The Palisades fire, fuelled by fierce winds, has left celebrities including Tom Hanks and his family at risk as it rages through the upscale Pacific Palisades neighbourhood in Los Angeles.
The blaze broke out on Tuesday, January 7, and has already destroyed homes and forced 30,000 residents to evacuate.
Chet Hanks, the son of Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson, expressed his concern on Instagram, writing, “The neighbourhood I grew up in is burning to the ground… Pray for Palisades.”
Chet Hanks, who now lives in Nashville, reflected on the loss of his childhood home, which his parents purchased for $26 million in 2010.
As of Wednesday, over 70,000 people in Los Angeles are under evacuation orders due to multiple wildfires. Hanks and Wilson have yet to comment publicly.
(L-R): Colin Hanks, Tom Hanks, Rita Wilson and Chet Hanks. Photo: P. Lehman / Barcroft Media / Getty Images.
Other notable figures impacted by the fire include Ben Affleck, whose $20 million home was threatened by the flames. He was seen evacuating and reportedly heading to his ex-wife Jennifer Garner’s nearby Brentwood residence.
The fire has been driven southwest by Santa Ana winds, some reaching speeds near 160 km/h. Pacific Palisades, along with Topanga and Malibu, remains under mandatory evacuation orders. The fire also scorched grounds at the Getty Villa, though the building was unharmed.
Hollywood figures such as Bradley Cooper, Adam Sandler, Reese Witherspoon, and Steven Spielberg are among the area’s residents, while actor Steve Guttenberg was spotted helping to clear a path for evacuees.
Amid the chaos, major film premieres were cancelled due to safety concerns surrounding the fire.
Thanasi Kokkinakis has rekindled memories of his 2021 breakthrough title run in Adelaide, reaching the quarterfinals of his hometown tournament with a hard-fought 7-5, 4-6, 7-6(4) victory over Tomas Martin Etcheverry.
The 28-year-old South Australian, ranked No. 77, thrilled a sold-out crowd at The Drive, battling for more than three hours in a tense encounter.
Kokkinakis hit 23 aces and kept his composure in a pivotal third-set tiebreak, where he seized a 3-1 lead before clinching the win.
“You guys are unbelievable,” Kokkinakis said to the cheering crowd. “Every time I come out here, I can count on you guys to bring the energy. I don’t love playing anywhere else more than this.”
The win sets up a quarterfinal clash with No. 2 seed Sebastian Korda, a player Kokkinakis has yet to beat in three prior encounters.
Reflecting on a tight loss to Korda in Washington last year, he added, “I had match points on him… so that one I’ve kind of still got demons about that, to be honest.”
With the upcoming Greek Orthodox Community of South Australia (GOCSA) elections set for Saturday, January 11, current Vice President Peter Gonis is vying for re-election on a new ticket.
Known for his dedication to the community and focus on youth engagement, Gonis brings a blend of continuity and innovation to his campaign.
In an interview with The Greek Herald, Gonis shared his vision for GOCSA’s future, highlighting key priorities such as fostering equality and transparency, preserving Greek heritage while embracing modern Australian values, and strengthening ties with multicultural and Greek organisations. He also reflected on initiatives planned to inspire younger generations to connect with their cultural roots.
You will be running at the upcoming GOCSA elections on a new ticket. Tell us about your ticket. Who is on it?
Stability and continuity are important to me. A stable board allows for long-term strategic planning and implementation. Eleven of the fifteen candidates on this ticket are seeking re-election. We’ve tried to keep a balance between experienced members and fresh faces. Fresh faces often bring new perspectives and a renewed energy to the team.
Gender equality is also important with a balanced representation of 8 men and 7 women on the ticket. Each candidate has a strong connection to the community and will bring valuable experience to the table.
Peter Gonis’ new ticket.
What is your overarching vision for GOCSA’s future?
My vision at a grassroots level is simple: to safeguard the future of our community. I want to ensure my children and future grandchildren have the opportunity to be part of GOCSA’s legacy, the same opportunity I have had, just as our ancestors before us had.
Given your previous emphasis on bringing back youth to GOCSA, what specific initiatives do you plan to implement to engage younger generations in the Community’s activities?
In the first half of 2024, our youth branch of the organisation created the platform “Neoléa”. One of the core objectives of Neoléa is to support, celebrate and connect the next generation of Greek Australians to each other and to their cultural heritage. The platform’s impact has been remarkable.
They have since collaborated with multicultural groups, participated in intercultural festivals, hosted intergenerational cultural workshops through the Syllogo Initiative, and began to engage with students at our local mainstream schools, such as Adelaide High School. Just these initiatives alone have opened up so much conversation and generated interest from our younger generation – something that our community has been missing for a long time.
We must continue to support and back our youth in initiatives such as these.
Peter Gonis is determined to focus on the youth.
The success of the inaugural Grattan Street Paniyiri exemplifies the positive impact of youth involvement and an opportunity to execute their ideas. For many, it was the first time where branches of the organisation collaborated together- the Dance Academy, Youth Committee, Cultural Committee, the Philoptochos, and of course the support of the staff and Administrative Council. It was incredibly refreshing to see the young generation’s enthusiasm for volunteering and their commitment to taking on key responsibilities.
Other planned initiatives for engaging our youth this year include organising a youth forum during SA Youth Week 2025.
You have highlighted the importance of equality and transparency within the organisation. How do you intend to foster these values in GOCSA’s operations and decision-making processes?
I believe that equality and transparency are intertwined, and a fundamental part of any organisation’s success. Members’ voices should be heard and listened to – we need to actively go out and seek input from people of all ages, backgrounds and life experiences. It’s easy to get caught up in “the bubble” – we need to engage with more people outside of that bubble so we better understand the bigger picture.
In my open letter to members, I made it clear that I have a strong desire to engage in respectful, open dialogue. Whilst the previous Council engaged in open discussions, including some very challenging ones, we really need to ensure that we provide an environment where members feel respected and safe enough to express their opinions and provide constructive feedback without fear of reprisal. This is fundamental to continuous improvement and progress.
Peter Gonis believes equality and transparency are intertwined.
We need to learn from the past to make better decisions in the future. We recognise there is always room for improvement and that no community or organisation is without its flaws. This group is committed to continuous improvement and progression, and will always integrate GOCSA’s values into the decision-making processes.
With the evolving identity of 3rd and 4th generation Greek Australians, how do you plan to balance the preservation of Greek heritage, language, and culture with the integration of contemporary Australian values?
There is a strong sense of pride in being an Australian of Greek heritage. I think we have almost created a unique identity of our own and we should be open to embracing the blend.
Peter Gonis with his family.Peter Gonis with his late father Bill Gonis.
We need to understand that different generations have different needs; humans, languages and culture all evolve. We need to move along with that and adapt. We should go beyond simply informing our youth about the history and inspire them further to embrace their cultural heritage and explore their roots. Through the visionary work of Neoléa we have seen very positive results with the young enthusiastically wanting to connect, learn, and explore further.
Finally, there is a valuable ecosystem that exists amongst GOCSA – the Greek Language school, Dance Academy, an Aged Care facility, and Neoléa to name a few. Of course, we are also fortunate enough to have the knowledge and stories of some of the original migrants. We have all the necessary tools to make sure that by working collaboratively we can encourage growth, facilitate learning, and empower the next generation.
Peter Gonis said GOCSA IS fortunate enough to have the knowledge and stories of some of the original Greek migrants.
In your role as Vice President, you’ve expressed a desire to create positive and strong relationships with both the Greek community, the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia, and other multicultural organisations. What strategies will you employ to enhance these relationships and promote inclusivity within GOCSA?
Over the past two years we’ve really focused on building good working relationships with all stakeholders. I believe it is crucial to the long-term success of GOCSA and also helps us stay relevant in an environment that rapidly evolves.
Over the past two years, GOCSA have really focused on building good working relationships with all stakeholders.
We’ve reached out and established (sometimes re-established) relationships with other cultural groups such as the Ukrainian and Italian communities, and also started collaborating with groups focused on interculturalism such as MOSAIC Adelaide.
First and foremost, it is important we maintain good working relationships with our Greek community, and over the two-year term focused on re-engaging with other Greek associations. Many members of those Greek associations are also members of GOCSA so it can be a bit of a win-win situation. The Neolea committee created the “Syllogo Initiative” with a purpose of supporting those smaller associations by showcasing their unique region/s through a series of collaborative events and projects- this also opens the doors to more communication between groups and pooling of resources.
Peter Gonis wants to establish relationships with Greek and multicultural communities.
The success of the Grattan Street Paniyiri was a perfect example of how our efforts in collaborating with other groups and maintaining strong relationships can have advantages.
I’d also like to establish some form of roundtable with other multicultural organisations who quite often face similar challenges to one another, such as maintaining relevance in a modern society and addressing generational gaps within their volunteer and committee bases. There is an opportunity here to exchange ideas and strategies and learn from one another – a lot of these groups are well established and we need to come together to ensure the long-term sustainability of our organisations and associations.
Is there anything else you want to say?
The quote “Change is inevitable, growth is optional” comes to mind. We can’t let fear of the unknown hold us back; we should be bold in our vision, test the waters, and embrace the exciting opportunities that lay ahead.
Organised by the Cretan Association of Northern Territory and supported by the Greek Orthodox Community of Northern Australia, the convention was a spectacular celebration of Cretan culture and traditions.
The highly anticipated four-day event drew hundreds of attendees of Greek and Cretan heritage from across Australia, New Zealand and internationally, as well as state and federal politicians.
Guests included His Grace Bishop Silouan of Adelaide representing His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia; Professor Yiannis Chrysoulakis, Former Secretary General for Greeks Aboard and Current Chairman of the AHEPA International Committee; Nikos Kastrinakis, President of the World Council of Cretans; The Honourable Robyn Cahill MLA, NT Minister for Trade, Business and Asian Relations representing the Honourable Lia Finocchiaro, Chief Minister of the Northern Territory; The Hon. Marie-Clare Boothby MLA, Attorney-General, Minister for Tourism and Hospitality, Major Events, Parks and Wildlife, Racing; The Hon. Luke Gosling OAM, Federal Member for Solomon; and Michael Koulianos, President of the Greek Orthodox Community of North Australia.
Renowned Cretan musicians Nikos Vezyrakis, Giorgios Katsoulieris and Alexandros Kazakis also travelled from Crete to entertain attendees.
Many delegates arrived for the Darwin convention in late December, eager to see each other and experience what the city had to offer. Greeted by their local Cretan brothers and sisters, they embraced the ethos and purpose of the convention and came together to explore Darwin’s unique sights and attractions.
With New Year’s Eve rolling closer, more and more delegates arrived for the convention, building numbers and filling pre-booked accommodations. The hotel foyer and restaurant started to buzz every morning, hellos and hugs were exchanged, and the pool began to fill with kids.
More than 80 overseas and interstate visitors joined the local Greek community for New Year’s Eve celebrations, which definitely acquired a Cretan “flavour” at various points during the festivities. The international Cretan musicians “guest-starred” and gave everyone a preview of what was to come later in the week.
More people arrived on New Year’s Day, whilst some people enjoyed the hospitality of hosts George Mamounis and Sophia at a family BBQ that went on well into the night. Others took the opportunity to cruise the Katherine Gorge.
The convention’s Official Opening Day on January 2 saw Darwin Airport inundated with Cretans arriving in large numbers. Hire cars, Ubers and taxis shuttled people continuously to their hotels. By that stage, there was more than 160 people from NZ, Queensland, New South Wales, the Australian Capital Territory, Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia, and Western Australia, as well as Greece and the USA. There was so much positive energy evident in everyone as they arrived.
Meanwhile, about 30 delegates braved the heat at the Darwin Cenotaph and paid tribute to Battle of Crete heroes and the victims of Cyclone Tracy.
The wonderful and supportive Greek Orthodox Community of Northern Australia graciously hosted the Cretan Presidents and designated State representatives for a tasty lunch and exchange of ideas.
After a swim and some relaxation, the evening festivities began with the adults and youngest kids enjoying a Welcome Dinner in the Darwin suburbs, whilst the excited youth partied in the Darwin CBD. Social media was overloaded with photos and videos from the youth function. The talk of the adult function was how much fun the kids were having at their function.
The youth night.
Day 2 began early with the Cretan Youth Federation’s Annual General Meeting, where youth highlighted their respective activities during 2024 and exchanged ideas and hopes for the future. After lunch, the youth attended a musical workshop with the international musicians.
Later in the evening, there was a Welcome Cocktail Party hosted by the President of the Cretan Association of Northern Territory, Mr Mamounis, in the presence Bishop Silouan who had travelled from Adelaide and delivered His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia’s message to his Cretan brothers and sisters. Also present were Mr Kastrinakis from the USA and Mr Chrysoulakis.
Cretan Youth Federation hold Annual General Meeting.The cocktail party.
On the night, everyone was entertained by the junior and intermediate dancing groups from the Cretan Association of Sydney and NSW and the Pancretan Association of Melbourne, performing dances in their traditional costumes, with live music from the overseas musicians. The venue was filled with smiling faces and lively discussions and laughter, as well as vibrant dancing by youth well into the night.
Day 3 began early again with the 43rd Annual General Meeting of the CFANZ. Not since before COVID-19, did the CFANZ have representatives from every single state and territory of Australia, as well as from NZ. The meeting began with a blessing from Bishop Silouan.
The delegates then began their discussions and exchanges in earnest, reflecting on a busy 2024 and planning the Federation’s activities in 2025. The AGM successfully finished a few hours later with the traditional exchanging of gifts between the Members Organisations, as well as a commemorative photo.
Delegates at the CFANZ AGM.
There was not much time to rest before people had to congregate outside the hotel in the early evening for the beginning of the first-ever Cretan Traditional “Strata/Kantada” at a convention in Australia. More than 60 dancers from Darwin, Sydney, Brisbane and Hobart dressed in traditional costumes were joined by more than 150 excited people in the hotel foyer, and were treated to Cretan music by the Federation’s local Australian talent from Adelaide, Sydney and Darwin, together with the overseas musicians.
Everyone shared in the traditional offerings of Cretan products like raki, cheese, biscuits and honey, before everyone walked together to the Convention Dinner behind the Federation’s Banner and the musicians singing, cheering and clapping the whole way there. On arrival at the hall of the Greek Orthodox Community of Northern Australia, everyone was treated to an impromptu dance by all the dancers at the entry to the venue before they entered and found relief from the heat.
The first-ever Cretan Traditional “Strata/Kantada.”
Once again, the Federation had the honour of being joined by many distinguished VIP’s, led by Bishop Silouan, as well as Northern Territorian Ministers and Federal Members of Parliament.
The evening’s formalities began with some speeches, then some incredible dance performances by youth from the Cretan Associations of Sydney, Brisbane, Hobart, Perth, Adelaide and Darwin, culminating in a combined “Sousta” by all the dancers that filled the dance floor.
Two very distinguished first generation Cretans from Darwin were also honoured for their pioneering efforts in the early years of the Cretan Association of Northern Territory, which celebrates its 40th Anniversary this year. Once everyone had eaten, the music started and the dance floor did not empty until the early hours of the morning.
Those that rose early enough on Day 4 went to Church to celebrate the Epiphany service followed by the traditional Blessing of the Waters service, where Chris Townsend from the Cretan Association of Sydney and NSW retrieved the Holy Cross. Many spent the day either resting from the previous night or exploring Darwin.
Meanwhile, Cretan youth participated in the annual soccer tournament under very hot conditions, moving indoors and out of direct sunlight. The Pancretan Association of Melbourne won the trophy in a thriller final in extra time.
The Cretan Association of Northern Territory hosted the Farewell “Souvla Night” for all the visitors and delegates to enjoy. Great food and music was on offer with the international musicians kindly allowing young talent from Melbourne, Sydney and Darwin to take the spotlight for a while. The official “closing ceremony” included the symbolic handover of the Federation’s banner from the NT President to the President of the next host city – Sydney in 2026.
As the night went on, many people present, who had packed, left for the airport direct from the farewell dinner, leaving those behind to enjoy the final hours of the function. The festive mood changed from joy to sadness as everyone realised the 43rd Annual Convention was coming to a close.
The mood on Day 5 in the hotel was not as lively as previous days as people departed over the course of the day and into the night. Smiles, hugs, tears and well-wishes were exchanged by those leaving. Those who had some time left, squeezed in last minute activities before leaving late in the evening. A few remaining delegates enjoyed a last meal together with the NT hosts as well.
Emmanuel Mountakis, President of the CFANZ, said, “The 43rd National Cretan Federation Convention in Darwin was a resounding success. We’re thrilled to have shared this unforgettable experience.”
“It was truly heartwarming to witness the Cretan community from across Australia and New Zealand unite in celebration of our rich heritage. The infectious energy and enthusiasm of our youth, delegates and attendees created an electric atmosphere that pulsed throughout the convention,” Mr Mountakis added.
“I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks and congratulations to the Cretan Association of Northern Territory, the executive team of Cretan Federation of Australia and New Zealand, our member associations and generous sponsors. Your selfless dedication, tireless efforts, and unwavering commitment to our community made this convention an unforgettable success. As we celebrate this achievement, we also look forward to the 2026 Convention.”
The CFANZ invites all the Cretans of Oceania and friends of Crete to attend its 44th Annual Cretan Convention in January 2026 in Sydney.
NEPOMAK is the Organisation for Young Overseas Cypriots, supported by the Youth Board of Cyprus and the Presidential Commissioners Office and volunteers from all around the world.
Every year NEPOMAK runs subsidised programs in Cyprus for 18 to 30-year-olds to connect with their heritage, learn more about Cyprus and learn Greek.
Applications are open now and close on Sunday, February 2.
NEPOMAK Discover Cyprus Program
The NEPOMAK Discover Cyprus Programme (NDCP) is a transformative three-week experience that connects young Cypriots from across the world with their language, heritage, culture, and the beauty of Cyprus.
Designed for participants aged 18-22, NDCP combines education, exploration, and connection in an immersive cultural adventure.
The cost of accommodation, excursions, course fees and partial flight fares are covered by NEPOMAK with support from the Government of Cyprus and the Youth Board of Cyprus, helping to ensure this experience is accessible to everyone.
Programme dates: 30 June – 21 July 2025
Application deadline: Applications close on Sunday 2 February 2025
Who can apply?
To be eligible to apply, you must be:
18-22 years old
Of Cypriot descent (at least one Cypriot grandparent)
A registered member of NEPOMAK
Further details about NDCP are provided on our website here.
NEPOMAK Cyprus Culture Tour
The NEPOMAK Cyprus Culture Tour (NCCT) offers young Cypriots an unforgettable 10-day journey through Cyprus with Cypriots from around the world.
This unique tour immerses participants in learning about Cyprus’s vibrant culture, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes. Through professionally guided tours and authentic, hands-on experiences, you’ll discover your heritage while making lifelong friends who share your roots.
Designed exclusively for young Cypriots aged 23-30, the NCCT is more than just a cultural tour – it is also a gateway to deeper involvement with NEPOMAK.
All accommodation, activities, and travel during the tour are subsidised by NEPOMAK with the support of the Government of Cyprus and the Youth Board of Cyprus, ensuring this experience is accessible to everyone.
2025 Programme dates: 21 August – 1 September 2025
Application deadline: Applications close at midnight on 2 February 2025
Who can apply?
To be eligible to apply, you must be:
23-30 years old
Of Cypriot descent (at least one Cypriot grandparent)
A registered member of NEPOMAK
Interested to become involved in NEPOMAK at regional and global levels
Further details about NCCT are provided on our website here.
The Cup, celebrating the rich influence of Greeks in football, features clubs with celebrated histories in Victorian football, including South Melbourne, Heidelberg United, Oakleigh Cannons, Bentleigh Greens, Kingston City, Malvern City, Box Hill United, Bentleigh United Cobras, Keon Park, East Kew, and host club South Springvale Aris.
The opening round on Friday night sees Keon Park FC face off against NPL heavyweights Bentleigh Greens, followed by a much-anticipated clash between Cup first-timers Port Melbourne Sharks and NPL rivals Heidelberg United.
Photo: Kostas Deves.
All games will be hosted by South Springvale Aris FC at their Ross and Warner Reserve in South Springvale.
The Greek Community Cup is brought to you by the Greek Community of Melbourne in association with Australian Football Skool. The 2025 Senior Men’s Program is hosted by South Springvale Aris and supported by LV Furniture, Accountancy Group, and Active Orthopaedic Centre.
Friday, January 10: First Round Kick-Off
7:30 PM | Port Melbourne Sharks vs. Heidelberg United
The Port Melbourne Sharks make their Cup debut in a blockbuster matchup against longtime rivals Heidelberg United.
7:30 PM | Keon Park vs. Bentleigh Greens
The ambitious Keon Park FC will take on NPL heavyweights Bentleigh Greens in their Cup debut.
Photo: Kostas Deves.
Saturday, January11
5:00 PM | East Kew FC vs. Oakleigh Cannons
The energetic East Kew FC takes on NPL powerhouse Oakleigh Cannons.
5:00 PM | Malvern City FC vs. South Springvale FC
Tournament hosts South Springvale FC face off against ambitious rivals Malvern City FC in the final game of a blockbuster opening weekend.
The Greek community worldwide is mourning the passing of former Prime Minister Costas Simitis, who served as Greece’s leader and PASOK president from 1996 to 2004. Known for his progressive and reformist vision, Simitis left a lasting impact on Greece’s political landscape.
In a statement issued on January 5, the PASOK/KINAL Oceania Regional Committee paid tribute to Simitis, describing him as “a significant, progressive, and reformist political leader.”
The committee highlighted his contributions to Greece’s modernisation, including landmark infrastructure projects, economic development, and improved daily life for citizens.
The statement further noted Simitis’ dedication to supporting the Greek diaspora whereby, under his leadership, significant funding was allocated to programmes for Greek language education abroad, cultural festivals like the Greek Festival of Sydney and Melbourne’s Antipodes Festival, and organisations facing financial difficulties.
Beyond his domestic achievements, Simitis was a champion of international relations, ensuring Greece maintained strong ties with its expatriates and the broader Hellenic community.
The Oceania Regional Committee of PASOK/KINAL concluded their statement saying, “We bid farewell to former Prime Minister Costas Simitis with sadness, while extending our heartfelt condolences to his family.”
At the Adelaide International on Monday, January 6, tennis star Thanasi Kokkinakis secured a thrilling 6-3, 3-6, 6-3 victory over Japan’s Yoshihito Nishioka while sporting blue-and-white shorts that paid tribute to his Greek heritage.
The shorts, featuring the iconic colours of the Greek flag, were a visual tribute to ancient Greek warriors. One side depicted a Spartan warrior in battle, while the other displayed a Spartan helmet on a shield, alongside a traditional meander design.
The design beautifully combined athleticism and cultural pride, drawing on themes of strength and resilience.
Nick Kyrgios’ participation in the Australian Open is now in doubt after he withdrew from a pre-tournament exhibition match against Novak Djokovic.
The 29-year-old revealed on Instagram that he is dealing with a grade 1 abdominal strain, having undergone an ultrasound.
“Unfortunately won’t be able to play my good friend [Novak Djokovic] this Thursday on the 9th as I’ve had an ultrasound on my abdominal and have a grade 1 strain,” Kyrgios wrote.
“Will be resting and doing everything I can to be OK by the AusOpen.”
Kyrgios played three matches at last week’s Brisbane International, including two doubles matches with Djokovic, but was eliminated from the singles by Frenchman Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard.
South Australians have been urged by the state government to report stores selling illicit tobacco and vapes to Consumer and Business Services, as authorities estimate around 200 unlicensed tobacco shops are operating across the state.
Most of the products sold at these stores are imported from overseas, posing serious health risks as they lack proper health warnings and screening. Some vapes have been found to contain harmful chemicals like arsenic and lead.
In addition to health concerns, these illegal businesses have previously been linked to criminal activity.
A shop selling e-cigarettes on Sir Donald Bradman Drive in Cowandilla firebombed in 2024. Photo: Brett Hartwig.
Consumer and Business Affairs Minister Andrea Michaels emphasised the government’s commitment to addressing the issue, saying, “We are not going to allow these illegal shops to operate in our community. We have all seen the danger they bring, including to innocent neighbouring businesses.”
The announcement follows a recent botched operation to shut down an illegal tobacco store in Hindmarsh. The government has pledged to continue cracking down on these businesses, with penalties for operating without a licence reaching up to $1.5 million.
According to the Australian Border Force, around 75 percent of the illegal tobacco market is controlled by organised crime.
