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Tributes flow for retail pioneer Theo Karedis after death at 90

The Greek Herald
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Tributes flow for retail pioneer Theo Karedis after death at 90

Tributes are flowing for retail and liquor industry pioneer Theo Karedis, who has passed away peacefully at the age of 90, surrounded by his family.

Born on the Greek island of Kythera, Karedis migrated to Australia as a teenager without speaking English and began working at just 16. In 1955, he opened a deli in Sydney’s Neutral Bay with his brother Jim – a modest beginning that would grow into one of Australia’s most successful privately owned retail empires.

Working alongside his wife Helen, Karedis expanded the business from a small convenience store into supermarkets and later Theo’s Liquor, which became a dominant force in the sector, reaching 51 stores before its sale to Coles in 2002.

Theo karedis
Theo Karedis.

A regular on the Australian Financial Review Rich List, Karedis reinvested his success into property, building Arkadia Property Services into a major investment group with a portfolio spanning 12 shopping centres, three hotels along the eastern seaboard, and the superyacht Infinity Pacific.

Despite his success, Karedis remained notably private and grounded, earning widespread respect for his humility, discipline and unwavering commitment to family. His legacy extended beyond business, with strong support for charitable causes including St Vincent’s and The Mater Hospital in Sydney.

Those who knew him have remembered not only his business acumen, but his values – integrity, hard work and quiet generosity – which shaped both his career and the lives of those around him.

He is survived by his wife Helen, son Greg, daughter Patricia, and his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The family has requested privacy as they reflect on the life of their beloved Theo.

Iran defiant as US blockade in Strait of Hormuz takes effect

The Greek Herald
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Iran defiant as US blockade in Strait of Hormuz takes effect

A United States blockade of Iranian ports has officially come into force, marking a significant escalation in tensions between Washington and Tehran and raising concerns over global shipping and oil markets.

Speaking from the White House, Donald Trump confirmed the operation began at 10:00 ET (01:00 AEST), stating Iran was seeking renewed negotiations.

“Iran wants a deal very badly,” Trump said, adding he had been contacted earlier in the day “by the appropriate people” to discuss a potential agreement.

The US military has begun enforcing the blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route, in an effort to prevent vessels from entering or leaving Iranian ports. The move threatens to destabilise an already fragile ceasefire and further disrupt global oil supply chains.

In a strongly worded social media post, Trump warned that any Iranian “fast attack ships” approaching the blockade “will be immediately eliminated.”

Tehran has responded defiantly. Iran’s parliamentary speaker said the country would not “surrender under threats,” while officials warned that if Iranian ports were targeted, “no port in the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman will be safe.”

Reports indicate Iran has begun restricting traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, allowing passage only to vessels deemed friendly, and in some cases imposing significant transit fees.

The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) has issued a warning to vessels operating in the region, advising they may encounter increased military activity and “right-of-visit procedures” during transit.

The developments follow a breakdown in ceasefire talks over the weekend, which ended without agreement. Trump attributed the failure to Iran’s refusal to abandon its nuclear ambitions, while Iran’s foreign minister accused the US of “shifting goalposts” during negotiations.

The current truce between the two nations is set to expire on April 22, with uncertainty mounting over whether it will be extended.

Meanwhile, regional tensions continue to intensify. Israel has pressed ahead with its air and ground offensive in southern Lebanon, engaging in heavy clashes with Hezbollah fighters, who have also launched rockets and drones into northern Israel.

The unfolding situation has heightened fears of a broader regional conflict, with significant implications for international security and global energy markets.

Source: BBC.com

Kogarah Greek Orthodox parish responds to backlash over changed Epitaphio route

Andriana Simos
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Kogarah Greek Orthodox parish responds to backlash over changed Epitaphio route

The Greek Orthodox Parish & Community of Kogarah has responded to community concern following this year’s Good Friday Epitaphio procession, after the traditional route was not followed.

The annual procession typically proceeds from the front of the church along Belgrave Street, Kensington Street, Montgomery Street and Railway Parade before returning to the church. However, parishioners this year noted a shortened route, prompting questions and criticism online.

Council approvals and funding clarified:

In response, Georges River Council Mayor Elise Borg issued a public statement confirming it had approved all requests submitted by the parish for the 2026 Easter celebrations.

Council minutes from its meeting on March 23, 2026 show that councillors approved temporary road closures for the parish, including the closure of Belgrave Street between Post Office Lane and Kensington Street from 6pm to 11pm on Friday, April 10, and from 9pm on Saturday, April 11 to 1am on Sunday, April 12.

The minutes also show that rolling road closures for the Good Friday procession were approved to commence at 8.30pm on Friday, April 10, following the traditional route from the front of the church along Belgrave Street, Kensington Street, Montgomery Street and Railway Parade before returning to the church at approximately 8.45pm.

Council further confirmed it approved a $20,000 event grant to support the parish’s Orthodox Easter celebrations across Friday, April 10 and Saturday, April 11, noting that event organisers were responsible for implementing traffic management and coordinating with police and emergency services.

Last-minute changes and logistical pressures:

However, The Greek Herald understands the change to a shorter route was due to last-minute logistical challenges, including the withdrawal of expected external support and the rising complexity of staging the event.

Historically, emergency services – including the State Emergency Service (SES), police and ambulance – played a key role in facilitating the full procession route, often assisting with road closures.

In recent years, however, changes to how these organisations operate, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic, have meant increased compliance requirements, more detailed traffic management planning, and significantly higher costs for community-run events.

The organisers had planned for the usual route earlier in the year, but were informed only in the week leading up to Easter that SES support would not be available for 2026, forcing a last-minute reassessment.

As a result, and given the limited timeframe, the decision was made to proceed with a shorter procession that could be safely managed with available resources.

The logistical challenges of the Kogarah location were also a key factor, with the church situated in close proximity to St George Hospital, as well as a police station and fire station, making extended road closures particularly complex.

Parish president responds:

Parish President Nickolas Varvaris told The Greek Herald while council support had been provided, it did not extend to all aspects of the procession route.

“Georges River Council, for the first time ever, did provide funding for our Easter event,” Mr Varvaris said.

“That funding is not specifically for the road closures… it includes audio-visual, security costs and the broader Easter week events.”

He added that the funding covered multiple days of celebrations and not solely the Good Friday procession, and did not include broader street closures along the full traditional route.

Mr Varvaris also indicated that, while he understood the SES decision given its volunteer-led structure and broader demands, its absence this year had a significant impact on the ability to deliver the full procession. He noted the organisation had traditionally played a key role in facilitating wider road closures and ensuring the event could be carried out safely.

While disappointment was acknowledged among parishioners, Mr Varvaris maintained the decision was made to prioritise safety, with expectations the full route will return in future years with more time for planning.

SES responds:

In response, a NSW SES spokesperson told The Greek Herald the agency does not have responsibility for traffic control at community events.

“The NSW SES is the lead agency for floods, storms and tsunamis. We provide assistance to NSW Police and other emergency services, however the role of traffic control for special events is not a responsibility of the NSW SES,” the spokesperson said.

The Greek Herald understands the NSW SES was involved in early discussions for the planning of the event alongside police and council, however it was ultimately determined the organisation did not have the equipment or authority to undertake road closures or traffic management for the procession.

90 years on: Belmore Sports Ground’s historic legacy honoured

The Greek Herald
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90 years on: Belmore Sports Ground’s historic legacy honoured

Back to Belmore today commemorates the 90ᵗʰ anniversary of the first top-tier rugby league match played at Belmore Sports Ground, marking a significant milestone in the rich sporting history of the Canterbury-Bankstown district.

On 13 April 1936, the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs (then known as the “Country Bumpkins”) defeated the Western Suburbs Magpies 11-6 at the venue, then known as Belmore Oval. The match formed part of the New South Wales Rugby Football League competition, the precursor to the modern-day NRL.

Archive photos of the sports ground.

Back to Belmore President Luke Cevolani said the anniversary was an opportunity to reflect on the enduring legacy of the facility.

“For 90 years, Belmore Sports Ground has been a focal point for sport in the Canterbury-Bankstown
area and a place where generations of athletes have been inspired,” Mr Cevolani said.

“What those players did in 1936 when they first graced this hallowed turf laid the foundation for everything that followed, inspiring countless young athletes to chase their own dreams and carry forward the proud traditions of this amazing ground.”

Vice President Steven Cataldi said Back to Belmore’s advocacy since 2005 had always been grounded
in an appreciation of the venue’s deep historical significance.

“When we took up the challenge to keep Belmore Sports Ground’s sporting heritage alive for future
generations 21 years ago, we were acutely aware of the history embedded in this site,” Mr Cataldi
said.

“This is more than just a sporting field. It is part of the fabric of the Canterbury-Bankstown community and something that must be protected and respected at all costs.”

Archive photo.

Patron Luke Brailey said the milestone highlighted the importance of ensuring the historic venue’s long-term future.

“It is our fervent hope that in another 90 years’ time, Belmore Sports Ground will still be here, continuing to inspire athletes and bring the community together,” Mr Brailey said.

“As an independent community organisation, we are honoured to celebrate milestones like this and to recognise the role Belmore Sports Ground has played in developing players and fostering a love of sport for almost a century.”

As Back to Belmore reflects on 90 years of rugby league history at the iconic facility, the organisation reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that the actions taken today will help shape a strong and sustainable future for Belmore Sports Ground for generations to come.

Faith and community shine at St Basil’s NSW & ACT during Orthodox Easter

The Greek Herald
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Faith and community shine at St Basil’s NSW & ACT during Orthodox Easter

Residents across St Basil’s NSW & ACT aged care homes were immersed in the spirit of Holy Week, as facilities came alive with faith, reflection and meaningful traditions from Palm Sunday through to Easter Sunday.

Throughout the week, residents were joined by family members, dedicated staff, volunteers and clergy to mark each sacred moment of the Orthodox calendar. Services, prayers and rituals were observed with reverence, offering residents a sense of connection to their faith and cultural heritage.

The presence of priests and the participation of loved ones created a warm and uplifting atmosphere, with many residents taking comfort in the familiar traditions that have long defined Orthodox Easter celebrations.

St Basil’s NSW & ACT said the commemorations brought joy and spiritual renewal to its communities, reinforcing the importance of maintaining cultural and religious practices within aged care settings.

In a message shared following the celebrations, the organisation extended its Easter wishes to the broader community, expressing hope that the holy season would bring “renewed hope, peace in your heart, and the light of Christ in your life.”

The observances highlighted the vital role of community, faith and continuity in enriching the lives of older Australians, particularly during significant religious periods such as Holy Week and Easter.

The nobility of giving: Sydney to honour the legacy of Michael Tsilimos

The Greek Herald
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The nobility of giving: Sydney to honour the legacy of Michael Tsilimos

The Greek community of Australia will pause to remember one of its most steadfast pillars, Michael (Michalis) Tsilimos, former Secretary of the Greek Orthodox Community of NSW (GOCNSW), in a powerful afternoon of tribute, music, and reflection.

A man who defined “volunteerism as a movement of nobility,” Michael Tsilimos was the embodiment of the Aristotelian Aristos, the outstanding citizen who places the common good above private interest. From his early days as a labourer and passionate advocate for the diaspora to his visionary leadership in establishing bilingual education and community archives, Tsilimos’ life was a masterclass in service.

“Michalis was more than an administrator; he was a giant of contribution,” says Professor Anastasios Tamis, who will deliver the keynote address.

“Whether working on the harbour barges or leading Hellenism, he maintained the revolutionary ethos of an honest fighter and the smiling heart of a child.”

The memorial event, hosted by radio presenter Efthymios Kallos, will bring together community leaders, dignitaries, and friends to celebrate a man who refused to be an idiotis, (a private person indifferent to the public), and instead chose to be a “noble custodian of offering”.

Harry Danalis, former President of the GOCNSW and a long-time collaborator of Tsilimos, reflected on his colleague’s unwavering dedication.

“Michael Tsilimos was the heartbeat of our Community for decades. He didn’t just witness history; he built it, stone by stone, school by school. His legacy isn’t found in titles, but in the thousands of children who speak the Greek language today because he dared to dream of a better future for our youth. He was a warrior for our people, driven by a moral stature that never wavered,” Mr Danalis said.

The tribute will feature a special performance by acclaimed international artist Dimitris Basis, who will perform a selection of Michael’s favourite songs, capturing the spirit of a man whose passion for Greece and the diaspora knew no bounds.

Event Details
  • What: A Tribute to the Life & Service of Michael Tsilimos
  • When: Sunday 3 May 2026 | 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm
  • Where: Greek Community Club, 210 Lakemba St, Lakemba
  • Featuring: Keynote by Prof. Anastasios Tamis; Reflections by Con Apoifis, The Hon. Sophie Cotsis, The Hon. Mark Coure, and Harry Danalis; Performance by Dimitris Basis.
  • RSVP: This is a FREE event. Please register at www.trybooking.com/1564060

South Melbourne FC cruise past Preston Lions FC in dominant away win

The Greek Herald
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South Melbourne FC cruise past Preston Lions FC in dominant away win

By Bill Roumeliotis

South Melbourne FC continued their strong form in the NPL Victoria, claiming a comfortable 3-0 away victory over Preston Lions FC at BT Connor Reserve.

Despite a hostile atmosphere created by around 4,000 home supporters, the visitors were not affected and instead delivered a commanding performance to remain at the top of the table.

Even with several key absences, South Melbourne controlled the match from the start, creating the better chances and eventually breaking the deadlock in the second half.

C. Dovison opened the scoring in the 56th minute (1-0), followed by M. Mikkola in the 73rd minute (2-0), before J. Ali turned the ball into his own net in the 82nd minute to seal the 3-0 final score.

Club co-Presidents Bill Papastergiadis and Andrew Mesourouni, along with general manager Peter Kokotis.

Club co-Presidents Bill Papastergiadis and Andrew Mesourouni, along with general manager Peter Kokotis, expressed their satisfaction with the result.

Papastergiadis stated that the club’s long-term vision is focused on building a professional foundation, developing young players, and restoring the club to its historic levels of success, noting that more than five U23 players featured in the match.

Popular Sunshine Coast venue Solbar enters liquidation with debts exceeding $200,000

The Greek Herald
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Popular Sunshine Coast venue Solbar enters liquidation with debts exceeding $200,000

The company behind popular Sunshine Coast venue Solbar has entered liquidation, with debts exceeding $200,000.

Corporate filings show 147 574 310 Pty Ltd, which operated the Maroochydore venue, appointed a liquidator in a voluntary winding up after shutting its doors in February.

Co-owner Dimitris Limnatitis and director Alexander Johns said at the time that the closure came “with incredibly heavy hearts,” adding: “The decision has not been made lightly, nor quickly; we’ve fought hard right up to the point that this has become the only available option.”

Photo: Instagram.

“For over two decades, Solbar has been a Sunny Coast institution. It’s been a home, a community, a place where lifelong friendships were formed, where first gigs turned into careers, and where thousands of unforgettable nights unfolded.”

Documents reveal the venue owes $112,064 to landlord QIC Properties, $92,783 in legal costs related to a “PL claim”, and smaller disputed debts, including $1,533 to Coates Hire. A further $29,599 is owed in a separate legal matter.

The filings also show director Alexander Johns is owed $13,692 in annual leave, while $27,375 is owed to the company by a shareholder.

Source: Courier Mail

Financial adviser Aristotle Papapavlou banned over role in $1 billion super scandal

The Greek Herald
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Financial adviser Aristotle Papapavlou banned over role in $1 billion super scandal

Financial adviser Aristotle Papapavlou has been permanently banned from providing financial services after the corporate regulator found he engaged in dishonest, misleading and unprofessional conduct linked to the collapsed Shield and First Guardian funds.

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) said Mr Papapavlou demonstrated a lack of competence and judgement while working at Venture Egg Financial Services between late 2021 and mid-2023, a firm central to the scandal in which nearly 12,000 investors lost around $1 billion in superannuation savings.

ASIC found he was not a “fit and proper person”, was not adequately trained or competent, and was likely to contravene financial services laws in future.

It also alleged he was involved in advice processes where unlicensed third-party referrers completed fact finds, leading clients to be directed into Shield and First Guardian superannuation products.

The regulator said Mr Papapavlou was aware statements of advice were being issued in his name for clients he had not met.

ASIC also found he allegedly acted “dishonestly and deceptively” in the credit industry by completing an assignment for another person and falsifying a reference.

His banning follows other industry sanctions connected to the same collapsed funds, as regulators and government move to tighten consumer protections around superannuation switching and financial advice practices.

Source: The Australian.

Inquiry exposes gaps in oversight of unlicensed child care homes in Queensland

The Greek Herald
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Inquiry exposes gaps in oversight of unlicensed child care homes in Queensland

A Queensland child safety inquiry has revealed hundreds of children are being placed in unlicensed residential care homes with limited regulatory oversight, raising concerns about potential gaps in monitoring and accountability.

Inquiry Commissioner Paul Anastassiou KC said oversight of unlicensed providers could not provide reliable assurance about service quality, describing the system as “random and… unreliable as the basis for reasonable confidence in the service delivery by unlicensed providers.”

The inquiry heard Queensland’s Child Safety Department is responsible for more than 100 unlicensed providers caring for children statewide, with internal documents citing “considerable workload demands” affecting the consistency of visits and inspections.

The proportion of unlicensed providers has grown sharply, rising from 59 per cent in 2023 to 71 per cent currently. Most operate under Individualised Placement Services (IPS) contracts, which do not require licensing or formal inspections.

Department official Natalie Wilson told the inquiry that child safety officers regularly visit children in IPS placements, though she said licensed providers undergo more formal compliance inspections.

However, Commissioner Mr Anastassiou said such visits were focused on the child rather than facility conditions, meaning serious issues could go unnoticed unless directly observed and reported.

Ms Wilson acknowledged risks but said providers are still expected to comply with child safety standards and legislation.

The inquiry also heard reforms are underway to transition providers onto Outsourced Service Delivery (OSD) contracts, though licensing can take up to 21 months, and up to three years for IPS providers seeking accreditation.

Source: Courier Mail.

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