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Ballarat ceremony honours George Devine Treloar’s enduring legacy

The Greek Herald
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Ballarat ceremony honours George Devine Treloar’s enduring legacy

A commemorative ceremony marking the sixth anniversary of the George Devine Treloar memorial was held in Ballarat on Sunday, celebrating the humanitarian’s lasting impact and the enduring friendship between Australia and Greece.

Hosted by Merimna Pontion Kyrion of Oceania, the event drew community leaders, dignitaries, and descendants of Treloar, including his granddaughter Eleanor Lacey, who shared reflections on his remarkable legacy.

Treloar, an Australian soldier and humanitarian, helped resettle tens of thousands of Greek refugees displaced from Asia Minor after the Greco–Turkish War. His compassion and leadership remain a source of inspiration to both Australian and Greek communities.

Speakers highlighted how Treloar’s work continues to “bridge the influential histories and cultures of Australia, Hellenism, and Anatolia,” a sentiment echoed throughout the ceremony.

Among those in attendance were Councillor Samantha McIntosh representing the City of Ballarat, Katy Karabatsos on behalf of the Consul General of Greece in Melbourne, and Jim Claven, Secretary of the George Devine Treloar Memorial Committee.

Music, dance, and floral tributes, including bouquets of blue and yellow “forget-me-nots,” symbolised remembrance and unity.

Litsa Athanasiadis, Director of Merimna Pontion Kyrion of Oceania and Chair of the Memorial Committee, expressed gratitude to all participants, describing the day as a heartfelt reflection of Treloar’s enduring humanitarian spirit.

Euthanasia in focus at Bioethics Conference chaired by Archbishop Makarios of Australia

The Greek Herald
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Euthanasia in focus at Bioethics Conference chaired by Archbishop Makarios of Australia

The Holy and Sacred Synod of the Ecumenical Patriarchate has announced that the 3rd International Scientific Conference on Bioethics will be held in Rethymno, Crete, from 24 to 26 October 2025, under the theme “Euthanasia.”

With the blessing of His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, the conference will be presided over by His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia, who also serves as President of the Synodal Committee on Bioethics. 

Archbishop Makarios will represent the Ecumenical Patriarch at the event, which will bring together leading theologians, academics, and clergy to address complex moral, spiritual, and social questions surrounding euthanasia.

The conference will be hosted by His Eminence Metropolitan Prodromos of Rethymno and Avlopotamos and held at the Centre for Social and Cultural Ministry “Theomitor” and the Holy Patriarchal and Stavropegic Monastery of the Holy Cross of Vosakos.

Across three days, participants will engage in keynote addresses, panel discussions, and theological reflections examining euthanasia through Christian, philosophical, and medical perspectives. Topics will include the sanctity of life, the moral challenges of assisted dying, cultural perceptions of death, and the role of faith in end-of-life care.

Among the featured speakers are prominent figures such as Professors Konstantinos Delikostantis, Miltiadis Vantsos, Christos Lionis, and Konstantinos Kornarakis, as well as Metropolitan Nikolaos of Mesogaia and Lavreotiki and His Grace Bishop Athenagoras of Canberra.

Opening the proceedings, Archbishop Makarios will deliver a keynote address titled “Euthanasia as an affirmation of death and denial of the Resurrection, or the temptation of Calypso.” The conference will conclude with a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy at the Monastery of the Holy Cross and the presentation of the final resolutions.

The Organising Committee is chaired by Archbishop Makarios and includes Metropolitans Prodromos of Rethymno and Myron of New Zealand, alongside distinguished academics. 

Oakleigh Grammar students represent Australia at Round Square Conference in Dubai

The Greek Herald
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Oakleigh Grammar students represent Australia at Round Square Conference in Dubai

Oakleigh Grammar celebrated its participation in the 2025 Round Square International Conference (RSIC) in Dubai during the past school holidays, marking an exciting milestone in the school’s commitment to global learning, leadership, and service.

The school was represented by Principal Mark Robertson, Round Square Coordinator Rebecca Bettiol, Senior School Pastoral Coordinator Manoj Patel, and eight students. 

The delegation returned with a wealth of experiences that extended learning beyond the classroom, strengthened leadership skills, fostered global friendships, and inspired innovative thinking on local and international challenges.

The conference, themed “Beyond the Dunes”, brought together students and educators from Round Square schools worldwide. 

Delegates took part in environmental workshops, adventure challenges, Baraza discussions, and community service initiatives, applying the Round Square IDEALS of Internationalism, Democracy, Environmentalism, Adventure, Leadership, and Service in practical and meaningful ways.

Reflecting on the experience, Year 11 student Nefeli said, “Dubai was an experience I never thought I’d have. It opened my eyes to the opportunities the world offers, allowed me to connect with like-minded students, and taught me how leadership can create ideas that change the world, all while building unforgettable memories and friendships.” 

Year 11 student Dimitrios added, “The trip to Dubai broadened my understanding of different cultures and showed how something as significant as environmentalism can unite people from diverse backgrounds, creating connections that can last a lifetime.” 

Reflecting on the conference as a whole, Principal Mr Robertson commented: “It was an honour to chaperone our students, who were exemplars and fine young ambassadors for Oakleigh Grammar. Beyond the Dunes was an extraordinary experience for our students and staff, a melting pot of multicultural and highly intelligent young minds.” 

A highlight of the visit was the presentation of the Round Square flag to Oakleigh Grammar, symbolising the school’s official status as a fully-fledged Round Square member school. This achievement reflects the School’s commitment to providing students with powerful opportunities to lead, serve, and connect – nurturing confident, compassionate, and globally minded individuals.

SA influencer converts to Greek Orthodoxy ahead of wedding to George-Alexander Mamalis

The Greek Herald
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SA influencer converts to Greek Orthodoxy ahead of wedding to George-Alexander Mamalis

South Australian author and influencer Taydam Knowles has revealed her conversion to Orthodox Christianity ahead of her wedding this weekend to fiancé George-Alexander Mamalis, founder of conservative media platform The Adelaide Set and the new state coordinator of Turning Point Australia.

The couple, who met online five years ago, will wed in a traditional Greek Orthodox ceremony in Adelaide before celebrating at Carrick Hill, where Mamalis proposed last year.

Knowles, 25, said her baptism into the Orthodox faith marked a two-year spiritual journey of study and reflection.

“My decision to be baptised was a very slow-burning process … George didn’t push me once, but it has definitely deepened our connection,” she said.

George-Alexander Malis with his bride-to-be, Taydam Knowles. 

Describing her baptism as “joyous and full of love,” Knowles said she was moved by the ritual’s symbolism. “There are three dunks — you’re washing away sin, reborn, getting a fresh start,” she said.

She added that rediscovering faith had helped her find purpose. “I truly do believe that a lot of us have walked so far away from our roots … we can’t change the world overnight, but we can be present, be grounded, and seek a fruitful life.”

The bride will wear an Audrey Hepburn-inspired ivory gown, walking down the aisle with her brother John, before embarking on a surprise honeymoon planned by Mamalis, with destinations including Tasmania, Thailand, Vietnam or Bali under discussion.

Source: The Advertiser.

Kotses-owned Bickford’s takes major stake in Maggie Beer Holdings

The Greek Herald
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Kotses-owned Bickford’s takes major stake in Maggie Beer Holdings

South Australian cordial maker Bickford’s, owned by the Kotses family, has become the largest shareholder in Maggie Beer Holdings, taking a 19.99% stake in the struggling gourmet food company as part of plans to help turn it around.

Led by Angelo Kotses, Bickford’s spent $2.7 million last week to lift its holding just below the 20% takeover threshold. The company now plans to seek a board seat at Maggie Beer Holdings to support a strategic overhaul.

“Our interest in Maggie Beer Holdings stems from the belief that the company’s intrinsic value is not fully reflected in its current market capitalisation,” said Bickford’s head of sales, marketing and hospitality Chris Illman.

He added that Bickford’s aims to bring its fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) expertise to help sharpen decision-making, drive efficiency and accelerate growth.

Founded in 1874, Bickford’s has grown from a cordial producer into a major beverage and hospitality group through Vok Beverages, which owns brands such as Beresford Estate, 23rd Street Distillery, and Vale Brewing.

Maggie Beer Holdings has struggled in recent years, posting a $24.3 million loss in the year to June after writing down assets and selling off its loss-making Paris Creek Farms business for $500,000.

Its shares, which have fallen 90% since 2022, rose 8.3% on Tuesday following news of the Bickford’s investment.

Chairman Mark Lindh welcomed the partnership, saying the board looks forward to working with Angelo Kotses and his team, who bring “significant experience in growing FMCG and premium food and beverage businesses.”

Food icon Maggie Beer, though no longer involved in daily operations, remains on the company’s board and continues to hold shares.

Source: The Advertiser.

Dennis Bastas’ DBG Health posts profit surge but pays no dividend

The Greek Herald
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Dennis Bastas’ DBG Health posts profit surge but pays no dividend

Billionaire businessman Dennis Bastas’ company DBG Health recorded a near eightfold increase in net profit last year but paid no dividend, newly filed financial documents reveal.

DBG Health’s net profit rose from $52 million to $411.7 million in the 12 months to March, driven by acquisitions across its pharmaceuticals and beauty divisions. Revenue climbed to $1.96 billion, up from $1.39 billion the previous year.

Despite the strong result, neither Bastas nor DBG Health’s parent company, DBG Global Investments, received a payout. The year prior, DBG Global received $26.6 million in dividends.

Bastas, executive chairman of DBG Health and the son of Greek immigrants, is now worth an estimated $5 billion, according to the Financial Review Rich List.

He gained $1.6 billion in August after selling a 25% stake in DBG Health to US private capital fund BDT & MSD Partners, valuing the company at over $7 billion.

DBG Health owns Arrotex, Australia’s largest generic drug manufacturer, which produces about a third of all medicines dispensed under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.

Its growing beauty portfolio includes MCoBeauty, Nude by Nature, and PONi Cosmetics, with MCoBeauty now stocked in over 2000 US Target and Kroger stores and in the UK’s Superdrug chain.

Recent filings show DBG expanded its holdings, acquiring the remaining 50% of MCoBeauty and increasing its stake in myDNA Inc from 32.2% to 66.5%, gaining control of the US-based genetics firm.

Total assets rose to $3.28 billion, while non-current debt increased to $1.88 billion with loans maturing between 2027 and 2028.

Source: AFR.

Giannis Antetokounmpo says he hopes to end career in Greece

The Greek Herald
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Giannis Antetokounmpo says he hopes to end career in Greece

Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo has revealed he hopes to finish his basketball career in his native Greece after his NBA tenure ends.

“I’m 30 years old, I can play in the NBA until I’m 36–38. I’d like to end my career in a Greek team, why not?” Antetokounmpo said on ANT1’s The 2Night Show.

“I don’t want to live in the United States. As soon as I leave the NBA, I want to return to Greece.”

He added that he could see himself playing for any Greek club, “whether this team is called Filathlitikos, Olympiacos, Panathinaikos, or Aris.”

The two-time MVP reaffirmed his commitment to the Milwaukee Bucks earlier this offseason and remains under contract through 2026–27, his 14th NBA season.

A nine-time All-Star and 2021 Finals MVP, Antetokounmpo began his professional career with Filathlitikos in Greece before being drafted 15th overall by the Bucks in 2013.

In a related move, ESPN reported the Bucks will sign his younger brother Alex Antetokounmpo to a two-way contract, joining Giannis and Thanasis on the roster, marking the first time in NBA history that three brothers will play on the same team.

Source: The Guardian.

Greece eyes Gaza reconstruction role, nears recognition of Palestinian state

The Greek Herald
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Greece eyes Gaza reconstruction role, nears recognition of Palestinian state

Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis said Greece is prepared to play an active role in Gaza’s reconstruction and regional stability following the Sharm El-Sheikh Peace Summit and the signing of the Gaza Peace Agreement.

“Greece aspires to play an active role in Gaza and the Middle East on the ‘day after’, and we are ready to contribute substantially … on the basis of international law and UN Security Council decisions,” Gerapetritis said after meeting Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin in Athens on Tuesday, October 14.

He said Greece’s involvement would focus on large-scale humanitarian aid and the mobilisation of the private sector to improve living conditions in Gaza.

“The stabilisation of Gaza is key to establishing security conditions and ensuring the swift return of the Palestinian Authority,” he added.

Calling the peace agreement “tangible proof of the power of diplomacy,” Gerapetritis said Greece was “one step closer” to recognising a Palestinian state.

Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Shahin welcomed Greece’s support, saying, “We must seize the opportunity for peace that exists today … At the end of this road, we see the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.”

Trump warns Hamas to disarm as hostage remains returned to Israel

The Greek Herald
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Trump warns Hamas to disarm as hostage remains returned to Israel

US President Donald Trump has warned Hamas to disarm or face force, as the remains of four dead hostages were returned to Israel from Gaza.

Speaking at the White House alongside Argentine President Javier Milei, Trump said he had relayed the message to Hamas under his 20-point peace plan.

“If they don’t disarm, we will disarm them, and it will happen quickly and perhaps violently,” he said, adding that the group had agreed “through intermediaries” to comply.

Hamas has not publicly confirmed any such commitment.

Hours earlier, Trump declared “phase two” of the Gaza ceasefire had begun, after 20 Israeli hostages were released.

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) later confirmed that four coffins containing hostages’ remains had been handed over to the International Committee of the Red Cross before crossing into Israel.

Israel has since tightened border restrictions, keeping the Rafah crossing closed and cutting aid deliveries to pressure Hamas to return the remaining bodies.

Buses carrying freed Palestinian prisoners drive past destroyed buildings in the Gaza Strip after their release from Israeli jails. Photo: AP.

In total, Israel has freed nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for hostages. Eight bodies have been recovered, with 20 hostages still declared dead in Gaza.

The fragile ceasefire has largely held, though six Palestinians were killed in Israeli strikes that the IDF said targeted “suspects” violating truce lines.

Meanwhile, Hamas fighters have reappeared in Gaza’s streets following Israel’s troop withdrawal, with footage showing executions of alleged collaborators, acts condemned by the Palestinian presidency as “heinous” and a violation of human rights.

A regional summit in Egypt, co-hosted by Trump, ended without major progress toward forming a new governing body or international security force for Gaza.

Source: ABC.

The Greek Herald finalists lead the way in 2025 Greek International Women Awards

The Greek Herald
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The Greek Herald finalists lead the way in 2025 Greek International Women Awards

Greek women across the world are being recognised for their talent, leadership, and impact through the Greek International Women Awards (GIWA) – and this year, members of The Greek Herald team are among the finalists.

Now in its public voting phase, the acclaimed awards celebrate the achievements of Greek women globally across fields including business, education, media, fashion and social responsibility. Voting is open until 26 October 2025, with the public’s votes contributing 25% to the final result.

The Greek Herald finalists lead the way

andriana simos dimitra skalkos greek international women awards1
Dimitra Skalkos (left) and Andriana Simos (right) from The Greek Herald.

Dimitra Skalkos, Publisher of The Greek Herald, is a finalist in the ‘Media and Marketing Communications’ category. As one of Australia’s youngest publishers, she has led The Greek Herald – the nation’s largest and longest-running Greek news outlet – through a major digital transformation, expanding its reach to new generations while preserving its century-old legacy.

Under her leadership, the publication continues to serve as “a trusted voice for Greek Australians in the modern era,” championing factual, community-driven journalism that celebrates Hellenic identity in Australia and abroad.

“This nomination is not just for me – it’s for every woman in media who works to tell stories that matter,” Ms Skalkos said. “The Greek Herald’s success is built on community, collaboration and courage – values that reflect the best of Hellenic womanhood.”

Andriana Simos, Digital Editor of The Greek Herald, has been shortlisted in the ‘Social Responsibility’ category for her pioneering work in socially conscious journalism and community advocacy. Through her leadership, The Greek Herald has become a platform for stories that challenge stigma and inspire change – from mental health and disability awareness to gender equality and diaspora identity.

Miss Simos also founded The Greek Herald Woman of the Year initiative, which celebrates Greek and Cypriot Australian women making a difference across business, the arts, education and community life. Her reporting has appeared on the ABC and NewsCorp Australia, and her work has been recognised through multiple journalism awards for its ethical impact and social reach.

“It’s an honour to be recognised alongside so many inspiring Greek women,” Miss Simos said. “This nomination reflects our newsroom’s mission to give a voice to those often unheard – and to show that storytelling can drive real social change.”

andriana simos dimitra skalkos greek international women awards
Some of the members of The Greek Herald’s team. (Left to right) Sports Editor Takis Triadafillou, Journalist Ikaros Kyriakou, Publisher Dimitra Skalkos, Digital Editor Andriana Simos, and Office Manager Vicky Drivas.

Other Greek Australian finalists

The 2025 GIWA shortlist also includes several other distinguished Greek Australians:

  • Varvara Athanasiou-Ioannou AM (Social Responsibility) – Founder of the Food for Thought Network and a global advocate for women’s empowerment.
  • Violet Roumeliotis AM (Business and Entrepreneurship) – CEO of Settlement Services International and a national leader in refugee and inclusion policy.
  • Dr Angela Evangelinou-Yiannakis (Education and Psychology) – A dedicated educator and researcher advancing Greek language learning in Australia.
  • Angela Nicolades (Fashion) – Celebrated couture designer known for her Hellenic-inspired craftsmanship.
  • Chanel Contos (Education and Psychology) – Global advocate for consent education and gender equality.

How to vote

Public voting is open until 26 October 2025. To support The Greek Herald finalists and other inspiring women:

  • Step 1: Register online (free) here
  • Step 2: Vote in at least five categories

For more information and to read more about the shortlisted candidates visit www.greekinternationalwomenawards.com

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