Greece’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has hailed UNESCO’s decision to designate February 9 as World Greek Language Day, describing the development as an event of “historic importance” for Greece and the global cultural community.
In an announcement issued on November 12, the ministry confirmed that the resolution was unanimously adopted at the 43rd Session of the UNESCO General Conference in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.
The vote marks the culmination of a process that formally began in April, when the UNESCO Executive Board approved Greece’s proposal with the backing of 90 member states.
“The international recognition of the unique and invaluable contribution of the Greek language to the world cultural heritage constitutes a decision of historic importance in the 3,000 years of its unbroken continuity,” the ministry said.
📌 Ανακοίνωση Υπουργείου Εξωτερικών σχετικά με την ομόφωνη απόφαση της UNESCO για την ανακήρυξη της 9ης Φεβρουαρίου ως Παγκόσμιας Ημέρας Ελληνικής 🇬🇷 Γλώσσας (Ουζμπεκιστάν, 12.11.2025)
The milestone was further underscored during the General Conference, where Greek Culture Minister Lina Mendoni addressed delegates and thanked member states for their support. She described the recognition as “above all, a celebration of multilingualism,” highlighting Greek’s enduring influence on global thought, literature and scientific vocabulary.
Australia was among the co-sponsors of the resolution, reinforcing the strong cultural and historical ties between the two nations.
The proclamation of World Greek Language Day, to be celebrated annually on February 9 – the anniversary of the death of national poet Dionysios Solomos – represents a major success for Greece’s cultural diplomacy and a new platform for promoting the global relevance of the Greek language.
Team Greece will once again feature tennis stars Stefanos Tsitsipas and Maria Sakkari at the 2026 United Cup, joining a star-studded field that includes five of the world’s top 10 men and four of the women’s top 10 players.
The mixed-team tournament, serving as a lead-in to the Australian Open, will take place from January 2–11 across Sydney and Perth, with the official draw to be held next Monday.
Top seeds Coco Gauff and Taylor Fritz will lead defending champions Team USA, while world No.2 Iga Świątek returns to bolster Poland’s bid for the title.
Photo: PA Images.
Other major contenders include Germany’s Alexander Zverev, Japan’s Naomi Osaka, and Australia’s Alex de Minaur, who will captain the host nation alongside rising star Maya Joint.
Tournament director Stephen Farrow said the 2026 event promises world-class competition. “The United Cup holds a unique position in global tennis, with the world’s best men and women committed to play in mixed teams and showcase equality in the sport,” he said.
With Tsitsipas and Sakkari again joining forces, Team Greece is expected to be among the tournament’s strongest contenders as they aim for a deep run in the prestigious mixed event.
Sydney Airport has unveiled a bright orange memorial bench beneath its control tower in honour of Jake Anastas, a former employee and aspiring pilot who died in a light plane crash in October 2024.
The bench, made from the wing of an old Ansett Australia aircraft, was designed by Anastas’ family, friends, and colleagues.
“The bench … is a lasting tribute in a location that reflects his love of aviation,” said Sydney Airport Chief Operating Officer Adrian Witherow, adding that “Jake is remembered with love and is deeply missed by everyone at Sydney Airport.”
Anastas, 29, was killed alongside his instructor, Qantas captain Gary Criddle, and another pilot, Khadervali Gagguturu, in what his family described as a “freak” mid-air collision near Belimbla Park.
Jake’s father, Pas, sister Breana and mother Nichole attended a small unveiling on Tuesday. Photo: Nichole Anastas.
His mother, Nichole Anastas, said her son’s love of flying began as a child and that he dreamed of becoming a commercial pilot.
“When he was a baby in a pram, [he] was always pointing up to the sky as planes were going by,” she recalled.
Jake worked as an electrician with Sydney Airport’s first response team, and following his death, his family received an outpouring of support from the community and aviation industry.
His wife, Tori, described him as “loving and caring … he loved flying and made everything brighter.”
At the recent unveiling, Jake’s parents and sister gathered to reflect on his life. “It was lovely to see how loved and respected he was from his work colleagues,” Ms Anastas said.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau investigation into the crash remains ongoing.
Two months after the death of her husband Mercury Psillakis, who was killed in a shark attack at Dee Why Beach on September 6, Maria Psillakis has spoken publicly for the first time, determined to prevent other families from suffering the same loss.
“Losing Merc has put a place in my heart that I can’t really put into words. He is – was – my rock, my everything,” she said.
Mercury was surfing with friends when he was attacked by a great white shark about 80 metres offshore.
The incident occurred two weeks before the patrol season began, meaning the surf club was closed and the shark alarm was not triggered for 45 minutes.
“Not half an hour later, there were children swimming within 10 metres of where my husband was,” Maria recalled.
While acknowledging the risks surfers face, Maria is calling for better safety systems, including year-round drone patrols and stronger protections.
The shark involved was untagged, preventing detection by existing smart drum line systems.
“I want to advocate for evidence-based systems to perhaps prevent another tragedy like this,” she said.
With support from Member for Wakehurst Michael Regan, Maria is urging Premier Chris Minns to convene a roundtable with scientists, surf lifesavers, and the community to improve safety and save lives.
“I want [Mercury] to be remembered as the remarkable guy he was… is,” she said.
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides have agreed to update the financial and technical parameters of the Great Sea Interconnector, a major electricity cable project linking Cyprus to the European grid.
The agreement followed talks in Athens on Wednesday during the 3rd Intergovernmental Greece–Cyprus Conference.
Mitsotakis said both nations “remain committed to peaceful cooperation in a time of uncertainty,” describing Greece and Cyprus as “pillars of stability.”
Με τον Πρόεδρο @Christodulides αποφασίσαμε να προχωρήσουμε στην άμεση επικαιροποίηση των οικονομοτεχνικών παραμέτρων του έργου του καλωδίου ηλεκτρικής διασύνδεσης μεταξύ των δύο χωρών μας, έτσι ώστε να μπορεί αυτό να ενισχυθεί και με την είσοδο νέων ισχυρών επενδυτών. pic.twitter.com/VDZbPYhQAE
“The new circumstances make the added value of interconnectivity projects already underway even more significant,” he said.
“We are proceeding with the immediate update of the financial and technical parameters of the cable link, so that it may be strengthened by the participation of new, strong investors.”
Christodoulides called Cyprus’ ties with Greece “brotherly,” adding that both countries were focused on advancing projects with “economic and geopolitical impact.”
It was a night of double celebration for much-loved Greek Australian businessman Bill Mougios and his team at the 2025 Bayside Local Business Awards, held on Monday, November 10, at the Brighton Hotel Sydney – MGallery Collection.
Mougios’ The Grand Roxy Reception Lounge in Brighton-Le-Sands took home the award for Outstanding Specialised Business, while his Meet The Greek Restaurant was crowned Outstanding Restaurant -marking a milestone year for both hospitality venues.
A post on social media said Mougios’ team was “proud” to be recognised in two categories and thanked the local community for its continued support.
The Bayside Local Business Awards, presented in partnership with Bayside Council and Precedent Productions, recognise excellence, innovation and community spirit across the local business sector.
Bayside Mayor Edward McDougall congratulated all winners and finalists, saying, “Our local business owners show that there is nothing small about local business. They form the cornerstone of our community and continually inspire and innovate as they strive for success.”
Among other Greek Australian winners on the night was Born to Bake Greek, which won Outstanding Bakery/Cake Business, Nieos Grille Express, awarded Outstanding Fast Food/Takeaway – both testament to the strong Hellenic influence in Bayside’s thriving food scene. Roza Papas from First Education Mascot won the Youth Award.
The event once again highlighted the diversity and talent within the Bayside business community – from family-run eateries to innovators driving sustainability and inclusion.
Every visit to Asia Minor is a journey of discovery and, on the whole, a reconnection with our past. After collecting our hired car in Ankara, my daughter Dioni and I travelled east to Hattusha – the sprawling archaeological site of the Bronze Age Hittite Empire. In their cuneiform tablets we find the first foreign record of the Mycenaean Greeks.
Central Anatolia was also the home of the Phrygians and Lydians who have multiple Greek connections – Kings Midas and Croesus and the goddess Kyveli.
Our next stop was Amasya, the capital of ancient Pontos, which still retains its Greek name unchanged. The tombs of the Pontian kings, carved into the rock face high above the city, is the main attraction. Sadly, Amasya was the location of the mock trials in 1921 which resulted in the execution of about 450 prominent Greeks during the Genocide.
Leaving Amasya, we bypassed Merzifon (whose famous Anatolia College was re-located to Thessaloniki after the Genocide) and headed towards Samsun (Sampsounda/ Amisos) where Kemal landed on 19 May 1919 to commence the Nationalists’ revolution. From the Greek perspective, the date commemorates the Pontian Genocide.
A superhighway connects a string of Pontian towns along the Black Sea coast – most of them founded by the Milesians about 2,800 years ago: Tsarsamba/ Terme (Themiskyra/ Thermai); Unye (Oinoe); Fatsa (Fadissa); Ordu (Kotyora); Bulanjak (Terastios) reaching Giresun (Kerasounda) where we stayed the night. An island off Giresun has the distinction of being the last Greek territory to fall to the Turks in 1468 as darkness completely enveloped the Greek world. There would be no free Greek entity anywhere for another 332 years.
From the heights of the Giresun Castle a breathtaking view is beheld of the city and coastline. Sadly, the mausoleum of Topal Osman, one of the monsters of the Genocide, is located in the vicinity.
Leaving Kerasounda, we travelled inland to the small town of Tonya, about 70km southwest of Trabzon. This was the goal of our journey and proved to be the highlight of our trip – far exceeding our expectations.
Tonya (anc. Thoania but called Vari by the locals), in the Majka (Matzouka) region has a substantial number of Romeyka speakers. We found Tonya as a result of the work carried out by Prof. Ioanna Sitaridou (from Cambridge University) to document this archaic Greek language still spoken by some of the local inhabitants. We spent five emotional hours conversing (with difficulty), singing, drinking raki and dancing with Mehmet, Faruk, Ahmet and a full house of Taverna patrons. An exhilarating experience which will never be forgotten.
Romeyka speakers may also be found in the Ofi (Yarli/ Giga; Bolumlu/ Zisino); Tsaykara (Uzungol/ Sarahos); Surmene (Kujuk Doganli/ Arkhanghelos) and Rize districts.
The standout monument of Pontos is its disused world-famous monastery at Soumela, about 48km south of Trabzon. The UNESCO world heritage site, perched on the mountainside, is a spectacular sight even in ruin and with damaged frescoes. Indeed, the entire region – evergreen, gushing waters, misty, forested mountains and verdant valleys must be seen to be appreciated.
Leaving Sumela and heading further south are the towns of Gumushane (Aryiroupolis), and Sebin Karahisar (Koloneia/ Mavrokastron/Yarasari/ Nikopoli). Further west we find Mesudiye and Niksar (Neo Kesareia) – all with their own (almost) forgotten history.
Trabzon (Trapezounda) has much to see – befitting the capital city of an empire and where the Greeks had a commanding presence until 1922. It, too, has an AyaSofya – now a mosque again – on a superb location overlooking the coast; the Kizlar/ Panayia Theoskepastos Monastery at the foot of Boztepe; the Molla Siyak Mosque (Ayios Andreas); the Orta Hisar (Fatih) Mosque (Panayia Chrysokefalos); the Kustal/ Peristereota Monastery (30 km southeast of Trabzon – near the village of Simsirli) and Vazelon (40 km south of Trabzon).
In the city itself there is the Frontistirion – the most impressive surviving Greek building – now a prestigious Turkish high school; the Trabzon Museum – a confiscated Greek mansion and the Ataturk Pavilion – another confiscated mansion… and much more…
It is a testament to the resilience of Pontian Hellenism that, after more than 100 years of the Genocide and uprooting, the region’s population has adopted as its own the culture – music, dancing and costumes – of the original inhabitants.
On Sunday, November 9, members of the Hellenic Australian community gathered for a meaningful and heartfelt afternoon at Caffe Greco in Oakleigh. Organised by the Hellenic Medical Society of Australia (HMSA) and the Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM), the Fertility & Filoxenia event created a welcoming space for open conversation, learning and genuine connection.
Guided by filoxenia – the Greek principle of hospitality and kindness to all – the event went beyond a traditional seminar. Attendees were encouraged to speak candidly about topics such as fertility, family planning and the challenges of modern parenthood, in an atmosphere filled with care and compassion.
The expert panel reflected the many dimensions of fertility: medical, emotional, nutritional, psychological and relational.
Speakers included Dr Hector Georgiou (Fertility Specialist), Dr Spiri Katsenos (Perinatal Psychiatrist), Voula Koufariotis (Fertility Dietitian) and Dr Arete Koutreris (GP), with Dr Billy Stoupas (GP) moderating the discussion. Kristie Cocotis, Director of Health Programs at the Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education (FARE), also contributed insights on health initiatives such as ‘Every Moment Matters’.
The panel explored fertility across the lifespan of both men and women, discussing how age, lifestyle and overall health influence the likelihood of conception. They explained when fertility testing can offer helpful clarity and when it may create unnecessary anxiety.
Other topics included the importance of nutrition, mental health and wellbeing, as well as egg freezing as an empowering option for those not yet ready to start a family.
A recurring message throughout the afternoon was that fertility is about empowerment and informed choice, not pressure. The experts emphasised that early conversations around fertility are not about rushing into parenthood, but about understanding options so individuals and couples can make thoughtful, confident decisions about their future.
In Greek culture, family has deep significance, offering continuity and belonging across generations. The discussion reflected that supporting individuals and couples in their fertility journey is about shaping the generations to come, and nurturing the community’s shared future.
As the event concluded, attendees lingered over coffee and sweets, engaging in thoughtful dialogue and sharing personal reflections. Many left with not only clearer information, but also a renewed sense that fertility is a topic that touches many lives in meaningful ways.
Dr Hector Georgiou said, “it was a privilege to be part of a conversation that was real, heartfelt, and needed.”
“Seeing people engage so openly, ask questions, and share their experiences reminded me just how important it is to create spaces where fertility can be discussed without judgment. Events like this help turn what can feel like a private struggle into a shared journey of learning and support,” Dr Georgiou added.
Dr Athina Pirpiris (HMSA board member) said the highlight of the event was the community engagement generated through the ability to ask questions anonymously during the session.
“Our aim was to inform and empower individuals to make the right decisions for themselves through the sharing of evidence-based information and professional experience. We felt that we have achieved that,” Dr Pirpiris said.
An attendee said the event was so useful and important.
“The panelists were so sensitive, thoughtful and considered in their responses. We really appreciated this opportunity to attend and to learn from experts and hope there will be more such events,” they added.
The Hellenic Medical Society of Australia expressed its gratitude to its sponsors, including DBG, Greek Media Group, Genomic Diagnostics, Zaparas Lawyers, Mantzis Family Trust, Accountancy Group and Alex Bros Jewellers. The HMSA and GCM also extended thanks to their event partners – Caffe Greco, Melbourne IVF, Meleros, Healthy Empire and Moxie – for their generosity and support.
The Cretan Association of Sydney & New South Wales brought its commemorative weekend to a warm and creative close with a sold-out Arkadi Monastery Paint Night at That Art Place in Carlton on Monday, 10 November.
The Sydney event formed part of the wider 159th anniversary commemorations of the Holocaust of the Arkadi Monastery.
Led by artist Andronika Troulis, the Paint Night offered participants a step-by-step creative experience inspired by the historic Arkadi Monastery – a symbol of Cretan courage and resistance.
The evening welcomed participants aged 13 and above, including international musicians from Crete – Vangelis Kimionis, Klearchos Manolioudis and Michalis Lymakis.
Attendees painted, danced, and shared stories in a relaxed atmosphere that celebrated intergenerational connection and the enduring pride of the Cretan diaspora. The studio transformed into a vibrant hub of art, music and cultural unity.
“My heart is full,” Ms Troulis said after the night.
“This event was especially meaningful for me, as both my parents hail from Crete. Having them there, alongside my daughter, and seeing other grandparents, parents and children – all painting, sharing stories, laughter and tradition – was incredibly moving.
“The studio was alive with music, dancing and heartfelt connection as participants compared their artworks and celebrated the spirit of unity that defines Cretan culture.
“My heart is full, watching families come together through art and keeping our traditions alive… Words can’t explain that feeling. I’m overwhelmed with emotion and feel so proud of my Cretan heritage.”
The Arkadi Monastery Paint Night was a joyful conclusion to a weekend of remembrance and reflection, highlighting how art and creativity can serve as powerful expressions of cultural memory and pride.
Sydney, get ready! The Greek Orthodox Community of NSW (GOCNSW) and the Greek Festival of Sydney is once again transforming Bay Street, Brighton-Le-Sands into a seaside celebration of culture, community, and summer spirit on Sunday 16 November 2025, from 11am to 10pm.
Expect a day bursting with live music, dance, food, and Greek hospitality – a true feast for the senses by the beach! With free admission and entertainment for all ages, the Greek Fest @ Bay Street is one of this summer’s must-attend community events.
Leading the day’s celebrations will be MC Anthony Locascio, one of Australia’s favourite Greek Australian comedians, bringing his signature humour, charm, and energy to keep the crowd laughing and celebrating all day long.
The festival will also spotlight incredible local Greek Australian talent, led by Thanasi Pylarinos of Bouzouki Entertainment. Enjoy performances by rising bouzouki star Kosta Benetatos, percussionist Damascus Economou, and DJ James Maestro, spinning the best mix of traditional hits and contemporary Greek dance anthems. Adding a soulful touch, Georgio Svolos on clarinet will fill the air with the nostalgic sounds of the Greek islands.
Throughout the day, IHO NYX and DJ Georgie D will keep the energy and rhythm alive, creating an atmosphere filled with excitement and a vibrant summer vibe.
And of course – it wouldn’t be a Greek festival without food! Bay Street will come alive with the aromas of sizzling souvlaki, juicy gyros, sweet loukoumades and many more. Visitors can indulge in authentic Greek flavours while enjoying live music and dance just steps from the beach.
Traditional culture will also take centre stage, with spectacular performances by the GOCNSW Dancing Group, the Pontian Brotherhood “Pontoxenitieas” of NSW, the Cretan Association of Sydney & NSW, Kalymnian Association of NSW Dance Group and many more – bringing colour, rhythm, and passion to the heart of Brighton-Le-Sands.
“This festival is a celebration of who we are – a vibrant community built on culture, connection, and care for one another,” Harry Danalis, President of the GOCNSW, said.
“The Greek Fest @Bay Street is not just for Greeks, but for everyone who wants to experience the warmth, energy, and hospitality that define our heritage.”
Nia Karteris, Chair of the Greek Festival of Sydney, added, “The Greek Fest @ Bay Street showcases the incredible local talent that makes our community so special. It’s also about celebrating our youth – the future of our community – by giving them the opportunity to perform and share their passion for Greek culture.”
NSW Minister for Multiculturalism and Member for Rockdale, Stephen Kamper, said: “I cannot wait to celebrate our amazing Greek culture, heritage, and cuisine at Greek Fest this week at Brighton-Le-Sands in the heart of my electorate.”
“Brighton-Le-Sands is filled with a large and vibrant Greek Australian community, and the Greek Fest will celebrate these traditions while sharing them with families from across Sydney,” Mr Kamper added.
“The Minns Labor Government is proud to support this year’s festival, and I encourage everyone to pop down on Sunday for some gyros and loukaniko, Greek music and dancing, and a great party!”
Bayside Mayor Edward McDougall added: “Greek culture has long been a cornerstone of Bayside’s identity – from the early families who settled here to the thriving businesses, cafes, restaurants, churches, and community organisations that enrich our daily life.”
“We are rightly proud that Brighton-Le-Sands has been the centre of Greek hospitality in Sydney for generations. Council continues to support this event, and it is wonderful to see this vibrant celebration of Greek food, culture, and entertainment back in Bayside – where it all began,” Mayor McDougall said.
“So grab your friends, bring the family, and join us for a full day of food, music, and dancing by the beach. Whether you come for the bouzouki, the loukoumades, or to have fun with friends – there’s something for everyone at the Greek Fest @ Bay Street, Brighton-Le-Sands!”
