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Oakleigh Grammar top performer in VCE Greek recognised

The Greek Herald
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Oakleigh Grammar top performer in VCE Greek recognised

Oakleigh Grammar is celebrating the top performer in VCE Greek Language, with Nathanael Anastasiou in Year 11 achieving a remarkable study score of 47 in the subject.

For his outstanding achievement, Nathanael received the inaugural Philanthropic Society Nomoy Kavalas Agios Silas Award.

This new award was generously established by the Philanthropic Society Nomoy Kavalas Agios Silas, with the aim of recognising the top performing VCE Greek Language student and award a sponsorship of $1000 each year.

Nathanael received the inaugural award at Oakleigh Grammar from Society President Peter Ploutos and Treasurer John Vouros.

It’s a landmark achievement for Nathanael and the establishment of the Award reflects the role that Oakleigh Grammar continues to play in preserving and strengthening Hellenic culture in the local community.

Alphington Grammar celebrates outstanding VCE results for the Class of 2025

The Greek Herald
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Alphington Grammar celebrates outstanding VCE results for the Class of 2025

Alphington Grammar School is celebrating an exceptional set of VCE results for the Class of 2025, with the cohort achieving a median study score of 31 and demonstrating strong academic excellence across a broad range of subjects.

This year’s top ATAR was an impressive 99.3, earned by school Dux George Mouratidis, placing him in the top 1% of students statewide. George excelled across English, Chemistry, Mathematical Methods, Specialist Mathematics and Physics, and achieved a perfect study score of 50 in General Mathematics. He aspires to study a Commerce/Engineering double degree at the University of Melbourne.

The Dux Proximus, Raphael Young, also delivered an outstanding performance with an ATAR of 98.45. Raphael hopes to pursue Biomedicine at the University of Melbourne.

Across the cohort, Alphington Grammar students achieved:

  • Top ATAR: 99.3
  • Median ATAR: 73.5
  • Median Study Score: 31
  • 40% of students scoring an ATAR above 80
  • 17% scoring an ATAR above 90

In addition, 15.65% of students achieved study scores of 40 or above – a benchmark of academic distinction. Two students, Mannon Verma and Samuel Lavercombe, achieved perfect 50s in General Mathematics and Software Development respectively.

Students received study scores above 40 in more than half the subjects offered, including Accounting, Chemistry, Greek, Business Management, Health and Human Development, English, Physics, Legal Studies, Mathematical Methods, Applied Computing, and multiple Music subjects.

Principal Dr Vivianne Nikou said the results reflected not only academic strength but also the well-rounded character of the graduates.

“These results reflect the diverse talents of our students, who not only excel academically but also contribute richly to our school community through social justice, philanthropy, leadership, House and School events, Music and the Performing Arts,” Dr Nikou said.

She noted that many students balanced part-time work, sport and community commitments alongside their studies, demonstrating resilience and a holistic approach to success.

“To the Class of 2025, I extend my sincerest congratulations on your achievements, both as individuals and as a cohort. As you embark on your next steps, we wish you every success in your chosen pathways,” she said.

Alphington Grammar says it looks forward to seeing the many ways in which this year’s graduates will use their talents “for the greater good” as they begin the next chapter of their lives.

St. Andrew’s Grammar unveils the Bianca Afkos Science and Technology Centre

The Greek Herald
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St. Andrew’s Grammar unveils the Bianca Afkos Science and Technology Centre

A new era looms for the legacy of St. Andrew’s Grammar with Thursday’s unveiling of the $9 million Bianca Afkos Science and Technology Centre.

The state-of-the-art facility is designed to inspire innovation and excellence across science, technology, and the arts.

The Centre has been supported by an $800,000 Federal Government grant, a $500,000 donation from the Afkos family and a $360,000 grant from the Stavros Niarchos Foundation in Greece.

This investment ensures students can access advanced equipment, modern learning environments, and expanded curriculum opportunities much earlier than originally planned.

The Centre was officially opened by WA Senator Sue Lines, on behalf of Dr Anne Aly, Minister for Small Business, International Development and Multicultural Affairs.

Paul Afkos and MPs
Front row: L-R – Paul Afkos (HCWA President), Craig Monaghan (St. Andrews Grammar principal), Senator Dean Smith, Eleni Evangel- School Board Chair, Senator Sue Lines, Mark Irwin – Mayor City of Stirling. Back row: Basil Zempilas – WA Liberal Leader.

The project includes a design and technology workshop, a modern science laboratory, a dance and drama studio complete with integrated stage, six spacious classrooms, changing rooms, storage areas, three offices and a dedicated staff space.

Students will now have access to next-generation robotics, specialised science equipment, and purpose-built performance spaces, strengthening the school’s multidisciplinary approach to learning and immediately lifting the quality and breadth of programs available from Term 1 next year.

Principal Craig Monaghan says the project represents a defining step forward in the school’s growth and commitment to world-class education.

STEM aerial 1
STEM aerial.

“The opening of our Science and Technology hub marks a significant moment in the history of St. Andrew’s Grammar,” Mr Monaghan said.

“This cutting-edge infrastructure places us among the State’s leading education providers when it comes to facilities of this calibre. Every element has been thoughtfully designed to support student growth, creativity, and success.”

Upgrades to the school’s traffic management have also been completed, with 78 new parking bays and an extended Kiss and Drive area providing smoother and safer traffic flow during drop-off and pick-up times.

Head Girl - Sejal Karthik
Head Girl – Sejal Karthik.
Bianca Afkos sign
Bianca Afkos sign.

CEO of the Hellenic Community of Western Australia (the school’s governing body), and a former student of the school himself, Paul Savvas, said he is thrilled about the looming opportunities the Centre will create for students.

“The Bianca Afkos Science and Technology Centre stands as a symbol of St. Andrew’s Grammar’s commitment to preparing our students for the world beyond school,” Mr Savvas added.

Tours of the new facilities will commence from 19 January 2026 for interested parents and community
members.

Sydney’s Discobolus Monument added to State Heritage Register

The Greek Herald
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Sydney’s Discobolus Monument added to State Heritage Register

An iconic symbol of the Sydney 2000 Summer Olympics, the Discobolus Monument, has been added to the State Heritage Register.

The Minns Labor Government is recognising, protecting, preserving and promoting the people, groups, places and events which have contributed to the state’s rich heritage. Heritage listings on the State Register tell the incredible history of NSW.

Created by artist Robert Owen, the Discobolus Monument Moveable Heritage Group comprises multiple elements, including a distinctive seven-metre-wide disc sculpture, a stone wall, cypress and olive trees, as well as marble plaques linked to the families that supported the initiative before its installation.

Discobolus Monument. Photo: Heritage NSW.
Discobolus Monument. Photo: Heritage NSW.
Discobolus Monument. Photo: Heritage NSW.

The elements were installed at Sydney Olympic Park ahead of the Olympics as a tribute to the Games’ Greek roots.

Made from glass and eight tonnes of stainless steel, the disc symbolises the original discus thrower, Castor, metaphorically hurling a discus from ancient Greece to Sydney’s Olympics. The disc also resembles a CD-ROM – a nod to technology and the culture of the era.

The grove of olive and cypress trees surrounds the disc as a living link between Sydney Olympic Park and the first Olympics and the goddess Artemis.

The work of art joins the Sydney Olympic Cauldron as another monument in Sydney Olympic Park on the State Heritage Register.

The listing requires the Discobolus Monument Moveable Heritage Group to be retained and maintained within Sydney Olympic Park.

Discobolus Monument. Photo: Heritage NSW.
Discobolus Monument. Photo: Heritage NSW.

The Greek Herald understands that any works that fall outside existing exemptions will require approval under the Heritage Act 1977.

If a future relocation proposal meets the activities, standards and conditions outlined in the site-specific exemptions, no additional approval under the Heritage Act would be necessary and the works may proceed, although other processes – such as local council approvals – may still apply.

The owner has also committed to working closely with stakeholders in the development of any future plans for the Group.

In related information, the time capsule installed in Stockroute Park is not included in the heritage listing, as inclusion on the State Heritage Register would prevent it from being opened. However, the owner has pledged to retain the time capsule and ensure it remains co-located with the Discobolus artwork.

Minister for Heritage, Penny Sharpe, said: “The 2000 Olympics was one of the great moments in Sydney’s history and 25 years later we are adding the Discobolus Monument and connected elements to the State Heritage Register.”

“This eye-catching piece is more than art. It symbolises a connection to the Games and is a tribute to our Greek community,” Minister Sharpe added.

“The Olympic Games are one of Greece’s greatest gifts to the world, and this monument reflects the pride Sydney’s Greek community takes in that legacy.

“Thank you to everyone who contributed to funding this sculpture and the elements around it more than 25 years ago. You will be forever cherished on the State Heritage Register.”

Member for Parramatta, Donna Davis, said: “It’s wonderful to add another item from the Parramatta electorate to the State Heritage Register. Parramatta is such a vibrant multicultural community and those with Greek heritage and sports enthusiasts alike will be thrilled to know this unique item will be looked after as a place of high significance right across the state.”

For information about State Heritage Listings, visit www.environment.nsw.gov.au/topics/heritage/search-heritage-databases/state-heritage-inventory

Greece’s new Eurogroup leader sets sights on Australia visit in early 2026

Andriana Simos
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Greece’s new Eurogroup leader sets sights on Australia visit in early 2026

Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM) President Bill Papastergiadis OAM has congratulated Greek Finance Minister Kyriakos Pierrakakis on his election as president of the Eurogroup – and revealed that the newly elected European leader hopes to visit Australia as early as next year.

Pierrakakis’ victory on Thursday, defeating Belgian Finance Minister Vincent Van Peteghem, marks the first time a Greek politician has taken the helm of the Eurogroup, a milestone that comes 16 years after Greece’s debt crisis and only a decade after fears the country might be forced out of the eurozone.

For Papastergiadis, the news carries both national and personal significance.

“I am very proud that my good friend, Greek Finance Minister Kyriakos Pierrakakis, was on Thursday elected president of the Eurogroup,” he told The Greek Herald, describing the moment as a powerful symbol of Greece’s recovery.

But in a development with strong implications for Australia’s Greek community, Papastergiadis revealed that Pierrakakis is already looking ahead to strengthening ties with the diaspora.

“We also spoke about him visiting Australia early next year,” Papastergiadis said. “He said to me ‘Bill, I am intrigued by Australia. I’ve heard a lot about the GCM and definitely want to come early to mid 2026. Let’s talk and arrange it’.”

Papastergiadis confirmed he has been in regular contact with Pierrakakis’ chief of staff since their October meeting, particularly concerning progress on the long-awaited Double Taxation Agreement between Greece and Australia. He praised Pierrakakis’ swift and pragmatic approach during their recent discussions.

“Kyriakos is a tireless advocate and leader who is currently working with us on a number of initiatives in Australia on multilateral agreements including the Double Taxation Agreement,” he said.

“In just a short meeting with him recently, he quickly made progress with the bureaucrats of both countries. There are some stumbling blocks but his decisive leadership is one that will surely lead to a successful outcome.”

Pierrakakis, 42, is regarded as one of New Democracy’s most dynamic figures, credited with major digital reforms that modernised Greek public services. Reflecting on Greece’s turbulent past, he said, “Greece withstood,” describing his election as a testament to public resilience and European solidarity.

He has pledged to “work to keep the Eurogroup a body of unity and shared purpose.”

His victory was welcomed by Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, who called it “a day of pride for the country” and “the most emphatic recognition of our country’s positive course… exactly a decade since the country found itself on a cliff-edge.” Mitsotakis added that Greece, “the former ‘black sheep’ of debt,” had now risen to a leading position in Europe.

For Papastergiadis, Pierrakakis’ election – and his intention to visit Australia – represents a meaningful opportunity to strengthen cooperation across continents.

Kyriakos Pierrakakis elected Eurogroup President in symbolic win for Greece

The Greek Herald
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Kyriakos Pierrakakis elected Eurogroup President in symbolic win for Greece

Greek Finance Minister Kyriakos Pierrakakis has been elected president of the Eurogroup, a remarkable development given Greece’s near-expulsion from the eurozone only ten years ago.

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis hailed the result as “a day of pride for the country” and “the most emphatic recognition of our country’s positive course… exactly a decade since the country found itself on a cliff-edge.”

He added that Greece, “the former ‘black sheep’ of debt,” has now risen to a leading position in Europe thanks to the sacrifices of its people.

Pierrakakis, 42, a rising figure in New Democracy, is known for major digital reforms during his previous ministerial roles.

Reflecting on Greece’s past crisis, he said, “Greece withstood,” calling his election a testament to public resilience and European solidarity. He pledged to “work to keep the Eurogroup a body of unity and shared purpose.”

Source: AP News

Outstanding VCE Greek achievements highlight excellence at GCM Schools

The Greek Herald
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Outstanding VCE Greek achievements highlight excellence at GCM Schools

The Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM) Schools have announced the outstanding achievements of their students in this year’s VCE Greek examinations.

Once again, the majority of students demonstrated strong dedication and performance. Specifically, 51% achieved a score of 35/50 or higher, while 21% excelled with a score of 40/50 or above, before scaling. In addition, 81% of GCM students secured a score of 30/50 or higher, reaffirming the high academic standards of the organisation.

Maria Bakalidou, Principal of the GCM Schools, praised the students’ efforts, stating: “These results are a testament to the hard work, resilience, and passion our students bring to their learning each day.”

“We are immensely proud of their achievements and deeply grateful to our dedicated teachers who guide and inspire them. The success of our students reflects the strength of our programs and our ongoing commitment to high-quality Greek language education,” Mrs Bakalidou said.

The GCM extends its warmest congratulations to all students for their hard work and perseverance, and to the educators for their invaluable contribution.

With a strong sense of responsibility, the Community remains committed to further promoting and strengthening the Greek language, and to nurturing the connection with Greek culture among younger generations.

The Greek Herald Christmas Gift Guide 2025

The Greek Herald
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The Greek Herald Christmas Gift Guide 2025

The festive season is here, and with it comes the joy of finding gifts that feel thoughtful, meaningful, and connected to who we are. This year, The Greek Herald celebrates the rich tapestry of Greek culture, creativity, and craftsmanship with a curated guide showcasing businesses that honour tradition while offering something fresh for today’s families. From handcrafted homewares and luxurious beauty essentials to bilingual children’s gifts, heritage-inspired candles, gourmet delights and cookbooks, these selections bring the warmth of Greece into every Australian home.

Whether you’re shopping for family or friends our 2025 Christmas Gift Guide is designed to help you discover gifts that inspire connection, celebrate heritage, and spark joy this festive season.

Oasis Coffee

Oasis Coffee ensures your gift is both thoughtful and memorable.

A beloved staple of Greek-Australian homes for generations, Oasis Coffee has perfected the flavours of traditional Greek coffee, becoming synonymous with comfort, hospitality, and shared moments around the kitchen table. Their blends are crafted with deep respect for heritage, offering rich aromas and smooth brews that instantly evoke memories of family gatherings and long conversations.

This year’s highlight is the OASIS 4-Piece Gift Set – a beautifully curated package including a 500g bag of signature pulverised coffee, a Santorini Blue Airscape Canister, and two 100% cotton tea towels. It’s practical, generous, and ideal for anyone who loves the ritual of a fresh Greek coffee paired with a festive spread.

For game lovers, Oasis also offers their Traditional Tavli Board and Travel Size Tavli Board – vibrant, durable boards designed for spirited matches with family and friends. Stylish and nostalgic, they make unforgettable gifts for all ages.

Oasis Coffee brings together flavour, tradition and craftsmanship, making it the perfect choice for Christmas gifting this year.

Website: oasiscoffee.com.au │ Instagram: @oasiscoffee │ Facebook: Oasis Greek & Turkish Style Coffee

Miss Ble Blu

Miss Ble Blu brings the heart of Greece to Australia through authentic gifts, home décor, and handcrafted treasures.

A Melbourne-based boutique with a passion for Greek craftsmanship, Miss Ble Blu curates a stunning collection sourced directly from Greek artisans and small family-run workshops. Their range balances tradition with contemporary aesthetics, offering meaningful pieces that bring culture into everyday life.

Their signature offerings include beautifully crafted Monogram Atelier icons, Fire Glass Art hand-blown baubles, personalised creations, and the beloved Original Wave Frappe Glass, which has become an iconic staple in Greek-Australian homes. Each item is selected with intention, ensuring authenticity, artistic detail, and cultural significance shine through.

During the festive season, Miss Ble Blu becomes a destination for those seeking gifts that evoke nostalgia, faith, and warmth. From decorative pieces and home décor to spiritual keepsakes and artisan-made collectibles, their range caters to every age and taste, making gifting deeply personal.

Elegant, meaningful, and proudly Greek, Miss Ble Blu offers gifts that connect generations and celebrate heritage with style.

Website: missbleblu.com │ Instagram: @missbleblu │ Facebook: Miss Ble Blu

Fetolia – Greek Inspired Scarves

Fetolia celebrates timeless elegance through luxurious silk scarves that merge art, culture, and craftsmanship.

A wearable expression of individuality, sophistication, and creativity, Fetolia’s silk scarves stand at the intersection of fashion and art. Each piece is meticulously designed to tell a story, drawing inspiration from Mediterranean colour palettes, Greek history, and artistic expression. Fetolia is more than an accessories brand – it is a celebration of identity and a testament to the power of personal style.

Each scarf is crafted from premium silk and finished with exquisite attention to detail, making it the perfect accessory for any occasion. Whether worn to elevate eveningwear, styled casually for everyday elegance, or gifted to someone with an appreciation for fine craftsmanship, a Fetolia scarf leaves a lasting impression.

Loved by art enthusiasts and fashion connoisseurs alike, Fetolia pieces transcend trends. Their designs hold timeless appeal, making them beautiful heirlooms to be worn, cherished, and passed on.

For Christmas gifting, Fetolia offers a refined, luxurious option that feels both thoughtful and deeply personal.

Website: fetolia.com │ Instagram: @fetolia.au | Facebook: Fetolia

Nurse Renee

Nurse Renee blends clinical expertise with a passion for skincare, delivering beauty products designed to elevate everyday self-care.

Founded by Greek-Australian Renee Mormanis, the brand reflects her belief that skincare should be effective, nourishing, and confidence-boosting. With over seven years of experience in cosmetic nursing and earlier work in intensive care at St Vincent’s Hospital, she created a beauty range that is grounded in science yet indulgent in experience.

Her line includes luxurious hero products such as the I Love You More Face Oil, Eyes of Love Hydrating Eye Patches, Strawberry Kiss and Vanilla Kiss Peptide Lip Balms, Amore Lavender-Infused Body Butter, and her original Facial Sculpting Cup Beauty Tool. Every formulation is thoughtfully crafted to hydrate, brighten, and enhance natural radiance.

For beauty lovers, this collection offers premium gifting options that feel sophisticated, self-care–focused, and genuinely transformative.

Website: nurserenee.com.au │ Instagram: @nursereneeau

Meli Candles

Meli Candles fills your home with warmth, fragrance, and the essence of Greek-inspired serenity.

Founded by Xristina, Meli Candles is a heartfelt tribute to Greek identity and the ancient symbolism of beeswax. Each candle is handcrafted using natural Australian beeswax, chosen for its purity, clean burn, and beautiful honeyed aroma. With its warm, golden glow and spiritual lineage – from ancient Greece to Orthodox churches –  beeswax embodies light, purity, and heritage.

Meli Candles blends this timeless tradition with modern fragrance artistry. Signature scents include Yiayia’s Tomatoes, Pappou’s Garden, Summer in Greece, Sweet Frappe, Fig & Rockmelon, and Livani, honouring the frankincense used in Greek rituals. Each fragrance captures a moment, a memory, or a place – evoking everything from sunlit gardens to seaside summers.

Sustainable, biodegradable, and non-toxic, these candles are crafted with care and reverence. They make meaningful gifts for those who appreciate tradition, craftsmanship, and the poetry of scent.

Website: melicandles.com.au │ Instagram: @meli.candles

Alphabeta Language Resources

Alphabeta Language Resources is a family-run Australian business dedicated to supporting bilingual education and celebrating cultural diversity through high-quality toys, books, and games. As the official Australian representative for Greek companies Desyllas Games and Idea – Hellenic Design, Alphabeta offers a unique range of Greek and bilingual products designed to make language learning fun, engaging, and meaningful.

Their collection features Greek activity books, bilingual vocabulary books, puzzles, craft kits, and interactive games that help children build language skills while exploring culture and creativity. Popular items include “365 First Greek Words,” the 100 Super Greek Activities series, 5 Senses Bilingual Game, the Greek War of Independence card game, and the 1821 board game collection – all designed to inspire young learners.

Alphabeta offers meaningful resources that help families strengthen cultural connection at home.

For children, it’s the perfect place to find educational gifts that are playful, culturally rich, and genuinely enjoyable.

Website: alphabetalanguageresources.com.au │ Instagram: @alphabetalanguageresources

A Seat at My Table: Philoxenia

A celebration of generosity, heritage, and the flavours of Greece.

“A Seat at My Table: Philoxenia” by Kon Karapanagiotidis is a deeply moving Greek vegetarian and vegan cookbook celebrating food, family, and the ethos of welcoming others with open arms. Featuring 100+ plant-based recipes passed down through generations, the book blends culinary tradition with stories of resilience, migration, and community.

From mezze favourites – tzatziki, saganaki, zucchini flowers – to plant-based versions of moussaka, spanakopita, and comforting Greek classics, every recipe is infused with memory and meaning. Desserts like loukoumades and baklava bring sweetness and nostalgia, while each dish includes vegan or gluten-free adaptations.

In the true spirit of philoxenia, 100% of Kon’s proceeds go to the ASRC, with Hardie Grant also donating $1 from each sale.

A thoughtful, nourishing gift for cooks, culture-lovers, and anyone who shares the belief that food brings us together.

Book available here

In The Roundhouse – Going Greek Collection

In The Roundhouse brings a modern, vibrant interpretation of Greek design to Australian tables with its Going Greek Collection, created in collaboration with Sydney artist Daimon Downey. The range reinvents the traditional evil eye with bold patterns and coastal tones, resulting in stylish, contemporary pieces perfect for summer entertaining.

Key items include the Evil Eye Plate, Evil Eye Small Oval Tray, and the generously sized Evil Eye Platter – ideal for salads, mezze spreads, pasta dishes, and festive dining. Crafted from durable new bone china and featuring dishwasher- and microwave-safe finishes, these pieces balance practicality with artistic impact.

The collection captures the energy of the Mediterranean while offering versatile, modern décor that suits any home. Whether styled individually or gifted as a set, these pieces bring a touch of Greek island spirit to the holiday table.

Website: intheroundhouse.com │ Instagram: @intheroundhouse

Nisi Haus

Nisi Haus brings stylish, comfortable wardrobe staples and playful pieces for little ones – a perfect addition to Christmas gifting for families and fashion-conscious parents.

A contemporary kids and lifestyle clothing label with a fun, laid-back aesthetic, Nisi Haus offers beautifully crafted apparel designed for everyday wear and special moments. Their collections feature a range of versatile pieces, from relaxed oversized tees and embroidered Greek Key pants to summery terry shorts and coordinating sets that grow with your child. Each design blends comfort with personality, making them ideal for little wardrobes and creative gifting.

Whether you’re searching for a practical yet stylish outfit for a toddler, a colourful accessory to brighten someone’s day, or a thoughtful gift that feels both unique and wearable, Nisi Haus delivers quality and charm in every stitch. Their pieces are perfect for Christmas stockings, birthday presents, or everyday surprises that bring a smile.

Celebrate the season with gifts that feel playful, purposeful, and thoughtfully made – all from a brand that keeps comfort, style, and lived-in joy at the heart of every design.

Website: nisihaus.com │ Instagram: @nisihaus

House of Natalia

House of Natalia is where modern glamour meets Mediterranean charm, offering a beautiful blend of statement jewellery and stylish home décor. Founded by a Sydney-based creative with a lifelong love of accessories, the brand was inspired by childhood memories of trying on her mother’s and grandmother’s jewellery – a tradition she now shares with her daughter, Natalia, the namesake behind the label.

The jewellery collection features bold, on-trend pieces designed to elevate any outfit with a touch of effortless sparkle. Many designs subtly reference the founder’s Greek heritage through delicate detailing and timeless motifs, giving each piece a sense of story and cultural identity. Whether you’re looking for everyday elegance or a standout festive-season accessory, House of Natalia’s range brings confidence and individuality to every ensemble.

Complementing the jewellery offering is a thoughtfully curated homewares range that includes candles, diffusers, hand wash, ornaments, ceramics, soaps, baskets, cushion covers, and distinctive arches & altars. Each item carries the same aesthetic flair as the jewellery: modern, refined, and made to bring beauty into the home.

Perfect for gifting, House of Natalia offers pieces – wearable and decorative – that feel special, sentimental, and wonderfully stylish.

Website: houseofnatalia.com.au │ Instagram: @houseofnatalia_

Best results in 21 years: Oakleigh Grammar celebrates VCE top performers

The Greek Herald
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Best results in 21 years: Oakleigh Grammar celebrates VCE top performers

Oakleigh Grammar is proudly celebrating its best VCE results in 21 years and have revealed its top performers in the Class of 2025. This year’s graduates are to be commended for their resilience, determination and hard work, and are celebrated by the entire school community.

Leading the honours is the 2025 School Dux, Mattea Georges, achieving an outstanding ATAR of 96.95. Her VCE Study Scores included high 45s in Biology and English. Mattea is aspiring to study Biomedicine and her commitment to excellence was on display throughout her final year of schooling.

The Dux Proximus for 2025 is School Captain Alexander Korlos, securing an equally impressive ATAR of 95.75. His VCE Study Scores include a 40 in English. Alexander is aspiring to study Medicine.

Dux Mattea Georges and Dux Proximus Alexander Korlos with Principal Mark Robertson
Dux Mattea Georges and Dux Proximus Alexander Korlos with Principal Mark Robertson.

Dux Proximus Alexander Korlos with Principal Mark Robertson
Dux Proximus Alexander Korlos with Principal Mark Robertson.

Dux Mattea Georges with Principal Mark Robertson
Dux Mattea Georges with Principal Mark Robertson.

Across the entire Class of 2025, 14% achieved an ATAR of 90 and above, while 40.4% achieved an ATAR of 80 and above, reflecting a resounding improvement on previous years’ results.

Principal Mark Robertson lauded the Class of 2025 on their achievements: “Our 2025 VCE results reflect the outstanding dedication, resilience, and academic ambition of our students. Each student has demonstrated not only strong scholarly achievement but also the character and determination that define the Oakleigh Grammar experience.”

“I am immensely proud of our graduating class and grateful to our exceptional teachers and supportive families who have walked alongside them. These results affirm the strength of our learning culture and the bright futures that await our students as they take their next steps beyond school,” Mr Robertson added.

Top performing VCE students
Top performing VCE students.

Top performing VCE students with Principal Mark Robertson, Deputy Principal Peter Dickinson and Assistant Principal - Academic Lance Ryan
Top performing VCE students with Principal Mark Robertson, Deputy Principal Peter Dickinson and Assistant Principal – Academic Lance Ryan.

Other standout performances include: Helen Kousourakis with an ATAR of 94.25, Elias Koskiniotis with 93.3, Mugdhasri Maddali with 92.85, Mary Alexopoulos with 92.35, Adhitya Karthik with 90.6 and Louise Wang with 90.1.

These achievements are a testament to the dedication of Oakleigh Grammar’s students and the support of the School’s passionate educators, who continue to cultivate an impressive environment of academic excellence that all can thrive within.

Embracing the future: Fronditha Care thriving through transformation

The Greek Herald
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Embracing the future: Fronditha Care thriving through transformation

Fronditha Care held its Annual General Meeting on Thursday, November 27, with over 50 people in attendance, to reflect on a year of growth, resilience and continuous transformation. 

President and Board Chair Kostas Livadaras opened the meeting by reaffirming the organisation’s  strong performance. He noted that as aged care in Australia undergoes one of its most profound  transformations in decades, Fronditha Care has not stepped back but stepped forward.

The organisation has expanded its services, strengthened recognition of Fronditha Care as a leader across the sector and achieved its most robust financial performance to date.  

“Our revenue reached $120 million, while more than 1,000 staff now support over 2,000 elders each  week and key operational indicators continue to set new benchmarks,” he said.

“We have achieved milestones unprecedented in our 48-year journey, even as our sector navigates its way through one of the most demanding and difficult periods of reform in decades with the introduction of the new Aged Care Act.”

The President and Treasurer, Alex Dimou, reported another year of strong financial results, highlighting a 12% increase in revenue, a $1.077 million net profit, and an EBITDA of $10.7 million, demonstrating prudent financial stewardship, organisational viability and sustainability.  

(L-R) Kostas Livadaras, President, Jim Babalis, Secretary, Helen Kalaboukas, Director, Anthoula Paraskeva, Volunteer, Faye Spiteri OAM, CEO, Tammy Iliou, Director, Alex Dimou, Treasurer.

The President also reflected on the past year talking about Fronditha Care’s expanding national and  international profile.

He advised the meeting that Fronditha Care was privileged to welcome Australia’s Foreign Minister Senator Penny Wong to its Thornbury facility, hosted a 26-member Indonesian Government delegation and strengthened partnerships across Greece, England and Wales through meetings with senior politicians and sector leaders.

“These engagements continue to position Fronditha Care as an influential voice in shaping aged care policy, research and system design and set grounds for future partnerships,” he said. 

Mr Livadaras highlighted the exceptional contribution of staff, sharing that Faye Spiteri OAM, CEO,  Fronditha Care, received “Ageing Australia’s Leader of the Year Award”.

He also recognised with a note of thanks Fronditha Care’s staff and volunteers, noting their role as “the true architects of change” and the heart of the organisation’s mission. Their dedication, he said, transforms care into belonging and ensures that elders experience dignity, connection and culturally affirming support. 

On behalf of the Fronditha Care Foundation Chair, Dr Stella Laletas, Mr Livadaras reported that the  Foundation continued to accelerate innovation, research and partnerships. The Foundation  strengthened partnerships with ARIIA, Dementia Australia, Ageing Australia and government partners, ensuring that Fronditha Care’s expertise informs national aged care conversations and advances culturally specific care across Australia.

Fronditha Care also paid tribute to long-standing volunteer Anthoula Paraskeva, who has raised  thousands of dollars for Fronditha Care since 2008 and continues to embody the spirit of community  generosity and philanthropy. 

Kostas Livadaras-President and Board Chair.

In closing the meeting, Mr Livadaras reflected on the collective achievements of the organisation: “We are building a future-ready Fronditha Care- powered by data, research, lived experience and our  values. I am immensely proud of what we have achieved together. Thank you to our staff, volunteers,  members, the Greek community and especially our elders for your firm support and trust.” 

Members congratulated the Board, CEO and Executive team for their dedication and commitment to  ensuring Fronditha Care thrives for many years to come.  

The meeting unanimously endorsed two candidates who were nominated for election to the Board of Directors. 

Fronditha Care is pleased to announce that the 2025 Fronditha Care Board members are: 

  • Kostas Livadaras – President and Board Chair
  • Dr Stella Laletas – Vice President
  • Alex Dimou – Treasurer  
  • Jim Babalis – Secretary  
  • Dr Helen Kalaboukas – Director  
  • Tammy Iliou – Director  
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