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Jon Adgemis’ Rose Bay home sells for $12 million amid bankruptcy proceedings

The Rose Bay investment property of bankrupt hospitality entrepreneur Jon Adgemis has been sold for $12 million, after nearly two months on the market, according to a now-removed listing on the Cotality website.

The six-bedroom, five-bathroom home, purchased by Adgemis and his mother Rose in 2018 for $4.45 million, had been occupied by family members.

The 556 sqm corner property is zoned for apartment complexes up to six levels, with a neighbouring property having sold for $8 million in 2023.

Adgemis’ bankruptcy trustee, Andrew Yeo of Pitcher Partners, has advised that an update to creditors is expected in early November.

The windfall sale is unlikely to significantly reduce Adgemis’ debts, which currently exceed $1.8 billion.

The property had been listed as a mortgagee in possession sale, following a repossession notice posted in July.

Two registered mortgages and nine caveats remain on the title, mostly from hospitality trade creditors related to Adgemis’ half-interest.

One caveat, lodged in March last year, is from the NSW Chief Commissioner of State Revenue seeking unpaid land tax.

Adgemis, who rents at Bondi Beach, built a hospitality empire spanning roughly two dozen properties before the Federal Court declared him bankrupt.

Source: Daily Telegraph.

Greek elders at St Basil’s Lakemba honour OXI Day with faith, unity and joy

St Basil’s Lakemba was alive with colour and culture last week as some of Australia’s oldest Greek Australians came together to celebrate OXI Day, a national day that holds deep significance for the Greek community.

Residents started the day with a special church service from His Grace Bishop lakovos of Miletoupolis followed by a souvlaki BBQ lunch.

The celebrations continued into the afternoon with traditional Greek dancing and a performance by a choir from local Greek Orthodox school All Saints Grammar, creating a vibrant and emotional celebration of heritage and resilience.

st basil's lakemba

“OXI Day is a powerful reminder of courage, unity, and resilience – values that our Greek residents carry deeply in their hearts. Seeing them come together in song and dance reminds us that these traditions are not just about history, but about pride and identity that continue to inspire generations,” St Basil’s NSW/ACT CEO, Diana Horvatovic, said.

OXI Day which means ‘no’ in Greek is commemorated on October 28 remembering when the Greek Prime Minister rejected an ultimatum from Italian dictator Benito Mussolini during World War II.

“Watching our residents sing traditional songs and dance with such joy was truly moving. OXI Day isn’t just a commemoration; it’s a celebration of life, resilience, and community – qualities that remain at the heart of our home,” Mrs Horvatovic said.

St Basil’s 170 residents are all of Greek background including 100-year-old Hrisoula Mitsopoulos who was a teenager on that historic day and remembers it well.

“I remember the pride and unity of the Greek people. Even in the hardest times, we stood together and said “No” with courage and faith in our freedom,” she said.

“It reminds us that Greece has always fought for justice and independence. The younger generations must know what their grandparents went through so they can appreciate peace and freedom today.”

Ms Horvatovic added, “For our residents, especially those who lived through or grew up hearing stories of that era, OXI Day is a moment of reflection and gratitude. It’s a chance to honour the sacrifices made for freedom and to celebrate the strength of the human spirit – something we can all learn from.

“Events like this are about more than remembrance – they’re about dignity, connection, and joy. Our Greek residents show us that even in later life, celebrating who you are and where you come from is profoundly important.”

Heidelberg United held to a draw by Marconi Stallions

Heidelberg United were forced to share the points with Marconi Stallions, settling for a 1-1 draw in a high-intensity clash at Marconi Stadium on Friday night, October 31, marking the first time United have dropped points in the Australian Championship this season.

After a brief pre-match lightning delay, Heidelberg quickly found their rhythm, with Bul Juach testing Marconi goalkeeper James Hilton with a first-time effort saved early on.

Despite strong chances for Marconi through Damian Tsekenis and Marko Jesic, the deadlock persisted until the 65th minute, when Harry van der Saag headed home after a rebound from Anton Mlinaric’s volley gave the Stallions the lead.

Heidelberg responded swiftly, with Marcus Humbert equalising just six minutes later, rifling a first-time finish into the left of the goal.

The visitors came close to taking all three points in the 79th minute when Anthony Lesiotis volleyed a free-kick that was brilliantly saved by Hilton, and deep into stoppage time, Raffie Akiel was denied by another crucial stop from the Marconi keeper.

The draw leaves Heidelberg United and Marconi Stallions occupying the top two positions in Group B, with United’s unbeaten streak halted for the first time this season.

Source: Australian Championship.

Alpha Dining in Sydney welcomes new Executive Chef Riccardo Pazzona

Sydney’s modern Greek dining institution, Alpha Dining, has announced the appointment of Riccardo Pazzona as Executive Chef.

Operated by the Dedes Waterfront Group and located in the heart of Sydney’s CBD, Alpha has long been at the forefront of contemporary Greek dining and is known for its bold flavours, seafood dishes, and generous share-style plates.

Most recently Head Chef at hatted restaurant The Apollo, Riccardo brings more than 15 years of international experience to Alpha Dining, having honed his craft in prestigious restaurants across Europe, London, and Sydney.

Known for his bold, ingredient-driven cuisine and notable leadership style, Riccardo is now guiding Alpha into its next chapter, strengthening its reputation as one of Australia’s most iconic Hellenic dining destinations.

Riccardo’s career highlights include his tenure as Head Chef at Hotel dei Pittori in Turin where he earned the La Stampa Best Menu Award and a ranking among Piedmont’s top restaurants. He later joined Michelin-recognised Tenuta La Cascinetta, and his formative years were spent training in some of the world’s most acclaimed kitchens, including the two-Michelin-starred The Ledbury in London.

“Cooking for me is about respect for the ingredients, respect for the traditions they come from, and for the people we cook for,” Riccardo said. “At Alpha, I want every dish to feel familiar yet surprising; and something that speaks to memory as well as sparking curiosity.”

Con Dedes, owner of Dedes Waterfront Group, said: “Riccardo’s appointment signals an exciting new chapter for Alpha. His passion for both tradition and innovation perfectly reflects Alpha’s vision.”

With Pazzona at the helm, Alpha Dining is set to evolve while staying true to its roots, strengthening its position as one of Sydney’s most iconic dining institutions.

For more information about Alpha Dining, visit https://alphadining.com.au/.

Pharos Alliance NSW launches statewide survey to strengthen Greek language education

The Pharos Alliance NSW has launched a Parent and Carer Survey as part of the first phase of its NSW Greek Language Strategy.

The initiative focuses on collecting data and engaging the community to better understand the state of Modern Greek education across New South Wales.

The short, anonymous survey is available in both English and Greek and invites parents and carers to share their views on why families value Greek language learning, the challenges they encounter, and the types of support that would encourage participation.

The findings will inform future advocacy and program development aimed at strengthening Greek language education in NSW schools and community settings. A broad and diverse response from the Greek Australian community is being encouraged to ensure the results accurately reflect current needs and experiences.

The survey forms part of a long-term strategy to ensure Modern Greek remains a thriving and accessible language option for future generations in NSW.

Parents and carers can complete the survey online at:

Derrimut Gym empire faces asset sell-off and mounting debt as Portelli bailout collapses

The collapse of billionaire Adrian Portelli’s bid to rescue Derrimut 24:7 Gym has left the embattled fitness chain’s future hanging by a thread, as insolvency firm Rodger Reidy moves to sell off key assets amid spiralling tax and creditor debts.

Three major Derrimut-owned properties, its Thomastown and Ravenhall gyms and the head office in Derrimut, are now being offered vacant to buyers, with expressions of interest due by December 4.

The sites, owned by entities linked to founder Nikolaos Solomos, are expected to fetch about $30 million, though insiders say that will barely dent the company’s estimated $30 million in combined debts.

The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) is seeking to recover $12.5 million in unpaid taxes, superannuation and penalties, with supporting creditors owed a further $2 million, including Life Fitness, Melbourne United Basketball, ReturnToWorkSA, AGL, and Bourke Street Properties.

In court on Friday, the Federal Court adjourned the ATO’s latest wind-up hearing to November 24, marking the fourth delay in the case.

Lawyers for creditors expressed frustration, saying there was “no evidence” the company could repay its debts or secure refinancing.

Hours later, Portelli announced on Instagram he had abandoned his rescue plans, saying, “Unfortunately, we couldn’t see eye to eye and make the deal work… I truly wanted to help save Derrimut gym and keep such an iconic name alive.”

Nikolaos Solomos (left) with Adrian Portelli during an auction on The Block. Photo: Nine.

The decision is another blow for Derrimut’s roughly 200,000 members, who have complained about declining facilities, poor hygiene and refund delays.

WorkSafe has reportedly raised concerns about basic upkeep, including shortages of toilet paper and hand towels.

An earlier investigation by The Age revealed the company had failed to pay taxes, staff superannuation and suppliers, while Solomos allegedly withdrew millions in personal expenses, including $5,000 weekly allowances and luxury cars for staff.

Derrimut has already closed several branches, including Angle Vale, Munno Para and Noarlunga, and is fighting eviction from its Melrose Park gym in South Australia.

Finance sources estimate Solomos would need at least $30 million to settle debts and stave off liquidation.

Source: The Advertiser.

Melbourne parish honours Greek migrants with annual memorial service

The Parish of Panagia Kamariani in Red Hill, Melbourne, held its annual memorial service on Sunday, November 2, to honour Greek migrants who journeyed to Australia in search of a better life.

The service was presided over by His Eminence Metropolitan Ezekiel of Dervis, assisted by Archimandrite Irenaeus Koikas, the parish priest.

Following the liturgy, a Trisagion was performed at the parish monument dedicated to immigrants, with wreaths laid in remembrance of those who have passed.

The event drew a large gathering of parishioners and community leaders, including Federal MP for Mornington Chris Crewther.

The ceremony concluded with the Greek and Australian national anthems and a minute of silence, paying tribute to the generations of migrants who built new lives on Australian soil.

Two more Greek Australians named in SA’s latest AN0M sting arrests

Among those charged in the statewide AN0M raids, police have released the identities of Stavros Theoharis and Artemis Triantafillou, all from Adelaide’s northern and inner suburbs.

This comes as Michael Theoharis was named last week.

The Theoharis brothers, Michael, 29, of Paradise, and Stavros, 32, of Paralowie, were among the 38 alleged offenders whose identities were revealed following Wednesday’s early morning operation.

Also arrested was Artemis Triantafillou, 46, of Panorama, who joins a list of South Australians accused of involvement in offences uncovered through Operation Ironside 3.0, a continuation of the joint Australian Federal Police and FBI sting using the encrypted messaging app AN0M to track organised crime.

In total, SA Police made 55 arrests during the coordinated raids, targeting alleged drug dealers, bikies and organised crime figures.

The latest phase follows the 2021 Operation Ironside crackdown, when hundreds were arrested across Australia after authorities secretly monitored AN0M communications.

Legal proceedings continue as several defendants, including those in South Australia, challenge the admissibility of AN0M messages in the High Court.

Source: The Advertiser.

New US Ambassador Kimberly Guilfoyle arrives in Athens

The new US Ambassador to Greece, Kimberly Guilfoyle, arrived in Athens on Monday, November 3, aboard a private flight, in line with diplomatic protocol.

Her first official engagement will take place on Tuesday, November 4, when she presents her credentials to President Constantine Tasoulas during a ceremony at the Presidential Palace.

Later in the week, Guilfoyle is expected to make her first major appearance at the 6th Partnership for Transatlantic Energy Cooperation (P-TEC) Conference, held on November 6-7 at the Zappeion Hall.

The event, co-organised by the Greek Ministry of Environment and Energy, the US Department of Energy, and the Atlantic Council Global Energy Centre, aims to strengthen Europe–US cooperation on secure and sustainable energy transition.

The conference will be attended by US Energy Secretary Chris Wright, US Interior Secretary Dug Bergham, and 24 European energy ministers.

Over the weekend, Defence Minister Nikos Dendias met Guilfoyle during a US Embassy event marking the 250th anniversary of the US Marine Corps.

In a post on X, Dendias said he spoke “with Ms Kimberly Guilfoyle, who will officially assume her duties as US Ambassador to Greece in the coming days,” sharing a photo of their meeting.

Mitsotakis vows support for St Catherine’s Monastery at enthronement of Sinai Archbishop

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Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis attended the enthronement of the new Archbishop of Sinai, Pharan and Raitho, and Abbot of the Holy Monastery of Saint Catherine of Mount Sinai, Archbishop Symeon, on Sunday, November 2.

The ceremony was held in the presence of Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem, as well as representatives from the Ecumenical Patriarchate, the Patriarchate of Alexandria, and the Churches of Greece and Cyprus.

In his address, Mitsotakis described the 1,500-year-old monastery as “a bastion of Orthodoxy, a beacon of spiritual virtue, and a bridge of friendship between Greece and Egypt.”

He called it “a national duty to maintain our continuous interest in the Monastery’s vital spiritual and cultural mission, and a rightful obligation to assist those who preserve our traditions at the far reaches of this peninsula.”

The Prime Minister also praised the Sinai Brotherhood for its “patience, spiritual discernment, and steadfast faith” during recent challenges, and expressed confidence that Archbishop Symeon’s enthronement marked “a new era of unity and brotherhood” for the community.

Following the service, Mitsotakis venerated the Holy Relics and toured the monastery’s Treasury before holding private meetings with Patriarch Theophilos III, Archbishop Symeon, and US Deputy Secretary of State Michael Rigas.

Later, in a statement, Mitsotakis reaffirmed Greece’s commitment to supporting Saint Catherine’s Monastery and its monastic community, saying: “This sacred place has kept alive the flame of Orthodoxy for 1,500 years… Greece will always stand beside the Holy Monastery of Saint Catherine, ensuring this unique legacy is preserved for eternity.”

The Prime Minister, accompanied by his wife Mareva Grabowski-Mitsotaki, also attended the inauguration of the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza on Saturday, at the invitation of Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi.