South Australian MP Olivia Savvas has helped secure landmark reforms supporting families affected by stillbirth, inspired by the loss of her baby brother Benjamin in 2000.
“I have been forever shaped by the loss of my brother and I know first-hand the impact of infant loss is long-lasting,” Ms Savvas told The Advertiser.
As chair of the Parliamentary Select Committee into Stillbirth, Ms Savvas oversaw recommendations including $850,000 in funding for the Red Tree Foundation, dedicated stillbirth delivery suites at the new Women’s and Children’s Hospital, and a ‘purple butterfly’ program to help staff identify grieving parents.
Adelaide’s strong ties with Greece have reached a new milestone, with the official signing of a Sister City agreement between Adelaide and Athens on the eve of the C40 World Mayors Summit in Rio de Janeiro.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by Adelaide’s Lord Mayor Dr Jane Lomax-Smith and Athens Mayor Dr Haris Doukas, marking a landmark partnership that will strengthen cooperation across culture, tourism, innovation, commerce, and environmental sustainability.
“I’m very pleased that both Mayors have met. I have been trying to bring them together for a while now and the opportunity arose in Brazil,” Mr Georganas told The Greek Herald.
“We are looking forward to the Sister City between Athens and Adelaide being completed and come to fruition, benefiting both cities through the many connections we have that intertwine us – whether it be people-to-people contacts, cultural ties or just both cities being progressive cities with a commitment to the environment.
“I am sure that this will bring our two cities much closer, benefiting us both.”
Mr Georganas’ comments follow a groundswell of local support for the initiative, championed within the Adelaide City Council by Councillors such as Mary Couros, who described the partnership as “a celebration of our multicultural identity and the strong global connections we continue to build.”
Dr Alexandra Theodoropoulou, Consul General of Greece in Adelaide, also praised the agreement, calling it “promising” and “a true Sister City relationship” that will “make both cities better.”
The MoU, approved by Council earlier this year, represents more than symbolic diplomacy – it’s a practical framework for collaboration between two cities with shared values and deep historical and cultural bonds.
As Adelaide and Athens formalise this next chapter of cooperation, the partnership stands as a testament to the enduring strength of Hellenic ties in South Australia and the forward-looking vision of both city leaders.
Greek citizens have until 5 November to obtain their new 12-digit Personal Number (Προσωπικός Αριθμός) – a unique lifelong identifier required before applying for the country’s upcoming digital national ID card.
Issued through the government’s myInfo platform, the Personal Number unifies several existing identifiers – including the tax (AFM) and social security (AMKA) numbers – into a single code that simplifies interaction with public services.
Citizens log in using their TaxisNet credentials, verify their details via a one-time code sent to their registered mobile phone, and can personalise their number by selecting its first two alphanumeric characters.
Once issued, the number remains permanent, even if personal details change. Automatic issuance will begin from 6 November for those who have not registered by the deadline, ensuring every individual with an AFM or AMKA receives one – including foreign residents.
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has described the rollout as “a significant step in Greece’s digital transformation,” emphasising its role in strengthening data security and administrative efficiency. So far, more than 1.3 million citizens have already obtained their number.
For members of the Greek diaspora in Australia, the process is available online or through local Greek consulates.
Authorities stress that while the Personal Number is a prerequisite for the new national ID card, citizens who already hold one will not need a replacement, as the number can be accessed digitally.
The reform marks a new era in Greece’s effort to streamline bureaucracy and modernise citizen services both at home and abroad.
Burwood will come alive this Sunday, November 9 as the Greek Street Fair Burwood 2025 returns, celebrating Greek culture, music, dance, and cuisine in the heart of our community.
From 11am to 5pm, the streets surrounding the Church of St Nectarios will be filled with performances, festivities, and authentic Greek hospitality.
Railway Parade, Burleigh Street, and Ford Lane will be temporarily closed to traffic during the event to ensure the safety of visitors and allow everyone to enjoy the festival precinct.
Main Stage highlights:
Live music: Paradise Band, Australian Hellenic Choir, and more.
Dance performances: Greek Dance Rhythms, Sydney Hellenic Dance Company, Kogarah School of Greek Dancing, St Paraskevi Greek Dance School, Sophia Ventouris School of Greek Dance, Pontoxeniteas NSW Dancers, and the Cyprus Community of NSW Dancers.
Baraki on Ford Lane – Pop-Up Fun: Ford Lane, now featuring five vibrant new murals and creative lighting installations, will host a baraki (small bar) by Volume Vodka for attendees aged 18+, alongside live music and DJs.
Family Fun: Children can enjoy amusement rides, games, and activities in the Telstra car park, while families explore food trucks, market stalls, and Greek treats throughout the precinct.
“The Greek Street Fair is more than an event; it celebrates community, culture, and connection while honouring the Feast Day of St Nectarios. It is both a traditional and modern celebration, and we invite everyone to experience the sights, sounds, and flavours of Greece right here in Burwood,” Burwood Mayor Cr John Faker said.
Greek Street Fair Burwood 2025 is proudly presented by the Greek Orthodox Parish and Community of Burwood and District and Burwood Council, with support from Multicultural NSW.
His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia met with the Prime Minister of Greece, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, on Monday, 3 November, in Athens.
Accompanied by His Grace Bishop Kyriakos of Melbourne, the Archbishop was warmly received by the Greek Prime Minister at the Maximos Mansion.
The meeting took place in a cordial and constructive atmosphere, with discussions focusing on issues of mutual interest – chief among them the needs of the Greek diaspora in Australia.
Particular emphasis was placed on the pending agreement between Greece and Australia to prevent double taxation, which the Prime Minister assured is expected to be finalised soon.
Archbishop Makarios also briefed Mitsotakis on the activities and pastoral work of the Orthodox Church in Australia, reaffirming the Church’s unwavering commitment to preserving the Greek identity of the diaspora and strengthening its ties with the motherland.
Prime Minister Mitsotakis congratulated the Archbishop on the Church’s immense contribution to Hellenism in Australia, reaffirmed the Greek Government’s ongoing support for the Greek diaspora, and expressed his intention to visit Australia during the first half of 2026.
Headlining this year’s Greek Fest @Bay St is the dynamic Maria Maroulis, whose powerful vocals and energetic stage presence are guaranteed to electrify the crowd. Known for her contemporary flair and captivating performances, Maria brings a vibrant edge to this year’s program.
The festival will also showcase the next generation of Greek Australian talent under the musical direction of Thanasi Pylarinos of Bouzouki Entertainment. Audiences can look forward to standout performances by rising bouzouki star Kosta Benetatos and percussionist Damascus Economou, alongside DJ James Maestro, who will keep the energy high with a mix of traditional and modern sounds.
Adding a soulful touch, Georgio Svolos on clarinet will transport listeners to a Greek island taverna with his rich, melodic sound.
Joining them are local favourites Iho Nyx and DJ Georgie D, ensuring non-stop entertainment throughout the day.
Traditional Greek culture will also take centre stage, with performances by the Greek Orthodox Community NSW Dancing Group, the Pontian Brotherhood “Pontoxenitieas” of NSW, the Cretan Association of Sydney & NSW, and others, bringing colour, rhythm, and authenticity to the celebration.
“The Greek Fest @Bay St showcases the incredible local talent that makes our community so special,” said Nia Karteris, Chair of the Greek Festival of Sydney. “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.”
The Greek Fest @Bay St, Brighton-Le-Sands promises a day full of music, food, and fun for all ages — from timeless bouzouki melodies to contemporary festival beats.
Don’t miss this vibrant celebration of culture and community by the beach!
Under blue skies, the second day of the 10th annual Oakleigh Glendi brought together faith, remembrance, and community spirit.
The morning began with a stirring parade through Eaton Mall led by Oakleigh Grammar students, their drums and flags echoing through the heart of Oakleigh.
The morning began with a stirring parade through Eaton Mall led by Oakleigh Grammar students. All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Mary Sinanidis.
The march set the tone for a day that celebrated both OXI Day (28 October) and the feast of Saints Anargyri, Kosmas and Damianos, twin pillars of faith and resilience in the Oakleigh Greek Orthodox community.
Wreaths were laid in solemn tribute, and a host of dignitaries gathered to honour Greece’s historic defiance in 1940. Among them were Greek Consul General Dimitra Georgantzoglou, former Victorian Premier Jeff Kennett, Federal MP Clare O’Neil, first female leader of the Liberal Opposition Sussan Ley, Carina Garland MP, State MPs Lee Tarlamis, David Davis, and Victorian Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos, Monash Mayor Paul Klisaris, Oakleigh Grammar Principal Mark Robertson, and Greek Community of Melbourne President Bill Papastergiadis.
“They thought they would take Greece in three days and crush it,” he said. “But Greeks fought with all their hearts for the land they lived on. We remember all those people who sacrificed and were killed for our freedom.”
Father Stavros Kakavas.
Greek Consul General Georgantzoglou, attending the Oakleigh Glendi for the first time, described it as “a link with the motherland” and conveyed a message from Greece’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Ioannis Loverdos. “‘No’ is a symbol of courage and freedom,” she said, “written not only on the mountains of Pindos but on the souls of Greeks everywhere.”
Greek Consul General to Melbourne, Dimitra Georgantzoglou.
Oakleigh Grammar Principal Mark Robertson paid tribute to the event’s founders, including Con Baltas and Angelo Sardellis, calling the Glendi “the fulfilment of Father Moutafis’ vision.” He highlighted Oakleigh Grammar’s ethos of faith, family, and service, and told the moving story of a former student, Arthur Dimitriou, who overcame cerebral palsy to study medicine.
“We call it filotimo, the Greek spirit of love, duty, and generosity,” he said.
Oakleigh Grammar Principal Mark Robertson.
Victorian Minister Mr Dimopoulos took to the stage to acknowledge the long-time leaders of the Oakleigh Glendi, the men who helped it grow. He also wanted to draw attention to the capabilities of Greek-Australian women and their vital contribution because, as he noted, the wives “work tirelessly behind the scenes to support these men and this festival.”
Dimopoulos’ main message resonated deeply: pride in a multicultural Australia that allows people to be both Greek and Australian “without having to choose.”
“Last night, I saw generations, young and old, dancing together,” he said. “That’s how we honour those who said ‘no’ in 1940. We continue Greek culture wherever we are.”
Oakleigh MP Steve Dimopoulos, a local boy who has seen the festival grow.
Federal MP Ms O’Neil praised the festival as a “brilliant, vibrant showcase” and expressed pride in her local community. “People from other parts of Australia often ask what makes Oakleigh so special,” she said. “It’s the generosity and spirit of Greek Australians, their warmth, their vibrancy, their heart.”
Federal MP Ms O’Neil.
Opposition Leader Ms Ley commended Oakleigh Grammar’s students, who “stood in the hot sun with their jackets and drums,” and drew parallels between Greek and Australian values. “Freedom, democracy, and human dignity, these are the values we share,” she said.
Liberal opposition leader Sussan Ley.
Monash Mayor Klisaris reflected on OXI Day’s enduring relevance. “We live in a dangerous world,” he said. “The courage and strength of the Greek people who stood up to totalitarianism is a lesson for all of us.”
As speeches gave way to dance performances and the joyful sounds of bouzouki, the sun shone brilliantly over Warrawee Park. Children twirled in traditional dress, families shared plates of souvlakia, and the rhythm of drums echoed Oakleigh’s enduring Greek heart.
The Glendi continued into the evening with cooking demonstrations, market stalls, and performances that captured the essence of filotimo: faith, friendship, and pride.
Ten years on, Oakleigh Glendi remains not just a festival but a living tribute to those who said “No,” and to those who keep saying “Yes” to community, culture, and connection.
*All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Mary Sinanidis
What began as a humble parish fete in the 1960s has evolved into one of Melbourne’s most anticipated multicultural festivals: Oakleigh Glendi. Now drawing tens of thousands each year to celebrate Greek heritage and community unity, Oakleigh Glendi was held at Warrawee Park in Oakleigh on the first weekend of November this year.
The story of the Glendi begins with Father Nicholas Moutafis who founded the Saints Anargyri Greek Orthodox Church more than 60 years ago. His vision was to create a place where faith and culture could thrive together.
The late Father Nicholas Moutafis.
The church’s annual fete quickly became a neighbourhood highlight, bringing together generations of Greek migrants who worked hard to build a new life in Oakleigh. Over time, it grew into a major celebration, bridging OXI Day (28th October) with the Feast of Sts Anargyri on November 1.
A memorial to Father Moutafis now stands at the park, honouring the man who laid the cornerstone of Oakleigh’s Hellenic identity.
“His dream was to make Oakleigh a spiritual and cultural centre,” said Father Stavros Kakavas of Sts Anargyri Church. “It’s heartwarming to see that vision flourish.”
Father Stavros Kakavas of Sts Anargyri Church.
The Glendi has undergone many transformations over the decades. Once held in the church school grounds, it moved to Oakleigh’s Warrawee Park precinct 10 years ago, expanding into a full weekend of music, food, and festivities.
This year, organisers revived a beloved tradition by closing Atherton Street once again.
“We used to close the street years ago,” said Oakleigh Community Board Member Stacey Kalamatis. “Atherton Street closures stopped for a while, but this year, it’s back, and it feels like the old days.”
Multicultural celebration
While deeply rooted in Hellenic culture, Day 1 of Oakleigh Glendi is a festival for all.
Saturday’s program included multicultural offerings, such as Indonesian dancers Sanggar Lestari, the Oriental Sarayi Dance Group, and traditional Greek acts like the Cretan Brotherhood.
Oakleigh Glendi.
“Since the beginning, we’ve made sure the festival represents everyone,” said Sam Vassos, Treasurer of the Greek Orthodox Community of Oakleigh for the last 45 years. “We live in a multicultural society, and that’s what Oakleigh is all about.”
Oakleigh Community board member Jim Samargniogis could not agree more.
“I remember going as a kid to multi-faith concerts with Father Nicholas Moutafis and hearing him speak, he was a real leader and very multicultural,” he said. “We were taught as young kids to embrace all religions, and it was a great upbringing.”
Oakleigh Grammar Principal Mark Robertson, a former Oakleigh Cannons player, says the school is the “jewel in the crown” for the community.
“We have 40 different nationalities and on Greek Independence Day, our students from around the world march and celebrate Greece,” he said. “That’s the beauty of Australia.”
Local MP Steve Dimopoulos reflected on the festival’s role in uniting communities.
“I used to come here as a boy,” he said. “Back then, there was a bit of racism. These days, this festival builds belonging. It’s massive with generations of Greek Australians dancing together with the multicultural community joining in.”
Singer Christina Salti and Oakleigh Community President Chris Damatopoulos.
A legacy that shines
Last year’s Glendi drew an estimated 40,000 visitors, and this year’s turnout was expected to topple that, helped by sunny skies and an ever-growing program of entertainment.
As fireworks burst above the crowd and Greek singer Christina Salti closed the weekend with her empowering ballad “Andras Einai Tha Perasei” (“He’s Just a Man, He’ll Pass”), the Glendi once again proved what makes it special, a festival born of faith, sustained by community, and shared with the world.
“It’s important to have festivals like this,” said Father Stavros. “They remind us who we are and how far we’ve come.”
*All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Mary Sinanidis.
The Hellenic Women’s Network VIC – HELIADES Inc, EEAMA, AHEPA Victoria and ESTIA welcomed renowned Greek psychologist, family counsellor, and author Tenia Makris to Melbourne on Sunday, October 26, 2025, for an inspiring lecture on family and human relationships.
Held at Star International in Preston, the event drew a packed audience, captivated for two hours by Mrs Makris’ engaging and heartfelt presentation.
Speaking with her trademark warmth and insight, she explored the complexities of family dynamics, the importance of self-awareness, and the ways in which understanding ourselves can transform our relationships with others.
“Only when we know ourselves well will we be able to know, understand and acknowledge others,” Mrs Makris said, highlighting the need for introspection as the foundation of healthy relationships.
Her talk delved into core emotional themes such as love, forgiveness, and gratitude, guiding attendees on a journey of self-reflection and emotional growth.
The session concluded with an open Q&A, where audience members posed thoughtful and in-depth questions, fostering a spirit of constructive dialogue and connection.
Hellenic Women’s Network Founder and President Niki Matziaris-Garay OAM expressed her gratitude to Mrs Makris for her moving and insightful address.
“It was a journey through our inner world — a chance to reflect on who we are and how we relate to others. I thank Mrs Makris from the bottom of my heart and feel blessed to have met her,” Mrs Matziaris-Garay said.
Following the success of this event, Mrs Makris will present a second lecture on Sunday, November 9 at 3:00 pm, again at Star International (1C Bell Street, Preston).
Atherton Street, typically a rush of city traffic, was transformed into a pedestrian-only spectacle for the annual Oakleigh Glendi on the first weekend of November. Thousands poured into the precinct, the air thick with the irresistible scent of charred lamb souvlakia and the rhythmic, sharp pluck of the bouzouki blending with a roar of laughter.
What began many decades ago as a humble church fete for Saints Anargyroi feast day has blossomed into one of Melbourne’s most beloved multicultural celebrations, now drawing crowds estimated at over 40,000 visitors across the weekend.
At its heart are the hundreds of stallholders whose stories weave together faith, creativity, and community spirit.
All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Mary Sinanidis.
From faith to design
Among the bustling rows of tents, the light emanating from the Stacey K Studios stall captured attention. Here stood Stacey Kalamatis, a board member of the Greek Orthodox Community of Oakleigh and the creative mind behind the luminous, cave-inspired art pieces. Her journey from designing intricately hand-decorated lambades (Easter candles) was a deep one.
Stacey K Studio where Stacey and her son, Alexander, showcased their lovely ‘caves’.
“It took me three years to bring my design to life,” she said, her voice warm. Her inspiration was born from a pivotal moment: a mystical, quiet Cretan cave where she once prayed, and the feeling of connection she found there.
“Each piece is handcrafted using onyx and marble sourced from around the world. It’s about finding calm and connection.”
Her work, now stocked in more than a dozen boutiques, recently won Best Stand at the Australian Gift Fair. “It’s not just Greeks. People connect with the energy behind it,” she smiled. “It’s doing really well.”
Caffeine, crafts and connection
At Melvourni Coffee, crowds queued for their caffeine fix.
Melvourni Coffee owner George Darmanis and Paris.
“We only serve iconic coffees of Greece, and frappe is still the festival favourite, though that is no longer the case in Greece where freddo cappuccino has taken over,” said owner George Darmanis, who runs the business with his wife Thaleia.
“We launched in 2022, just presenting and then decided to also add a coffee stand. Every year, the festival gets bigger. This is our home, and we want to support the people who support us.”
Nearby, Samantha from Annie’s Gifts by Sam was enjoying her first Glendi as a stallholder.
“It’s busy and fun,” she said. “My dog mugs are definitely the bestsellers. People love them.”
Gifts by Sam.
For Helen Lucas, the Glendi was about more than sales. After discovering the healing benefits of mastiha (the natural resin from Chios) during her struggle with psoriasis, she began selling mastiha-based products.
“It’s a great festival,” she said. “People are buying. It’s worthwhile. We wouldn’t be here if we weren’t making money.”
At Ammos, Maria Tsimoutsis spoke proudly of the business she started with her sister-in-law, Katerina Mastrokoulis. The idea came as they would come back with bags, jewellery and other items from Greece and people would always ask where they got them from.
Maria brought a Greek holiday to Oakleigh Glendi with Ammos.
“We launched Ammos about eight or nine years ago,” she said. “Our products come directly from Greece: handbags, sandals, accessories. We’re passionate about bringing authentic Greek style to Australia. We’re lucky to travel to Greece every year or two to source everything ourselves.”
By early Saturday, Tonia Katakis of Alfabeta had run out of yiayia storytelling dolls. “I began importing Desylla products from Greece to help my daughter learn the Greek language and found there was a huge market for them,” she said. Her daughter is now 11 and speaks flawless Greek.
Tonia Katakis of Alfabeta brought Desylla products to Australia as a way of helping her daughter learn Greek.
From Palestine to Perth
The multicultural flavour of the Glendi shone through in every direction. Eddie Raffoul, from Mum’s Baklava, proudly shared his Palestinian heritage.
“This is our second year here,” he said. “My mum, Helen, made baklava for 30 years, now we sell around 5,000 pieces a week. We even added chocolate, peanut butter, and Turkish delight versions.”
Mum’s Baklava from Palestine.
When asked whether baklava is Greek or Turkish, he laughed, while giving an unpopular opinion.
“Baklava originated in Turkey, but everyone makes it their own. Greeks use walnuts and honey; we use sugar syrup with cashews and pistachios.”
Nikita Kypriotis and Karina Tolios, both under 21, drew crowds with their vintage football jerseys at Fashion Football.
Fashion Football entrepreneurs saw their jerseys fly off the racks.
“We both love football,” said Nikita. “The retro kits are our bestsellers. We took a leap of faith to be here, and it’s paying off.”
Karina agreed, adding that they are both Oakleigh locals. Her advice to other young entrepreneurs: “Have faith in God and go for it!”
Nearby, Sugarlicious stall owners, Kelly Shin and her family, were selling toffee apples and sugar-dipped fruit.
“We go everywhere there’s a festival,” she said. “Good weather, good vibes. We’ll be back.”
Sugarlicious stall owners say they will be back.
Faces of a festival
At the Zaparas Lawyers photo booth, a lot of fun was had. Local mum Yu-Gin posed with her kids wearing funny hats and holding up fun signs.
“I come every year to have fun with the children,” she said. “I like the food and the people. I have Greek neighbours.”
Photobooth by Zaparas Lawyers.
Visitors came from all over Melbourne and beyond. Ping, originally from China and now living in Box Hill, came with a group of friends from across the city.
“I’m from Box Hill and my friend is from Clayton,” she said. “We’re celebrating a Greek festival and think it’s very good. We like Greek culture — my sister and I used to live in Oakleigh, so it feels like home.”
Ping and her friends came from all around Melbourne.
Bianca Clifford, from Perth, travelled across the country with her German boyfriend, Nicholas Haustorf, to reconnect with her roots.
“I’m a quarter Greek, but also Sicilian and British,” she said. “The Glendi makes me feel close to my yiayia’s culture.”
Bianca and Nicholas, originally from Perth and Germany.Kwah family enjoy Christina Salti.
As night fell, the air filled with the powerful vocals of Christina Salti, performing her new anthem “Andras Einai Tha Perasei” (“He’s Just a Man, He’ll Pass”), an ode to women’s strength and independence.
Christina Salti.Fireworks.Crowds enjoy Christina Salti.
The crowd danced, laughed, and sang until fireworks painted the Oakleigh sky, a fitting finale to a weekend where small business, heritage, and community spirit shone brightest.
*All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Mary Sinanidis.
