Award-winning investigative reporter Mario Christodoulou will become executive producer on the Australian Broadcasting Corporation’s Media Watch program. He is replacing Tim Latham.
Christodoulou has previously worked as a researcher at ABC‘s Four Corners, after writing as a cadet reporter for Fairfax suburban newspapers in Sydney’s west.
In 2008, Christodoulou won a Walkley for his coverage of the Wollongong council corruption scandal, before moving to the UK to work as a finance journalist. In 2014, he won the Gold Walkley together with Adele Ferguson and Deb Masters, and later in 2016, won the Walkley Business and Investigative Award alongside Ferguson and Klaus Toft.
Linton Besser is Media Watch’s new host.
Christodoulou will work alongside Media Watch’s new host, investigative reporter and former foreign correspondent Linton Besser.
Besser will take over the Monday night media program from Paul Barry, who will step down on December 2 after 11 years.
“Mario is a really formidable journalist,” Besser told The Guardian. “I’ve worked with him on a couple of things and, you know, he’s one of these super brains walking around on legs.”
Besser and Christodoulou said they are not planning to concentrate on major investigations in a 15-minute program.
Left-wing Syriza party has lost its position as Greece’s main opposition group in parliament after a wave of defections on Thursday, November 21.
According to AP News, the move has left socialist PASOK under the leadership of Nikos Androulakis to challenge the dominance of rightist Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and his New Democracy party.
Two members of parliament, including Theodora Tzakri, announced on Thursday they were quitting the party, reducing Syriza’s number of deputies to 29 — less than the 31 seats held by PASOK.
Όπως είχα προαναγγείλει, κατέθεσα σήμερα στον πρόεδρο της Βουλής τη δήλωση ανεξαρτητοποίησής μου από την Κοινοβουλευτική Ομάδα του ΣΥΡΙΖΑ-ΠΣ.
Ενός κόμματος στο οποίο αφιέρωσα τον μισό μου κοινοβουλευτικό βίο και όλες μου τις δυνάμεις έως ότου έπαψε να είναι το κόμμα στο οποίο… pic.twitter.com/wTbFYsFIbr
“My decision to become an independent lawmaker is an act of self-respect and self-worth in my political journey so far,” Ms Tzakri said outside parliament after notifying the speaker of her decision.
“The actions and tactics of those who have proclaimed themselves the current owners and guardians of Syriza have already stripped the party of its role as the main opposition.”
This news comes after Syriza suffered disappointing election results in recent years, and defections to splinter groups. Former leader Stefanos Kasselakis formally quit the party in early December, and is expected to announce a breakaway party in the coming days.
The opposition shift will revive a more traditional battle for the political centre that dominated Greek politics before the 2009-18 debt crisis.
The sole resident of Greece’s remote Kinaros island – 80-year-old Irene Katsotourchi, affectionately known as Mrs Rinio – recently received an unexpected gift in the form of a donkey.
Journalist Vasilios Saribalidis announced via Facebook on Tuesday, November 19 that the donkey had arrived on Kinaros island after a difficult transport operation.
“After a long time, great effort and many friends who believed that we could keep our promise, the donkey that Mrs Rinio had asked for, has arrived at its new home,” Saribalidis wrote in the post.
The journalist posted photos of Mrs Rinio welcoming the donkey with a huge smile on her face. The gift will serve as a companion for the elderly woman, and will aid in navigating the island’s rugged terrain.
Mrs Rinio was born on Amorgos island and grew up on Kinaros. When she got married, she lived with her family on Kalymnos, but the couple then migrated to Australia. When they returned to Greece, they decided to settle permanently on Kinaros, a remote Aegean island located around 160 miles southeast of Athens.
Mrs Rinio has lived alone on the island since her husband died in 2013.
A nail-biting win for Thanasi Kokkinakis has led Australia into the semi-finals of the Davis Cup in Spain.
Kokkinakis defended four match points and endured a gripping third-set tie-breaker to emerge victorious over American Ben Shelton 6-1, 4-6, 7-6 (16/14).
World No.4 Taylor Fritz then beat Alex de Minaur 6-3, 6-4 in their singles match, before Matt Ebden and Jordan Thompson scored a 6-4, 6-4 win over Ben Shelton and Tommy Paul.
“I don’t know if I’ve been that pumped up in my life. I wanted that for my team,” Kokkinakis said after his victory. “It could have gone either way, but I kept my nerve.”
Australia will next face champions Italy or Argentina on Saturday (Sunday AEDT) to get a chance at lifting the Davis Cup for the first time in 21 years on Sunday (Monday AEDT).
On the evening of Wednesday, November 20, the proika exhibition opened to a crowd of eager guests at the Thematikos x MBO Tailors creative space in Cremorne.
A harmonious blend of artistry, history, and heartfelt connections, the event celebrated the physical and metaphorical heirlooms passed down through generations of Greek Australian families.
The exhibition, brought to life by photographer Demi Kromidellis, designer Maria Koutsoukos, and journalist Marianna Alepidis, delves deep into the essence of proika (προίκα)—a tradition symbolising the passing down of culture, memories, and cherished items.
The exhibition was brought to life by photographer Demi Kromidellis, designer Maria Koutsoukos, and journalist Marianna Alepidis. All photos copyright The Greek Herald.
Guests wandered through the gallery, marvelling at photographs taken in the homes of Greek immigrant families, paired with clothing crafted from reused materials and stories that celebrated the legacies of homeowners such as Thomi Kalavrianos, Panagiotia Mavraganis, and Christine Boursinos.
Produced by bespoke network Yitonia, led by Peter Giasoumi and Dean Kotsianis, the project was a collaborative masterpiece. Models Constance Gravina, Madalene Gravina, Cassie Patitsas, and Kristen Politis, along with behind-the-scenes support from Jonathan Valis, graphic designer Marie Petridis, and videographer Jorja Kavellaris, contributed to the event’s success.
From the moment doors opened, the room was abuzz with energy. Family, friends, and creatives mingled over traditional Greek mezze, Mastiha cocktails, desserts by Yiayia’s Glyka, and music curated by a DJ – Thematikos’ co-owner Con Pan.
The brothers from Yiayia’s Glyka.
Guests were invited to immerse themselves in nostalgia, with scents like “Pappou’s Garden”—a Thematikos creation with notes of tomato and basil—triggering vivid memories of childhood days spent in Greek grandparents’ gardens. Adding to the showcase were tailored pieces by Danny Douros, further celebrating the artistry and craftsmanship at the heart of the event.
proika merchandise, including tea towels and T-shirts, and specially marked editions of The Greek Herald, the project’s main media partner, added artistic flair to the space.
For attendees like Tiana Zaljebic and Julia Pritchard, both of mixed heritage, the project resonated deeply. Having once resisted Greek school as children, the women are now rediscovering their roots.
“My mother is currently delving into her own proika, unearthing forgotten doilies and contemplating their future,” Julia shared.
Tiana added, “I’m finding inspiration in these doilies. While I’m not keen on using them as traditional decor, I’m eager to repurpose them into something fresh and modern.”
Tiana Zaljebic and Julia Pritchard.
As the gallery filled, Mr Kotsianis officially began proceedings, reflecting on Yitonia’s mission: “What we have been doing for about 12 months now is facilitating people to do what they do best, providing the platform, working with people with passion, brands, advice, and just making things happen so nice.”
Co-producer Mr Giasoumi followed, highlighting the unexpected reciprocity in their work: “We are proud of the relationship that we’ve built with our elders. You know, we thought when we would go into their house, we would brighten their day up, but the opposite is true too. They brightened our day with their generosity, their stories, their humour.”
Photographer Demi shared insights into her creative process of “capturing the rawness of homes and heirlooms with a contemporary reinterpretation,” and using innovative techniques like hand-printing photographs onto light-sensitive paper.
The speeches.
Designer Maria expressed her passion for preserving Greek heritage: “proika is dedicated to the Greek migrants, and it depicts the legacy and raises the question of how we, as the future generation, as Greeks, can preserve and carry on their legacy.”
Journalist Marianna moved the audience with her emotional address, recalling the collective passion of the project team: “We all have a love for capturing the stories of the people that came before us, whether that be through words, through photography, through design. Our heritage is an endless source of inspiration and passion. We saw the incredible treasure troves of memories these wonderful women have cultivated and maintained.”
Finally, homeowner Mrs Kalavrianos delivered a heartfelt speech in Greek, thanking the parents of the project’s collaborators for raising such remarkable individuals. Referring to the team as her “Charlie’s Angels,” she said with a smile, “Can you imagine they spent six whole hours with me in my home… there are no words to describe how happy I am,” prompting laughter and applause from the audience.
The evening concluded on a high note, with guests continuing to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, music, and community spirit. The event was an overwhelming success, with attendees leaving inspired by the beautiful storytelling and the rich cultural history on display.
The proika exhibition not only struck a nostalgic chord with older generations, but also sparked meaningful conversations among younger Greek Australians. It was particularly poignant to witness the reflections of Greek youth on the lives and legacies of migrants. Their perspectives offered a refreshing take on heritage—embracing tradition while seeking modern ways to preserve and reimagine it.
The proika exhibition will now be on reduced display at ‘the garazi’ (16 Cubbit St, Cremorne), for the following four weekends until Sunday, December 15.
What began as a reunion of friends celebrating the Golden Era of the ‘70s and ‘80s has evolved into a community-wide fundraising event supporting two incredible charities dedicated to funding research and support programs for patients with brain and other rare cancers.
Ahead of the event, The Greek Herald spoke with founder of the White Pearl Foundation, Suzane Peponis-Brisimis, and Director at Cquence Foundation, Peter Kaliaropoulos, to find out more.
What inspired the idea to transform a simple reunion into a large-scale fundraising event for cancer research and support?
Whilst we wanted to reunite and celebrate the wonderful times we had in the ’70s and ’80s, we realised that a number of good friends we grew up and went to school with, are sadly no longer with us. Cancer caused some of our friends to be lost much sooner than we ever imagined as teenagers.
We are reuniting to remember the “Golden Era” of the ’70s and ’80s and to unite against cancer to support two charities dedicated to funding cancer research and support programs for patients with brain and other rare cancers.
File photo of a past event. Photo: www.skymonkey.com.au
Can you share more about the specific programs and research initiatives that the funds raised from this event will support?
White Pearl Foundation will donate 100% of the funds raised at this event to the research pillar of The Brain Cancer Group (TBCG).
TBCG conducts both pre-clinical and clinical research on the Royal North Shore Hospital campus in St Leonards. The TBCG initiative we will support is a vital, Australasia-first Imaging Laboratory that has been curated and led by TBCG’s Associate Professor Michael Back.
Established in late 2021 to develop a program of research and teaching in neuro-oncology, it embraces the dawn of quantitative MRI and molecular era of medical imaging, to empower oncologists to tailor personalised neuro-oncology treatments. The Imaging Laboratory is now leveraging Artificial Intelligence methods in neuro-imaging to improve diagnostic decision making and disease monitoring.
The program comprises four primary domains: (1) Clinical Trials, (2) Imaging Workflows, (3) Technical Development, and (4) Education. This work cannot be done in a silo, and the researchers continue to develop national and international research collaborations. The lab is involved in multi-institutional projects and is also active in neuro-imaging research in multiple domains beyond brain cancer.
Currently focusing on the Clinical Trials arm to develop a personalised precision medicine approach, researchers are exploring ways to improve brain cancer imaging across the patient journey thanks to their attachment to one of Australia’s busiest neuro-oncology treatment centres. The Centre has access to high fidelity MRI scanners at North Shore Radiology and state-of-the-art body PET scanner at RNSH/ University of Sydney. Patients treated by TBCG consultants already have access to advanced imaging with 2-HG spectroscopy, DSC/DCE perfusion, task-based functional MRI, preoperative DTI and FDG/FET PET. You can find out more about TBCG Imaging Lab here.
Cquence Foundation supports many patients, carers and their families.
Cquence Foundation’s aim is to provide cancer patients, carers and their families a small ray of hope by:
Helping subsidise molecular and genomic testing for rare and/or advanced cancer patients, which may lead to other treatment options.
Generating awareness of testing options, as well as other personalised integrative treatments for cancer patients.
Advocating and lobbying government bodies to help fund genomic testing and subsequent PBS approved medications.
Helping rare and/or advanced cancer patients navigate the complexities of testing via arranging and funding “second opinions” with experts in the patient’s cancer and driver mutations.
Cquence Foundation will donate 100% of the profit received from this event to the Prince of Wales Hospital, Cancer Survivorship Centre in Randwick. The Centre provides a range of evidence-based and research-driven cancer survivorship programs and services to support the health and well-being of people living with and beyond cancer.
How did White Pearl Foundation and Cquence initially connect to collaborate on this initiative?
The idea about a Re-union Gala Event originated with two mutual friends, Chris Tsioulos and Andrew Smyrnis, who have been known to us since the mid-70s. They were aware that both charities were founded following the loss of two very dear persons in our respective families – a mum and a daughter. They approached us with kindness and care and suggested that the re-union should not just be a celebration, but also help with cancer-related causes. Both White Pearl and Cquence Foundations were grateful for their consideration and started collaborating on the event as one team.
A past event held by the Cquence Foundation.
What are some of the key challenges that patients with brain and rare cancers face, and how do your organisations aim to address these?
Brain cancer remains an understudied disease with low survival rates that have barely improved in over two decades. It is, in fact, a rare cancer.
According to canceraustralia.gov.au, in Australia in 2023, it is estimated that there were 1,924 new cases (1,183 males and 741 females) and this represents 1.2% of all new cancer cases in our country.
Some sobering facts:
Brain cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in children under 15 and accounts for more than a third of cancer deaths in children aged under 10.
Brain cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in young adults under 39 years of age.
Brain cancer is the second biggest cancer killer of females 0 – 44 years of age (behind breast cancer).
The most common malignant brain cancer, high-grade glioma (HGG), is almost 100% fatal.
Brain cancer is one of the most under-studied of all cancers yet receives very little research funding.
No risk factors have been identified and no screening procedures are in place.
Current therapies are often ineffective and have debilitating side effects.
Some brain cancers infiltrate the brain and migrate quickly away from the primary tumour, making them extremely difficult to treat.
Effective treatment options for brain cancer patients are limited, tumours are developing resistance to standard therapies.
Lifetime financial cost to patients and families is very high.
Central to the work of the White Pearl Foundation is raising awareness of these challenges faced by brain cancer patients and carers. Most importantly, the need to fund research and support patients through their journey, as the disease takes a very heavy toll on the patient and family. TBCG, the charity the White Pearl Foundation supports, is run by doctors who recognised this toll and employed a Nurse Practitioner to guide and support patients for their entire journey. A critical resource, the family’s scaffold, funded by community through fundraising events such as this one.
These patients have stood largely alone in a community that focused much of its fundraising and awareness on other more common cancer types. Research is key. Raising funds and advocating for patients to government and community remains the focus of the White Pearl Foundation.
Cquence Foundation has discovered that when it comes to rare and advanced cancers in Australia, the path patients walk tends to be more complicated. Many patients face the disheartening reality of inequity in survival outcomes, limited experts and treatment protocols. This also translates into increased associated costs, often burdening families with prohibitive out-of-pocket expenses.
Cquence aims to make their journey a little bit easier when they need it the most. We are dedicated to assisting patients, their caregivers, and families in their battle against rare and advanced cancers. Every cancer patient deserves the chance to access the best possible treatment options, regardless of the rarity or complexity of their condition.
Cquence is helping to subsidise out-of-pocket comprehensive genomic testing for rare and/or advanced cancer patients, which may lead to other treatment options. Such support also helps create hope through science for cancer patients.
The Golden Era Gala brings together a wide array of influential attendees. How do you see their involvement furthering the cause?
It is estimated that currently over one million Australians are living with a cancer diagnosis and that almost two in five Australians will be diagnosed with cancer before their 85th birthday. We need to create awareness and seek support from many Australians so research efforts can intensify and extend support through cancer survivorship programs. Respected and influential people are supporting fundraising efforts and assist in creating awareness in understanding the impact cancer causes and opportunities to mitigate its effect and extend life for many diagnosed with this illness.
In what ways do you hope this event will raise awareness for the challenges of rare and brain cancers in the wider community?
Education and research are key to addressing rare and brain cancers. Professor Boon Chua (Prince of Wales Hospital) and Dr Drummond (The Brain Cancer Group) will offer insights during their presentations at the event, and their key messages will resonate with many attendees and others who may learn about their initiatives from the press and social media.
How important is the event’s theme of the ’70s and ’80s to creating a memorable experience, and what can attendees expect from the evening?
For most of us attending the event, the ’70s and ’80s were some of the best years of our lives as we realised many years later. We were young, adventurous, full of energy to explore everything wonderful life had to offer us. We formed long-lasting relationships and experiences through our participation in Greek dances and socialising at discos… music and dancing coupled with a care free attitude, characterised that era and our lifestyle.
People attending the event can expect to reconnect, reunite with some of their friends, and recall the days that disco and bouzouki complimented each other.
Could you describe the impact you’ve seen from past fundraising events on the lives of cancer patients and their families?
Hope is the first word that comes to mind. Given that brain cancer has a poor prognosis, while at the same time we are witnessing enormous advances in other areas of medicine, our focus on funding research provides real hope, that in time, brain cancer patients will be afforded the same increased survival rates currently offered to patients with conditions that have been better funded through the efforts of community and government.
The White Pearl Foundation raising awareness and funds to drive the necessary research, has brought much comfort to our event attendees, in particular, patients and carers. This is commented on by many. They feel supported and they feel heard in an environment with like-minded people.
Aware that not much government funding reaches brain cancer researchers, patients and families express gratitude for the research salaries, PhD programs, lab equipment and seed funding for new projects that the White Pearl Foundation continues to fund, with the ultimate goal to advance better treatment outcomes and see a cure.
As Cquence is supporting a number of rare cancer patients, when it funds genomic tests, patients and their families express gratitude, relief and hope. Some financial assistance certainly helps mitigate the stress in most rare cancer cases, as some tests and medications are not covered by PBS and involve tens of thousands of dollars, sometimes on a monthly basis. Patients and their families also realise there may be some pathways to alternative treatments as a result of comprehensive genomic testing and often this leads to hope for a better outcome. Hope through this cutting-edge science and research is where we see a real difference in survivorship outcomes for patients.
How did the partnership with Mars Group come about, and how has their support contributed to the Gala’s mission?
Mars Group founder and Chair, Greg Gav, has also been an alumni from All Saints Greek School since the early ’70s and known to many of us since that time. He also has lost a number of friends and colleagues to cancer. When approached to support such an event as a main sponsor, there was no hesitation. Without support from Mars Group and all other sponsors, events such as this re-union are simply not possible today. Our sponsors not only help offset some significant costs associated with staging such events, but also help to communicate to other friends, family, colleagues and to the community at large, what the charities goals and aspirations are in supporting cancer research and cancer care programs.
For those unable to attend, are there other ways they can contribute or get involved with White Pearl Foundation and Cquence?
White Pearl and Cquence Foundations always welcome support from friends, colleagues and the wider community. Such support may be in the form of a donation or volunteering for a future fundraising event, or referring a cancer patient for support. Every bit of help is always valued. Both charities forward 100% of net proceeds from all fundraising activities to The Brain Cancer Group, research pillar and the Prince of Wales Hospital, University of Newcastle and other reputable research institutes and hospitals.
Please go the respective websites of the two foundations to discover ways of helping.
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, 30 November 2024
Time: 6:30 PM
Dress Code: Formal or ‘70s / ‘80s Attire
Venue: Maritime Ballroom, Hyatt Regency Sydney 161 Sussex Street
The image of Dr Steven Petratos’ grandfather, confined to a chair with trembling hands and a gaze that portrayed unrelenting pain, left an indelible mark on his childhood.
Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis during the German Occupation in Greece, his grandfather’s struggle became a constant presence in Dr Petratos’ early life. Although born years later, Dr Petratos grew up witnessing his grandfather’s daily battle with the disease.
These painful yet powerful memories became a source of inspiration and a driving force for Dr Petratos.
Born in Athens, Greece and raised in Australia, he chose to dedicate his life to combating the illness that marked his family’s history, transforming his childhood memories into an ambitious scientific mission.
Now, Dr Petratos, senior researcher of the Neuroscience Department at Monash University, is working on a groundbreaking treatment called Diaprotectome.
“This is a supplementary drug aimed at repairing myelin, a process critical for the recovery of the central nervous system,” he explains to The Greek Herald during a sunny morning meeting near the Acropolis.
Dr Petratos was in Athens to discuss clinical trials of the innovative drug with Greek authorities, a step that could change the outlook for multiple sclerosis treatment.
“This trip is not just scientific—it’s personal, it’s familial,” says Dr Petratos as he momentarily glances at the Parthenon. His story is deeply rooted in family tragedy, yet it has inspired hope for thousands of others.
Photo: MS Australia.
Science in the service of humanity
Preclinical studies have already yielded impressive results.
“In experiments with mice exhibiting severe neurological symptoms like paralysis, we saw that the treatment helped them walk again. Their recovery coincided with the restoration of myelin,” he explains.
The new therapy is not intended to replace existing treatments but to complement them.
“Its oral administration as a pill makes it easily accessible. We aim to improve cognitive function and reduce fatigue—two of the most challenging symptoms for patients,” he notes.
Dr Petratos’ presence in Greece is tied to preparations for clinical trials across ten hospitals nationwide, involving 400 patients.
“Collaboration with Greek authorities and scientific leaders, such as Professor Nikolaos Grigoriadis, is vital. Greece is not just my homeland—I want to support Greek patients and bolster pharmaceutical research here. I want to give back to Greece,” he emphasises.
The goal of these studies is to confirm the effectiveness of Diaprotectome. If successful, phase III multicentre trials will follow.
“It takes time and collaboration to reach a point where regulatory agencies approve a drug for use. However, each step brings us closer to transforming lives,” Dr Petratos says.
Petratos group, Monash University’s Department of Neuroscience.
Meeting with Greece’s Health Minister
The day after The Greek Herald’s interview with Dr Petratos, he had a scheduled meeting with Greece’s Health Minister Adonis Georgiadis. The meeting reaffirmed a shared commitment to advancing multiple sclerosis research and treatment in Greece.
According to sources, Minister Georgiadis expressed full support for the creation of a National Network for Multiple Sclerosis, which will serve as the foundation for nationwide neurological clinical trials. The minister has already approved funding for the network through national and EU resources, positioning Greece as a leader in global efforts against neurodegenerative diseases.
“Yes, the meeting was successful. The digital patient registry for all MS clinical centres has been signed and validated by the minister, just in time to support our clinical trials,” Dr Petratos exclusively told The Greek Herald.
Diaprotectome enhances existing treatments and offers hope for improving patients’ quality of life. The Ministry’s support is expected to accelerate the process, solidifying Greece’s role in pioneering neurological research.
The results of the clinical trials, to be conducted in both Greece and Australia, will determine the drug’s future. By late 2025, the effectiveness of Diaprotectome in humans will become clearer.
If all goes according to plan, Diaprotectome could be available on the market within three to four years, marking a new era in multiple sclerosis treatment.
“The process is demanding, but each step brings us closer to fulfilling our mission,” Dr Petratos concludes.
As our meeting ends, the Greek Australian scientist returns to his work with the passion and dedication of someone who has turned a deeply personal story into a driving force for scientific progress.
On Wednesday, 27 November, at 6:30 pm, former Victorian Premier Jeff Kennett, a well-known supporter of Greece and its diaspora, will launch the biography of Nick Thyssen (Nikos Theodosiadis) in the Arcadia Ballroom at the Arcadian House, the headquarters of the Panarcadian Association of Melbourne and Victoria “O Kolokotronis,” located at 570 Victoria Street, North Melbourne.
The biography highlights the remarkable story of Nick Thyssen, one of the most innovative Greek Australian entrepreneurs of the past 70 years. Thyssen’s journey began in 1959 when he introduced groundbreaking ideas in the food production industry. He was the first to industrially market fresh orange juice and citrus products, natural soups, and fruit salads—offering alternatives to canned goods—and supplied them to supermarkets, restaurants, hotels, hospitals, and army barracks worldwide.
Professor Anastasios Tamis authored the book, which chronicles Thyssen’s innovative contributions, his perseverance, and his impact on Australia’s economic and social landscape. The biography also captures the struggles of 270,000 Greek immigrants in Australia during and after World War II, providing insights into their resilience and success.
Nick Thyssen reflected on his journey: “My goal was never to chase money or profit but to realise the success of the ideas born within me. Many ideas failed; some were temporary, but some transformed Australia and were acquired by multinational companies in the UK and the US. My focus was always on the success of the purpose, not financial gain. I often stayed awake at night, planning, thinking, and striving to implement my ideas. Profit was merely a by-product of success, not the objective. Even at 90, I continue to think and innovate to improve life.”
Maureen and Nick Thyssen.
The evening will feature a reception in the Kallisto Hall on the second floor, hosted by the Thyssen family, followed by the book presentation at 7:10 pm in the Arcadia Ballroom. The event will be hosted by journalist and television presenter John Mangos, with speeches by leaders from the Greek and Australian communities. Among them are George Kotsirilos, President of the Panarcadian Association, and Dr Marinis Pirpiris, Treasurer of the Greek Community of Melbourne and Victoria.
Hellenic Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (HACCI) Chair Fotini Kipraios, along with representatives from Nick Thyssen’s business partners and the local farming community, will also deliver addresses.
The Thyssen family will distribute the book free of charge to attendees, encouraging donations to the Royal Melbourne Children’s Hospital, whose representatives will be present.
The event is organised by the Australian Institute for Macedonian Studies, with sponsorship from the Thyssen family, the Panarcadian Association “O Kolokotronis,” Procal Dairy Products, and Ellikon Fine Printers.
On Sunday, November 10, at Palace Como in Melbourne, a sell-out crowd of 135 Ithacans and friends gathered to see the historical epic, The Return.
In the action film, Ralph Fiennes played the war-weary hero and King of Ithaca, Odysseus, while Juliette Binoche played the always patient Penelope, Queen of Ithaca.
The film closely followed Homer’s original work, tracing Odysseus’ obstacle-filled return from his epic travels from the city of Troy.
The film begins with Odysseus lying bloodied and almost half dead on a pebbly beach on Ithaca, his home island, hoping to reclaim the kingship and purge the island of Ithaca from the scores of suitors trying to win the hand of Queen Penelope, who all hope and presume Odysseus is long dead. Unrecognisable from his battles and adventures and the many years of his absence, no one knows who he is, and he allows the mystery of his identity to continue, the locals thinking he is a mere beggar from his dishevelled state.
As Odysseus heals, he witnesses the terrible state that the island has plunged into and the suitors’ plunder at his palace. First to recognise him is his loyal dog Argos, who had waited for his master’s return and, on seeing him, finally falls asleep in death.
As the action unfolds on Ithaca, Homer’s characters leap from the big screen, and the storyline stays true, with only the gods and goddesses of the original tale remaining absent. Even Ithaca’s signature deafening summer cicadas are audible in this incredibly filmed epic.
At the movie screening, the Ithacan community came together to view this action-packed film while raising needed funds for heritage and archaeological projects that the Ithacan Historical Society hopes to support and promote on Ithaca.
For centuries, many intriguing sites dating back millenniums have captured the imagination of travellers, scholars and archaeologists, and require urgent protection and research to uncover their secrets. One day, we may even discover answers to long-asked questions about Homer’s descriptions of Odysseus’ kingdom.
The Ithacan Historical Society looks forward to holding future events with the generous partnership of Palace Cinemas to promote heritage projects on Ithaca, and they invite the broader Greek community to join them at future film screenings.
As Cavafy said in his memorable poem, “Keep Ithaca always in your mind… but do not hurry the journey at all, better if it lasts for years, so you are old by the time you reach the island, wealthy with all you have gained on the way, not expecting Ithaca to make you rich. Ithaca gave you the marvellous journey.”
For those interested in the fascinating history of Ithaca and the activities of the Ithacan Historical Society and its many free resources, please go to www.ithacanhistorical.org.
Three Australians with Greek heritage have been named in this year’s The Deal/Barron’s Top 150 Financial Advisers list.
Ben Andreou from Koda Capital came in at 42. Mr Andreou has nine years of experience and a minimum account size of $3,000,000.
Landing in at 130 and 133 is Constantine Maglis from Brisbane, Queensland, and Katerina Sousalis of Queensland’s Upper Mount Gravatt respectively.
Maglis of Perpetual Private has had 14 years experience in his team of eight. His practice has a minimum account size of $2,000,000.
With 21 years of experience, Sousalis has a team of 22 at Modoras, with a minimum account size of $500,000.
According to The Australian, only 1 per cent of the nation’s advisers make the expanded list celebrating professional excellence.
*Please note the above list includes the names of those who are recognised as Greek. If you know someone else, please email us at greek@foreignlanguage.com.au.
