivered by Stelios Angelodemou from Melbourne, marking another milestone in documenting the contributions of Greek and Cypriot Australians.
Professor Tamis, renowned for his work on the history of Greek and Cypriot communities in Australia, previously authored The Children of Aphrodite: Cypriots in Australia, which was launched in Cyprus by the High Commission in 2023. His latest book delves into the life and achievements of Nick Thyssen (Nikolaos Theodosiadis), a pioneering Greek Australian entrepreneur who left a lasting impact on Australia’s food industry.
Thyssen introduced Mediterranean-inspired fresh orange juice production to Victoria in 1959, providing an alternative to canned beverages. His innovative methods expanded into natural soups and fruit salads, bringing healthier options to Australian supermarkets, restaurants, hotels, hospitals, and even military establishments worldwide. His contributions significantly influenced the food industry, leaving behind a legacy of quality and innovation.
The book was officially launched in Melbourne on November 27, 2024, at the Arcadia Ballroom. The event featured prominent speakers, including former Victorian Premier Jeff Kennett AC, who highlighted Thyssen’s pioneering work and the invaluable role of his wife, Maureen, in their business success.
Nick Thyssen: The Story of a Great Innovator to Remember captures the resilience and determination of Greek migrants in Australia, exploring the challenges and triumphs they faced post-World War II. Through this biography, Professor Tamis continues his dedication to preserving the histories of Greek and Cypriot Australians, ensuring their contributions are recognised and remembered.
The Australian High Commission in Cyprus expressed enthusiasm for the book and looks forward to exploring Thyssen’s inspiring story further. His journey serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring connection between Australia, Greece, and Cyprus, and the lasting impact of Greek Australian entrepreneurs.
Registrations for the examinations for the 2025 Certificate of Attainment in Greek language are now open. The examinations for the 2025 Certificate of Attainment in Greek language will take place in May this year at the Greek Community of Melbourne, Examination Centre of Melbourne, Code No: 61007.
The Certificate of Attainment in Greek is the only national certificate, officially recognised by the Greek Ministry of Education and Religious Affairs, that confirms the knowledge of Greek as a foreign/second language, starting from A1, for children 8-12 years old, to C2.
Candidates who have reached the age of 8 on 31 May of the current year are eligible.
In particular, for level A1:
Those children who are not over 12 years of age on 31 May may sit the A1 level examinations for children aged 8-12 years
All children over 12 years of age on 31 May may sit the A1 level examinations for adolescents/adults.
There is no other age restriction for all other levels. It is recommended that candidates under the age of 16 should not seek to sit the B2, C1 and C2 level examinations, as the content of the examination questions requires knowledge and experience that younger candidates do not possess.
This environment gives candidates access to the May 2025 application and questionnaire. However, in extreme circumstances, if this is not possible, you can apply on a paper application form.
Applications for the examinations for the Certificate of Attainment in Greek 2024 will be accepted between February 1st and March 20th, 2025.
The examinations will take place:
on the 20th of May for Levels A1 and A2,
on the 21st of May for Levels B2 and C1 and
on the 22nd of May for Levels B1 and C2.
The candidates will be notified of the exact time & location of their examinations by March 31, 2025.
In order to complete their online registration (or paper where applicable), candidates are required to deposit the examination fees.
For Levels A1, A2 and B1, fees are 155 AUD each. For Levels B2, C1 and C2, fees are 170 AUD each.
(Rate January 30th, 2025, Reserve Bank of Australia).
Bank account details:
COMMONWEALTH BANK OF AUSTRALIA
Account Name: Greek Orthodox Community of Melb & Vic
BSB: 063 023
Account Number: 1004 3624
During the payment process, you must enter as “reference” the initials GLC followed by the full name of the candidate (e.g. if the candidate’s name is John Pappas, the reference must be GLC-John Pappas). Once your payment has been confirmed, the registration will be completed. Please, keep proof of the deposit, until you receive confirmation of your enrolment.
Santorini has been experiencing continuous seismic activity since Friday, January 31, with multiple tremors rattling the island and its surrounding areas.
The quakes, some exceeding a magnitude of 4.0, have been occurring at frequent intervals, prompting authorities to implement precautionary measures to ensure public safety.
The seismic activity has been concentrated between the volcanic islands of Santorini and Amorgos in the Aegean Sea. As a result, local authorities have ordered the closure of schools to minimise risks to students and staff.
Additionally, residents and visitors have been advised to remain in open spaces and avoid indoor areas, particularly in smaller, older structures that may be more vulnerable to damage.
Disaster response units have been deployed to key locations across the island as a precaution. While no significant damage or injuries have been reported so far, emergency services remain on high alert in case the situation escalates.
As the tremors continue, some temporary workers and visitors have chosen to leave the island. In response to heightened travel demand, Greece’s Civil Protection Ministry has coordinated with Aegean Airlines to schedule additional flights, ensuring that those who wish to depart can do so without major disruptions.
Photo: AP Photo / Petros Giannakouris.
Despite the ongoing earthquakes, Santorini’s permanent residents remain largely accustomed to seismic activity, given the island’s geological history. However, the frequency of these recent tremors has raised concerns among local officials and seismologists, who are closely monitoring the situation.
According to experts, the seismic disturbances could continue for several weeks. However, they emphasise that there is currently no indication of an imminent volcanic eruption, despite Santorini’s location within an active volcanic zone.
The recent quakes are believed to be part of a broader pattern of tectonic activity rather than a precursor to volcanic unrest.
Greek seismologists and international geological institutes continue to analyse the data to determine whether the activity is subsiding or if further precautions will be necessary in the coming days. The public is urged to stay informed through official channels and follow the guidance of authorities to ensure their safety.
As the situation develops, local officials and emergency teams remain vigilant, prepared to take further action if required. Meanwhile, Santorini’s tourism industry is monitoring the impact of the seismic activity, as the island prepares for the upcoming travel season.
For now, residents and visitors alike remain on edge as the tremors persist, hoping for a swift return to normalcy.
