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Four Greek children found carrying cancer-linked gene from Danish sperm donor

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An international investigation by the BBC and 13 other European public broadcasters has revealed that four children in Greece carry a dangerous mutation traced to a Danish sperm donor whose samples were distributed to seven fertility clinics across the country.

The issue first came to light in November 2020, when a Greek paediatric cancer specialist identified the TP53 mutation in three siblings conceived via IVF using sperm from the same donor.

One of the children has reportedly already developed cancer.

In 2023, the same doctor detected the mutation in a fourth child conceived from the donor’s sperm.

The Danish man has fathered at least 197 children across Europe.

The mutation causes Li-Fraumeni syndrome, a rare disorder that carries up to a 90% lifetime risk of developing cancer, particularly in childhood and later-life breast cancer. Some children conceived from the donor’s sperm have already died.

Source: Ekathimerini.

New GOCNSW President Con Apoifis sets vision of unity, service and cultural renewal

The Greek Orthodox Community of New South Wales (GOCNSW) has entered a new chapter with the announcement of its newly formed Board of Directors and Executive Committee for the 2025–2027 term.

Following recent elections, the Board convened last week for its first official meeting, confirming executive appointments and mapping the organisation’s initial direction under its new leadership.

The meeting was attended by 18 of the 20 elected members, with the Board noting that Dimitris Arvanitis has resigned, while Ioannis Zoumpoulis, who is currently overseas, will join the Board upon his return.

The Executive Committee elected for the coming term is as follows:

  • President: Con Apoifis
  • Vice President: Chris Skiladellis
  • Secretary: George Diamantaris
  • Assistant Secretary: Con Spiropoulos
  • Treasurer: John Terzis
  • Assistant Treasurer: Con Mavrokordatos

In addition, Sue Persefoni Thliveris has been appointed Chair of the Greek Festival of Sydney, one of the state’s most prominent and enduring cultural celebrations.

Other elected Board members include Olympia Houliaras, Athanasia Costa, Evangelos Zoras, Stanley Koulouris, Jim Psarros, Dimitris Bekris, Peter Tsintilas, Georgia Paschalidis/Papadopoulou, Peter Tsilioris, Peter Ronis, Ioannis Zoumpoulis, and Nikitas Katris.

A President shaped by family legacy and community roots

Speaking to The Greek Herald shortly after the announcement of the new Executive, incoming President Mr Apoifis shared his long personal and familial connection to the GOCNSW and the broader Greek Australian community. His family’s involvement dates back decades, and it has shaped his dedication to serve.

“My family has been involved with the Koinotita since the mid 50’s as my parents were instrumental in forming the first Greek language afternoon school at Bourke St Public School in Surry Hills,” he said.

“The local community support for this school and other social events in that area have motivated me to give something back to the Greek community via the GOCNSW.”

This grounding in community, language, and education forms the core of his motivation – service not merely as a duty, but as a continuation of inherited values.

A professional foundation for leadership

Mr Apoifis explained that his professional experience has equipped him with the skills needed to guide the Community’s governance and strategic direction.

“In a professional capacity I graduated with a Bachelor of Business in Accounting and I am a CPA. I was an external Auditor and had gained many years of experience working for an international accounting firm, as well as lecturing at university in Accounting and Auditing,” he noted.

“Currently I run my own wholesale building material operation and warehouse logistic companies. I believe that my professional and business and leadership experience have given me a solid base to take on the presidency of the GOCNSW.”

This blend of accounting, auditing, business management and leadership experience is expected to strengthen the Community’s financial oversight, governance, and long-term planning.

Honouring the past

Reflecting on the legacy of outgoing President Harry Danalis, Mr Apoifis emphasised continuity as well as renewal.

“Harry Danalis has led the GOCNSW for many years and we should be proud of what he and his fellow retiring board members have given to the Koinotita and the Greek community at large. Our current board can only hope to build on those foundations and take the GOCNSW to even higher levels,” he said.

This acknowledgment sets the tone for a leadership style rooted in respect, stability, and incremental progress rather than abrupt change.

Immediate priorities: Festivals, film, childcare and aged care

When asked about the new Board’s priorities for its first 12 months, Mr Apoifis pointed to both cultural and welfare-focused initiatives.

“As this is only the first week of the new Board taking over, we hope to address some very important and strategic projects, such as the Greek Festival of Sydney, Film Festival as well as ensuring that our childcare and aged care facilities are working efficiently and our ‘clients’ i.e. our children and our elderly are happy and content with what we offer,” he said.

This dual focus reflects the breadth of the GOCNSW’s work – supporting families, preserving culture, operating vital facilities, and ensuring continuity in its flagship festivals.

con apoifis
When asked about the new Board’s priorities for its first 12 months, Mr Apoifis pointed to both cultural and welfare-focused initiatives.

Unifying the new Board:

With a slate that includes both returning and first-time Directors, Mr Apoifis stressed his commitment to unity and accountability.

“I think we are all united in performing our assigned duties and that is the main priority… performance,” he said.

It is a clear and concise statement of expectations – every Board member must contribute, deliver, and remain focused on service.

Greek Festival of Sydney: Building on a strong legacy

With Sue Persefoni Thliveris stepping into the role of Festival Chair, Mr Apoifis shared his vision for the future of the Greek Festival of Sydney.

“Sue is the president of the festival committee and will have direct access to report to the Board and our vision is to build on our previous successes under the Chair of Nia Karteris, and to promote our culture,” he said.

His comments signal both continuity and ambition, cementing the Festival as a flagship project for the new Board. He also reaffirmed support for Greek film in NSW.

“Very early days yet, but our strong involvement with the Festival and the screening of Greek films is a firm commitment of our support,” he said.

A call to the community

Mr Apoifis concluded the interview with an invitation to all members of the Greek Australian community to participate in the work of the GOCNSW.

“Please join us as volunteers in any way that you can in our welfare, education, festival and any of our other committees. Please get in touch with our office,” he said.

And finally, a message of gratitude and forward momentum: “Thank you for your time and we can grow to greater strength by having your support for all of our initiatives.”

Looking ahead

As the new Executive Committee begins its work, the GOCNSW has reaffirmed its mission to serve the Greek Australian community through cultural, educational and social initiatives.

With President Mr Apoifis at the helm, supported by an experienced and enthusiastic Board, the organisation enters this term with a clear vision: service, unity, cultural strength – and taking the Koinotita “to the next level.”

HMSA highlights collaboration and major legislative win at annual End-of-Year event

The Hellenic Medical Society of Australia (HMSA) held it’s end of year celebration on Friday, December 5 at the Greek Centre, Melbourne. 

It was a well-attended event and an opportunity to reflect on this past year’s achievements in a relaxed environment and to thank both HMSA members and members of the wider community who collaborated with HMSA in various events to ensure their success.

Speakers on the night included A/Prof Marinis Pirpiris, President of HMSA, Bill Papastergiadis OAM, President of the Greek Community of Melbourne, and  Georgia Dimopoulou from the Greek National Tourism Organisation, all sharing messages of connection and collaboration. 

We also heard from A/Prof Pirpiris that after many meetings and discussions, the legislative changes were recently passed in the Parliament of Greece, that enable for the mutual recognition of Australian medical degrees in Greece. ‘

“This achievement is more than a legal reform – it is a bridge between the two nations. It strengthens opportunities for young clinicians and honours the excellence of Australian medical education. The impact of this change will be felt for generations,” he said.

On the evening, HMSA also acknowledged and thanked HMSA members who have made significant contributions to the growth of HMSA through their involvement in the board, including Dr Arthur Athanasios Kokkinias, A/Prof Spiros Fourlanos, Dr Maria Raftopoulos and Dr George Koufogiannis.

A/Prof Pirpiris also sincerely thanked HMSA members who have presented and supported events throughout the year on topics including fertility and neuro-oncology and thanked members of the wider community who have contributed and collaborated in events including International Women’s Day, the HMSA Careers Day, the HMSA Gala Ball, as well as community education events, some of whom were present on the night including GCM Board representatives (Bill Papastergiadis OAM, Dr Dora Papamakarios, Simela Stamatopoulos, Manuel Tsirmiris), HACCI representative Fotini Kypraios (apology), Pronia representatives (Elpis Korosidis, Sylvia Hadjiantoniou, Paul Orfanos, Anna Tadese), Mayor Emily Dimitriadis, Dean Kalymniou, Katy Karabatsos, Peter Gavos, Bill Petridis, MUNGA representatives (Athanasios Pirpiris, Christina Damigos, Cherie Katsoulis).

The HMSA also thanked their sponsors for all their support throughout the year. HMSA is looking to 2026 as an opportunity to create more meaningful events that promote education, connection to heritage and can lead to improved health outcomes for all.

St Nicholas Parish hosts graduation for Greek Welfare Centre’s early childhood groups

His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia attended a graduation event at the Parish of Saint Nicholas in Marrickville, Sydney, on Sunday, December 7, celebrating children completing the Early Childhood Groups of the Greek Welfare Centre and preparing to enter primary school.

The Centre, marking its 50th anniversary this year, oversees 14 Early Childhood Groups across Sydney, serving more than 220 children.

The bilingual programme introduces children to the Orthodox faith, Greek traditions, and language, while fostering creativity through crafts, singing, dancing, storytelling, and excursions.

At the event, Archbishop Makarios presented certificates, commemorative gifts, and offered his paternal blessings.

Director Steve Magdalopoulos and members of the Centre’s Board of Directors were also in attendance, receiving the Archbishop’s gratitude for supporting families with preschool-aged children.

Mavi Gelati set to open second store at the Hellenic Club of Canberra

The Mavi Gelati team entered Australia’s gelati scene in December 2024 with their first store in NSW’s Ulladulla. Word of their mouth-watering gelato spread among locals and has led to the opening of a second store at the Hellenic Club of Canberra this weekend.

Co-owners Nick Vasiliou and Aslan Akbayir are proud to be opening their second store in just 12 months. Aslan, who is also the store’s head chef, has perfected their gelato and is thrilled to bring it to Canberra. 

Mavi Gelati’s Canberra store will offer a range of 20 flavours of gelato and sorbet, along with acai, slushies, and their own twist on the classic Mediterranean frappé. They have also mastered a unique mastika and baklava gelato. 

Mavi Gelati co-owner Nick spoke with The Greek Herald about the store’s origins and the opening of their Canberra store. 

“The product is just unbelievable… I have a sweet tooth and trust me, the gelato is just next level,” Nick said. 

Coming from a background in entertainment, Nick teamed up with his friend Aslan to create Mavi Gelati. Choosing Ulladulla as their first store location was an easy choice because they had both worked there before and loved the town’s atmosphere. 

“Ulladulla is a fantastic, beautiful town. It’s got a beach nearby… [and] it thrives over the summer period,” he said.

“We get so many people coming through Ulladulla from Canberra. We got massive feedback such as, ‘You need to bring one of these to Canberra. Your gelato is amazing’.”

Based in Canberra, Nick saw a lot of Greek Australians enjoying the store’s gelato which caught the attention of the Hellenic Club of Canberra. 

“We use one of the best dairy farms on the South Coast called Tilba. We buy their jersey milk… so it comes straight from the pastures to us. It’s so creamy, it’s just amazing… The Italians are renowned for making gelato but we’ve given them a good shakeup,” he said.

Their Ulladulla store was designed by Canberra design experts SuperCurious, and transports customers to a Greek island. Blue and white fill the walls of the store alongside an image of a Greek goddess. 

“A lot of customers do comment when they go into Ulladulla saying, ‘This feels like we’re in Greece.’ And that’s exactly what we were trying to portray, to give it that sort of look,” Nick said.

While the new Canberra store won’t feature the same Greek-inspired colour palette as their Ulladulla store, it instead embraces the Hellenic Club’s aesthetic. 

“It’s a beautiful looking store… and the club’s done an amazing job putting that all together for us,” he said.

Mavi Gelati is conveniently positioned near the entrance of the Hellenic Club so anyone walking through can stop for gelato. Nick said he is looking forward to sharing their gelato with new Canberra customers.

“We’re going to make some noise. It’s unbelievable… Come and taste it for yourself and be the judge. It is amazing, it really is,” he said.

Mavi Gelati is set to open this weekend at The Hellenic Club of Canberra. Keep an eye on their Facebook page and website for more information and the chance to try their gelato.

Oakleigh Grammar students share the spirit of Christmas with Melbourne’s Greek community

Every December, a beautiful and deeply moving tradition comes to life at Oakleigh Grammar – Primary School students put on their brightest smiles and visit aged-care facilities across Melbourne’s community to sing Christmas carols. 

With their pure and joyful voices, they fill each space with warmth, hope, and festive cheer, offering grandparents and elderly residents precious moments of companionship and love, moments that touch the heart and remind everyone of the true meaning of Christmas.

This year’s visits took place over three days and involved Year 5 students. On Monday, December 1, the students visited Baptcare Southaven Day Centre in Bentleigh. On Tuesday, December 2, they brought their festive spirit to Brimlea Aged Care in Murrumbeena and to Fronditha Care in Clayton South. On Thursday, December 4, the students completed their visits with stops at Estia Health in Oakleigh East and Oak Towers Aged Care in Oakleigh.

The festive program prepared by the teachers in each venue began with a musical tribute to Greece.  

The Greek songs performed by the students filled the rooms with images and memories from the elderly residents’ homeland. Many of them were transported back to their childhood years, moments of innocence, tradition, and community, as they recognised echoes of their own stories in the children’s voices.

The program continued with Christmas and New Year’s carols, along with other festive songs that created an atmosphere of joy for all. The melodies awakened treasured memories of Greece, and for a few moments, the elderly became children once again, singing along with the students.

Each visit concluded with warm wishes for the New Year and a heartfelt promise to continue this beautiful tradition next year.

For Oakleigh Grammar students, the experience was truly special. It allowed them to connect meaningfully with elderly members of the community and share smiles, music, and kindness. 

Meanwhile, on Tuesday, December 2, students of the Oakleigh Grammar Byzantine Choir visited the offices of the Greek Orthodox Diocese of Melbourne in South Melbourne, where they chanted the traditional Christmas and New Year’s Carols, as well as a selection of Christmas songs.  

Singing with reverence and enthusiasm before His Grace Bishop Kyriakos of Melbourne, the students captivated everyone with their melodic and heartfelt voices. At the end of the visit, they received His Grace’s blessing, along with festive treats and a small gift.

Oakleigh Grammar celebrates outstanding NAPLAN growth

Oakleigh Grammar has announced exceptional results for its Year 5 students in the 2025 NAPLAN assessments, with students demonstrating a 15% improvement across every testing domain. This is a significant improvement reaffirming the school’s commitment to academic excellence and personalised learning.

Furthermore, the School has achieved a positive value-add growth in all areas of Literacy and Numeracy, for Years 7 and 9 for 2025. 

NAPLAN’s value-add measure assesses the progress students make over time, comparing their growth with that of similar students across Australia. Oakleigh Grammar’s improved performance in every category – Reading, Writing, Spelling, Grammar and Numeracy – in Years 5, 7 and 9 highlights the school’s commitment to promoting student learning. 

Principal Mark Robertson said the results reflect the dedication of both teachers and students.

“These improved NAPLAN outcomes are a testament to our clear instructional vision, high-quality teaching and the strong partnerships we foster with families,” Mr Robertson said.

“To see value-add improvement across every NAPLAN domain is an exceptional achievement. It underscores the positive impact of our evidence-based teaching practices and the personalised attention our students receive.”

The school attributes this success to its ongoing commitment to targeted intervention, robust data analysis, and a whole-school approach to literacy and numeracy development. Importantly, the results show improved growth for our students at all achievement levels, reinforcing Oakleigh Grammar’s reputation as a place where every student is supported to thrive.

Mr Robertson added: “We are immensely proud of our students’ efforts and the professionalism of our staff.  These results validate the continuous improvement mindset that drives teaching and learning at Oakleigh Grammar.”

Oakleigh Grammar will continue to invest in high-impact instructional strategies and staff development as part of its mission to provide an exceptional education for every student.

Cyprus Community of NSW set to launch Australia Cyprus Achievement Awards 

The Cyprus Community of NSW is set to launch the Australia Cyprus Achievement Awards this Friday, December 12 to recognise individuals who have made significant contributions to Australia.

The Community’s Honorary President, Michael Peters Kyriacou, told The Greek Herald that for more than a century, Australia has welcomed people from Cyprus and given them a place to call “home.” He said it was time for the Community to acknowledge the sacrifices, efforts and achievements that helped Cypriots establish themselves in Australia, as well as those who have made a broader impact on the nation.

“The Award is not just about Cypriots; it’s the Community’s way of honouring all who have enriched the nation,” Mr Kyriacou said.

The Award will be announced at a major event planned for 2026, to be held within a week of the traditional Australia Day holiday. Honorary Assistant Secretary Andrew Paschali described it as the Community’s first “Australia Thanksgiving gathering.”

“We often take for granted that we live in a peaceful, progressive country that has welcomed many thousands of our compatriots over the decades – a country which respects the rule of law and human rights,” Mr Paschali said.

“It’s time we all come together to give thanks, share our stories, and recognise those who have made a difference. It will be a traditional thanksgiving gathering that becomes part of the Club’s annual calendar. All members, all Greeks, friends, family and supporters are invited to share their ‘Australian’ story and give thanks to both the Achievement Award recipients and to Australia.”

Thanksgiving is celebrated in several countries as a time for giving thanks for blessings such as harvest, prosperity, good health and community wellbeing.

Mr Kyriacou noted that the idea of giving thanks is “deeply Cypriot.”

“The people of Cyprus gave thanks for their harvest, the health of their people, their prosperity and their families. For an island accustomed to drought, invasion, occupation, massacres and crop failures, thanksgiving is part of the Cypriot DNA for millennia,” he said.

“It is surprising we seem to have overlooked this core value in our makeup. In 2026, the Community will hold its first ‘open-door’ event for all to come to the Club, share a story about their ‘Australian experience,’ present the Australia Cyprus Achievement Award and give thanks to Australia.

“For Cyprus, it’s a core value – to acknowledge and appreciate good fortune. It’s a tradition that must be brought back into our events calendar, and in 2026 the youth will be leading this task. There is no better way to say thanks than to show appreciation for what we have and our desire to do even better.”

Mr Kyriacou added that the Award is not only for high achievers.

“The Award is about ordinary Australians who have made an effort to give something back to Australia – whether in sport, caring for others, protecting the environment, supporting youth or assisting the less fortunate. It’s about making that extra effort, giving a helping hand, acts of kindness, sacrifice and goodwill,” he said.

The Australia Cyprus Achievement Award is open to any Australian resident who has made a meaningful contribution to Australia’s social, cultural, economic, scientific or intellectual life, and to the promotion of welfare, cohesion and national advancement – an ambassador of Australian achievement who enriches the life of the nation.

The Award will be presented at the inaugural Australia Thanksgiving event.

Applications are available online from Friday, December 12 at: www.thecyprusclub.org.au/awards

2026 Football NSW competition fixtures officially released

Football NSW has today confirmed the full release of all match-day schedules for the 2026 Football NSW competitions, covering every tier from elite NPL programs through to youth development pathways.

The announcement includes complete fixtures for the NPL Men’s and Women’s, Senior Men’s and Women’s Leagues, Boys’ and Girls’ Youth Leagues, MJDL, GJDL, and AYL competitions, marking a major milestone in preparations for the upcoming season.

Football NSW Competitions Manager Troy McColl said the release of the schedules represents a significant collaborative effort across the football community.

“As Head of Competitions, I am pleased to confirm the release of the 2026 Match Schedules over 13,000 matches across all Competitions, reaffirming Football NSW’s position as the largest and most competitive Member Federation in the country,” McColl said.

“Our Men’s and Women’s leagues again deliver Australia’s most extensive programs, with 30-round and 26-round seasons designed to maximise development and align with Football Australia’s high-performance frameworks.

“The strength of our competitions is driven by the commitment of our NPL and State League Clubs, supported by the continued involvement of A-League Academies, which further enhances the depth and quality of our pathways.

“Our Boys (U13–U18) and Girls Youth Leagues (U14–U18), along with our Mixed and Girls Junior Development Leagues (ages 9–13), remain fundamental to the state’s development system, providing essential technical and competitive progression. Our Regional Youth and Development programs also play a critical role, ensuring access to meaningful competition and clear advancement opportunities for participants across NSW.

“Importantly, these leagues support the growth of not only players but also referees, coaches, and the many non-playing personnel who contribute to the game. Each competition provides valuable development environments that strengthen the entire football ecosystem.

“Collectively, this structure forms the most comprehensive development framework in the country, underpinning the national pathway and supporting all participants as they work toward higher opportunities, including the A-Leagues and, ultimately, national team representation.”

Football NSW has extended its thanks to all Clubs for their ongoing assistance and professionalism throughout the fixture-formatting process.

To view the official draws, stakeholders can access the competition links and use the search bar toggle to select their respective competition and age group.

The 2026 season is now set and anticipation is building across the Football NSW community.

For the full list of fixtures, visit Dribl, where you can filter by competition, league, and club to find the matches that matter to you.

Click here to view the full fixture list.

South Melbourne FC honoured at Victorian Parliament after AUS Championship triumph

Just days after its historic 2–0 victory over Marconi in the inaugural Australian Championship final, South Melbourne FC was honoured with a special reception at the Parliament of Victoria this week – marking the first time in the club’s 65-year history that it has been formally welcomed into the state’s legislature.

The reception celebrated not only the club’s latest national triumph, but also its longstanding cultural and sporting influence across Victoria and the Greek Australian community.

‘Hellas continues to write history’

South Melbourne co-chair Bill Papastergiadis OAM, holding the newly won championship trophy, said the moment represented a milestone for the club.

“It is an honour for Hellas to be invited to a special reception at Parliament House to celebrate its success in winning the inaugural Australian Championship. This is the first visit officially of the Club since its inception in 1959,” Papastergiadis told The Greek Herald.

“The coaches, players and the Board feel honoured to be welcomed by the Deputy Premier and over five ministers and many other parliamentarians at the event.”

Papastergiadis highlighted the significance of defeating Marconi – a historic rival from the former National Soccer League (NSL).

“Hellas and Marconi were the two powerhouse forces of the NSL. To meet in the inaugural Australian Championship was appropriate given they both had four NSL titles respectively. By winning on Saturday, Hellas has now elevated itself to five national titles equivalent to Sydney FC,” he said.

“Hellas stands at the pinnacle of Australian football despite being excluded from the A-League for over 20 years. This reveals the depth of its commitment and professionalism.”

But he stressed Hellas’ broader mission.

“We are more than a football club. It embodies everything that symbolises Australia being a cosmopolitan club with coaches, administrators and players from all over the world,” Papastergiadis said.

He added that the club was now preparing for its next major chapter: representing Australia in the OFC Pro League.

“South being the FIFA Oceania Club of the Century now embarks on the FIFA Oceania Professional League which commences in January in Auckland. This is a huge step for the Club as it plays against the leading teams from all of Oceania…” he said.

“Hellas is bringing to Melbourne a massive carnival of football that will make our city the centre of Oceania for over a week in February.”

Victorian leaders praise South Melbourne FC’s legacy

At the Parliament event, Deputy Premier of Victoria Ben Carroll congratulated the club and acknowledged its national significance.

“Today we’re celebrating the wonderful victory of the South Melbourne Hellas football club in its Parliament. South Melbourne Football Club have done an outstanding effort and made all Victorians proud,” he said.

“We know that round ball is so universal to sport… and to see the local talent being recognised right here in the halls of Parliament is really important. I want to congratulate Bill Papastergiadis and Andrew Mesourouni for their stewardship along with the coaches and players. It doesn’t get bigger than Hellas winning the inaugural Australian Championship.”

MP and former state opposition leader John Pesutto described the occasion as part of a broader push to elevate football’s profile across the state.

“Today’s a great day. We’re celebrating South Melbourne Hellas’ great win over Marconi… It’s obviously a great, iconic club, so it’s great to join with them,” he said.

“It’s part of a broader effort… to really give football an additional platform. It’s obviously a very popular game… and to give it a platform in Parliament is important.”

Pesutto also thanked Papastergiadis, Mesourouni and long-time Football Director Peter Kokotis for their work supporting the club.

Labor MP and long-time Hellas supporter Nina Taylor emphasised the emotional significance of the victory.

“I was at the match. I love the passion of the Club and everything it does for our community. I cried tears of joy when Hellas won. I am committed to the Club and want it to achieve success for not only its supporters but for all Victorians,” she said.

Bronwyn Halfpenny MP echoed that sentiment, saying: “We are here today to celebrate in Parliament a massive achievement. And in this case, we’re celebrating the achievements of the South Melbourne club and the amazing trophy. Hellas football players will be able to hold their heads high for what they achieved. It’s simply extraordinary.”

A symbolic football moment inside Parliament

In one of the most memorable scenes of the day, players, parliamentarians and Papastergiadis gathered in a committee room inside Parliament House to exchange passes in a light-hearted, symbolic kick-around.

For a few minutes, the chamber transformed into an improvised pitch – a playful acknowledgement of football’s power to unite.

Anthony Cianflone, Chair of the Parliamentary Friends of Football, said the welcome was long overdue.

“I’m very proud… to welcome them for the first time into the Victorian Parliament. I can’t believe South Melbourne has never been welcomed like this into the Victorian Parliament,” he said.

Calling the Australian Championship “a fantastic concept… long overdue,” he said: “This is a club that’s really woven into the fabric and the being of what it means to be a Victorian… I’m so proud that they’ve won the Australian championship. I’m so proud to be championing them today here in the parliament.”

Coach and players honoured by statewide recognition

South Melbourne coach Sinisha Cohadzic described the invitation as a defining moment.

“We’re honoured to be getting an invitation from the Parliament of Victoria to come and present our trophy and the success we had in the inaugural Australian championship,” he said.

“This is the moment where we really announce ourselves on a national stage, and at the same time looking forward and announcing ourselves on international stage… representing the state of Victoria, and at the same time representing Australia.”

Looking ahead: OFC Pro League begins in January

The January launch of the OFC Pro League – where South Melbourne will compete against the top clubs of Oceania – promises another major chapter for the club.

Government ministers indicated that Parliament House may again host a special welcome in February when international teams arrive in Melbourne for the tournament.