The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia has announced the formation of a Special Committee to address moral misconduct, following ongoing proceedings of the Holy Eparchial Synod in Sydney.
Meeting in regular session during the Pentecostarion period under the presidency of His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia, the Synod approved the establishment of the committee, which will be chaired by His Grace Bishop Christophoros of Kerasounta, Chancellor of the Archdiocese.
The decision formed part of a broader agenda considered during the Synod’s latest session this week, where members reviewed and ratified previous minutes before addressing key governance and pastoral matters.
Among other outcomes, the Synod approved in principle an Internal Regulation on Youth and endorsed the order and service for the Blessing of the Waters.
It also designated the Sunday of Pentecost each year as a day dedicated to external mission, with charitable events to be held across the Archdiocese and local dioceses to support those in need.
The Synod’s proceedings are set to continue today, April 16, as deliberations remain ongoing.
South Melbourne FC all-but-confirmed their place in the top four of the OFC Pro League with an impressive victory over Bula FC in Ba.
Sinisa Cohadzic was able to call upon a number of players who missed their defeat to Auckland FC over the weekend, including captain Marco Jankovic and forward Yuki Uchida, giving them a much fresher line-up than their opponents.
Bula were keen to build upon their win at the weekend, knowing that three points would see them leapfrog South Melbourne and into second place.
There were a few hearts in mouths early on, when Scott Wara’s foul on Uchida led to a VAR check for a possible red card, but the review was eventually concluded with just a yellow card the punishment for the centre-back.
It was Uchida who would make the early impact though. The dangerous Japanese forward latching on to a tidy through ball by Max Mikkola, before craftily lifting his effort over Didier Desprez and into the back of the net.
Mikkola added to his assist with a goal of his own less than ten minutes later. Turning away from his marker 25 yards from goal and arrowing a stunning left-footed effort past Desprez, with the ‘keeper rooted to the spot.
Uchida and then Nahuel Bonada went close to adding a third for South Melbourne in the closing stages of the half as they finished the opening 45 minutes strongly.
Stephane Auvray made one change at the break, removing Gabiriele Matanisiga and bringing on Nabil Begg in hopes of turning the tide for his team.
It was the Australian side however who continued to dominate proceedings, though without significantly testing Desprez.
Bula FC eventually worked their way into the half and came close through Adam Supyk – the full-back smashing an effort narrowly wide of Javier Diaz Lopez’s post, having been set-up by Fergus Gillion.
Nabil Begg almost halved the deficit heading into the final ten minutes, gliding away from Jack Painter-Andrews but lifting his effort past both Diaz Lopez and the post, as South Melbourne breathed a sigh of relief.
The heavy rain certainly didn’t help either side, as Bula continued to push for a way back in as the minutes ticked down.
Six minutes of additional time was signalled by the fourth official but South Melbourne never looked in serious danger of surrendering their leader, holding on to strengthen their grip on second place.
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan has unveiled a pre-election cabinet reshuffle, with Greek Australian MPs Steve Dimopoulos and Nick Staikos taking on expanded and high-impact portfolios.
Dimopoulos has been sworn in as Minister for Economic Growth and Jobs, while retaining his responsibilities for Sport and Major Events, positioning him at the centre of Victoria’s economic and global engagement strategy.
In a statement, he said it was “an honour” to take on the role and continue building a strong economy, noting that “wealth creation… means more jobs for Victorian workers and their families,” while highlighting the role of major events in driving investment and showcasing the state.
Staikos, meanwhile, steps into a critical dual portfolio as Minister for Housing and Building and Minister for the Suburban Rail Loop, one of the state’s most significant infrastructure projects.
He described housing as fundamental to “human dignity,” adding he is “energised to build more homes – and the transport infrastructure that will support our growing communities.”
The appointments come as part of a broader cabinet overhaul following a series of MP retirements, with the new ministry formally sworn in on Wednesday.
The reshuffle signals a strategic focus on economic growth, housing and infrastructure as the government heads towards the November state election, with Dimopoulos and Staikos playing central roles in that agenda.
Paul Nicolaou has criticised a decision that could force the closure of a popular Sydney entertainment venue, warning it sends the “wrong signal” about supporting local business and tourism.
Indoor go-karting venue Hyper Karting, located at Moore Park’s Entertainment Quarter, is facing shutdown after the City of Sydney rejected its application to extend operations to 2028.
The council cited the “unacceptable” use of 296 on-site commercial parking spaces.
Business Sydney executive director Nicolaou said the move risked undermining economic activity in the city. “Closing the track sends the wrong signal about supporting local businesses, tourism and activation in our city,” he said.
“A sensible extension would provide certainty to workers and operators while allowing time for a balanced, long-term solution that benefits Sydney’s economy and community.”
The venue, which opened in 2021 and attracts more than 500,000 visitors annually, employs 156 staff who could lose their jobs if it shuts.
Founder Andrew Richardson labelled the decision “nonsensical”, pointing to data showing the carpark has never reached capacity, even after the nearby Allianz Stadium redevelopment, and noting that an additional 1,310 spaces are planned in a new Venues NSW carpark.
Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore said she was “disappointed that city staff rejected” the proposal but had “no say” due to planning laws requiring decisions be made by independent assessors.
The decision has prompted calls from business groups and the NSW Opposition for intervention, with a review now underway and set to be reconsidered by the Local Planning Panel at a later date.
Football Victoria (FV) has announced the appointment of Frank Karatzas into the position of Executive Manager – Operations & Membership, a significant milestone for both Frank and the organisation as it continues to strengthen its executive leadership team.
A widely respected and highly regarded figure across Victoria’s football community, Karatzas’ appointment follows a rigorous and highly competitive recruitment process that attracted a high-calibre field of candidates.
Karatzas’ journey at Football Victoria is a standout example of internal growth and progression. Since joining the organisation in 2019 as Registrations Coordinator, he has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, professionalism and a deep commitment to the football community. His progression through key roles across Community, Advanced and Cup football, culminating in his most recent position as Head of Competitions, highlights both his deep capability and vision for the game.
Throughout his tenure, Karatzas has built trusted and enduring relationships with clubs and key stakeholders and is widely recognised for his collaborative approach, integrity and passion for football. These strong connections, combined with his deep understanding of the Victorian football landscape, position him exceptionally well to lead with a community-first mindset and ensure collaboration remains central to decision making.
Football Victoria CEO Dan Birrell said Karatzas’ appointment reflects both his outstanding capability and the organisation’s strong confidence in his leadership.
“Frank has consistently demonstrated exceptional commitment, capability and innovation throughout his time at Football Victoria.
“His deep understanding of our competitions and absolute commitment to delivering a better football experience for all, make him ideally placed to drive our operations and membership functions forward.
“Frank is a shining example of our internal talent pathway and we are incredibly proud to see him now step into the executive team.”
Frank Karatzas said he was honoured to take on the new role and continue contributing to football in Victoria.
“I’m incredibly proud to step into this role within the executive team at Football Victoria.
“I’m grateful for the support and belief that FV has shown in me and I’m excited to continue working closely with our stakeholders to strengthen our competitions and enhance the experience for everyone involved in the game.
“This is an exciting next step in my football journey and I’m looking forward to contributing alongside the wider executive team.”
Frank will immediately commence in the role and will focus on strengthening service delivery across competitions and membership and driving initiatives that deliver outstanding experiences across the Victorian football community, aligned to FV’s ‘Our Football’ strategic priorities.
Greece’s highest administrative court has ended a legal challenge over the status of 10 members of the country’s former royal family, ruling their Greek citizenship and use of the surname “De Grèce” are valid.
The Council of State reached the decision following closed-door deliberations, with the ruling to be formally published in the coming weeks.
The case concerns the five children of former King Constantine II and Anne-Marie, Pavlos, Nikolaos, Philippos, Theodora and Alexia De Grèce, as well as Pavlos’ five children: Achileas-Andreas, Odysseas-Kimon, Constantine-Alexios, Aristidis-Stavros and Maria-Olympia De Grèce.
The court confirmed the group holds the same rights as all Greek citizens, including voting and standing for office, as protected under Article 51 of the Constitution.
Their citizenship process began in 2024 through a declaratory act signed by Interior Minister Theodoros Livanios, under Law 2215/1994.
The law required them to accept the post-1974 constitutional order, renounce any claims tied to the monarchy and titles of nobility, and complete official registration. Court records indicate they fulfilled all conditions and declared no claims against the state.
The legal challenge was filed by Panagiotis Lazaratos, who argued the surname could revive historical class symbolism and conflict with constitutional principles.
However, the court rejected the claim, finding the surname lawful and not in breach of the constitution or existing legislation, and upheld the validity of the ministerial decisions.
The outcome effectively settles the dispute over both the family’s citizenship and their right to use the De Grèce name.
Greece is set to undertake its first deepwater offshore drilling operation after Energean awarded a contract to Stena Drilling for an exploration campaign in the Ionian Sea.
The project will use the Stena DrillMAX to drill one firm well in Block 2, located in the northwestern Ionian Sea, with operations expected to begin in early 2027.
The campaign will incorporate managed pressure drilling technology to improve well control and efficiency in deepwater conditions.
The development marks a key milestone for Greece’s upstream energy sector, expanding exploration into deeper offshore areas as interest in the Ionian basin grows.
The well is expected to deliver critical data on the hydrocarbon potential of Block 2, helping shape future offshore development.
Energean and Stena Drilling have previously worked together on projects in Israel and Morocco, with the latest contract strengthening their ongoing partnership as exploration activity increases across the Eastern Mediterranean.
The move forms part of Greece’s broader efforts to diversify its energy supply and boost domestic resource development.
A large fire continues to burn at the Viva Energy refinery in Geelong after breaking out late Wednesday night, April 15, prompting an emergency response to reports of “explosions and flames” at one of Australia’s two operating oil refineries.
Fire Rescue Victoria said crews were called to the Corio site about 11:05pm, with the blaze still not fully under control early today.
Around 50 firefighters were deployed as the fire escalated from a small ignition into a “quite ferocious” incident involving multiple explosions.
Assistant Chief Fire Officer Michael McGuinness said the fire began in the “mogas” unit, where petrol is produced, likely caused by a leak of flammable hydrocarbons.
The blaze spread across an area roughly 30 by 30 metres. Authorities say it is not being treated as suspicious and may have resulted from a mechanical fault.
All workers on site, estimated at up to 50, were safely accounted for, with no injuries reported.
The refinery, one of only two in Australia capable of processing fuel domestically, supplies about half of Victoria’s fuel and 10 per cent nationally.
Photo: Facebook / Marcus Fort.
While the Victorian government said there was no confirmed disruption to production or storage, Energy Minister Chris Bowen cautioned: “It’s not a positive development. It will have an impact.”
Viva Energy chief executive Scott Wyatt said some units remained operational but output could be affected. “We’ll only start increasing production again once we’re confident we can do that safely,” he said.
Residents in surrounding suburbs were initially told to shelter indoors as smoke spread, though authorities later downgraded the warning, stating there was “no threat to the public” despite lingering smoke.
Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj described the incident as “unprecedented,” saying the intensity of the fire meant crews had little option but to let parts of it burn out.
Union official Ronnie Hayden said the site “looked like a war zone” when the fire began, crediting experienced workers for ensuring everyone escaped safely.
“They’ve been doing this for 70 years; they know what to do if something goes wrong,” he said.
The fire is expected to burn for several hours, with investigations into the cause ongoing.
US President Donald Trump has declared the Strait of Hormuz is “permanently opening” following talks with China, as tensions remain high in the Middle East and the US moves to increase its military presence in the region.
“China is very happy that I am permanently opening the Strait of Hormuz. I am doing it for them, also – And the World,” Trump wrote, adding: “This situation (Hormuz) will never happen again. They (China) have agreed not to send weapons to Iran.”
He also said Chinese President Xi Jinping would give him a “big, fat, hug” during a visit, adding: “We are working together smartly, and very well! Doesn’t that beat fighting??? BUT REMEMBER, we are very good at fighting, if we have to – far better than anyone else!!!”
The comments come as reports indicate the US is deploying an additional 10,000 troops to the Middle East, while enforcing a naval blockade in the region.
Audio released by US Central Command warned vessels: “If you do not comply with this blockade we will use force… The whole of the US navy is ready to force compliance.”
Strait of Hormuz.
Iran has responded with threats, with a senior adviser warning US ships could be targeted if Washington attempts to “police” the strategic waterway.
Meanwhile, global energy markets remain volatile. Iran has suspended petrochemical exports “until further notice” due to war-related damage, while oil prices have surged amid disruptions to one of the world’s most critical shipping routes.
In Australia, a major fire at Viva Energy’s Geelong refinery, sparked by a suspected gas leak, has added to supply concerns.
Authorities confirmed no injuries, though Energy Minister Chris Bowen said the incident would impact production, noting: “This is not a positive development… we will carefully, methodically, manage it.”
The refinery, which supplies more than half of Victoria’s fuel, remains operationally contained but under close monitoring as the broader fuel crisis continues.
A new era is unfolding at AHEPA Sydney & NSW, as Nia Gitsas steps into the presidency – the first woman to lead the organisation in New South Wales – at a moment many see as both a turning point and an opportunity for renewal.
Elected after a closely contested vote and following a period of internal challenges, Ms Gitsas represents a generational shift in leadership, one she describes as “an incredible honour” and a reflection of AHEPA’s growing commitment to inclusivity and progress.
In an interview with The Greek Herald, she outlined a vision focused on rebuilding trust, strengthening engagement and reimagining the organisation’s role in a changing community – with a particular emphasis on empowering younger Greek Australians and creating a more dynamic, forward-looking AHEPA grounded in education, culture and philanthropy.
You have been elected as the first female President of AHEPA NSW and Sydney. How does that feel? What are your plans for the future of the organisation?
It is an incredible honour to serve as the first female President of AHEPA NSW & Sydney. This milestone is both personally meaningful and symbolic of the organisation’s ongoing commitment to inclusivity, progress, and the evolving role of women in leadership. I feel deeply grateful for the trust placed in me from the members, and I am inspired by the opportunity to build on the rich legacy of the association.
Please note there is also a female interim vice-president Charoulla Themistocleous, a dedicated educator of Modern Greek and a founding member of the Australian Hellenic Educators’ Association.
Looking ahead, my focus is on strengthening AHEPA’s impact across our community. The first big challenge is the Ode to Freedom exhibition commemorating 200 years from the Exodus of Messolonghi at NSW Parliament under the auspices of the Consulate General of Greece in Sydney and with the support of the Hon Steve Kamper, NSW Minister for Multiculturism.
AHEPA Sydney & NSW has signalled a renewed focus on philanthropy, education and culture. How would you describe this new chapter for the organisation, and why was now the right time for a reset?
Through our three newly formed Special Interest Groups (Education and Sports, Culture and Philanthropy), we will continue to promote Greek culture, empower the next generation, and foster greater civic participation. Ultimately, my vision is for AHEPA to remain a dynamic, inclusive, and forward‑looking organisation – one that honours its heritage while embracing the needs and aspirations of the future.
Nia Gitsas discusses the three new Special Interest Groups.
The introduction of clearer focus areas reflects a more structured approach. How does this new framework help AHEPA Sydney & NSW be more effective and relevant in 2026 and beyond?
The new framework – anchored by the three Special Interest Groups – allows us to operate in a more streamlined and efficient way, with each Special Interest Group driving targeted initiatives rather than dispersing our efforts across competing priorities. This clarity not only enhances our organisational effectiveness, but also ensures that our work remains relevant and responsive to the needs of our community in 2026 and beyond.
Importantly, I hope that the Special Interest Group model will create accessible entry points for younger members, especially those from a wide range of professional backgrounds whose skills and expertise can meaningfully contribute to AHEPA’s future. By empowering members to participate in areas that align with their interests and strengths, we foster deeper engagement, encourage fresh ideas, and build a more dynamic and sustainable organisation for the next generation.
Philanthropy has been positioned as a central pillar of the organisation. What role do you see AHEPA Sydney & NSW playing in addressing community needs, both locally and through broader causes?
Philanthropy is firmly embedded in AHEPA Sydney & NSW’s direction. The Special Interest Group Philanthropy High Tea on March 8 was an outstanding success, bringing the community together in a warm and inspiring celebration of generosity. The event raised an impressive $10,000 to support the cancer research projects of Professor Vasso Apostolopoulos, Head of RMIT’s Longevity and Chronic Diseases Program, reflecting the deep commitment of members, sponsors and supporters. I am really excited to see the new scopes they put forward.
Engaging younger Greek Australians is a challenge many community organisations face. How is AHEPA NSW re-thinking its approach to education, youth involvement and long-term membership?
Engaging younger Greek Australians is a challenge faced not only by AHEPA Sydney & NSW, but by many Greek associations across Australia and the diaspora more broadly. Shifting demographics, changing social habits and evolving expectations mean that traditional models of participation no longer resonate in the same way they once did. We need to rethink how we connect with younger generations in a more meaningful and relevant way.
I personally believe our approach should centre on education, inclusion and purpose. We need to give the opportunity to young Greek Australians to connect with their heritage with issues that matter to them today, such as leadership, civic responsibility, cultural identity and community service. We need to give them project-based involvement that will allow them to contribute their skills, ideas and perspectives from the outset.
Nia Gitsas stresses the importance of the younger generation.
Cultural preservation cannot rely on nostalgia alone. How will AHEPA Sydney & NSW promote Greek culture in ways that resonate with contemporary, multicultural Australia?
In a contemporary, multicultural Australia, Greek culture must be lived, shared and re‑interpreted in ways that speak to today’s communities and future generations. While honouring our history remains essential, our focus should equally be on relevance, inclusion and participation.
I firmly believe that a central part of this approach is creating genuine opportunities for younger people and actively supporting them. Personally, I will advocate for AHEPA Sydney & NSW to give young Greek Australians the space, trust and resources to contribute their voices, ideas and skills – whether through cultural projects, education initiatives, leadership pathways or creative expression. When younger generations are empowered to shape how culture is presented and experienced, it becomes dynamic rather than static.
By investing in youth, embracing modern forms of storytelling and encouraging cross‑cultural engagement, I believe Greek culture will remain meaningful, accessible and forward‑looking -resonating not only with those of Greek heritage, but with the wider Australian society as a whole.
For readers interested in getting involved, what activities or events does AHEPA NSW have planned in the near future?
The most significant and immediate opportunity is the Ode to Freedom exhibition commemorating 200 years from the Exodus of Messolonghi, being presented at NSW Parliament from 5 to 28 May, weekdays 9:00am-5:00pm with free entry. This exhibition under the auspices of the Consulate General of Greece in Sydney and with the support of the Hon Steve Kamper, NSW Minister for Multiculturism, represents a major cultural and historical initiative for our organisation, bringing together art, history and democratic values and underlying the deep connections between Australia and Greece, in one of the state’s most important civic spaces.
We strongly encourage Greek Australians – and the wider public alike – to visit Ode to Freedom during this period. It is not only the centrepiece of our current program of activities, but also a gateway to understanding AHEPA Sydney & NSW’s mission to promote Greek heritage, historical awareness and civic engagement.
Nia Gitsas during a visit by the Evzones to Sydney.
How important is collaboration with other Greek, Cypriot and multicultural organisations in NSW, and what does meaningful partnership look like under this renewed direction?
I am of the opinion that collaboration with other Greek and multicultural organisations in NSW is absolutely essential to AHEPA’s renewed direction. Our community is strongest when we work collectively, share resources, and amplify each other’s initiatives. Meaningful partnerships go beyond symbolic gestures – they involve open communication, joint planning, and a shared commitment to advancing cultural, educational, and social outcomes for all communities we serve. It also aligns with our desire to engage younger generations, who value collaboration, inclusivity, and cross‑cultural connection. By working closely with other organisations, we ensure that AHEPA remains relevant, outward‑looking, and deeply connected to the fabric of modern Australian society.
AHEPA Sydney & NSW has experienced well-documented internal challenges in recent years. How has that period informed the organisation’s focus on unity, governance and moving forward?
Without a doubt, AHEPA has endured significant hardships in recent years, particularly during the period of court cases that placed considerable strain on the organisation. These challenges have tested our resilience and unity, and without a doubt disappointed many of our members who decided to distance themselves. Restructuring the association and forming the three Special Interest Groups (Educations & Sports, Culture and Philanthropy) was a step to try and make the organisation more efficient and set a restart button.
For members and supporters who may have stepped back in recent years, what would you say to reassure them about AHEPA NSW’s stability, direction and leadership today?
For those members and supporters who may have stepped back in recent years, I want to reassure them that my vision for the organisation is to operate with full transparency. We have emerged from past challenges and I am committed to do everything I can to rebuild trust and strengthening our organisation.
As a younger member, I come to this role free from past conflicts – neutral, open‑minded, and focused solely on the future. My hope is that they will see in me a fresh face and an inclusive approach that they can believe in again. I am deeply committed to fostering an environment where every member feels respected, valued, and welcomed back.
Finally, what message would you like to share with the Greek Australian community about AHEPA NSW’s role, relevance and vision moving forward?
My personal message to the Greek Australian community is simple: our greatest strength lies in our unity. As AHEPA Sydney & NSW continues to expand its philanthropic impact, cultural engagement and educational initiatives, none of this progress is possible without the collective support, shared vision and active participation of the members and the community. By standing together – across generations, backgrounds and local communities – we ensure that our Greek values not only endure but continue to uplift and inspire younger generations.
