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Netanyahu attacks Albanese as ‘weak’ amid escalating Australia-Israel tensions

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Netanyahu attacks Albanese as ‘weak’ amid escalating Australia-Israel tensions

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has launched a scathing personal attack on Anthony Albanese, accusing the Australian Prime Minister of “betraying” Israel.

“History will remember Albanese for what he is: a weak politician who betrayed Israel and abandoned Australia’s Jews,” Netanyahu wrote on social media platform X.

The post marks a sharp escalation in tensions between the two leaders, following Australia’s decision to recognise a Palestinian state at the United Nations in September.

Israeli Opposition Leader Yair Lapid criticised Netanyahu’s remarks, saying: “The thing that strengthens a leader in the democratic world today most is a confrontation with Netanyahu, the most politically toxic leader in the Western world … It is unclear why Bibi is in such a hurry to give the Australian Prime Minister this gift.”

Australia’s Opposition Leader Sussan Ley called the incident “troubling,” arguing that Albanese had mismanaged international relationships.

“Regardless of which party is in power, the prime minister of Australia deserves respect. But respect is a two-way street,” she said.

Israel has also revoked visas for Australian representatives to the Palestinian Authority, in what its Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar described as retaliation for Canberra’s stance on Palestine and for cancelling visas of Israeli figures, including far-right politician Simcha Rothman.

Sa’ar labelled the move “shameful” and accused Australia of fuelling antisemitism.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong condemned the cancellation as an “unjustified reaction” that further isolated Israel.

The Executive Council of Australian Jewry urged restraint, warning that the fallout threatened $2 billion in trade, investment in Australian start-ups, and vital security and medical ties.

Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke accused Netanyahu of “lashing out” after Australia denied Rothman a visa, citing his inflammatory comments, including calling Gazan children “enemies” of Israel.

“Strength is not measured by how many people you can blow up or how many children you can leave hungry,” Burke told ABC Radio National, arguing Albanese had shown strength by consulting Netanyahu before the Palestinian recognition decision and standing firm.

Meanwhile, Sky News reported that Netanyahu had written to several world leaders, including Albanese, warning that recognition of a Palestinian state was “appeasement” that “pours fuel on this antisemitic fire.” French President Emmanuel Macron is also said to have received a similar letter.

Source: ABC.

Faith and unity mark Archbishop Makarios’ historic visit to Thornbury church

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Faith and unity mark Archbishop Makarios’ historic visit to Thornbury church

On Thursday 14 August 2025, St George Church in Thornbury welcomed His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia for a pastoral visit, the first by an Archbishop to the church in 49 years.

Mr Mylonas, a long-standing committee member, recalled a visit approximately 49 years prior to this church.

Accompanying His Eminence were His Grace Bishop Kyriakos of Melbourne and His Grace Bishop Evmenios of Chora.

The evening service was warmly received by the local Greek Orthodox community and marked a moment of spiritual reflection, unity, and renewed connection between the Church and the community.

Coming together on the eve of the Dormition of the Theotokos, a day that commemorates the reunion of Panagia with her Son in heaven, parishioners and community leaders alike were reminded of the strength that comes from unity.

The Archbishop’s visit highlighted the strong relationship between the Church and the Greek Community of Melbourne and the shared commitment to preserving faith, culture, and connection across generation.

Along with the parish, also in attendance were President of the Greek Community of Melbourne, Bill Papastergiadis OAM, Greek Community of Melbourne’s Secretary Associate Professor Marinis Pirpiris and Board Member Nick Koukouvitakis.

“We welcomed Archbishop Makarios and Bishops Kyriakos and Evmenios to St George Church,” said Mr Papastergiadis. “The pastoral visit and service was the first attendance in 49 years of an Archbishop to our church.”

Mr Papastergiadis further emphasised the value of collaboration and unity within the Greek diaspora.

“It’s clear as is communicated to me by members of the Hellenic Parliament that in other parts of the global Greek diaspora there is some lack of cohesion amongst various bodies. Hence, it’s important we work collectively, collaboratively, and our relations with the Archdiocese and the Archbishop are strong,” Mr Papastergiadis said.

“We welcome the Archbishop’s visit to our Church and his presence was welcomed by our parishioners. Many thanks to Fr Haralambos and the church committee for their hospitality and dinner following the service. Everyone was made to feel welcomed, and this is at the essence of our Hellenic values and faith.”

Mr Koukouvitakis echoed the sentiment of unity and reverence, stating that: “It’s important that the Community and Church work collaboratively were needed.”

Reflecting on the significance of the visit, Assoc/Prof Marinis Pirpiris added: “The Archbishop’s presence was a blessing to our parishioners and highlighted the partnership between Community and Church.”

Australian restaurateurs with Hellenic heritage shine at Gourmet Traveller Awards

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Australian restaurateurs with Hellenic heritage shine at Gourmet Traveller Awards

Australians with Hellenic heritage were in the spotlight at the 2025 Gourmet Traveller Annual Restaurant Awards, with Angie Giannakodakis named Restaurant Personality of the Year for her pioneering work at Melbourne’s Taverna, and Chris Lucas’ Maison Bâtard crowned Best New Restaurant.

Giannakodakis, a fixture of Melbourne’s dining scene for over three decades, was celebrated for her multidimensional vision of hospitality. At Taverna, she has redefined Greek dining in Australia, weaving food, wine, art, and culture into an immersive experience.

Gourmet Traveller praised her as someone who “has championed the art of hospitality (and every element of it) for over three decades.”

Maison Bâtard, the Lucas Group’s latest venture, wowed judges with its extravagant four-level Parisian concept in Melbourne, combining French flair with the theatre and ambition that has become the Lucas hallmark.

The win further cements the Group’s place at the forefront of Australia’s restaurant landscape as it celebrates 30 years in the business.

The awards night, held for the first time in Tasmania at Hobart’s Henry Jones Art Hotel, brought together leading chefs and restaurateurs from across the country.

Other headline winners included Sydney’s seafood temple Saint Peter (Restaurant of the Year), Porcine’s Nik Hill (Chef of the Year), Brisbane’s +81 Aizome Bar (Bar of the Year), and Berowra Waters Inn (Readers’ Choice Icon Award).

Yet it was Giannakodakis and the Lucas Group who drew the loudest applause, recognised for setting new standards in creativity, vision, and excellence. Together, they embody the vibrancy and diversity of modern Australian dining – from the intimacy of Taverna to the spectacle of Maison Bâtard.

Source: Gourmet Traveller

Pastry chef Zak Antoniou announces closure of beloved Adelaide cake shop

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Pastry chef Zak Antoniou announces closure of beloved Adelaide cake shop

Adelaide pastry chef Zak Antoniou, known for his stint on Zumbo’s Just Desserts, has announced the permanent closure of his popular cake shop, Zacary Desserts.

Sharing the news on social media, Antoniou said the decision followed “a lot of thought and reflection” after five years in business.

“The past five years have been an incredible journey filled with creativity, challenges and countless sweet moments we’ve shared together,” he wrote, adding he was “deeply grateful” to loyal customers for their support.

Antoniou rose to prominence as an amateur baker during season two of the Channel 7 reality show in 2019, later streamed on Netflix. He went on to open Zacary Desserts, gaining a following for his colourful custom cakes and pastry creations.

Although closing this chapter, Antoniou said he would “always cherish the memories, the celebrations and connections” made through his store.

The closure comes amid a wave of hospitality venue shutdowns across South Australia in 2025, with cafes, restaurants, pubs and even an award-winning pizzeria succumbing to soaring energy bills, food costs, rent and insurance.

Source: The Advertiser

Archbishop Makarios honours George Kotzas in Innisfail for decades of service

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Archbishop Makarios honours George Kotzas in Innisfail for decades of service

The long-standing service of George Kotzas to the Greek Orthodox Parish of the Dormition of Our Lady in Innisfail, Far North Queensland, was recognised in a special way on Sunday, August 17, as His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia bestowed upon him the Order of the Christ-loving.

Mr Kotzas, Secretary of the Parish-Community, was honoured at the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy, with the Archbishop expressing the heartfelt gratitude of the local Church for his tireless dedication and commitment over many years.

The ceremony took place during the Archbishop’s pastoral visit to Innisfail, where he presided over a Divine Liturgy alongside His Grace Bishop Bartholomew of Brisbane and clergy of the Holy Diocese of Brisbane.

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Among those present were Queensland State MP Shane Knuth, and Archon of the Ecumenical Patriarchate Theo Bacalakis.

In his sermon, Archbishop Makarios reflected on the day’s Gospel reading of Christ healing the demon-possessed young man, emphasising that prayer and fasting are essential for faith to be alive and strong.

“For many people, faith simply means the conviction that God exists. This is only the beginning,” His Eminence preached. “Prayer brings us into a personal connection with God… while fasting disciplines our body and limits our passions. Together, prayer and fasting create a space in our hearts where the presence of God is no longer an idea, but a living reality.”

He also pointed to the Virgin Mary as the supreme model of living faith, and paid tribute to the pioneering immigrants who, 90 years ago, founded the Parish of Innisfail.

Saints Final Four bound after hard fought elimination final victory

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Saints Final Four bound after hard fought elimination final victory

By Dion Stergiopoulos

After a hard-fought quarter-final loss against Newcastle Falcons a week prior, the St George Saints Youth League Mens Red team faced a win or go home situation, in their elimination final against Hawkesbury Jets last Saturday.

The Saints were once again back home in front of a packed-out Hurstville Aquatic and Leasure Centre for the second week in a row, taking on the 17-5 Jets as they looked to keep their championship hopes alive.

The game was a battle from the opening tip with both teams fighting tooth and nail to take control of the contest early with their defence, with the Jets forcing nine turnovers to close the first quarter with a slim three-point lead (17-14).

The Saints found their offensive groove in the second quarter lead by Dylan Akosah, scoring ten points for the period to help the home side regain control of the game.

St George continued to apply the defensive pressure, forcing ten turnovers as neither team gaining a significant advantage heading into the halftime break (38-37).

Crucial defensive changes for the Saints allowed them to continue to force turnovers (30 total for the game) and slowly build their lead.

The Jets would not go away, with the combination of shot making and Saints’ foul trouble allowed the visitors to claw their way back into the contest.

Dylan Akosah continued to be the bright spark for the Saints, finishing the game with a massive 27-point, 20 rebound double-double as the home side finished the third quarter up by only five points (61-56).

The Saints made a massive effort to assert their dominance on the boards after a poor rebounding performance against Newcastle a week ago.

The 68 to 45 rebounding advantage for the Saints was made possible by an outstanding 31 offensive rebounding effort to propel the home side into a strong position to win the game.

As the final quarter went on, the game slowed down and the Saints’ defence took over to close out the contest with a 78-69 victory to progress to the Waratah Senior League Finals next weekend August 23 & 24 on the Central Coast.

The Saints will be out for revenge as they face a rematch against Newcastle Falcons in what will be a stellar Semi-Finals matchup.

Key contributors

  • Dylan Akosah – 27 points, 20 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal, 1 block
  • Abdul Hamid Banse – 10 points, 7 rebounds, 1 assist, 3 steals
  • Maper Maker – 9 points, 14 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 steals, 3 blocks

Saints assistant coach Angelo Tsitsos was impressed with the team’s response following last weeks’ quarter final loss.

“Through the past week of training, our goal was to take control on the boards and establish ourselves in the game with our defence and physicality,” he said.

“Whether shots were falling or not, our defence must remain solid in order for us to win playoff games.”

The past two weeks have been massive for the St George Basketball Association with the club overwhelmed by the community’s response, with close to 300 fans packing out Hurstville Aquatic & Leisure Centre for both finals games and making it an event to remember for years to come.

The St George Basketball Association would like to thank all the VIP’s and sponsors for their support to make the last two weeks an historic moment in the club’s history.

  • Ashvini Ambihalpahar MP, Federal Member for Barton
  • Zhi Soon MP, Federal Member for Banks
  • Mark Coure MP, State Member for Oatley
  • Maria Nordstrom, CEO Basketball NSW
  • Representing The Premier of NSW, Councillor Leon Pun Georges River Council
  • Representing The Mayor of Georges River Council, Councillor Christina Jamieson
  • Representing Club Rivers, Jenny Holt, Community Engagement Manager

“A special thank you to NBL, IAthletic, Club Rivers, Marvel Skip Bins and Pancakes on Rocks for their support for Raffle ticket prizes and our Major Sponsors City Ford Rockdale and Club Rivers. A special thank you to Keith Martin the MC for the quarter final matchup against Newcastle and Kirkland Ivory for being DJ and MC last Saturday,” said St George Saints treasurer George Aliferis.

“General Manager Valerie Stoddart and President Ray Barbi on behalf of the Board of SGBA wish to give a big thank you to all the SGBA supporters that helped us create history and all our sponsors for their support.”

The Saints will prepare for a rematch against Newcastle Falcons in a Semi-Final matchup at Niagara Park Stadium on the NSW Central Coast this Saturday 23 August, with the winner progressing to Sundays Grand Final.

Sydney Thunder lock in Sam Konstas until 2029 as cricketer chases Test redemption

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Sydney Thunder lock in Sam Konstas until 2029 as cricketer chases Test redemption

Australia’s rising cricket star Sam Konstas has deleted Instagram from his phone in a bid to regain focus and revive his Test career, after a difficult tour of the West Indies left his Ashes hopes under threat.

The 19-year-old opener, who averaged just 8.33 in three Tests in the Caribbean, says he is determined to block out distractions and concentrate solely on scoring the runs needed for national selection.

“I’m actually off Instagram now… It’s about not having that distraction. I’m trying to give myself the best opportunity to perform at the highest level,” Konstas said.

Konstas revealed he has received strong backing from Pat Cummins, Steve Smith, Usman Khawaja and Mitchell Starc, with Smith providing regular batting advice and Cummins reminding him of the importance of rest.

Despite the setback, Konstas’ long-term future has been secured, with Sydney Thunder handing him a four-year contract extension through to the 2028–29 BBL season.

Thunder General Manager Trent Copeland called it one of the “easiest decisions” of his career, declaring Konstas the player around whom the franchise will build.

Source: The Australian

Iconic Greek-inspired ‘wedding cake’ mansion in Seaforth goes to auction

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Iconic Greek-inspired ‘wedding cake’ mansion in Seaforth goes to auction

One of Sydney’s most recognisable waterfront properties, known locally as the “wedding cake house,” has hit the market for the first time since it was built in the 1980s, carrying a price guide of $9 million.

Perched on a 1,100-square-metre parcel overlooking Middle Harbour, the European-style residence is instantly visible to drivers crossing the Spit Bridge or boats cruising beneath.

According to domain.com.au, it was built by painter-builder Nikolaous Dimitriadis and his wife Kiriaky, who purchased the site unseen at auction in 1979 for $93,000.

Dimitriadis commissioned architect Robert Blackmore to design the five-bedroom, three-bathroom home, incorporating colonnades and arches as a nod to the couple’s Greek heritage.

Nikolaous passed away only three years later, but the house became the heart of family life for Kiriaky and their children, hosting countless gatherings over decades.

Prospective buyers will have the opportunity to add a pool and pontoon, with a development application currently pending.

The property is being sold by Brad Pillinger of Pillinger and is set for auction on September 10.

Source: domain.com.au

Nick Kyrgios withdraws from US Open mixed doubles with Naomi Osaka

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Nick Kyrgios withdraws from US Open mixed doubles with Naomi Osaka

Nick Kyrgios has been forced to withdraw from his planned mixed doubles partnership with Naomi Osaka at the revamped US Open due to a knee injury, casting doubt over his singles campaign.

The 29-year-old has been entered into the singles draw under a protected ranking. He admitted his knee was “cooked” after a recent doubles return.

French star Gaël Monfils has replaced Kyrgios as Osaka’s partner.

The decision comes after Alex de Minaur’s plea to compete alongside his fiancée, British No.1 Katie Boulter, was denied. De Minaur had hoped the tournament would allow “real couples” to participate, but he missed out despite several high-profile withdrawals.

Australia’s representation in New York remains strong, with 14 players in the men’s and women’s singles draws and 16 more attempting to qualify.

Promising teenager Emerson Jones, a former world junior No.1, claimed her maiden US Open victory by upsetting American 10th seed Bernarda Pera. Astra Sharma, James Duckworth, James McCabe and Maddison Inglis also advanced, with Inglis defeating fellow Australian Storm Hunter.

Meanwhile, Bernard Tomic returned to Flushing Meadows for the first time in seven years. The 32-year-old, who recently reached Challenger finals in Kentucky and Colombia, boosted his ranking inside the top 200 to secure entry into qualifying.

Source: news.com.au

ACT MP calls for recognition of Armenian, Assyrian and Greek Genocides

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ACT MP calls for recognition of Armenian, Assyrian and Greek Genocides

History was recently made in the ACT Legislative Assembly when Andrew Braddock, Member for Yerrabi, became the first elected official to use the words “Armenian Genocide” on the floor of the chamber.

In a three-minute private members statement, the ACT Greens MP called on both the Territory Parliament and the Australian Government to recognise the 1915 massacres of Armenians, Assyrians and Greeks as genocide.

“I am calling on the government to do the right thing by Armenian, Assyrian and Greek communities here in Canberra and across the world. I am calling on the ACT government to recognise the genocide perpetrated against these people and the enduring legacies to this day,” he told fellow members.

Mr Braddock described the systematic abuse inflicted on Armenians, including rape, robbery, starvation and mass killings during forced death marches.

Citing human rights lawyer Geoffrey Robertson KC, he added: “In fact and in law, this was a genocide. I hope this Assembly will, in this term, recognise the genocide against the Armenian, Assyrian and Greek peoples.”

His remarks followed the second annual Armenian and Greek Genocide Commemoration held at the Assembly in May 2025, as well as cross-party meetings with MPs.

The Armenian National Committee of Australia (ANC-AU) welcomed the speech. Executive Director Michael Kolokossian said: “We are deeply grateful for principled leaders like Mr Braddock. His voice in the ACT Legislative Assembly reflects a moral courage that descendants of genocide deserve. Recognising the Armenian Genocide is not just about honouring the past – it’s about protecting the future.”

Kolokossian warned of the dangers of silence, referencing the 2023 crisis in Artsakh. “When the suffering of our ancestors is ignored or denied, it lays the groundwork for history to repeat itself. This is not just an Armenian issue; it’s a human issue. And we need more voices like Mr Braddock’s.”

Source: Armenian National Committee of Australia

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