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Honouring Pontian women: Pontoxeniteas NSW marks IWD 2025 with celebration

The Greek Herald
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Honouring Pontian women: Pontoxeniteas NSW marks IWD 2025 with celebration

Pontoxeniteas NSW proudly celebrated International Women’s Day on Sunday, March 9, at the Pontian House in Earlwood, Sydney.

The event brought together young people, families, members, and friends, including special guest Peter Papoulidis, President of Panagia Soumela Sydney, along with his committee.

In recognition of this year’s global IWD theme, Pontoxeniteas NSW honoured its Pontian Amazones and embraced the spirit of Marching Forward Together with the community.

The Pontoxeniteas Youth Committee, led by Eleni Lambousis, Kiki Moysiadou, and Zoe Karatasas, expertly hosted the event as MCs, demonstrating the next generation’s leadership and commitment to community.

Celebrating Pontian women in leadership

A key feature of the event was a panel discussion featuring three inspirational Pontian women whose leadership and community involvement began at Pontoxeniteas:

  • Helen Macris – The first female president of Pontoxeniteas (2014), Helen was born in Siberia (now Kazakhstan) and later pursued a successful career in education, teaching ESL at Ashfield for 25 years.
  • Cathy Dimarchos – A former dance student and Youth Committee member in the 1980s, Cathy is now a Global Advisor-Strategist advocating for social justice and economic security. With over 35 years of experience in finance, business, and counselling, she works internationally, including running programs in Africa for youth, women, farmers, and entrepreneurs.
  • Esta Paschalidis-Chilas – President of the Federation of Pontian Associations of Australia and Vice President of Pontoxeniteas, Esta grew up as a Pontian dance student and is now a Social Worker, not-for-profit CEO, and former Councillor for Canterbury Council. Her leadership journey has been shaped by the support and mentorship of other women.

Honouring women’s contributions

Pontoxeniteas proudly recognised three women for their service in the Women’s Auxiliary and Pontoxeniteas Committee:

  • Mrs Effie Tsavdaridis – Former Treasurer of the Pontoxeniteas Women’s Committee.
  • Mrs Gefsi Kouklidis – Dedicated committee member of Pontoxeniteas.
  • Mrs Maria Tsakiridis – Long-serving committee member of Pontoxeniteas.

Pontoxeniteas extended heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to these remarkable women for their commitment and continued support of our association.

Cultural performances and community spirit

The event was enriched by traditional Pontian dance performances, with students, under the guidance of teacher Christina Iwannidou, delivering a mesmerising display of the unique dances traditionally performed by Pontian women.

Live Pontian music accompanied the dancers, with young musicians providing the authentic sounds and rhythms that brought the performances to life.

Guests also indulged in a spectacular High Tea table, featuring an array of delicious treats that were almost too beautiful to eat.

AHEPA NSW celebrates 190 years of Australian Hellenic women

The Greek Herald
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AHEPA NSW celebrates 190 years of Australian Hellenic women

The celebration of International Women’s Day (IWD) organised by AHEPA NSW Inc was a successful tribute to the 190th anniversary of the arrival of the first female Hellene migrants in Australia.

Once AHEPA NSW Inc President Jim Papanagiotou welcomed everyone to the event, the Keynote Speaker, photographer and historian Effy Alexakis took the audience through the experiences of Hellene women in the Antipodes from 1836 to the present drawing on the photographs of her Archive.

Migrants. Grandmothers. Mothers. Aunts. Cousins. Wives. Widows. Workers. Owners. Creators. Professionals. Volunteers. From the earliest days of the Australian Hellenic community, Hellene women contributed to every aspect of community life.

“In the cases of the Hellene women of the 19th and 20th centuries, we know very little detail beyond their names and other such facts,” Ms Alexakis stated.

“The last 40 years, we took interviews from tens of women of different generations. A question which has preoccupied us is who and why Hellenic identity and Hellenic language were lost amongst those early generations of Australian-born Hellenes.”

Speaking in Hellenic, the MC, Dr Panayiotis Diamadis, spoke about the life of Aikaterini Plessos Crummer, the first Hellene woman of the Antipodes. From her birthplace in Epiros, to the ‘liberated besieged’ port of Mesolonghi, to her marriage on the island of Kalamos and to her migration to Sydney, Plessos led a life of adventure, happiness and tragedy, as did so many tens of thousands of Hellene women migrants to Australia.

The tribute event organised by Chapter Antigone of AHEPA NSW Inc was honoured to host the Trade Commissioner of the Consulate-General, Chrysa Prokopaki, members of the media, and representatives of many other community organisations.

The event concluded with Ch Antigone President Jenny Kaporis thanking everyone involved in organising as well as attending and making it a great success.

Estudiantina of Melbourne: Music tribute to Vasilis Tsitsanis, Sotiria Bellou in Sydney

The Greek Herald
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Estudiantina of Melbourne: Music tribute to Vasilis Tsitsanis, Sotiria Bellou in Sydney

Estudiantina of Melbourne is set to deliver an extraordinary evening of live music at Bankstown Sports Club on March 30, 2025, with a spectacular tribute to two of Greece’s greatest musical icons: Vasilis Tsitsanis and Sotiria Bellou.

This tribute concert will be complemented by the much-anticipated album launch of ‘Journey to Rebetika,’ marking a night of cultural celebration that fans will not want to miss!

As part of the event, Estudiantina will perform their raved-about tribute to Tsitsanis and Bellou, whose timeless contributions to Greek folk and rebetiko music continue to inspire generations. The tribute, which has garnered glowing reviews, promises to be a stunning celebration of their powerful music and legacy. Expect emotive renditions of their most beloved songs, delivered with Estudiantina’s signature passion and skill.

The ensemble will bring classic melodies to life with their mastery of traditional instruments, including the bouzouki, guitar, accordion, violin, double bass, drums, and piano. These instruments form the heart of the Rebetika sound, and Estudiantina’s musicians will deliver a captivating performance that blends authentic techniques with contemporary flair, ensuring a dynamic and immersive experience for all attendees.

Estudiantina of Melbourne

In addition to the musical tribute, the event will also serve as the highly-anticipated album launch for Estudiantina’s latest project, ‘Journey to Rebetika.’ The album, a melodic exploration of the soul-stirring Rebetika tradition, has captured the hearts of music lovers globally and will provide the perfect soundtrack to this exceptional night of celebration.

The Bankstown Sports Club will come alive with the sounds of Greece, featuring a carefully curated program that blends traditional Greek melodies with fresh, modern interpretations, bringing these musical legends into the present day. This is a unique opportunity to experience the rich cultural heritage of Greece through the lens of Tsitsanis & Bellou, two legends whose music continues to touch the hearts of audiences worldwide.

Don’t miss out on this unique event, which promises to be an unforgettable celebration of Greek music, culture, and artistry.

Tickets are available now, and fans are encouraged to secure their spot early to experience this magical evening!

Event Details:

Celebrating women’s strength and achievements at GOCSA’s IWD event

Andriana Simos
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Celebrating women’s strength and achievements at GOCSA’s IWD event

On Friday, March 7, the Greek Orthodox Community of South Australia (GOCSA) hosted a remarkable event at Olympic Hall, Adelaide, celebrating the achievements and contributions of women throughout history and within the community.

The gathering, held in honour of International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025, was a moving tribute to the courage, strength, and unwavering spirit of women from all walks of life.

This year’s IWD theme, March Forward: For ALL Women and Girls, set the tone for an evening of reflection, inspiration, and recognition. The event aimed to celebrate women who, despite numerous barriers, continue to thrive and shape their communities.

Guest speakers included the Hon Andrea Michaels MP, Minister for Arts, Small Business, Consumer and Business Affairs, and Dr Alexandra Theodoropoulou, Consul General of Greece in Adelaide. These distinguished speakers shared insights and personal career journeys, inspiring attendees with their stories of perseverance and leadership.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of volunteer awards, recognising outstanding contributions to the community. Effie Katianos, Anna Andritsakis, and Victoria Botsos were honoured for their dedication and service, receiving warm congratulations and appreciation from the audience.

Entertainment was provided by the Meraki Ensemble, adding a musical touch to the evening’s celebrations.

As the evening concluded, attendees left with a renewed sense of appreciation for the strength and resilience of women in their community, looking forward to future celebrations that continue to uplift and honour their contributions.

MANASIS revives Greek culture at Moomba Parade after 31-year absence

Andriana Simos
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MANASIS revives Greek culture at Moomba Parade after 31-year absence

For the first time since 1994, Greek culture made a triumphant return to the Moomba Festival Parade, thanks to the efforts of the MANASIS School of Greek Dance and Culture.

The parade, held in Melbourne, Victoria, was a celebration of unity, heritage, and community, with people gathering under the Greek flag to showcase their rich traditions.

moomba parade manasis

“We paraded for our cultural identity, for our biggest supporters, our entire community, and even our most vocal critics—no matter who you are, or where you’re from,” the group stated on social media.

The MANASIS contingent was led by the FROURA Hellenic Australian Honorary Guard, followed by rows of dancers dressed in traditional attire from various regions of Greece. The performance merged elements of a traditional Greek parade, complete with drummers and flag-bearers, with free-flowing ‘patinada’—a vibrant roving dance that brought energy and life to the streets of Melbourne.

moomba parade manasis

Beyond the parade, MANASIS also hosted an hour-long presentation at the ‘Dance Hub’ by the Yarra River, where they demonstrated traditional dances, invited audiences to participate in a Zorba workshop, and ended with a spirited ‘glendi’—an open celebration of Greek hospitality and culture.

The significance of this return was not lost on participants, as nearly all those involved had not been born the last time Greek representation featured in the Moomba Parade.

“Today, we single-handedly broke a 31-year drought, bringing back Hellenic representation to one of our country’s biggest cultural festivals,” the group remarked proudly.

moomba parade manasis
moomba parade manasis
moomba parade manasis

The Moomba Festival, known for its theme of inclusivity and celebration, has been a staple in Melbourne since 1955, attracting over 100,000 attendees annually, with the 2025 event expecting approximately 1.4 million visitors. The parade itself was televised on Channels 9 and 9Now, ensuring that those unable to attend in person could still witness the revival of Greek culture at Moomba.

moomba parade manasis
Dimosthenis Manasis (left) with Sooshi Mango.

MANASIS Director and Instructor, Dimosthenis Manasis, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity, stating, “I stand in awe of everyone involved in today’s event through MANASIS and our FROURA, and I hope you’re all as proud of our students as I am.”

Recognising the responsibility of representing not just his school but the broader Greek Australian community, Dimosthenis also extended an open invitation to dancers, musicians, and students from Melbourne’s Greek cultural organisations and language schools to join future events, including this year’s Greek National Day parade.

Pat Kominos calls for urgent action after pedestrian hit by bus in Adelaide

The Greek Herald
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Pat Kominos calls for urgent action after pedestrian hit by bus in Adelaide

A pedestrian was struck by a bus on Hackney Rd in Adelaide’s east during peak hour, prompting renewed calls for a pedestrian crossing, with local shop manager Pat Kominos stating the accident was “inevitable.”

Emergency services were called to the scene just after 8.45am following reports of a serious collision, leaving one person injured and debris scattered on the road.

Kominos, who manages Vailima Gardens Retirement Village, said she had been campaigning for almost two decades for a safe pedestrian crossing in the area.

“We’ve been rallying for almost 17, 18 years to try and get a pedestrian crossing, make it safe for people to cross,” she told The Advertiser. “This was just our worst nightmare.”

Kominos believes a couple in their mid-50s were attempting to cross Hackney Rd when the man was struck.

Following the accident, Hackney Rd was reduced to a single lane between Cambridge St and Vailima Court.

Kominos and other residents are urging authorities to finally implement long-overdue safety measures before another tragedy occurs.

Source: The Advertiser

Sydney Roosters Chairman Nick Politis fires back at Vegas referee dispute allegations

The Greek Herald
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Sydney Roosters Chairman Nick Politis fires back at Vegas referee dispute allegations

Sydney Roosters chairman and billionaire businessman Nick Politis has hit back at claims he confronted a referee in Las Vegas, as the NRL’s integrity unit investigates allegations made by match official Mitchell James.

James filed a complaint against Politis, Roosters director Mark Bouris, and an unnamed coaching staff member over an alleged incident at the Las Vegas Nines tournament last month.

The official claims he was approached by the Roosters executives after their affiliated team, the LA Roosters, suffered a controversial loss in the quarter-finals.

Politis dismissed the accusations, stating, “It is a shame this has been raised after our club went to so much trouble to support the NRL in Las Vegas.”

He further highlighted the Roosters’ $500,000 investment in the LA Roosters and their commitment to expanding the game in the United States.

Mark Bouris responds to NRL inquiry into alleged confrontation also involving Nick Politis
Nick Politis (right) and Mark Bouris (second from left) in Las Vegas last month. Photo: Instagram.

Criticising the officiating, Politis said, “The penalties were 8-nil against us – it’s very hard not to say something. I told the referee that his performance was poor but at no stage did we swear or act aggressively.”

Bouris also refuted the allegations, insisting, “Neither of us swore or were aggressive. No abuse, no confrontation, no swearing.”

James, who claims he spent $7,000 of his own money to officiate at the tournament, said he was later removed from an international match between the USA and Greece “in his best interest” before returning to Australia. He has since questioned his future in refereeing, citing frustrations over spectator abuse towards officials.

The integrity unit’s investigation is ongoing, with Politis and Bouris maintaining that they have done nothing wrong.

“I trust the NRL will look at all the facts and find that we have no case to answer,” Politis said.

CEO Greg Georgopoulos defends Adelaide Hills Council’s $3 million budget deficit

The Greek Herald
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CEO Greg Georgopoulos defends Adelaide Hills Council’s $3 million budget deficit

The Adelaide Hills Council’s budget deficit has nearly doubled from $1.7 million to $3 million, with legal costs playing a key role in the financial strain.

According to The Advertiser, CEO Greg Georgopoulos has defended the council’s financial approach, stressing a commitment to best practice accounting.

Georgopoulos attributed the deficit increase to a reassessment of financial assumptions and stated that despite the setback, the council remains financially strong.

Legal expenses alone are projected to reach $400,000, further adding to budgetary pressure.

The financial issues arise amid internal controversies, including misconduct allegations against Mayor Jan-Claire Wisdom and staff departures. The council lost 49 employees last year, including key senior directors, adding to governance challenges.

While Georgopoulos assures improved fiscal management, concerns remain over the ongoing legal disputes and their impact on the council’s long-term stability.

Source: The Advertiser.

Alex Epakis appointed Young Matildas Head Coach

The Greek Herald
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Alex Epakis appointed Young Matildas Head Coach

Football Australia has announced the appointment of Football NSW’s Club Technical Development Coordinator Alex Epakis as the new Young Matildas Head Coach reinforcing its commitment to strengthening the national team coaching pathway, developing elite talent, and fostering a world-class high-performance environment for women’s football in Australia.

A passionate builder of grassroots and elite pathways in Australian football, Epakis brings a wealth of experience, having played a key role in youth and professional coaching development. Epakis has previously served as:

  • Technical Adviser, Football NSW Girl’s Youth Development (2024 – Present)
  • Head Coach, Football NSW, NSW Girls State Team (2024 – Present)
  • Head Coach, Perth Glory FC Women (2020 – 2024)
  • Lead Opposition Scout, Philippines Women’s National Team (FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 Australia and New Zealand™)
  • Senior Head Coach & Technical Director, Sydney University SFC NPL Women’s NSW Team (2017 – 2020)
  • Academy Age Group Head Coach & Administrator, Sydney FC (2015 – 2017)
  • Senior Assistant Coach, Canberra United FC A-League Women (2017/18 Season)

A strong advocate for the professionalisation of women’s football, Epakis is recognised for his possession-based, attacking style of play, his ability to nurture young talent, and his commitment to creating positive, high-performance team cultures.

Holding a Football Australia/AFC Professional Diploma, a Master of Education (Sports Coaching) and an accredited Football Australia Coach Educator and Developer, Epakis is well-positioned to lead the Young Matildas’ program into its next phase, ensuring a clear pathway to the Matildas.

In his current role as Technical Adviser for Football NSW Girl’s Youth Development, Epakis supports the technical development of coaches and clubs to develop best practice coaching methodology across NSW’s Women’s National Premier Leagues youth league programs.

Football Australia has also announced a Team of Coaches initiative which aims to develop the next generation of high-performance football coaches by providing hands-on experience in national team environments, international camps, and tournaments, while maintaining their club commitments.

Two known NSW female coaches in Catherine Cannuli and Emily Husband will be part of this team along with Melissa Barbieri and Kat Smith.

Source: Football NSW

Greek MP charged for vandalising ‘blasphemous’ artworks at National Gallery

The Greek Herald
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Greek MP charged for vandalising ‘blasphemous’ artworks at National Gallery

A Greek MP from the ultra-Orthodox Niki party has been charged with a misdemeanour after vandalising four artworks at the National Gallery in Athens.

The lawmaker, Nikos Papadopoulos, removed the pieces from the wall and smashed them, claiming they were “blasphemous.”

The attack, which took place on Monday, targeted works by Paris-based Greek artist Christophoros Katsadiotis. The artworks were part of the exhibition “The Allure of the Bizarre,” running alongside Francisco Goya’s “Los Caprichos.”

Katsadiotis, known for his dark and provocative engravings, has defended his right to artistic expression.

“An artist has the right to express his or her personal point of view, to react and, in so doing, ask the questions they want to ask,” he stated.

geek mp national gallery
Nikos Papadopoulos MP.

Papadopoulos had criticised the exhibition in a social media post before entering the gallery with another individual and destroying the pieces. Witnesses reported that he forcibly removed the works titled ‘Icon 1,’ ‘Icon 16,’ ‘Icon 17,’ and ‘Saint Christopher,’ throwing them to the ground. Security detained him before police arrived.

The National Gallery strongly condemned the act, stating that “any act of vandalism, violence, and censorship that undermines the constitutionally protected freedom of artistic expression” is unacceptable. The institution released photographs of the damaged works and assured the public that restoration efforts were underway.

Katsadiotis responded to the attack by saying, “Religion often preemptively categorises believers as either loyal followers or outlaws. Those who do not conform and obey are traditionally warned that they will be judged and condemned to eternal damnation – a clear form of intimidation.”

Despite the destruction, the MP’s charges were limited to minor property damage, allowing him to avoid arrest under parliamentary immunity laws. His lawyer later claimed he had been unlawfully detained at the gallery. Papadopoulos later argued that the paintings had merely “slipped” from his hands.

Source: Ekathimerini

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