War veteran Antonis Alexandris, a World War II prisoner of war and one of Greece’s last remaining veterans from the conflict, passed away on Thursday at the age of 102 in his hometown of Lesvos.
Born in 1922 in the northern village of Skoutaro, Lesvos, Alexandris was captured and held as a prisoner during the Nazi German occupation of Greece. He endured time at the Pavlos Melas concentration camp in Thessaloniki before being transferred to the Krems-Stein and Bernau camps.
Until the recent pandemic, Alexandris was a prominent figure in Lesvos, leading memorial parades along Mytilene’s waterfront while proudly bearing the banner of the island’s Association of War Victims and Disabled War Veterans.
Reflecting on his experiences and the passing of his fellow soldiers, Alexandris once told the Athens-Macedonian News Agency, “There were many of us once… Now, I am alone. We’re all gone.” When asked about his remarkable longevity, he remarked, “Death is my companion now. Do you know how many times we’ve met, and he passed me by?”
Father Antonios Papanikolaou, founder of the widely recognised Greek charity Ark of the World (Kivotos tou Kosmou), has been sentenced to four years and three months in prison. However, this sentence has been converted into a financial penalty of €10 per day.
The Athens court’s ruling came after it found Papanikolaou guilty of multiple counts of physical abuse against children under his care.
The verdict concludes an eight-month trial during which Papanikolaou, along with several former staff members, faced allegations of abuse and mistreatment. The 54-year-old priest was convicted on charges including serious bodily harm and inciting violence against minors.
In addition to Papanikolaou’s sentence, four former employees received sentences ranging from 17 to 40 months, though most of these sentences have been suspended, pending appeals. Once highly regarded for its charitable efforts, Ark of the World fell into disrepute following multiple allegations of abuse, leading to state investigations and the suspension of government funding.
Greece is currently in discussions with Israel to develop a €2 billion (AUD 3.3 billion) anti-aircraft and missile defence system, aiming to bolster its armed forces amid renewed regional tensions and a drive for military modernisation. This potential defence project, which Greek officials have likened to Israel’s Iron Dome, is designed to intercept both short- and long-range missiles and enhance Greece’s aerial defences.
The proposed anti-aircraft and anti-drone defence system marks a pivotal element of Greece’s broader ten-year military modernisation plan. Following a prolonged economic crisis, Greece is prioritising an upgrade of its defence capabilities, with a particular focus on technology that can effectively counter modern aerial threats. “The plan is to create a multi-layer anti-aircraft and anti-drone system,” a source close to the matter told Reuters, following a closed-door meeting with Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias. Talks with Israel indicate that Greece is willing to invest heavily in innovative, tested technologies that could effectively protect its airspace, especially given ongoing regional challenges.
As Greece pursues its €12.8 billion (AUD 21.1 billion) armed forces modernisation agenda through to 2035, it has set its sights on a range of high-tech acquisitions. These include up to 40 F-35 fighter jets and advanced drones from the United States, as well as French Belharra frigates and Rafale jets. Defence Minister Dendias underscored the urgency of Greece’s strategic pivot to the future, stating: “Our effort is for a quick transition of our armed forces to the 21st century.”
Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias. Photo: InTimeNews.
This multi-faceted modernisation extends beyond equipment. Dendias recently announced significant restructuring plans for the Greek military, including the closure of dozens of outdated military bases to enhance operational efficiency and reduce unnecessary expenditure. Speaking before Parliament’s Standing Committee for National Defence and Foreign Affairs, he confirmed that Greece plans to shut down 137 bases by 2025.
“We’re doing it because we don’t have the money to close an additional 250,” Dendias noted, pointing out that Greece, surprisingly, operates more military bases than the United States. He acknowledged the challenge, saying, “It doesn’t make sense to have 800 camps, even more than the US. But I know what it means to close military bases, and I need support.”
Dendias highlighted the economic and political hurdles that may accompany these closures, particularly in regions reliant on military installations for local employment. His ministry’s plan involves transitioning to what he called “flexible, high-occupancy units.” Some units, he revealed, are currently operating at vastly different capacities, with some in Evros below 30% while others in the Peloponnese are overextended at 130%.
In total, Greece’s ambitious military upgrade is positioned as both a strategic and economic priority. It aims to streamline forces, implement cutting-edge defence technologies, and rebalance its infrastructure. The partnership with Israel on a state-of-the-art missile defence system represents just one piece of this evolving defence strategy, as Greece seeks to strengthen its regional standing and remain competitive with NATO allies, including Turkey.
Greece did not manage to complete the “miracle,” 36 days after the Wembley triumph in the UEFA Nations League. Ivan Jovanovic’s team suffered a heavy 3-0 defeat in the OAKA against England’s too many absentees, with Watkins (7′), Vlachodimos (78′-own goal), Jones scoring.
After tonight’s defeat, the national representative team, which with a win or a draw sealed the first place in the packed Olympic Stadium, saw the “three lions” catch them at the top of the group (12b.), with the English even now superior in the draw.
Thus, our opponent gained a clear lead for occupying the first place, in view of the last matchday (17/11) where they welcome Ireland, while our team will be tested at home in Finland.
How did the two teams line up?
Ivan Jovanovic chose Zafeiris instead of the suspended Kourbelis, while at the top of the attack he started Pavlidis, leaving Ioannidis on the bench.
More specifically, in a 4-2-3-1 system, Vlachodimos was in goal, Koulierakis and Mavropanos were the duo of stoppers, with Rota and Tsimika taking positions at the two ends of the blue and white rear guard.
Siopis and Zafeiris started in the midfield, Masouras and Tzolis were on the “wings,” while Bakasetas moved behind Pavlidis.
On the other hand, England, with a total of eight absences, lined up with a 4-2-3-1 arrangement, with Harry Kane not in the initial formation of the “three lions.”
Pickford was under the goalposts, while the back four consisted of (from right to left) Walker, Gwehi, Konsa and Lewis.
Gallagher and Jones took up positions in midfield, with Watkins at the top of the attack (Kane on the bench) supported by Bellingham, in a free role behind him, and Madueke and Gordon on the wings.
The reactions relate to the Prime Minister’s public statement that, “For a century, the Church has preserved the culture and language of Australia’s Greek community, connecting generations to their heritage.”
A protest statement was first issued in late October 2024 by Kostas Karamarkos and Theo Markos. Signed by 109 Greek Australians, they called out the PM for his “historically inaccurate” public statement.
Later, on Tuesday, November 5, the Greek Orthodox Community of New South Wales (GOCNSW) also sent a protest letter to the Prime Minister. The letter was signed by GOCNSW President Harry Danalis and Treasurer Chris Belerhas.
GOCNSW said the comments were “historically incorrect but also an affront to the Greek Orthodox Communities of New South Wales, the Greek Orthodox Community of Melbourne, the Greek Orthodox Community of South Australia and other Greek Associations numbering in the hundreds throughout Australia which were created by lay persons and which have contributed to the teaching of the Greek language, provided cultural activities, taught Greek culture, celebrated the various National days of Greece, and represented the voice of the Greek people in our community.”
Whilst some members are supportive of the statement and protest letter, others are not.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese speaking at an event for His All Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew. Photo: The Greek Herald / Andriana Simos.
In an opinion piece sent to The Greek Herald, Yiannis Constantinou asked, “What part of the Prime Minister’s statement is historically inaccurate? What part is misrepresenting history?”
“If the Prime Minister stated that Hellenism in Australia only started in 1924, I’m sure everyone would agree in protesting. But, he did not!” Yiannis wrote.
“How can anyone reasonably argue that it is historically inaccurate to say that, for a century, the Archdiocese has preserved the culture and language of Australia’s Greek community, while also connected Greek Australians to their heritage? It is undeniable that the church by its functions is inextricable from our culture, language, and heritage.”
Yiannis added that the Prime Minister’s statements “do not diminish the valuable contributions of other organisations to the Greek Australian and wider community, secular or otherwise.”
“Acknowledging one organisation is not an attack on others,” he said.
“In my opinion, the protest serves absolutely no benefit and has the potential to send us backwards. It risks portraying the Greek Australian community as divided and focused only on our self-image.
“If a simple comment about the valuable work of the Archdiocese leads to animosity, disputes, resolutions at a general meeting and a letter of protest, won’t that make the Prime Minister at least think twice about supporting Greek Australians in the future? Wouldn’t it make others hesitant to offer their support, for fear of backlash?
“The Greek Australian community already faces enough challenges in today’s day and age. We must remember that there are no sides—we are all Greek-Australians.”
Excitement is building as the Greek Community of Melbourne Schools prepares for its first-ever Olympic Games event, set to take place on Saturday, November 23.
Students from all campuses will gather at the Box Hill Athletic Club for an unforgettable day of sports, unity, and Greek cultural celebration, joined by parents, teachers, and the broader school community.
This year, the Greek Community of Melbourne Schools is launching a new initiative: a joint end-of-year celebration that unites campuses to honour the rich heritage of the Olympic Games.
The event will feature opening and closing ceremonies, along with a variety of dynamic sports and games, promising a day filled with pride and excitement as students showcase their athletic talents and uphold the timeless values of the Olympics.
“We are thrilled to enter the final countdown for our school Olympiad,” Maria Bakalidou, Principal of the Greek Community of Melbourne Schools, said.
“This celebration unites our entire school community for a day dedicated to the Olympic spirit and Greek culture. It is a wonderful opportunity for students, parents, and teachers to honour our shared heritage and be inspired by the Olympic values. We look forward to welcoming everyone to cheer on our children as they bring messages of unity and peace to the heart of Melbourne!”
After a successful tour of Cyprus, Kay Pavlou’s documentary ‘Two Homelands’ has screened in Darwin and Adelaide and is about to screen in Melbourne and Perth for the first time.
Two Homelands showcases the journey of six elderly Greek Cypriots who reflect on their war-torn homeland and life in Australia.
“2024, being the 50th anniversary of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus and division of the island, it’s important to keep the story alive,” Ms Pavlou told The Greek Herald.
Kay Pavlou.
“Despite the political stalemate, the desire for reunification is still strong. At the very least, Cypriots are working bi-communally across the island to restore and repair their shared cultural heritage.”
Ms Pavlou said she is looking forward to screening to the largest Cypriot community in Australia in Melbourne. She said Perth has a smaller population, but a very strong sense of community.
Event Details
MELBOURNE: Sunday, November 24, 4.30pm, Sun Theatre, Yarraville. Tickets here.
PERTH: Sunday, December 1, 4pm, Event Cinemas, Innaloo, Tickets here.
Traditions never really fade; instead, they go through metamorphosis. While the wants and needs of human beings change throughout the years, there is one that inarguably remains the same: the desire to love and be loved. And isn’t that a beautiful thing? It’s a welcome anchor in the whirlpool of life and a constant reminder that we’re not all that different, despite our many attempts to prove otherwise.
On our way toward the present day, love letters have been replaced with Instagram dedication posts, showing up with flowers at the door turned into “I’m here” texts, and standing outside windows blaring ‘At Last’ by Etta James from a boom box has morphed into trading Spotify playlists.
Yet, the most transformative step mankind has taken to date (apart from Niel Armstrong’s on the moon) has to be the one toward online dating. Where it was once two sets of parents talking over kourabiethes, mixed nuts, and Elliniko kafe (sketo) at the dinner table, with their prospects sitting in silence nearby, it’s now swiping right for ‘yes’ and left for ‘no’, knowing nothing about the person on the screen staring back other than that he’s an avid fisher who likes The Office and has two black labs.
So, when did it become ‘normal’ to meet up with a complete stranger yet ‘conservative’ and ‘old school’ otherwise? For example, when your aunty shoves a photo in your face of a “very nice boy from a good family” and her eyes say something her mouth won’t – “why don’t you marry him?”
Sitting with a friend at coffee the other day solidified the fact that while the traditional sense of an arranged marriage is a thing of the past, it seems to be showing up in other ways. He told me of a time when he was living in Melbourne and stopped into a Greek deli in Brunswick. While peering through the glass into the mounds of olives and spread of traditional Greek savouries, an elderly man behind the counter grabbed his attention. Apparently, he had a niece who was single, of similar age, and ‘perfect’ for him.
My friend graciously accepted his niece’s number and after a few text message exchanges, they decided to take it offline and meet face to face. Sadly, it wasn’t all fireworks and rainbows. It was merely a cup of coffee with someone he described as ‘boring’ (not like that’s ever killed anybody). But the point here is… proxenia is still out there – it’s just hiding in plain sight.
But while dissecting the modern-day metamorphose of arranged marriages, it’s important to clarify what they actually are and what they are indeed not. Relationship therapist Michelle Tsakas says, “My modern definition of arranged marriages is a formal introduction for two single individuals from families with similar culture, economic or social worldview, as opposed to forced marriages, which I see as morally unacceptable and illegal in this country.”
When speaking on the longevity of an arranged marriage, Michelle says, “All marriages share similar issues regardless of how they began. However, as long as the individuals are open, honest, and vulnerable with each other… and don’t allow extended families to interfere, they have an equal probability of future to long-term success… Continued interference, in my experience, causes serious long-term issues often leading to divorce.”
Living out their very own fairytale, Sia and Savva Koulouris met as baby-faced 14 year olds, unbeknownst to them that one day they would be standing side by side at the altar of their community church, their lives officially tethered together just like the stefana atop their heads, while vowing to each other a lifetime of unconditional love.
It all started when Sia and Savva’s fathers met through the Greek community in Brisbane. Soon enough, their wives formed a friendship too. From late-night kafes to Sunday souvlas, the family friends thought it was about time they got the kids involved.
“My dad and Savva’s dad became friends through the Greek community, and they started doing parea. My mum and Savva’s mum became really good friends as well so they would catch up all time with other couples,” Sia says.
“But then one night, when we were about 14, they got all the kids together as well. This is where Savva and I met for the first time and we hit it off instantly. Savva was one of the only Greek friends I ever had. We just grew up together; we would always have family dinners and would always go out together.”
It was a short seven years until their friends-to-lovers arc become official, and Sunday souvlas turned into family get-togethers.
“Mum always said that she thought we were going to end up together… she never pushed anything, though. It was more so me saying ‘Oh, I’m going to marry him.’ I said that since we were 14. He asked me out when we were 15, and I said no, but then we finally got together when we were 21. And now we’re married!” she added.
Why did she say no when Savva asked her out at 15, you ask? Well, she was a 15-year-old girl who just got asked out on a date by a boy she desperately wanted to date. So, of course, the answer would be no! Sia cited that it was ‘embarrassment’’ that took over that fateful day – one that still keeps Savva up at night.
Well, you heard it here first: give that family friendship a chance. Water its soil and watch it bloom, and before you know it, your family has doubled in size.
On Wednesday, November 13, the Victorian Liberals hosted a media conference with members from the multicultural media.
The conference focused on developing processes for government to better deliver services across Victoria’s diverse communities, as well as building stronger inter-cultural ties.
Deputy Leader of the Opposition and Shadow Minister for Trade and Investment, David Southwick, spoke on the importance of developing trade and commerce connections not only with other nations, but also preexisting communities within Victoria.
Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council and Shadow Minister for Health, Georgie Crozier, spoke on strengthening and improving access to community health initiatives and services.
Deputy Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council, Evan Mulholland, spoke on religious communities joining the call for the Allan Labor Government to retain the Lord’s Prayer in the Victorian Parliament.
Leader of the Opposition and Shadow Minister for Multicultural Affairs, John Pesutto, said: “Every decision we make must be through the lens of multiculturalism. This is why when I became Leader of the Opposition, I endeavoured to also take on the portfolio of Multicultural Affairs.
“As I travel around Victoria, meeting new people and welcoming our newest citizens at ceremonies, I am proud to see firsthand how multiculturalism has shaped our state, and will continue to recognise the importance of this in every decision I make.”
The Hellenic Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry South Australia (HACCI SA) marked the close of 2024 with its End of Year Networking Event, held on Wednesday, November 13 at The Gallery in Adelaide.
This celebratory evening brought together more than 100 professionals from HACCI SA’s engaged network, which has grown to nearly 500 people since its revival.
It was a night to reflect on the year’s achievements, embrace new beginnings, and celebrate the organisation’s commitment to enabling business communities to connect, interact and grow together.
A year of achievements and new opportunities
Newly elected Chair, Alex Demetriou, reflected on the chamber’s achievements over the past year, emphasising the opportunities created for its members.
One of the chamber’s key initiatives this year was the establishment of the HACCI wine group, supporting Australian wine makers with the view of helping them to generate revenue streams outside of Australia, connecting them to Greece and Greek markets to showcase their wines. Mr Demetriou highlighted the success of this initiative, and emphasised the appetite to replicate this with other industry sectors.
The initiative exemplifies HACCI SA’s focus on fostering trade and economic ties between South Australia and Greece, a vision shared by the Consul General of Greece, Dr Alexandra Theodoropoulou, who addressed the audience during the event.
The Consul General spoke about the consulate’s role as a bridge between the two countries, highlighting the importance of maintaining strong ties with Greece.
“You are all great examples of unity and of working together and believing in the potential of our peoples,” she remarked, underscoring the value of HACCI SA’s work in enriching the state’s Hellenic community while building meaningful connections with the mother country.
Passing the torch
After three years as Chair, Kosta Koutsonas stepped down, passing the reins to Mr Demetriou. Mr Koutsonas reflected on his tenure with heartfelt appreciation, acknowledging the chamber’s re-emergence and the strong foundation it has established over the past three years.
“The last three years have been an incredible journey,” Mr Koutsonas said. “We didn’t want to be the people that talk about change and complain that change doesn’t happen. We wanted to put our money where our mouth is, to start the chamber and be those people that do [make that change].”
Mr Koutsonas’ vision was rooted in fostering a sense of community and purpose within the chamber: “… What I am most proud of is that people in the chamber are transacting with each other, that’s what we started the chamber for, so people can think to themselves ‘who in my community can I help? Who in my community can I do business with? Who in my community can I share my knowledge with and how can I help the future generations [and] the generations that came before us’.”
The chamber expressed gratitude to Mr Koutsonas for his exceptional service and leadership in building HACCI SA from a dormant chamber into the vibrant and thriving community it is today.
As the event concluded, attendees raised their glasses to a year of success, looking optimistically forward to a year of growth, expanded networks and future prosperity.
Special guests at the event included the Hon. Andrea Michaels MP, SA Minister for Arts, Small and Family Business, and Consumer and Business Affairs; The Hon. Zoe Bettison MP, SA Minister for Tourism and Multicultural Affairs; The Hon. Chief Justice Chris Kourakis, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of South Australia; and Cr Mary Couros of the City of Adelaide.
The new HACCI (SA) Board is: Alex Demetriou (Chair), Sylvia Villios (Vice-Chair), Kosta Koutsonas, Vas Marinos, Lambro Manouras, Ilias Demourtzidis, Deonie Chrisakis and Alicia Tsiolis
