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How accurate are film representations of Greek Australian culture?

The Greek Herald
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How accurate are film representations of Greek Australian culture?

By Christina Savopoulos

Australia’s multicultural space allows its film industry to depict and dissect the cultural lives of those who reside Down Under. The 1970s Racial Discrimination Act saw Australian films move from the dominate white male narrative to a more representative view of the country’s residents.

The recent 29th Greek Film Festival made me reflect on Australian films with an emphasis on Greek culture. Representation can consist of an entirely thorough exploration of Greek culture, or simply feature cast and crew of Greek descent.

I’ve curated a short list of films where Greek and Australian culture merge; some lean into the effects of the migrant journey on forming relationships, while others take a comedic approach. Depicting culture on screen always presents risks of misrepresentation or leaning into stereotypes, but these films eloquently handle the task.  

Kostas (1979, dir. Paul Cox)

Funded by the Victorian Film Corporation, the 1979 film Kostas,follows a Greek taxi driver in Australia and his relationship with one of his passengers. Their connection struggles against barriers of ethnicity and the migrant experience. The film does not shy away from depicting the subtle racism migrants faced. Ultimately, with music from Mikis Theodorakis, the film’s dreamy ‘70s aesthetic is essentially a love letter to Melbourne’s streets, Greek spaces, and art galleries.

Head On (1998, dir. Ana Kokkinos)

Ana Kokkinos’ renowned film Head On, adapted from Christos Tsiolkas’ novel Loaded, centers on Ari, torn between his community’s expectations of his identity and his own. Refusing to conform, he rejects all norms and explores his sexuality against the backdrop of Melbourne’s ‘90s night life. The queer and grunge aesthetic of Head On opened up a conversation about the harsher aspects of Greek culture and how second-generation Greek Australians struggle to form their cultural identity.

Bad Language (2010, dir. Viron Papadopoulos)

A suburban kafeneio. Illegal gambling. Miscommunication. Viron Papadopoulos’ Tropfest finalist, comedic short film Bad Language, sees young Bill operate his uncle’s gambling game for several hours. What ensues is a comedic attempt from both Bill and the elderly Greek gamblers to one up each other to see who can go the longest without speaking in their native tongues.

You Know What? I Love You (2012, dir. Natalie Cunningham)

The short documentary You Know What? I Love You feels like a warm hug from yiayia. Natalie Cunningham invites us to sit with her and her yiayia one afternoon as they spend time in the garden, bake koulourakia, and discuss their lives. It’s a beautiful short which captures the connection between different generations of Greeks.

Utopia (2019, dir. Kosta Nikas)

Kosta Nikas’ 2019 short film Utopia is an alternate reality of Australia where all actions are severely policed, reminiscent of George Orwell’s 1984. The film comments on society’s ever-growing surveillance tactics. Nikas’ film has not ventured down the path of domestic Greek culture, rather featuring a dominantly Greek cast in a futuristic world.

A balance between varying types of representation is integral for accurate and realistic depictions of the intricacies of Greek Australian culture. Have you ever seen your experience on screen? Let’s hope that with the number of rising Greek Australian artists there is an influx of content to situate Greeks in Australia’s multicultural film space.

Greece leads world’s largest shipping fleets

The Greek Herald
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Greece leads world’s largest shipping fleets

Greece continues to dominate in global shipping capacity, per the latest United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) data.

According to asiacargonews.com, Greek-owned vessels comprise 4,992 ships, with a combined carrying capacity of 394,977,181 deadweight tonnage (dwt), representing 16.9% of the world’s total dwt.

China ranks second with 6,600 ships and a capacity of 309,870,897 dwt, making up 13.3% globally. Year-on-year, the Greek and Chinese fleets declined by 17.4% and 13.4%, respectively.

Japan follows with 10.4% of global dwt, with Singapore at 6.3% and Hong Kong at 5.8%. Globally, the fleet now comprises around 109,000 vessels, reaching 2.4 billion dwt in capacity, with bulk carriers and tankers dominating.

UNCTAD highlighted Greece’s investment in fleet expansion and modernization, prioritizing energy efficiency and green technologies. According to the Union of Greek Shipowners, Greece also has the world’s largest fleet equipped to use alternative fuels.

Source: asiacargonews.com

Marina Raphael named artistic director for Elie Saab’s handbag line

The Greek Herald
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Marina Raphael named artistic director for Elie Saab’s handbag line

Marina Raphael, founder and creative director of her namesake handbag brand, has been appointed as Elie Saab’s newest artistic director for the couture house’s handbag line.

According to forbes.com, Raphael will focus on aligning the handbag line with Elie Saab’s core values, emphasizing timeless design and impeccable craftsmanship. Known for her own brand’s popularity and for her ability to blend elegance with functionality, Raphael brings a fresh perspective that’s expected to strengthen the line’s identity while honoring the brand’s heritage.

Both Raphael and Elie Saab share a “deep commitment to quality and craftsmanship,” ensuring only the finest materials and intricate details in each design. This collaboration comes at a time when luxury brands are adapting to a challenging economic environment, and Raphael’s appointment could offer the innovation consumers seek. Elie Saab Jr. expressed excitement, noting her “technical expertise and creative vision” as ideal for elevating the brand.

In her new role, Raphael will create four ready-to-wear and two haute couture collections annually, alongside her own brand’s collections. Her first designs for Elie Saab will debut at the Elie Saab Haute Couture Show in Paris in January 2025, featuring day-to-night pieces with dazzling crystal embellishments and instantly recognizable silhouettes. Raphael describes the opportunity as thrilling, especially the chance to delve into Elie Saab’s archives and craftsmanship traditions.

Source: forbes.com

Three Greek coffees among the world’s best

The Greek Herald
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Three Greek coffees among the world’s best

The recent list of top coffee drinks worldwide, presented by Taste Atlas, features 62 varieties, with three Greek coffees securing spots in the Top 10.

Taking the number one spot is Café Cubano, a unique espresso style from Cuba, also known as Cuban espresso or Cuban coffee, celebrated for its rich flavor. In second place is Indian filter coffee, while Greece’s Espresso Freddo ranks third.

According to cycladesopen.gr, Espresso Freddo is a distinctive Greek coffee that blends espresso with ice. Unlike similar iced coffees that simply pour coffee over ice, this Greek version involves mixing the two ingredients until the coffee is lightly chilled, smooth, and creamy. Espresso Freddo gained popularity in the 1990s and remains a favorite across Greece today.

Photo: fb.basetraining.org

In fourth place is Cappuccino Freddo, another Greek iced coffee variation. Made with a double espresso shot mixed with ice, strained, and poured over fresh ice, this drink is topped with chilled milk that has been shaken until it reaches a light, foamy texture.

Finally, in seventh place, is the Greek Frappe. This refreshing coffee is made by combining instant coffee with water and ice, then shaking it or blending it by hand. When poured, the drink develops a rich foam layer on top.

Source: cycladesopen.gr

Attica named ‘Best Greek Hospitality Region’ for 2024

The Greek Herald
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Attica named ‘Best Greek Hospitality Region’ for 2024

The Region of Attica was honored with the title of “Best Greek Hospitality Region” during the prestigious Greek Hospitality Awards 2024, held in Athens.

While accepting the award, Attica’s Regional Governor Nikos Hardalias expressed that this recognition is not his alone; it is shared with all those who have tirelessly worked together to reposition Metropolitan Attica in some of the world’s most dynamic markets through an all-encompassing rebranding effort.

Hardalias elaborated, “In Attica’s endeavor, the fundamentals are not simply given; they require effort, dynamism, and, most importantly, faith and consistency in our goal. This is what we’re accomplishing in the Region through a specific strategic plan that incorporates the pillars of our tourism narrative: culture, gastronomy, walking trails, and the historic landmarks of Attica.”

He also emphasised that the average duration of visitors’ stays and their spending have significantly increased due to a more strategic promotion of the greater Athens area under the “Visit Attica The Greater Athens Region” initiative.

The governor remarked, “We understand that our responsibility is substantial and unique, but this is something we will build step-by-step, day by day, so Attica can move forward—and only forward.”

Celebrating its tenth anniversary, the Greek Hospitality Awards is one of Europe’s foremost tourism industry events, dedicated to acknowledging and promoting the most innovative organizations, institutions, and businesses within the Greek tourism sector.

The award recognizes the tourism initiatives led by the new administration to elevate the region’s highly regarded tourism offerings.

These efforts have already yielded positive outcomes, evident in the region’s expanded global market presence and enhanced visitor quality indicators, sustaining robust tourism across all 12 months of the year.

Source: tovima.com

Niki Louca shares her favourite pavlova roll recipe

The Greek Herald
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Niki Louca shares her favourite pavlova roll recipe

Niki Louca from My Greek Kitchen shares her favourite recipe for a pavlova roll with The Greek Herald. You can follow her on Instagram @mygreekkitchen for more!

Ingredients:

  • 6 large eggs (I use 800 gm size eggs)- egg white only
  • 300 gm caster sugar – see note 1.
  • 2 tsp vanilla paste
  • 2 tsp cornflour
  • 1 tsp cream of tartar

Filling:

  • 500 ml thick cream – whipped
  • 1 tbsp icing sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla paste – optional
  • Berries, passionfruit to decorate

Method:

  1.  You must preheat oven first – 200C fan force.
  2. Make sure you bowl is clean and free of any oils.  To make sure wipe it down with a kitchen paper towel with some vinegar on it.
  3. Place your egg whites into the bowl from your standalone mixer.  Whisk on high till whites start to froth.  Start adding your sugar at a slow and steady pace.  Keep whisking till stiff peaks form.  This will take about 6-7 minutes.  Check to see if the sugar is fully dissolved by rubbing a bit of the meringue between two fingers.  If it feels grainy it means the sugar is not fully dissolved so keep whisking for another minute or so.  Recheck once you’ve done that.
  4. Now you can add your vanilla paste, cornflour and cream of tartar.  Whisk on low for about a minute till they’re fully combined.
  5. Spoon your meringue onto a lined baking tray of approximately 30×35 cm size.  Spread the meringue as evenly possible and place it in the oven.  Reduce your heat to 180C, and bake for approximately 30-35 minutes.  It should still be a pale colour not brownish.  Remove from the oven and allow to fully cool in baking tray.  It will deflate – do not despair.  If you are to use it the following day, cover it with a clean tea towel and set aside till then.  See note 2.
  6. When it is fully cooled, place a clean tea towel over the pav and quickly turn it upside down, so the top of the pavlova is now on the bottom and the bottom of the pav (the smooth side) is now on the top.  Gently remove the baking paper and discard.
  7. Whip your cream with icing sugar and vanilla paste if using, with a hand held mixer till stiff.  Spread the cream (reserve some for the top), evenly over the pavlova and spread some of the fruit of your choice making sure they are cut into small pieces.  Using the tea towel to help you, gently roll the pav forward on the long side, making sure the seam is at the bottom.
  8. Use the remainder of the cream and fruit to decorate the top of the pav as you choose.  I mainly use different berries, passion fruit and kiwi.

*Note 1: In regards to how much sugar you use – I have found a lot of the pavlova recipes use too much sugar for my liking.  Over the years I have tested various quantities of sugar depending on the size of the eggs I use.  I have found the following works best and the pavlovas are never too sweet.

  • 50gm of sugar per extra-large egg (800 gm ones)
  • 45gm of sugar per large egg (700 gm ones)
  • 40gm of sugar per small eggs (600 gm ones)

Note 2: Lining the baking tray.  I have found when lining the tray with baking paper, it is easier when the paper exceeds a little over the tray size.  This makes it easier when you remove the pav from the baking tray as it won’t stick to the sides.

Niki Louca runs cooking classes in Melbourne. For more or to book classes visit My Greek Kitchen at www.mygreekkitchen.com.au or Instagram @mygreekkitchen. You can email Niki at: niki@mygreekkitchen.com.au.

Ios among world’s 100 most beautiful and authentic islands

The Greek Herald
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Ios among world’s 100 most beautiful and authentic islands

According to Business Insider’s annual ranking, Ios is among the world’s top 100 “hidden paradises.” This list, based on insights from travel experts and agencies, highlights beautiful islands that retain authenticity across North and South America, Oceania, Europe, Asia, and Africa.

Prothema.gr reports that Ios is described as “a stunning destination with beautiful beaches, unique ambiance, impressive nightlife, and a wide range of activities.” Conde Nast Traveller Spain also praised Chora, Ios’s main village, for “the unforgettable sunset view from Panagia Gremiotissa,” with nearby attractions including the Odysseas Elytis Theater and the Archaeological Museum featuring artifacts from Skarkos.

The Municipality of Ios has launched a campaign to showcase the island’s unique experiences, from gastronomy and culture to outdoor activities, drawing visitors year-round from markets like the UK, Italy, Germany, and the U.S.

In September, the Yannis Gaitis – Gabriella Simosi Museum opened, offering panoramic views of the Aegean from its hilltop location. Designed by Loretta Gaitis and Jacques Charrat, the 1,600-square-meter museum includes a permanent exhibition and space for events. This new cultural hub is expected to boost tourism beyond the peak season, noted Antonis Mettos, President of the Tourism Committee for Ios.

Source: protothema.gr

English edition of book on GCM’s history launched at Ithacan House

Andriana Simos
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English edition of book on GCM’s history launched at Ithacan House

The launch of the English edition of The Embodiment of a Distant Homeland: The History of the GOCMV from Its Founding until 1972 at the Ithacan Philanthropic Society on Sunday, October 27, felt like a natural homecoming.

Ithacan Society president Spyridoula Digaletou-Coutsouvelis emphasised that it was fitting for the book launch to take place at Ithacan House, given the significant involvement of Ithacans in the Community’s early years.

English edition of book on GCM's history launched at Ithacan House

Prominent Ithacan names like Lekatsas, Raftopoulos, Vlassopoulos, and Mavrokefalos (Black) have played key roles as directors in both the Ithacan Society and the Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM) over the decades.

GCM President Bill Papastergiadis OAM underscored the importance of the English edition, which makes the Community’s history accessible not only to future generations but also to a global community of diaspora scholars. He also expressed gratitude to the Ithacan Society for hosting the event.

English edition of book on GCM's history launched at Ithacan House
English edition of book on GCM's history launched at Ithacan House

GCM Board member Dr. Nick Dallas, who oversaw the translation and publication, acknowledged the ease of collaboration with Themelio Publications in Athens, who served as a reliable partner.

The event’s final speaker, author Juliana Charpantidou, noted that the English version is more complete, containing an index and revisions suggested by translator Petro Alexiou. She encouraged other historians to write about community histories, noting that no history is ever truly complete, as every work has gaps and reflects the author’s perspective. A diversity of voices, she added, contributes to a deeper understanding of events.

English edition of book on GCM's history launched at Ithacan House

The audience expressed interest in follow-up volumes, and Juliana shared that she is currently researching the post-1972 period, with the goal of bringing the GCM’s history up to date, ideally to the early 21st century.

Meet Laetitia Greco: The runner-up to Miss Universe Australia 2024

The Greek Herald
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Meet Laetitia Greco: The runner-up to Miss Universe Australia 2024

By Nikita Chronis

Laetitia Greco is a presenter, film critic, model, and content creator. Recently, she placed as the runner-up in the 2024 Miss Universe Australia competition. With her wit, intelligence, and proud Greek-Italian heritage, Laetitia has built a platform that extends beyond her passion for cinema.

She uses her voice to advocate for social causes within Australia and internationally. In a recent interview, she offered a glimpse into her background, career and future goals.

A Greek-Italian upbringing:

Laetitia grew up in a close-knit Greek-Italian family, based in Melbourne. Her cultural heritage played a big role in shaping who she is today.

Laetitia Greco
Laetitia Greco with her yiayia.

“I’m very family-oriented, and I truly value connection, especially when it comes to getting together with my cousins and family, often over food,” she shared.

One of her earliest film memories was visiting the set of Scooby-Doo in Queensland, where her father, Sam Greco (former World Champion kickboxer), played ‘Zarkos’.

“Being on set was life-changing, and from then on, I knew I loved the world of cinema,” she explained.

Laetitia Greco
Laetitia Greco with her dad on the set of Scooby Doo.

A career in film and presenting:

Laetitia’s professional journey in the film industry began with an internship at Roadshow Films during her third year of university. This quickly turned into a full-time job where she worked on major blockbuster releases including Joker and IT: Chapter II. When her colleague fell ill at the Melbourne premiere of The Dry, Laetitia was given just half an hour to prepare for her first-ever red-carpet interview.

Laetitia Greco
Laetitia Greco

“The buzz I felt was like nothing else, and I knew right then that presenting was what I wanted to pursue,” she said.

Alongside her full-time role in the film industry, she also runs her own film channel, @ThatAussieFilmChick, where she shares reviews, celebrity gossip, and her passion for movies.

Miss Universe Australia: A transformative journey

Laetitia took a bold step by competing in Miss Universe Australia, despite having no prior pageant experience.

“I admired what past contestants had achieved and saw it as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to build my brand and drive meaningful change,” she explained.

Her journey began with the State Finals in March, where she modeled for leading beauty and fashion brands while raising $35,000 for ToyBox Australia and Camp Quality. After progressing through to Nationals, she embarked on an international photoshoot, learned how to walk the runway and answer on-stage questions, and continued her fundraising.

“The most rewarding part was the immense personal growth. I was pushed beyond my comfort zone and came out stronger and more resilient. But the connections I made with other intelligent women were just
as invaluable,” she said.

Laetitia Greco

Advocating for social change:

During the Miss Universe competition, she used her platform to speak out about gender bias and the ongoing fight for women’s equality.

“Women have been battling for over a century, and yet we still see gaps. I’ve personally experienced sexism in my career, and it’s important that women speak up and know their worth,” she said, recalling how a former boss advised her to dye her hair darker to be taken seriously.

These challenges fueled her determination to continue advocating for change.

Looking ahead:

Laetitia is currently working on the release of Disney’s Mufasa: The Lion King in December and plans to continue expanding her career as a presenter. She dreams of covering prestigious events like the Cannes Film Festival and the Academy Awards, while taking her film channel to new heights.

On a personal note, she is planning a trip to Europe next year to reconnect with her Greek and Italian heritage.

“I can’t wait to immerse myself in the culture of Greece and Italy again. It feels like coming full circle,” she said.

With her passion, drive, and resilience, Laetitia is set for an exciting future, and her journey will undoubtedly inspire many along the way.

Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister: ‘South Melbourne FC should be in the A-League’

The Greek Herald
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Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister: ‘South Melbourne FC should be in the A-League’

South Melbourne FC, with its host Ashley Maikousis, held its annual Inner Sanctum event on Thursday, November 7 to honour the services of key members, as well as making key announcements by President Nick Maikousis.

The key announcement at this year’s event was the new joint no. 1 ticket holders Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles and State Member of Parliament Nina Taylor, with Football Australia Chairman Anter Isaac stating that South Melbourne should be in the A-League.

In announcing their appointment, South Melbourne Chairman Bill Papastergiadis noted that, “Richard Marles has been a loyal supporter of the club having been at many of the key games over a number of years including our semi final FA Cup against Melbourne City and our opening game in 2022 against Heidelberg FC.”

Importantly, Mr Papastergiadis said, “Marles always makes time for the Club no matter his commitments. His strong understanding of our community and club make him an ideal choice as no. 1 ticket holder. We are excited that he will be a part of our story as we head into the new National Second Tier for football in 2025.”

south melbourne fc
All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Bill Roumeliotis.


Marles thanked the Club for the honour and said, “South is more than a football club. It embodies the true nature of multiculturalism. The club is evidence of the struggles and ultimately the success of the immigrants to this country. Melbourne is richer for having South as part of its football and culture landscape. I am honoured to be a no.1 ticket holder.”

Ms Taylor said she was delighted with the honour.  

“For a club that champions all parts of our society, whether it’s the all abilities football team (power chair), blind football or its women’s programs, this club continues to delivers at the highest level. I look forward to working with the club on its initiatives and its incumbent on me to support in any way I can such a wonderful club,” Ms Taylor said.

south melbourne fc

As President, Mr Maikousis spoke about the Club’s readiness to now participate at the highest level in the country and that there was no limit to whether it’s the B-League or the A-League. 

“The Club’s destiny is at the top tier and we belong there. The work the Club has done to ready itself for this new journey needs to be rewarded. We will work with Football Australia on this,” Mr Maikousis said.

south melbourne fc

Mr Maikousis went on to announce the appointment of former star player David Clarkson as the General Manger of the Club. He said, “this adds depth to our football offerings across the board.”

On the night, former ministers Martin Pakula and Martin Foley were also acknowledged for their respective contributions. Mr Papastergiadis, in presenting the awards, noted that Mr Pakula and Mr Foley were there for the club when it was needed.

south melbourne fc

Mr Papastergiadis said, “a club without a home ground is destined to fail. Hence, our negotiations to secure a 40 year lease and license were critical to the Club’s future. Both Ministers played a key role in the Club ultimately securing the lease and without them, the outcome was less secure. At the same time, as a past no. 1 ticket holder, Mr Foley was a key part of our A League bid, being present at all of our meetings with Football Australia and he featured heavily in our bid document. Former Ministers Foley and Pakula were there when the Club needed them.”

Mr Foley commenced his address by stating, “South should be in the A-League. It is a club that has history, success, and support. It is a no brainer for Football Australia. I spent many hours at this club and witnessed first hand the strength of the club and its supporters. Football would be the richer for having South at the top tier.”

south melbourne fc
south melbourne fc

Mr Pakula noted that his own upbringing was closely tied to the Club given that his neighbours and best friends were the Anastasiadis brothers. He said “everyone knows the Club,” and as now Chair of the Grand prix Corporation, he hopes to continue to have a close relationship with South.

The night also saw a presentation of the famed documentary on Puskas and Postecoglou, and Paul Trimboli spoke along with the directors of the film about the glory days when Puskas led the team to a  National title.

Mr Maikousis then entered into a discussion with Anter Isaac (Chairman of Football Australia). Mr Maikousis noted that the new National Second Tier was a good start, but that a stand alone competition was necessary. 

south melbourne fc

In response, Mr Anter acknowledged that South is a Club that indeed has A-League credentials. He said he was hopeful of a standalone National Second Tier competition in the near future. Mr Maikousis expressed his desire for this to be achieved as a matter of urgency. Mr Anter said the new competition for the Second Tier will help unite football in this country and will offer more football to the public.

Mr Maikousis concluded the night by acknowledging all the sponsors and reflecting on the importance of all football clubs connecting with their supporters and the general public. The game is served well when clubs are able to participate at the highest level. He extended his thanks to sponsors and to Andrew Mesorouni for putting the event together.

*All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Bill Roumeliotis.

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