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Koraly Dimitriadis’ poetry film ‘Yiayia Mou’ shortlisted for Digital Literary Award

Koraly Dimitriadis’s poetry film, Yiayia mou (my grandmother), currently streaming on SBS for Australian audiences, has been shortlisted for the prestigious Woollahra Digital Literary Awards in the poetry section. The public will be allowed to vote for the People’s Choice Award until tomorrow, November 22. 

The film, which depicts Dimitradis’ Cypriot grandmother’s heartbreak of having to send her daughters to Australia to be married, has been screened at various international film festivals including locally at the Melbourne Documentary Film Festival, and was a finalist for the Multicultural Film Festival. 

The film was supported by the Cypriot Ministry of Culture, the Department of Antiquities Cyprus, and the University of Sydney which manages the Paphos Theatre excavation project. 

The Digital Literary awards recognise literature published digitally in the first instance. Because Koraly’s poem is self-published in her book, Just Give Me The Pills – which recently won best book of narrative poetry at American Book Fest – its first official publication was via SBS, which allowed her to be considered for the prize. 

“I’m thrilled,” Dimitriadis says. “As a self-published poet, it’s been hard getting recognition for poetry despite being a bestselling poet in Australia.

“I very rarely these days submit my poetry to journals or prizes – I gave up. The establishment’s perceptions on what constitutes poetry is narrow. But my ability to act, perform and make films of my poetry has provided new avenues of recognition, and that’s really rewarding, for myself and obviously for my grandmother’s story, as her story is the story of so many women who suffered under colonialism and patriarchy in Cyprus.” 

Dimitriadis, who recently launched her debut short story collection, The Mother Must Die, with Puncher and Wattmann, has also been invited to take part at the Addi Road Writers Festival in Marrickville on November 23. The Writers Festival, has the theme of ‘Cost of Living,’ and Dimitriadis will speak on a panel at 2:30pm with Walkley Award winning journalist Malcolm Knox, and Associate Professor of Sociology at the University of Newcastle Steven Threadgold. 

Addi Road Writers’ Festival 2024 Event Details

  • Saturday, November 23, 11am – 6pm
  • Addison Road Community Centre, 142 Addison Road, Marrickville
  • Cost: $25 online /$30 on the day / $10 students and unemployed
  • More information: https://addiroad.org.au/writers-festival/  

All proceeds go to Addi Road’s food relief programs and community activities. 

Sydney fundraiser to be held for Professor Apostolopoulos’ cancer research

A special fundraiser pop-up event is set to take place at AHEPA NSW Hall at Rockdale on November 22–23 to support the groundbreaking research of distinguished Professor Vasso Apostolopoulos.

Organised by Thalassea Store, the event aims to raise awareness and funds for research into chronic diseases, cancer treatments, and healthy aging as part of RMIT University’s Healthy Lifestyle and Chronic Diseases Program.

Attendees will have the opportunity to hear directly from Professor Apostolopoulos, who will provide insights into her pioneering work and the challenges she faces in advancing cancer treatments and tackling chronic illnesses.

Professor Vasso Apostolopoulos.

In addition to the educational component, the event will also feature a Shop-for-a-Cause initiative whereby, 10 per cent of proceeds from Thalassea Store sales will be donated to RMIT University’s cancer research. Shoppers can even enjoy a 15% discount on all Thalassea items throughout the event.

Guests will be treated to nibbles and drinks as part of the experience.

Event Details:

  • Dates: November 22–23, 2024
  • Time: 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM
  • Venue: AHEPA, 394-396 Princes Hwy, Rockdale NSW 2216
  • Contact: 0491 441 999
  • To participate in this impactful event, reservations can be made at: https://events.humanitix.com/fundraiser-pop-up-event-sydney. In case of cancellation, all funds raised will be directed to RMIT University’s cancer research program.

Bronze medal for Rita Kitsiou in taekwondo at U21 European Championship

For the second time in the last three years, Agoritsa Artemia (Rita) Kitsiou, was on the podium of winners at a European U21 championship.

As it happened in 2022 in Tirana, Kitsiou competed in Sarajevo this year and won the bronze medal in the +73 kg category.

Photo: Ertnews.

Kitsiou, 9th in the European women’s championship last May in Belgrade and No-37 in the world ranking, reached the semi-finals with three consecutive victories.

Costa from Cyprus prevailed 2-0, Husovich from Germany won 2-0, and Mihailova from Russia (AIN) won 2-1. In Kitsiou’s match to enter the final, she was defeated 2-0 by Turkey’s Kavukcuoglu, the 2019 World Girls Champion.

It should be noted that Kitsiou’s medal (she was 5th in the European U21 in 2023 in Bucharest) is the 36th for Greek Olympic taekwondo since 2012.

Inaugural forum to discuss ‘Metapolitefsi’ and its impact on Greek Australians

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Greeks, Australians and those anywhere in-between are invited to explore the definition, the limits, the impact and the influence of Metapolitefsi on Greek Australian community relations over the past five decades.

This inaugural forum, to be held at the Democritus Cultural Centre in Northcote this Saturday, November 23, marks the beginning of a regular series of public discussions examining issues vital to Australians of Greek and migrant heritage.

Guest speakers include journalist Kostas Karamarkos, theatre director Thanasis Makrigiorgos, Cypriot affairs analyst Dr Michális S. Michael, and academic Dr George Vassilacopoulos.

The panel will provide their perspective on the historical significance of Metapolitefsi, its ongoing relevance to contemporary Greece, and its role in shaping the Greek Australian community since 1974.

But this is just to get the ball rolling. The aim is to create a forum for public discussion, with specific themes, primarily addressing issues of importance to Australians of Greek and migrant heritage.

Event Details:

  • Date: Saturday, 23rd November
  • Venue: Democritus Cultural Centre
  • Address: 583 High Street, Northcote
  • Time: 2.30pm

Victorian Attorney General meets with faith leaders to discuss anti-vilification reform

Victoria’s Attorney General Jaclyn Symes met with faith leaders to discuss proposed enhancements to anti-vilification laws on Tuesday, November 19. The changes aim to broaden protections against hate speech and conduct, creating a more inclusive society.

The proposed legislation seeks to lower the legal threshold for hate speech, focusing on the likelihood of inciting hatred rather than proof of actual incitement. It also adds new attributes, including disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, and sex characteristics.

Representing His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia at the meeting, Father Eusebios, Archimandrite of the Ecumenical Throne and Abbot of Pantanassa Monastery, commended the government’s efforts to create a safe society for all.

“Dignity is a divine gift, not something earned or based on social status. This dignity calls for the recognition and respect of each person’s rights and freedoms,” he said.

Jaclyn Symes.

While faith leaders expressed concern over the potential impact on religious expression, Attorney General Symes reassured them, stating, “This isn’t about curtailing people’s ability to practice the religion that they hold. This is squarely about protecting vulnerable people from hate speech.”

Father Eusebios emphasised the importance of balancing freedoms, saying, “Protecting competing rights should contribute to creating a culture of mutual respect instead of mutual distancing.”

The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia supports protecting human dignity while maintaining religious freedom, and welcomed the government’s commitment to collaboration on the legislation.

Professor Vrasidas Karalis appointed new Fellow at Australian Humanities Academy

Freedom rider activist Gary Williams, distinguished Greek cinema scholar Professor Vrasidas Karalis, Roman historian Professor Tim Parkin, an expert in decision-making Professor Katie Steele and an award-winning poet Professor Sarah Holland-Batt are among 41 distinguished humanities scholars and practitioners elected to Fellowship of the Australian Academy of the Humanities.

Professor Vrasidas Karalis of University of Sydney is the leading international scholar of Greek cinema. Original and comprehensive work of data collection, analysis and interpretation represents a ground-breaking justification of the importance of the Greek cinema to the history of European cinema.

The Academy’s new Fellows represent those who have left an indelible mark on their field, and a groundbreaking contribution to our understanding of societies and cultures. Election to the Academy is the highest honour within the humanities in Australia.

President of the Academy, Professor Stephen Garton AM FAHA FRAHS FASSA FRSN said, “Each of our Fellows are working at the forefront of issues of national and international importance and exemplify why ethical, historical, creative and cultural knowledge and expertise is critical to better decision making for a resilient society.”

Professor Vrasidas Karalis appointed new Fellow at Australian Humanities Academy
Photo: Yannis Dramitinos.

“Australia is facing a multitude of complex and vexed issues. Hard issues do not have black and white answers, and the humanities are critical for understanding how individuals shape and are shaped by broader social, cultural and scientific contexts. Solutions to contemporary problems require a deep understanding of these perspectives and knowledges,” Professor Garton added.

“Fellows elected today are exemplary leaders working in critical spaces where Australia needs to be — building our understanding of Asia and the Pacific, truth-telling and shedding light on a shared history and shaping our national artistic and cultural identity.”

Five researchers were elected as Corresponding Fellows with expertise in digital humanities, Islamic Studies, Asian Studies, and linguistics, who will link the Academy to new opportunities for collaboration across the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, Taiwan and China.

Seven Honorary Fellows were also elected, and include visual artists, award-winning poets, art leaders and human rights activists.

The Australian Academy of the Humanities is one of Australia’s five Learned Academies — independent organisations established to encourage excellence in their respective fields and to provide expertise and advice at public, institutional and government levels.

Tributes flow for Adelaide Central Market legend Con Savvas

Con Savvas, a celebrated figure at Adelaide Central Market and founder of Con’s Fine Food in South Australia, passed away at the age of 90.

A pillar of the market for over six decades, Savvas first opened his renowned stall in 1959 with his brothers Sam, Petro and Peter.

Known for his generosity, passion, and warm personality, Con left an indelible mark on the market community and beyond. His family continues his legacy, with sons Ross, Anthony, and Alex, as well as his daughter-in-law and granddaughter, remaining deeply involved in the business.

Reflecting on his father’s life, youngest son Alex Savvas shared: “Dad was an icon of the Central Market, but of course he was more than that too.”

“He was heavily involved in the Greek Orthodox Community of South Australia (GOCSA) for many, many years. And we forget this because the focus is always on the business, but he was a dad, he was a father, a grandfather, a husband… he was a lot more than just Con’s Fine Food,” Alex added.

Tributes have poured in from the community, celebrating Con’s kindness and impact.

One person recalled working with him, saying, “He was so very lovely. He’d blush a little when I’d call him King of the Market.”

Another wrote, “RIP, dear Con. You will be missed by so many people that had the honour to have met you.”

A public funeral will take place on Monday, November 25, at the Cathedral of Archangels Michael and Gabriel on Franklin Street, where the community will gather to honour the life of a man who touched so many lives.

Source: The Advertiser.

Director Nick Kozakis’ music video for Tones and I wins ARIA Award

Australian music video director Nick Kozakis took centre stage at the ARIA Awards on Wednesday night, accepting the award for Best Video alongside co-director Sela Vai on behalf of Tones and I. The accolade was for the artist’s latest single, Dance With Me.

Tones and I, known for her global hit Dance Monkey, was unable to attend the ceremony but shared her gratitude via a heartfelt video.

“I can’t believe we did it. I just want to give a huge shout-out to [my team]. Congratulations to everyone involved,” she said.

Kozakis, visibly moved as he accepted the award, expressed his admiration for the singer.

“Unbelievable to be among such amazing talent,” he said. “Tones, you’re the best person in the world. You have such a big heart. You’ve looked after us from day one.”

Vai echoed the sentiment, calling Tones and I “a fearless and generous soul.”

Photo: @aria_official / Instagram.

The Best Video category was highly competitive, with nominees including SPEED (REAL LIFE LOVE), Lime Cordiale (Cold Treatment), and Peach PRC (Time Of My Life).

Kozakis, who has been a long-time collaborator with Tones and I, continues to make a significant impact in the music industry through his creative vision. His work on Dance With Me cements his reputation as one of Australia’s leading music video directors.

Source: msn.com

Australian Ambassador to Greece meets with Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew

Australia’s Ambassador to Greece, Alison Duncan recently met with His All Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew in Istanbul, Turkey.

The meeting followed the Ecumenical Patriarch’s successful visit to Australia to commemorate the centenary of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia.

During their discussion, the Ecumenical Patriarch reflected on his visit to Australia, expressing gratitude for the warm reception he received from both the Australian Government and the public.

He also thanked everyone who contributed to the success of his visit, highlighting the value of his engagements with government representatives, community leaders, faith organisations and the Greek Orthodox community.

His All Holiness’ visit marked his fourth journey to Australia and his second as Ecumenical Patriarch, following his previous visit in 1996. The trip underscored the deep ties between the Greek Orthodox Church and the Australian community, as well as the importance of interfaith and cultural connections.

READ MORE: Mixed reactions emerge in Greek Australian community over Prime Minister’s cultural remarks

Thousands of Greek workers strike over rising cost of living

Workers flocked to the streets of Athens, Greece on Wednesday, November 20, to take part in a 24-hour general strike to protest the rising cost of living. Organised by labour unions, the strike coincided with the government submitting its 2025 budget to Parliament.

According to AP, the industrial action disrupted public transport and halted ferry services between the Greek islands and the mainland. Among those striking were medical staff at state-run hospitals and teachers.

Unions demanded increased wages and the restoration of collective wage agreements, which were scaled back during Greece’s financial crisis.

Approximately 12,000 people marched in central Athens, while an additional 5,000 demonstrated in Thessaloniki.

Yannis Panagopoulos, head of the General Confederation of Workers of Greece, stated: “We want to showcase the rage and resentment of salaried employees for what is happening to their income.”

Photo: AP Photo / Thanassis Stavrakis.

Greece’s financial crisis, which began in 2010, led to severe austerity measures, including pension and wage cuts, as part of international bailout agreements. Although the economy has recovered and recently regained investment-grade status, the country still has the highest debt-to-GDP ratio in the European Union.

Esther Lynch, General Secretary of the European Trade Union Confederation, expressed solidarity, stating: “Greece needs a pay rise… to demand the genuinely binding collecting agreement to guarantee a fair day’s pay for a fair day’s work.”

Unions criticised Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis’ government for not adequately addressing inflation and housing issues, which have worsened workers’ living standards.

In an act of solidarity, journalists held a separate 24-hour strike on Tuesday, November 19, halting all news broadcasts to focus on covering Wednesday’s general strike.

Source: AP.