Nicos Andrianakis, a former taxi driver, has successfully led a $272 million settlement against Uber, approved by the Victorian Supreme Court.
The payout, one of Australia’s largest class action settlements, will be distributed among more than 8,000 taxi and hire car drivers affected by Uber’s unregulated entry into the Australian market.
The class action, initiated in 2019 by Maurice Blackburn Lawyers and lead plaintiff Andrianakis, claimed Uber operated illegally when it launched its UberX services in 2012.
Plaintiffs argued they suffered financial losses, including reduced income and devalued taxi licences, before ride-sharing services were legalised in various states from 2015 onwards.
Nicos Andrianakis, a former taxi driver, has successfully led a $272 million settlement against Uber, approved by the Victorian Supreme Court.
Maurice Blackburn Principal Michael Donelly highlighted the difficulty of the five-year legal process, stating that Uber resisted compensation efforts throughout.
Andrianakis, whose family was deeply involved in the taxi industry, described Uber’s early operations as lawless and damaging, referring to them as “pirates.”
Justice Patricia Matthews approved the settlement, recognising it would not fully recover losses but deemed it a fair resolution compared to the risks and costs of a prolonged trial. The settlement provides long-awaited financial relief for drivers who endured significant disruption to their livelihoods.
Uber acknowledged the settlement and highlighted its regulation across Australia, stating that it has contributed to state-level compensation schemes and aims to move past these legacy issues.
Melbourne-based start-up Fresho, co-founded by James Andronis and Huw Birrell in 2015, has raised $17 million to support its international growth, including plans to expand into the US.
According to The Australian, the funding round, led by Geoff Tarrant, co-founder of Payapps, has valued the company at $120 million.
Fresho’s AI-driven platform streamlines fresh food ordering for wholesalers, replacing outdated and error-prone manual processes. The app converts orders from various formats, such as emails, texts, and voicemails, into structured sales data. This reduces food waste and improves efficiency by providing real-time visibility of orders, helping suppliers avoid over-purchasing.
Fresho’s AI-driven platform streamlines fresh food ordering for wholesalers.
“Our solution solves that and actually takes any order from any type of input… and turns it into a sales order,” Mr Andronis told The Australian.
He highlighted the platform’s ability to cut waste significantly, with some suppliers reporting reductions of up to 40%.
The platform addresses a global issue, as food waste costs the economy $940 billion annually and accounts for 10% of greenhouse gas emissions. Fresho has processed 30 million orders since its inception, including 10 million in the past year alone.
Fresho’s entry into the US marks a significant milestone as the company seeks to lead global efforts in reducing food waste and transforming the fresh food supply chain.
On Monday, November 25th, PRONIA celebrated its 52nd Annual General Meeting (AGM) at its Brunswick offices. The event brought together members, board representatives, supporters, and PRONIA’s esteemed patron, the Hon. Justice Emilios Kyrou AO.
President Elpis Korosidis opened the AGM by highlighting PRONIA’s significant achievements over the past year. Ms Korosidis shared the following key outcomes from 2023-2024:
3,000 hours of casework providing emergency relief and essential support.
15,000 hours of volunteer services supporting isolated elderly individuals.
79,000 hours of activity-based programs for four planned groups.
85,000 hours of in-home care for older community members.
PRONIA’s 52nd Annual General Meeting took place in Brunswick on Monday 25 November 2024.
Ms Korosidis expressed deep gratitude to those who contributed to PRONIA’s success, acknowledging:
The Greek media, whose coverage amplified PRONIA’s work.
Generous donors and sponsors, who support the organisation.
Dedicated board members, for their governance overnight.
Tireless staff and volunteers, who brought compassion and excellence in delivering services.
This year’s AGM marked a leadership change, with outgoing CEO Tina Douvos-Stathopoulos concluding her 34-year tenure at PRONIA in April 2024. President Korosidis thanked Ms Douvos-Stathopoulos for her contributions. The chair welcomed the newly appointed CEO, Sylvia Hadjiantoniou, a seasoned C-Suite Executive with extensive experience in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. Ms Hadjiantoniou shared her aspirations for PRONIA: “I am honoured to lead an organisation with such a profound legacy. In my first months, I have already seen the passion and resilience of our team and volunteers. Together, we will establish our strategic vision for 2025, focusing on inclusivity, innovation and sustainable growth.”
Board Treasurer Manuel Tsirmiris presenting the financial report of the year 2023-24. “I am honoured and humbled to lead an organisation with such a strong legacy of service and impact. In this short time, I have witnessed the passion, resilience, and dedication of our team and volunteers, who are the heartbeat of PRONIA. Their commitment to making a difference in people’s lives is inspiring and provides a powerful foundation for our future success” PRONIA’s CEO Sylvia Hadjiadoniou said.
PRONIA awarded Volunteer of the Year to Ms Dionysia Politis for nearly 30 years of selfless service. Ms. Politis’s dedication, loyalty and consistent support have been foundational in the success of the volunteer team and have built a deep connection with the community she serves.
The AGM also recognised departing board members Voula Mesimeri AM and Liana Laios for their contributions. Voula Mesimeri, a former CEO who led PRONIA from 1989 to 2016, was acknowledged for her longstanding leadership and commitment to the organisation. New board members Julie Christopoulos and Sophie Sidiropoulos were welcomed, bringing fresh perspectives and expertise to PRONIA’s board.
Voula Mesimeris AM steps down from PRONIA’s Board, concluding over three decades of transformative leadership as a CEO and board member. Voula Mesimeris AM, Sylvia Hadjiadoniou, Manuel Tsirmiris.
Reflecting on his personal migration journey, the Hon. Justice Emilios Kyrou AO praised PRONIA’s enduring impact: “If PRONIA existed earlier it would have made a significant difference to early migrants, like my parents” he said. “I am proud to be the patron of an organisation that continues to support the Greek-Australian community with such dedication and innovation.”
As PRONIA embarks on its next chapter, the organisation remains committed to empowering and supporting the Greek-Australian community through its extensive services.
For further information about PRONIA’s AGM and to access the full Annual Report, visit www.pronia.com.au.
Sydney’s iconic Luna Park has been purchased by Bill and Mario Gravanis, the brothers behind the Oscars Group, marking the first change in site ownership in nearly 20 years.
The acquisition of the historic amusement park adds to the Gravanis brothers’ extensive hospitality portfolio, which includes major hotels, pubs, and resorts across New South Wales and Australia’s eastern seaboard.
Oscars Group, known for properties such as the Novotel Wollongong, Crowne Plaza Surfers Paradise, and The Belvedere Hotel, reportedly secured Luna Park for close to $50 million, outbidding major theme park operators including the owners of Warner Bros. Movie World.
Managing Director Bill Gravanis described Luna Park as having “outstanding investment fundamentals, strong brand value, and recognition.”
“We are excited to be acquiring Luna Park and look forward to working with the team. It is an iconic waterfront landmark on the best harbour in the world that presents a great opportunity for the Oscars business,” Mr Gravanis added.
Luna Park remains one of the few amusement parks featuring Art Deco fantasy architecture.
The amusement park, which first opened in 1935, underwent a $40 million transformation over the past four years. Investments included upgrades to its Big Top, a 3,000-square-metre multipurpose venue, and restoration of its heritage-listed Wild Mouse roller coaster.
The Gravanis brothers plan to further develop Luna Park as a leading tourist destination and entertainment precinct for locals.
“Our goal is to further establish Luna Park as a Top 5 tourist destination for visitors, while also promoting it as an entertainment precinct for Sydneysiders,” Mr Gravanis said.
Luna Park CEO John Hughes welcomed the new ownership, highlighting the park’s exciting future as it approaches its 90th anniversary.
The park, which has survived decades of challenges, including the tragic Ghost Train fire of 1979, remains one of the few amusement parks featuring Art Deco fantasy architecture. The sale was approved by the Luna Park Reserve Trust, ensuring the park will continue to serve as a vibrant attraction for Sydney and NSW residents.
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has reportedly held private discussions with British Museum officials about the possible return of the Parthenon Marbles.
According to The Independent, Mitsotakis is said to have met with museum trustees and its chair, George Osborne, on up to three occasions this year. He was accompanied by Greece’s Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis.
The discussions came ahead of Mitsotakis’ visit to the UK, where he is expected to meet Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer on Tuesday.
Sir Keir is reportedly more open to the return of the Parthenon Marbles than former prime ministers, though the UK government maintains it has “no plans to change existing government policy on restitution,” leaving decisions to the British Museum.
The Parthenon Marbles, stolen from Athens’ Parthenon temple in the early 19th century by Lord Elgin and displayed in the British Museum since 1816, remain a point of contention between Greece and the United Kingdom. Greece argues they were illegally acquired during foreign occupation, a claim the British Museum denies.
Greek Culture Minister Lina Mendoni has proposed rotating exhibitions of antiquities to replace the marbles if they are returned. However, she emphasised that any agreement must comply with Greek cultural heritage laws.
The marbles’ potential return continues to stir debate, with both sides holding firm on their positions.
A man was found dead on the Halkidiki peninsula in northern Greece after Storm Bora unleashed torrential rain and landslides across the region.
Local reports suggest the man’s vehicle overturned and fell into a ditch while he tried to avoid falling rocks caused by landslides.
According to state broadcaster ERT, his body was discovered on Monday morning, with hypothermia believed to be the cause of death after he was trapped in his vehicle for at least eight hours. His identity has not yet been released.
This marks the third fatality from the storm. Over the weekend, two people lost their lives on the island of Lemnos as Bora swept through the northern Aegean.
The impact of Storm Bora on Lemnos island. Photo: limnosreport.gr
Halkidiki, particularly Sithonia, suffered extensive damage. Homes, shops, and basements were flooded, roads turned into rivers, and mudslides rendered many areas impassable. Residents received an emergency alert warning against travel between Porto Koufo and Neos Marmaras due to severe damage to the road network.
In response to the widespread devastation, a state of emergency has been declared for the island of Rhodes and parts of Lemnos, including Myrina, Atsiki, and Nea Koutali. Civil Protection General Secretary Vassilis Papageorgiou approved the measure, which will remain in effect until 30 December 2024.
Authorities continue to assess the full extent of the storm’s damage while urging residents to remain cautious.
Perry Kouroumblis, who is wanted for the infamous 1977 Easey Street murders in Melbourne, is set to arrive in Australia on Tuesday night following his extradition from Italy.
Kouroumblis, a 65-year-old Australian-Greek national, is accused of the brutal stabbing deaths of Suzanne Armstrong and Susan Bartlett in their Collingwood share house nearly 50 years ago. Armstrong’s 16-month-old son was unharmed.
Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Shane Patton previously described the case as the state’s “most serious cold case,” calling it an “absolutely gruesome, horrific, frenzied homicide.”
Kouroumblis, who was 17 at the time of the murders, maintains his innocence. He left Australia for Greece in 2017 after police requested a DNA sample during their investigation, reportedly to care for his ailing mother.
Perry Kouroumblis is wanted for the infamous 1977 Easey Street murders in Melbourne.
He was detained in September this year at Rome’s airport under an Interpol Red Notice after arriving from Greece.
Kouroumblis had been held in Regina Coeli prison in Rome while Italian courts processed Victoria Police’s extradition request. Unlike Greece, Italy has no statute of limitations preventing his extradition.
The 65-year-old, escorted by Italian senior homicide investigators, boarded a flight from Rome on Monday night without handcuffs. During the journey, he ate, drank, and watched a film.
After a layover in Doha, he is expected to arrive in Melbourne on Tuesday night, where he will be taken to police headquarters for questioning and could face charges related to the 1977 Easey Street murders.
Sydney’s Greek community celebrated a stellar presence at the 14th annual St George Community Awards held on Friday, November 29 at the Mortdale RSL & Community Club.
The awards recognise the dedication of local individuals, groups, and businesses contributing to the area’s vibrant cultural and community life. They are an initiative of the Liberal Member for Oatley and Shadow Minister for Multiculturalism, Mark Coure MP.
Over 90 individuals and groups received an award, which spanned across eight separate categories. Among the honourees were several distinguished Greek Australians, each making a significant impact in their respective fields.
Entertainment on the night was provided by the outstanding St George Brass Band and SING Australia St George who, alongside MC Paul McGrath from local radio station 2NBC, helped to make the night a roaring success.
In a statement to The Greek Herald, Minister Coure expressed his admiration for the Greek Australian winners.
Mark Coure MP.
“The Greek community in the St George area work incredibly hard and it was fantastic to recognise their efforts this year at the Community Awards. We had a number of fantastic individuals and community groups receive awards for the work that they do in our community,” Mr Coure said.
“I would like to specifically thank and mention AHEPA, the Hellenic Lyceum of Sydney, the Pontian Association of New South Wales and the Australian Hellenic Choir, who all received awards on the night. Your hard work has not gone unnoticed.”
Business Achievement Award: Rio Consulting Group
Maria Dalamaras from Rio Consulting Group.
Rio Consulting Group, founded by Maria Dalamaras, received recognition for its excellence in business innovation and leadership. Rio Consulting Group specialises in all things Digital Marketing. Their most commonly sought services are: social media management, content creation, copy writing, LinkedIn profile management, graphic design and website consulting.
Community Group Achievement Award: Hellenic Lyceum of Sydney
Members of the Hellenic Lyceum of Sydney.
The Hellenic Lyceum of Sydney was honoured for its steadfast commitment to preserving and promoting Greek heritage through cultural programs and community events. The Lyceum has long been a pillar of Greek culture in Sydney.
Individual Volunteer Achievement Award:
Charoulla Themistocleous: Charoulla is a dedicated educator of Modern Greek, a founding member of the Australian Hellenic Educators’ Association, and a passionate advocate for Hellenic heritage. She has played a pivotal role in organising educational programs, cultural activities, and events that celebrate and preserve Greek history and traditions.
Charoulla Themistocleous.
Vasilios Aligiannis:Vasilios has dedicated years to preserving and teaching Greek cultural heritage. As an instructor for the Hellenic Lyceum of Sydney, he has mentored countless students in the intricate art of traditional Greek dance. His personal collection of authentic Greek costumes and jewelry has been featured in numerous exhibitions and cultural events.
Multicultural Communities Award: Australian Hellenic Choir
Members of the Australian Hellenic Choir.
The Australian Hellenic Choir, comprising more than 50 talented singers, received its first major accolade for promoting Hellenic culture through music. Choir President James Tsolakis expressed gratitude for the recognition, emphasising the role of its members and leadership in achieving excellence.
“The Choir has cemented itself into the Greek diaspora history books as a leading organisation that promotes Hellenic culture and language through songs and music,” Mr Tsolakis added.
Youth Achievement Award:
Michaela Loukas: Michaela was recognised for her remarkable efforts in promoting STEM education for young women, particularly through her advocacy and achievements in robotics and engineering competitions. She has become a role model by breaking barriers in traditionally male-dominated fields and inspiring others to pursue careers in STEM.
Michaela Loukas.
Kosta Papoulidis:Kosta was awarded for his groundbreaking contribution to music as the first Australian-born artist to release a Pontian Greek album. His dedication to preserving and modernising traditional Pontian music highlights his role as a cultural ambassador, inspiring younger generations to connect with their heritage.
Kosta Papoulidis.
*NOTE: If you have Greek heritage and believe you should be on this list, please email us at editor@foreignlanguage.com.au.
Despite late storms, the event welcomed more than 130 attendees, including many children, with many taking advantage of the fine early weather to join the sold-out festivities.
Held as a testament to community spirit and cultural pride, the celebration featured contributions from committee members, their families, and attendees who worked tirelessly to make the day a triumph.
The event was not only a gathering of long-standing members, but also saw a strong representation from families with roots in Chalkidiki, making up 70% of the attendees. This included, but is not limited to, the following:
Three generations of the Makridis family from Nea Moudania.
Stacey Camillos (Mavros family, Agios Mamas) attending after 30 years.
The Tekirdaglis and Pascali families from Ammouliani, joined by relatives from Wollongong.
Representatives from other Chalkidiki villages such as Arnaia, Olynthos, Taxiarchis, Vavdos, and Stavros.
The event also hosted prominent leaders from Greek community associations in NSW, including President of the Pan-Macedonian Association of NSW, Anastasia Karakominakis, and President of the Athenian Association of NSW, Cathy Valis, among many others.
The Brotherhood’s committee was commended for its dedication. Key organisers included President Costa Dantos, Vice President Jenny Kaporis, Secretary Alexandra Poulos, Treasurer John Tratselas, and General Committee members Artemis Kelezis, Bill Dantos, Carol Stavropoulos, George Tratselas, Joanna Arnis, Vicky Stamatiou, and Vicky Tsakirou.
The record attendance and enthusiastic participation from families and community leaders underscore the enduring connection between Chalkidiki heritage and Greek Australian culture.
The Pontian Brotherhood of South Australia hosted a three-day cultural celebration from Friday, November 29 to Sunday, December 1, filled with music, dance and camaraderie, bringing together the community to celebrate and honour the rich heritage of the Pontian Greeks.
The celebration began on Friday evening with the ΠΑΡΑΚΑΘ (Parakath), a social gathering of music, dancing and socialising. Guests were treated to a lively and welcoming atmosphere, with performances by local musicians Nikos Piltikidis (lyra) and Mikelina Hourdas (daouli), kicking off the festivities.
Pontiaki Vradia – A celebration of Pontian heritage
Saturday evening’s Pontiaki Vradia (Pontian Night) was the heart of the weekend and an unforgettable celebration of Pontian music, dance and cultural legacy. The night, which was sold out with more than 180 attendees, showcased the unique and deeply emotional traditions of Pontian culture.
President of the Pontian Brotherhood of SA, Harry Tavlaridis, stated that these events are held to “maintain our Pontian culture and, [by] bringing international guests to Australia, [it] keeps us connected to Greece and, most importantly, Pontos. Each Pontian song tells a story. Stories that we should never forget.”
President Tavlaridis emphasised that the responsibility of maintaining Pontian culture falls to the clubs, such as the Brotherhood, the committees and the wider Greek Australian community. In attendance were also members of Brotherhoods from interstate including Melbourne, Sydney and Perth who supported the event.
Christoforos Kosmidis and Yiannis Tailachidis, renown artists invited from Greece, delivered spectacular performances accompanied by local artists Nikos and Mikelina. Together, they created a night full of beautiful sounds that resonated deeply with attendees.
The iconic instruments of Pontian music filled the hall with melodies and rhythmic beats that evoked both the struggles and triumphs of Pontian history. For many attendees, these sounds were a connection to their ancestors, a reminder of their unwavering resilience and struggle.
Similarly, the traditional dances were a living embodiment of the rich legacy of Pontian culture and the collective memory of a people who have maintained this legacy over generations. Watching the dancers, one could feel the raw and emotional significance of these dances and the deep pride of the Pontian Greeks embodying their cultural legacy through each step.
The attendees’ participation in the dances throughout the night and into the early hours of the morning made for an evening of infectious kefi and collective celebration, a fitting tribute to the ongoing spirit of the Pontian Greeks.
Enduring legacy and tribute to Pontian culture
The weekend concluded on Sunday with the Μουχαμπέτ (Mouhabet), a Pontian-style lunch that emphasised camaraderie and reflection.
The three-day program by the Pontian Brotherhood of SA was more than a series of cultural events, it was a celebration of identity, heritage. For those who participated, it was a chance to reconnect with their roots and the community, honour their ancestors, share their traditions and ensure they are passed on to future generations.
