Hotels on Greece’s islands could soon be filling their swimming pools with seawater due to worsening drought conditions, under new legislation currently under parliamentary review.
According to AP, over the past two years, Greece has experienced severe drought, with the influx of tourists during peak season placing additional pressure on water supplies, particularly on popular island destinations.
Elena Rapti, Deputy Minister of Tourism, announced government plans to remove existing legal barriers, allowing hotels to pump seawater into private pools as a response to dwindling freshwater reserves.
“This (draft legislation) regulates the framework for carrying out seawater extraction and pumping it for swimming pools. The focus, of course, is to conserve water resources,” Rapti told a parliament committee.
Her remarks, made on Monday during discussions on a broader hospitality industry reform bill, were published on the Greek parliament’s website on Tuesday.
Have you been on the lookout for a new spot to enjoy some freshly battered fish and chips in Sydney? Let us introduce you to Paris Seafood Café.
The Greek family-run fish and chip shop has been around for more than 25 years and is known for its wide-range of quality seafood, as well as its burgers, souvlakia, salads, octopus and much more.
It was originally opened in 1997 by the Mavropoulos family in La Perouse, and in 2018, relocated to a seaside location in Cronulla.
Run by Paris Mavropoulos, his wife Helen and their two children, Christos and Sofia, the Paris Seafood Café family spoke to The Greek Herald via zoom and shared how the business came to be.
“Our dad has always been passionate about the hospitality industry,” 23-year-old Christos said.
“Like many Greeks who migrated from Greece in the ‘80s, he began working in the hospitality industry from a young age and eventually gravitated towards opening his own cafe.
“He grew up in Greece, with his grandfather’s cooking and always loved everything he’d make and just the idea of serving people. So running his own business was something that just came naturally to him and was something really rewarding.”
Paris was born in Wollongong, New South Wales in 1963 and left for Greece when he was only six months old. He grew up in Northern Greece, in a village called Protochori in Kozani.
“My dad came back to Australia when he was 18, and worked in various roles within the hospitality industry,” Christos said.
“He had later decided he wanted to be his own boss, and in 1990, he decided to open his own business, Olympic Yeeros on Oxford Street.
“It was one of the first gyros shops on Oxford Street at the time too, and he kept it running until 2000. He also opened an adjoining shop, Paris Fruit and Veggies, which was a fresh produce grocery store.”
Unlike many other businesses, Paris Seafood Café remains unique as the next younger generation is taking over and helping run the family business. Sofia and Christos said they love being able to support their parents.
“Working together as a family has its moments, but it’s incredibly rewarding, especially when we see how successful the shop is and we hear great feedback from our customers,” Christos said.
22-year-old Sofia added, “I feel like a lot of people our age haven’t been in the position where they’ve had to work in a family business, it’s very rare.
“It’s more of our parents age who are used to working with their families. However, I feel like it’s given us so many more skills in life compared to our peers.
“We are very grateful that we have been put in this situation and we have learned from a young age what hard work, dedication and sacrifice looks like and it’s been really great.”
Sofia added that their La Perouse café was also significant to them as it’s where her parents first met in 1999. Her mum Helen would regularly dine there with her friends. Shortly after, Paris and Helen married and had their first child, Christos, in 2000, and Sofia in 2001.
Sofia said there were some key factors that make Paris Seafood Café unique from other fish and chip shops.
“We are known for having a pretty big selection to offer our customers. Everything we sell, we make ourselves,” Sofia said.
“It’s fresh, it’s not pre-cooked, and we make it on the spot for our customers. We also make our own patties, homemade chicken schnitzel and use fresh oil daily. My dad puts all his passion and energy into everything he makes, not just the fish and chips, so you can expect everything to be tasty, fresh and of the best quality.”
“When dad found out we were on the list, he was so surprised and grateful. It was very humbling for him,” Christos said.
“It was a great sense of pride for all of us. I even started tearing up because it was just so nice for our family to finally get some recognition because I think, as a business, we’re very underestimated and under the radar.
“After all these years of serving so many great people and bringing them together, it’s made us feel so happy.”
The Mavropoulos family was beyond grateful for the recognition.
“We were surprised at how many customers reached out to us to congratulate us,” Christos said.
“Our customers are always positive and supportive towards the business and without them, we wouldn’t be here. When they dine with us, they become part of our family.
“We want to thank our existing and new customers for all their support, and we promise to continue to serve the food that they all know and love that we’ve been serving since 1997.
“We’re constantly trying to meet our customers’ expectations and make them happy.”
Paris Seafood Café is open Wednesday to Sunday, 11 am to 9 pm. It is located at 136 Cronulla St, Cronulla, Sydney.
The ongoing legal dispute surrounding the Cyprus Community of NSW Limited has taken another turn, with new legal filings indicating that Cyprus Capital Limited and Dr Costas (Con) Costas are actively pursuing further legal action following the Supreme Court of NSW’s 18 December ruling.
Legal Actions and appeal plans
Cyprus Capital and Costas Costa have recently filed two key legal documents on 23 December 2024. The first is a Notice of Intention to Appeal the decision of Justice Ashley Black, which validated the appointment of voluntary administrators to the Cyprus Community of NSW. The second is an Interlocutory Application under Corporations Law, which is set to be heard in the Supreme Court on 3 February 2025.
The Notice of Intention to Appeal, filed with the Supreme Court of NSW Court of Appeal, lists the Cyprus Community of NSW Limited and Morgan Kelly, the administrator from EY, as prospective respondents. However, no formal appeal has yet been lodged, leaving the legal status of the challenge uncertain.
Refinancing proposal and potential end to receivership
The administrators filed an application on 29 January 2025 in the Supreme Court of NSW seeking approval for a refinancing proposal. The proposed refinancing aims to discharge all current secured debts, including loans from Cyprus Capital Limited and The Trust Company (PTAL) Limited, which acts as an agent for Sydney Wyde Mortgage Management Limited. One of the Cyprus Capital loans is due for repayment in March 2025, and the company does not have sufficient funds to meet this obligation, making refinancing necessary.
If approved, the refinancing would allow the company to cease incurring ongoing costs associated with the administration and receivership. Additionally, full repayment of Cyprus Capital’s debt would result in the retirement of the Receivers, reducing the financial strain on the Cyprus Community of NSW.
The administrators have received a confidential conditional term sheet and letter of offer from a prospective financier who is prepared to provide funding upon acceptance. The administrators believe this to be a commercially viable solution that serves the best interests of the company, creditors, and members.
Dispute over financial obligations
A key point of contention remains the payout figure, which refers to the total amount required to fully repay Cyprus Capital’s secured loan facilities, including principal, interest, and any associated fees. The administrators had previously demanded this figure be provided, arguing that failure to do so would warrant legal action. However, the legal representatives for Cyprus Capital stated that the external accountant responsible for calculating the payout was on leave and that they could not provide a full response yet.
Furthermore, they argued that the secured debts owed to Sydney Wyde and Cyprus Capital are not immediately due. Interest on the Sydney Wyde loan is capitalised until June 2025, while Cyprus Capital is open to extending loan terms.
The legal representatives also proposed a meeting to discuss a potential resolution, including the retirement of the Receivers and Managers, but urged the opposing side to delay any further court applications until a more substantive response is provided.
What happens next?
The deadline for Cyprus Capital to provide the payout figure, as requested by the administrators, is approaching. The Supreme Court is now scheduled to hear both the Interlocutory Application on 3 February 2025 and the refinancing proposal submitted by the administrators.
If the refinancing is approved, it could significantly impact the direction of the legal battle by eliminating the need for receivership and addressing financial concerns. However, if an appeal is formally lodged, it could further extend legal proceedings and impact the governance and financial future of the Cyprus Community of NSW.
This legal battle remains a pivotal moment for the future of the Cyprus Community of NSW, with significant consequences for its leadership, financial stability, and community operations.
The Greek Herald will continue to provide updates as the case unfolds.
Melbourne Victory has confirmed that Arthur Diles will continue as Head Coach of the Isuzu UTE A-League Men’s team until the end of the 2025/26 Season.
After 18 months at the Club as the Senior Assistant under both Tony Popovic and Patrick Kisnorbo, the first six weeks have been a whirlwind for the Melbourne Victory Head Coach.
“Stepping into the role in the circumstances I did, is obviously unusual and it was a busy period through Christmas and New Year with trips to Sydney and New Zealand and a heavy schedule, but I think the group navigated the upheaval well,” said Diles.
“As a Club, our expectations and standards have not changed over the period. We want to keep following our processes, ensure we deliver consistent and high-quality performances playing the exciting style of football our fans expect from us, and importantly see those processes and performances translate into points and trophies this season and beyond.”
Originally from Sydney, Diles enjoyed strong success at National Youth League level and spent time coaching with the Wanderers, in Europe and with the Newcastle Jets before landing at Melbourne Victory under now Socceroos coach Tony Popovic.
Diles played a significant role in Victory reaching the 2023/24 Isuzu UTE A-League Men’s Grand Final, as well as supporting our VPL1 team throughout 2024 which ultimately went on to win the championship, and promotion to the NPL for the 2025 Season.
He continued in that role at the start of this season, playing an important part in helping the team both qualify for the 2024/25 Australia Cup Final, and have an impressive start to the A-League Men’s season.
Melbourne Victory is pleased to announce that Arthur Diles will continue as Head Coach of the Isuzu UTE A-League Men’s team until the end of the 2025/26 Season.
“Since joining the Club almost two years ago, Arthur has demonstrated his commitment and his capacity to instil a game model that we want to see, build a team that taps into the great talent that sits within our Academy and to have the absolute respect of everybody within our program,” said Melbourne Victory Director of Football, John Didulica.
“Our focus in recent weeks has been building support for Arthur and the players and ensuring we maintain the highest possible standards of performance and commitment.
“Whilst we have dropped points through this process, we are confident we have the calibre of squad to reset, and we are still well positioned to achieve silverware in 2025.”
Diles has been joined by newly appointed Assistant Coach Nick Stavroulakis and Football Analyst Patrick Hooper, both of whom commenced with the Club in the past fortnight and arrive at Victory not only as emerging talents within Australian football but with extensive experience in the game.
Stavroulakis guided Rockdale City to the Premiership and Championship double in the NSW NPL last season, whilst Hooper has spent time in competitions such as the Europa League with leading Danish side FC Midtjylland.
Melbourne Victory Chairman, John Dovaston, said the Club welcomes the continuity presented by Diles appointment.
“During 2024, we have made the Grand Final, Australia Cup Final and won promotion to the NPL, all of which Arthur has contributed to in a meaningful and positive way.
“While we want and expect more, Arthur has earnt the opportunity to continue to lead our Men’s program and deliver the success that our members and fans deserve.”
Melbourne’s vibrant Greek music scene is about to experience an unforgettable event as Estudiantina of Melbourne launches their debut album at Brunswick Ballroom on Sunday, March 9. As part of this year’s Brunswick Music Festival, this event, Journey to Rebetika, will celebrate the timeless and evocative sounds of Rebetika and Smyrneika, two musical traditions deeply rooted in Greek history and culture.
A Passionate Tribute to Greek Musical Heritage
Formed in January 2024, Estudiantina of Melbourne is more than just an ensemble – it is a dedicated group of musicians committed to preserving and reviving traditional Greek music. Specializing in Smyrneika—a genre shaped by Greek, Turkish, Jewish, and Armenian influences—the group brings a rich, authentic sound to Australian audiences. Their instrumentation, featuring the oud, bouzouki, violin, kanun, and guitar, weaves a mesmerizing tapestry of sounds that transport listeners to another era.
Beyond Smyrneika, Estudiantina of Melbourne also delves into Rebetiko, a poignant expression of urban Greek folk music. Originating from the working-class struggles of early 20th-century Greece, Rebetiko’s deeply moving melodies and lyrical storytelling resonate with themes of adversity, displacement, and resilience. The ensemble masterfully blends the traditional sounds of the bouzouki, baglama, and accordion, capturing the spirit of this genre with authenticity and passion.
Meet the Musicians
The group’s diverse and talented lineup includes:
Paul Karalis (bouzouki) – A lifelong musician inspired by family support and a passion for sharing Greek music with new generations.
Jenny Dixon (violin, viola) – A classically trained musician with an impressive career spanning major orchestras and folk ensembles.
Maria Antaras-Dalamagas (accordion, vocals) – A self-taught accordionist whose love for Rebetika was inspired by childhood memories of her yiayia’s singing.
Alex Petropoulos (vocals, violin) – A classically trained violinist turned Rebetiko enthusiast, deeply connected to Greek musical traditions.
Camille El Feghali (qanun, nay, mizmar, buzuq) – A multi-instrumentalist specializing in Middle Eastern maqam music, enriching the group’s sound with his vast experience.
Vagellis Ginis (vocals) – A seasoned Rebetiko performer from Athens with a career spanning Greece’s most renowned music venues.
Con Kalamaras (vocals, baglama, guitar) – A key figure in Melbourne’s Rebetiko scene, co-founder of the Melbourne Rebetiko Festival, and a passionate advocate for the genre.
The Cultural Heartbeat of Brunswick
Brunswick has long been a hub for Melbourne’s Greek community, serving as a cultural melting pot where Rebetika thrives. With its rich immigrant history, the suburb has fostered a deep connection to the music, with venues, festivals, and community events keeping these traditions alive. Journey to Rebetika at Brunswick Ballroom is not just an album launch – it is a cultural celebration that pays homage to the resilience and artistry of the Greek-Australian musical heritage.
This is a unique opportunity to experience the raw emotion and exquisite musicianship of Estudiantina of Melbourne as they take audiences on a journey through the heart and soul of Rebetika.
Date: Sunday, March 9, 2025
Time: 1:00 PM Venue: Brunswick Ballroom Tickets: Get your tickets here
Be part of this unforgettable afternoon of music, history, and cultural celebration. Secure your tickets today and immerse yourself in the mesmerizing world of Rebetika.
Former Socceroos goalkeeper Zeljko Kalac shared his thoughts, in a recent interview with Optus Sport, on the newly established National Second Division (NSD), highlighting the need for greater media and financial backing for the competition.
His remarks come as South Melbourne FC, one of Australia’s most historically significant Hellenic heritage football clubs, prepares to compete in the inaugural season of the NSD, set to begin in October 2025.
Kalac, who came through the ranks during the National Soccer League (NSL) era, expressed optimism about the NSD’s potential, emphasizing its importance in preserving and celebrating the nation’s football history.
“I think the concept is fantastic. I actually think it’s a very sellable product,” Kalac stated.
“I would love to watch Sydney United play South Melbourne. It recreates a bit of history. We try to walk away from history here in Australia, but history is important. This is a good way to start.”
His comments underscore the excitement surrounding the competition, which will feature several clubs with deep-rooted football legacies, including South Melbourne FC. The club, which has a storied past in Australian football and won multiple NSL championships, sees the NSD as a pathway to re-establishing itself on a national stage.
South Melbourne FC prepares for the National Second Division. Photo copyright: The Greek Herald / Andriana Simos.
However, Kalac also raised concerns about the challenges clubs may face in making the NSD sustainable and competitive. He pointed out that critical aspects such as travel costs, accommodation, and investment will play a significant role in ensuring the league’s success.
“We’ll see what the flights are like. We’ll see what accommodation is like. What’s it going to cost the clubs? You know, you’ve got to take it seriously. These clubs need to go into the B League and invest and try to win the B League. It’s got to be real,” he stressed.
A central theme of Kalac’s comments was the ongoing struggle for media and financial support in Australian football. He lamented the lack of recognition for clubs outside the A-League and reiterated the resilience of traditional football institutions despite the challenges they face.
“We are the most played sport in Australia. Where’s the media support? Where’s the financial support?” Kalac questioned.
“They still try to kick us in the guts, but we’re still there. We’re still there.”
His call for greater support resonates deeply with clubs like South Melbourne, which have long advocated for increased visibility. As one of the eight foundation clubs in the NSD, South Melbourne FC carries the weight of history and ambition, hoping to lead the resurgence of football at this level.
For South Melbourne and other participating clubs, the competition represents a long-awaited opportunity—but one that must be backed by tangible support if it is to thrive.
After an eight-year hiatus, Greece’s Eurovision national final, Ethnikós Telikós 2025, returned overnight, with Klavdia emerging victorious with her ballad Asteromáta. She will represent Greece at the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest in Basel this May.
Georgina Kalais & John Vlaseros – High Road – 8 points
Andy Nicholas – Lost My Way – 8 points
Nafsika Gavrilaki – Unhurt Me – 0 points
The event, held at the Christmas Theatre in Athens, was determined by a mix of public vote (50%), Greek jury (25%), and international jury (25%). Greek Eurovision legends Helena Paparizou and Sakis Rouvas hosted the show.
Filmmaking is an art unlike any other, where directors craft stories using tools of colour, character, and creative collaboration.
Among our Greek Australian community, 2024 Aria award-winning filmmaker Nick Kozakis is carving out a reputation as an innovative and exciting voice in cinema – both at home and abroad. Recently, Nick reflected on his heritage, journey and ambitions.
“Growing up, I didn’t really lean into my Greek identity, not as much as my brothers at least,” he admits. “I was more Anglicised, and suffered from the odd pang of cultural cringe; but the festivals, dances, and mythology left a mark on my imagination.”
Classics like Aesop’s Fables and Disney’s animated Hercules (1997) sparked his early creativity, as well as fascination with his Hellenic heritage.
While initially focused on graphic design, Nick found his way to filmmaking through experimentation.
“I started with a camcorder, shooting pranks and stunts with friends, in a very Jackass-y way. It was raw but exciting – I could create whatever I wanted, whenever I wanted. It wasn’t like I needed a 9-5 job just to switch on the camera. The energy was electric,” he says.
Nick’s passion deepened when he entered Swinburne University of Technology, and met fellow Greek Australian filmmaker Jason Raftopoulos, despite initially feeling out of place.
“The turning point for me was watching a screening of Jason’s short film Father’s Day, which he himself screened during an editing class. It was the proof of concept for his later feature film, West of Sunshine. I was shocked at how genuinely amazing it was,” Nick explains.
“I quickly connected with him, and soon after he borrowed my red camera for another film he was shooting. We developed our relationship from there.”
At university, Nick embraced risk-taking, learning through trial and error.
“I experimented a lot and failed a lot,” he shares. “But those failures taught me invaluable lessons. Playing it safe wouldn’t have gotten me anywhere.”
This willingness to push boundaries has become a cornerstone of his filmmaking philosophy.
“Look, at university, we were taught to be like Swiss army knives. We understood the relevance and importance of the rules of filmmaking. Yet, I believe that the more you master those rules, the more experimental you can afford to be. The crazier I was in my films at university, the harder I fell – but the more I learnt! I like stretching myself and falling over and over again,” he chuckles.
Nick cites David Fincher and Joseph Kahn as major influences.
“Their visual sensibility is genius,” he says. “They have inspired so many amazing filmmakers over the years. I mean, they built entire worlds in their movies within three minutes!”
Photo: Nina Franova / Getty Images.
Describing his approach to the craft and filmmaking style, Nick emphasises the importance of camera movement in creating a sense of urgency or stability.
“For me, the camera is a character. In our film Godless: The Eastfield Exorcism (2023, winner of the 2023 Sitges Film Festival and nominated for multiple AACTA awards), the camera is always slow and lurking whenever we have stability in the narrative. However, when anything chaotic or violent is taking place, the camera is handheld and frenetic. When the picture suddenly stops, it is like an indication for the audience to take a breath; as if some semblance of calm, just for that moment, has returned,” he explains.
Nick is passionate about delving deeper into his Greek heritage through film.
“Greek mythology is an endless well of inspiration,” he says, hinting at an upcoming project exploring these stories.
“Storytelling is deeply embedded in Hellenic culture, from ancient plays to modern cinema… I would love to rediscover and tap into my roots once again.”
Next year, the Greek Australian filmmaker is busy with numerous projects, including features such as Body Farm with Brianna Gardner and Muck Up Day with Jessica Liley and Chooseday Films. He’s also continuing collaborations with Sooshi Mango, blending humour and creativity in quirky ways.
“We just finished a parody of a cinema classic, and it’s been a blast. I’m keen for everyone to see it!” Nick concluded.
Godless: The Eastfield Exorcism can be watched on Binge, Foxtel and Shudder.
The Federation of Greek Elderly Citizen Clubs of Melbourne & Victoria (FGECCMV) held its annual Vasilopita cutting ceremony on Tuesday, January 28, in a festive event filled with joy, music, and dancing.
Members and attendees enjoyed a rich spread of food, drinks, and desserts, creating a warm atmosphere to welcome the new year.
The Federation’s president, John Kostoulias, along with the Board of Directors, volunteers, and everyone who contributed to the event’s success, received congratulations for the impeccable organisation.
The Federation continues to operate as a vital support network for elderly Greek Australians, ensuring they remain connected with their heritage and community.
Dignitaries present at the event included Federal MP Keith Wolahan, Manningham Council members: Anna Chen, Isabella Eltaha, and Jim Grivas, Healthy Ageing Participation Officer Fia Moraitis, the Coordinator of the FGECCMV, Kyriaki Antoniadou, Kaiti Georgiou on behalf of the Cyprus Community of Melbourne and Victoria, Martha Antoniadis, Treasurer of the FGECCMV and Kostas Alaveras, Member of the Coordinating Council of SAE Oceania.
Closing the event, the Federation’s president thanked all attendees and wished them health and happiness for the new year.
Bill Papastergiadis OAM, Melbourne Managing Partner and Chair of the National Executive of Moray & Agnew, has been recognised as one of the Law Firm Leaders of the Year for Australia and New Zealand. This was announced in the 2025 publication, Australasian Lawyer and NZ Lawyer ‘Law Firm Leaders of the Year’.
Australasian Lawyer and NZ Lawyer, Australia’s leading independent legal publication, conducted a far-reaching analysis of the legal industry over the last 18 months examining the most influential leaders with exceptional leadership, strategic vision, problem solving and legal expertise and contribution to their firm’s success. MrPapastergiadiswas rankedas one of the standout performers with exemplary professional abilities and expertise.
Chris Sweeney, Managing Editor for Special Reports at Australasian Lawyer and NZ Lawyer shared his insights on the selection process, stating, “The standard of nominees was extremely high and showcased how deep the industry’s talent pool is. Mr Papastergiadis was recognised on this year’s prestigious list for his leadership, vision and outstanding ability to problem solve for clients.”
The Australasian Lawyer publication detailed: “Since Papastergiadis’ tenure began in 2007, the firm has expanded from five partners to 30 and an increase in staff from 10 to over 200 strong. Traditionally an insurance firm, through his vision and leadership, it has diversified, now comprising 50% insurance practitioners and 50% of lawyers working over the full range of commercial areas such as: corporate, property, construction, government, workplace and commercial litigation.
Creating a culture of flexibility, camaraderie and excellence, is important. Mr Papastergiadis is quoted as saying:
“I try to be transparent, friendly and responsible. I treat people with respect and, in particular, our younger people, who are more vulnerable. I want to make sure that we are offering at every opportunity, the best version of ourselves to them and the best example, and then it’s about watching those people flourish.”
The publication states “Papastergiadis’ hands-on management has resulted in significant organic growth in the last 18 months, driven by understanding the importance of diversity within the firm and is being active in ensuring the firm supports women. These efforts are evidenced by females comprising the majority of employees: 65% of all staff and, 59% of all legal staff.”
The publication goes on to state “Bill is also passionate about supporting immigrant communities in Melbourne and is President of the Greek Community of Melbourne group and in 2019 was awarded the Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for his service to that community.”
“To be acknowledged amongst fellow industry leaders is a great honour,” Mr Papastergiadis said whilst adding “I consider this recognition not just for me, but for the incredible team at Moray & Agnew who work tirelessly every day to deliver exceptional legal service.”
Moray & Agnew has achieved recent success with its recognition in this year’s Legal 500 Asia Pacific Directory, a preeminent law firm directory which ranks Australia’s leading law firms. The firm achieved rankings in the top tiers for Construction, Real Estate, Insurance, Employment and Dispute Resolution.
This recognition is the latest in a number of accolades confirming Moray & Agnew Melbourne’s standing within the legal community as leaders in numerous areas of law. The firm consistently makes the rankings in a number of other top legal directories including Chambers and Doyle’s Guide.
Mr Papastergiadis concludes “As we look toward this year, we remain focused on growing our firm and providing exceptional service to our clients. Our outlook for the future is incredibly positive, and we are excited about the opportunities ahead.”
