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Greek Australian community rallies to save cultural landmark in Sydney Olympic Park

Andriana Simos
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Greek Australian community rallies to save cultural landmark in Sydney Olympic Park

The future of Stockroute Park and its iconic Discobolus sculpture has sparked widespread concern among Sydney’s Greek Australian community, as the NSW Government’s Draft Masterplan 2050 threatens their demolition.

The Discobolus sculpture and surrounding park were gifted to the people of Sydney by the Greek-Australian community as part of the “Hellenic Tribute Trilogy,” commemorating the Atlanta 1996, Sydney 2000, and Athens 2004 Olympic Games.

The park features elements symbolising Greek heritage, including olive trees, stone steps, and a discus-throwing circle, all designed to celebrate the connection between Greece and Australia.

Community leader and former Randwick City Mayor John Procopiades, who played a key role in supporting the Discobolus project, recently contacted the NSW Minister for Local Government and Member for Heffron, Ron Hoenig MP, urging action to protect this significant cultural legacy.

In response to Mr Procopiades’ letter, Mr Hoenig expressed dismay at the lack of recognition given to the Discobolus in the Draft Masterplan.

“It is a shame that some bureaucrats in the Department of Planning thought it would be okay to simply remove a public sculpture that had been commissioned and funded by Greek organisations and various Greek individuals as a gift to the NSW Government,” Mr Hoenig stated.

Greek cultural legacy at Sydney Olympic Park faces demolition under 2050 Masterplan
Greek cultural legacy at Sydney Olympic Park faces demolition under 2050 Masterplan
The future of Stockroute Park and its iconic Discobolus sculpture has sparked widespread concern among Sydney’s Greek Australian community.

The Minister acknowledged the cultural and historical value of the Discobolus, not just for those of Greek heritage but for all Sydneysiders. He argued that the sculpture and its surroundings contribute to the area’s sense of history and could enhance the amenity of future developments.

As a result, Mr Hoenig has taken the matter to the NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully MP, and promised to update Mr Procopiades once a response is received.

Mr Procopiades, who chaired the Springtime Greek Glendi when his organisation donated $10,000 to support the Discobolus, has called on the Greek Australian community to contact their state and federal representatives.

He emphasised the need to ensure this cultural landmark remains intact for future generations, stating, “This Tribute is a gift to the people of Sydney by the Greek-Australian community and should remain in perpetuity for generations to come.”

The Draft Masterplan 2050, which envisions a transformation of Sydney Olympic Park into a mixed-use precinct, has raised alarm for its potential impact on heritage sites. The community had until November 25 to submit feedback on the proposal, urging the government to reconsider plans that would erase this unique cultural legacy.

Federation of Greek Elderly Citizens Club celebrates milestones and community leaders

The Greek Herald
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Federation of Greek Elderly Citizens Club celebrates milestones and community leaders

On Wednesday, December 18, the Federation of Elderly Citizens’ Clubs of Melbourne and Victoria hosted a luncheon in honour of the former Secretary General for Greeks Abroad and Public Diplomacy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, John Chrysoulakis, and His Eminence Metropolitan Myron of New Zealand. The event took place at a renowned Greek restaurant in Oakleigh.

The reception was attended by numerous dignitaries including His Grace Bishop Kyriakos of Melbourne, the Very Reverend Archimandrite Father Irinaios, Reverend Father Stavros, and many other notable individuals and the entire board of directors of the Federation.

In his speech, President, John Kostoulias, welcomed the attendees and commended the work of Federation. Over its 40-year history, the Federation has provided significant information to its members regarding pension rights and more. He emphasised that, in this country, when submissions are made to the relevant authorities, whether in agreement or not, they respond appropriately.

Mr Kostoulias praised Mr Chrysoulakis for recognising, during his recent tenure, the vibrant and active Greek elderly community in Melbourne. After thanking him, he presented Mr Chrysoulakis with various commemorative gifts from Australia, which greatly delighted him.

In his response, Mr Chrysoulakis expressed his gratitude to the Federation for its work. He noted that he was aware of the Federation’s efforts through its President, Mr Kostoulias, and assured the Federation of his continued support whenever needed.

Subsequently, Metropolitan Myron thanked the Federation for its contributions, praised the President, and was presented with honorary commemorative gifts by Mr Kostoulias.

The Federation, through its President, expressed its gratitude to all attendees, the media, and others who participated. In closing, they wished everyone a joyous festive season and a happy and prosperous New Year 2025.

Jenny Mikakos appointed new Chair of Victoria’s LanguageLoop

The Greek Herald
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Jenny Mikakos appointed new Chair of Victoria’s LanguageLoop

The Victorian Interpreting and Translation Services (VITS) LanguageLoop Board has welcomed the Honourable Jenny Mikakos as its new Chair, continuing its commitment to Victorians having access to high-quality language services and information. 

Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ingrid Stitt announced Ms Mikakos as the new Chair, who will join the VITS LanguageLoop Board on 31 December 2024 following an open and competitive recruitment process. 

The Board Chair is responsible for governing the organisation, enhancing engagement and providing strategic advice and financial direction. 

Ms Mikakos currently sits on the board of Optometry Australia and Early Childhood Management Services, bringing a wealth of knowledge from her experiences in strategic governance, community services, public administration and law. 

She will continue the leadership of outgoing Chair Professor Kathy Laster AM, who was appointed in 2020 and guided the Board through a period of significant growth and transformation. 

The Board comprises of experts from diverse fields such as governance, multicultural engagement, and customer experience, ensuring robust leadership to guide the organisation’s work and mission. 

Minister Stitt congratulated Ms Mikakos on her appointment as Chair of the VITS LanguageLoop Board.

“Her extensive experience in the public, community and private sectors will be invaluable to the work to ensure Victorians have access to essential language services,” Minister Stitt added.

“I would like to sincerely thank the outgoing Board Chair of VITS LanguageLoop Professor Kathy Laster AM, for her significant contributions and leadership of the organisation, particularly through the pandemic and other statewide emergencies.” 

Ms Mikakos said, “Language is fundamental to connection and inclusion. I am proud to support VITS LanguageLoop in its mission to empower communities through accessible and professional interpreting and translation services.”

VITS LanguageLoop has more than 3,600 professional interpreters who provide important translating services in over 190 languages, including First Peoples languages. 

In 2023-24 VITS LanguageLoop assisted more than 560,000 people across Victoria through their work interpreting on-site, by telephone or via video conference, as well as translating nearly five million words. 

Tasmanian Liberal MP Simon Behrakis pushes for ADHD inquiry

The Greek Herald
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Tasmanian Liberal MP Simon Behrakis pushes for ADHD inquiry

Simon Behrakis, a Hobart City councillor and recently elected Liberal MP, is leading a parliamentary inquiry into the challenges faced by Tasmanians seeking support for Attention-deficit disorder (ADHD).

Behrakis, who was diagnosed with ADHD in Year 8, struggled for years with navigating the medical system and sought re-diagnosis after burnout as an adult. His personal experience of long wait times and inadequate support prompted him to push for the inquiry after being elected to state parliament in 2023.

The inquiry, which has received 60 submissions, highlights significant barriers to ADHD diagnosis and treatment in Tasmania, particularly long waitlists and high costs.

General practitioner Kate Bendall, who specialises in ADHD, said adult patients often face a shortage of available psychiatrists and must rely on expensive telehealth services, with costs ranging from $800 to $2,000.

Photo: ABC.

Delays are particularly concerning for children, with many facing long waits to see paediatricians. These delays could have lasting effects on children’s self-esteem and academic performance.

The inquiry comes shortly after a federal parliamentary inquiry on ADHD services, which made 15 recommendations, including the development of uniform prescribing rules and the expansion of healthcare professionals able to provide ADHD assessments.

The federal government accepted one recommendation fully and provided in-principle support for several others.

Behrakis is optimistic that the Tasmanian inquiry will lead to meaningful change.

“I think everyone’s acknowledged it’s a genuine issue,” he said, stressing the opportunity for significant reform in ADHD support services.

Source: ABC News.

Greek Australian Sam Konstas set to debut in Boxing Day Test at the MCG

The Greek Herald
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Greek Australian Sam Konstas set to debut in Boxing Day Test at the MCG

By Billy Cotsis

Sam Konstas takes aim and waits for the ball; takes a step back and bang. It is high, its fast and hits another boundary. The 19-year-old batter who wears a NSW Blues hat, a Greek blue and white hat, and soon a Baggy Green hat, is on a journey to the top via his entertaining cricketing attributes. 

The Greek Australian from Sydney has been making headlines after a starring role at the U-19s World Cup almost a year ago in South Africa, which was won by the Aussies.

After being selected for the Boxing Day Test, Konstas will become the second youngest Australian Test debutant this century. Captain and Aussie great Pat Cummins was 18 years old when he was selected.

In 2023, the young man made his debut for NSW, playing alongside Blake Nikitaras whose father Peter was also a state cricketer and a Greece national cricket team representative.

Konstas’ elegant batting style has netted centuries and 50s in Shield Cricket and also against an Indian XI.

Photo: Getty Images.

Last weekend the dashing Greek Aussie smashed the fastest ever 50 for the Sydney Thunder in the BBL. His attacking mindset led to 56 runs off just 27 balls. 

With opener Nathan McSweeney dropped and Usman Khawaja out of form, Konstas will become the 467th Test player for the Aussies.

Konstas follows in the footsteps of brilliant former Test allrounder Jason Gillespie, whose heritage is Aboriginal, Irish and Greek, and Marcus Stoinis who plays the short version of the game for Australia.

Whichever hat he wears, Konstas will be a player to watch over the next decade, and certainly over the Boxing Day Test.

*Billy Cotsis is the author of The Aegean Seven Take Back the Stolen Marbles.

Luna Park launches legal action amid Sydney train strike disruption

The Greek Herald
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Luna Park launches legal action amid Sydney train strike disruption

Luna Park is taking legal action to ensure its New Year’s Eve party proceeds as planned, with industrial action by the Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) threatening to disrupt Sydney’s celebrations.

The venue’s popular harbour party, which has sold all 6,500 tickets, could be impacted by the ongoing strike, which affects key transport services for the city’s biggest events.

Having recently changed hands for the first time in nearly 20 years with Bill and Mario Gravanis, the brothers behind the Oscars Group, purchasing the iconic Sydney staple last month, Luna Park expressed concern over the timing of the strike. They also noted that other entertainment venues are also considering legal options.

The union clarified that the strike would primarily impact staff travel distances rather than cause widespread disruption for passengers. However, Minister for Transport Jo Haylen declared, “No amount of industrial action on New Year’s Eve would be considered tolerable,” emphasising the need for reliable train services to transport millions of people to Sydney’s harbour for the celebrations.

Mario & Bill Gravanis.

The NSW government is set to meet with Fair Work on Tuesday, December 24, to prevent further disruptions.

Amid discussions, Paul Nicolaou of Business Sydney told the ABC on Sunday, December 22, “We’re calling on the unions to call off this industrial action because it’s going to have a big impact on small to medium sized businesses and the community’s wellbeing.”

“And if these fireworks are cancelled, millions of dollars are going to be lost.

“And remember, Sydney is the first city that brings in the new year, and it will affect our global reputation.”

He concluded that “anything we can do to call off this industrial action is really, really important.”

Source: Nine News.

Kimberly Guilfoyle expresses ‘honour’ to serve as next US Ambassador to Greece

The Greek Herald
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Kimberly Guilfoyle expresses ‘honour’ to serve as next US Ambassador to Greece

Kimberly Guilfoyle has expressed her gratitude after being nominated by President Donald Trump to serve as the next US Ambassador to Greece.

Guilfoyle disclosed her eagerness to work with the Greek government and secure approval from the US Senate to ERT.

“I am eager to collaborate with the Greek government and will work diligently to ensure that the strong ties between Greece and the United States continue to deepen under President Trump’s leadership,” she said.

Guilfoyle praised Greece’s strategic role, calling it “a valuable NATO ally” and a pillar of stability within the European Union. She added that her appointment reflects Trump’s appreciation for the longstanding relationship between the two nations.

“My appointment in Athens underscores President Trump’s appreciation for Greece and reflects the deep and dynamic relationship between our two nations.”

The former TV personality emphasised Greece’s economic progress, noting, “Greece is currently one of the fastest-growing economies in Europe,” and acknowledged the resilience of the Greek people despite past challenges.

She pledged to focus on economic growth, education, energy security, and defence cooperation with Greece.

Kimberly Guilfoyle and fiancee Donald Trump Jr. Photo: Jabin Botsford / The Washington Post.

As she put it, “Greece, as the birthplace of democracy, has profoundly influenced America’s founding principles of freedom and equality.” She highlighted the shared values between the two nations and the importance of their relationship.

Guilfoyle also expressed gratitude to key figures in the Greek American community, including Archbishop Elpidophoros and businessman John Katsimatides, for their support. She also thanked Ambassador George Tsunis for his assistance in ensuring a smooth transition.

“I look forward to commencing my assignment as the US Ambassador to Greece, and I am eager to meet the Greek people and explore the beautiful country steeped in history,” she said.

“I will strive to fulfil the expectations of President Donald Trump, serving both the American people and the people of Greece to the best of my ability.”

Guilfoyle concluded her remarks with a warm holiday greeting: “Καλά Χριστούγεννα και καλές γιορτές σε όλους!” (Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all!).

Coroner rules Michael Mosley’s cause of death ‘unascertainable’

The Greek Herald
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Coroner rules Michael Mosley’s cause of death ‘unascertainable’

The death of TV presenter Michael Mosley has been officially recorded indeterminate, which was described as “unascertainable” by a UK coroner.

According to ABC, Crispin Butler, senior coroner for Buckinghamshire, concluded that the cause of death was “most likely attributable either to heat stroke (accidental) or a non-identified pathological cause.”

Mosley, 67, went missing while on holiday in June on the Greek island of Symi. After a five-day search, his body was found in rocky terrain near the sea, suggesting he may have fallen down a slope. The post-mortem examination at the time revealed no signs of injury, supporting the conclusion that his death was due to natural causes.

Symi, Greece.

According to Butler’s written findings, Mosley had set off for a walk on the island, leaving his mobile phone behind to prevent it from getting wet. Described as “energetic and cheerful,” he carried a rucksack with water and a biscuit, as well as a hat and umbrella. He chose to walk back to his accommodation instead of taking the ferry.

The coroner confirmed there was no evidence of homicide, suicide or trauma. “Michael’s death was classified as indeterminate,” Butler stated, emphasising the possibility of a medical event or non-traumatic accident. Toxicology tests showed no notable findings.

Mosley was widely known in the UK for his BBC programs, including Trust Me, I’m a Doctor, and for co-authoring The Fast Diet, a best-selling book on intermittent fasting.

Source: ABC News.

Former Greek royal family officially regains citizenship

The Greek Herald
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Former Greek royal family officially regains citizenship

Members of Greece’s former royal family have been granted Greek citizenship and formally recognised the country’s republican system, marking a historic move 50 years after the monarchy was abolished.

The late King Constantine II and his family were stripped of their citizenship in 1994 following a dispute with the government over royal property and claims that the king refused to renounce any royal rights for his descendants.

While Constantine II passed away last year at age 82, on Thursday, December 19, his relatives signed a declaration acknowledging Greece’s republican system and adopted the surname “De Grece”—French for “of Greece.”

Athanasios Balerpas, an Interior Ministry official, called the move “a historically pending matter.”

“Let’s look to the future now. I think it’s a good moment because it closes an account from the past and we can now look forward as a people,” he added.

Photo: Milos Bicanski / Getty.

The decision, published Friday, December 20, in the government gazette, allows the De Grece family to apply for Greek passports and identity cards. It applies to the five children of Constantine II and former Queen Anne-Marie—Alexia, Pavlos, Nikolaos, Theodora and Philippos—as well as five of the late king’s grandchildren.

The Greek monarchy was abolished by referendum in December 1974, when voters overwhelmingly chose a republican constitution following the collapse of a military dictatorship. The royal family lived in exile for decades before Constantine II returned to Greece in his seventies.

In 1994, during a legal dispute over the former royal estate, which is now state-owned, the family lost their citizenship. They had previously refused to adopt the surname “Glücksburg,” imposed by a 1994 law, as they felt it was too closely tied to their German heritage.

Source: Ekathimerini.

Mitsotakis calls for increased EU funding for border control

The Greek Herald
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Mitsotakis calls for increased EU funding for border control

Greece’s Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis emphasised the vital importance of protecting the European Union’s borders during a press conference held after the North-South Summit on European security and defence on Sunday in Lapland, Finland.

The summit brought together Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Kaja Kallas, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson.

“It was highly instructive for us to understand the particular issues Finland is facing in terms of managing a 1,300 km border with Russia,” Mitsotakis stated, noting that “border protection is an integral part of our migration strategy.”

The Greek Prime Minister called for additional European funding to enhance border management and infrastructure.

“I would like to reiterate from Lapland the necessity to provide additional funding at the European level, not just for border management but also for the physical construction that makes it more effective for us to manage our borders,” he said.

Mitsotakis also pointed to a shared understanding among leaders regarding the need to bolster defence spending both nationally and at the EU level.

Additionally, Mitsotakis announced plans for an extraordinary European Council meeting in February to address pressing issues related to defence and security.

“We still need to convince our transatlantic partner that we take our own security seriously,” he said.

Source: Ekathimerini

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