South Melbourne FC is set to host an exclusive VIP Legends Dinnerat Lakeside Stadium on the evening of Saturday, January 18, 2025.
Held immediately after the much-anticipated Greek Herald Cup, this event offers football fans a rare opportunity to dine alongside some of the greatest figures in Australian football history.
The exclusive dinner is a chance to sit at the table with legends and celebrate the rich heritage of South Melbourne FC and Sydney Olympic FC.
The special evening will honour the rich history of South Melbourne FC and Sydney Olympic as they celebrate the 40th Anniversary of South Melbourne’s 1984 NSL Championship win.
The Legends Dinner will feature special appearances by members of South Melbourne’s iconic 1984 Championship Winning Team, alongside other football legends, including PeterKatholos, Chris Kalantzis, and Danny Patalis from Sydney Olympic.
South Melbourne, 1984 NSL Champions, the first Victorian club to claim the NSL Championship trophy.
The Legends Dinner will be a fitting conclusion to a day steeped in football and cultural celebration. Earlier in the day, fans will witness the storied rivalry between South Melbourne FC and Sydney Olympic FC reignite on the pitch in The Greek Herald Cup.
From friendly Miniroos matches to traditional Greek dance performances by the Greek Community of Melbourne Dance Groups, the event will celebrate not just football but also Greek heritage and community spirit. The main match, kicking off at 6:30 PM, will undoubtedly leave the crowd energised for an evening of reflection and camaraderie.
The exclusive Legends Event is not to be missed. It’s more than a dinner; it’s a chance to sit at the table with legends, celebrate the rich heritage of two iconic clubs, and be part of a moment that bridges the legacy of the past with the promise of the future.
Event Details
Date: Saturday, January 18th
Place: Lakeside Stadium (Upstairs)
Time: 8:30 PM
Tickets: $160 – Includes food, drinks, and entertainment
At a special gathering hosted by Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM) Secretary Nickos Koukouvitakis, the Community came together to recognise and celebrate the invaluable contributions of its volunteers.
The GCM awarded and honoured individuals who dedicate their time and effort to support the Community and its parishes.
President of the GCM, Bill Papastergiadis, said, “The event underscored the enduring spirit of volunteerism that has been at the heart of the Community since its inception in 1897.”
“Our volunteers are the backbone of our Community. We deeply appreciate everything they do to support our parishes and the communities that form part of the parishes,” Mr Papastergiadis added.
The first official priest, Father Athanasios Kantopoulos, arrived in Melbourne with his family on June 22, 1898, after a request from the GCM to the Patriarch of Jerusalem, Damianos, for a priest to serve the religious needs of Orthodox residents. Prior to his arrival, the Church operated under Archimandrite Dorotheos “Samios” Bakalarios, a visiting priest who arrived in Melbourne in August 1897, and commenced services on August 22, 1897.
This historical foundation continues to inspire the ongoing efforts of volunteers who help keep traditions and values alive.
His Grace Bishop Evmenios of Chora, who was present at the event, spoke about the unique role of the GCM, emphasising, “The Greek Community of Melbourne brings together the values of faith, culture, and education. Its contributions are truly appreciated.”
“The real light of our churches is their volunteers. These are the people who set the foundation of our churches. Many times, their efforts are unseen, but they are the ones who hold our churches together,” the Bishop added.
Awards were presented to volunteers from Evangelismos Church, St. Dimitrios Church, St. Eleftherios Church, St. George Church, and Holy Trinity Church. These individuals were celebrated not just for their hard work but for their unwavering dedication to their respective parishes.
Church Volunteers 2024 Award Recipients
Last Name
First Name
Church
Galetakis
Haralambos
Evangelismos
Karidis
Sapfo
Evangelismos
Rider
Sophia
Evangelismos
Vithoulkas
Vasilios
Evangelismos
Georgiadis
Stavros
St Dimitrios
Kaltsi
Eleni
St Dimitrios
Katsifolis
George
St Dimitrios
Koutsouki
Nafsika
St Dimitrios
Dalianis
Angela
St Eleftherios
Karagiaouris
Spiridoula
St Eleftherios
Karasavidis
Alexandra
St Eleftherios
Nikolopoulos
Trifonas
St Eleftherios
Grekos
Odysseas
St George
Koulos
Dimitra
St George
Koulos
Ioannis
St George
Mylonas
Andreas
St George
Papadopoulos
Serafim
St George
Arvanitis
Anthimos
Holy Trinity
Giota
Ourania
Holy Trinity
Hatzis
Con
Holy Trinity
Kasti
Anna
Holy Trinity
Xasterouli
Eleni
Holy Trinity
A particularly moving moment at the Awards Night was when Andreas Milonas, a volunteer from St. George Church, shared his personal perspective.
“We do whatever we can to support our Community and the church. Everything we do stays within the Greek Community of Melbourne and the church, and we’ll keep giving our best every day. We thank the GCM for supporting every step we take and acknowledging our efforts. For that, we feel grateful,” Andreas said.
Andreas Milonas, a volunteer from St. George Church.
The event highlighted the essential role of volunteers in preserving the Community’s traditions. Through the dedication of its volunteers, the GCM continues to be a vibrant hub of culture, faith, and education.
The evening was a testament to the power of community and the shared commitment to making a lasting impact.
The evening brought together families, friends, educators, and members of the community to celebrate the students’ dedication and academic success. More than 100 attendees gathered at the event to honour the students and celebrate their outstanding accomplishments.
The event, held at the Greek Centre, was attended by a delegation from the GCM Board of Directors, who joined in acknowledging the accomplishments of the students.
Photos by: Astrini Kopeloudi-Wallace.
The evening began with welcoming remarks by Vicki Kyritsis, Assistant GCM Secretary, who set the tone for the proceedings as the event’s host.
GCM President Bill Papastergiadis OAM delivered a speech highlighting the significance of education in building a better future.
“Education has been the foundation upon which our community has built its growth, prosperity, and resilience. Since the establishment of our first school in the 1920s, the Greek Community of Melbourne has remained steadfast in its commitment to fostering a love of learning and preserving our rich cultural heritage,” Mr Papastergiadis said.
“From a modest beginning with one school and 160 students in the 1950s, we now proudly run Alphington Grammar and multiple campuses offering programs ranging from early learning to university collaborations. These achievements reflect the hard work and vision of those who came before us, ensuring that our young people not only excel academically, but also remain connected to their Hellenic roots.
“Our goal is to continue supporting future generations, inspiring them to embrace education as a pathway to leadership and global citizenship.”
The Consul General of Greece in Melbourne, Emmanuel Kakavelakis, also addressed the audience.
“Every year, the GCM organises this event, and I extend my congratulations to your children on their achievements. To the students, I would say: never stop your efforts. Stay connected to your culture and always visit your country. There is no contradiction between Greece and Australia. It is cool to be Greek! Make friends, celebrate your achievements together, and get to know every aspect of Greek culture because that is what it means to be Greek,” Mr Kakavelakis said.
“It is a great honor to be among such high achievers and students tonight. The GCM is the largest Greek community in the world. It is the best, and I say this from experience, having met many Greek communities. Yours is extraordinary, and I must add, the most active. We will continue to work closely with you to accomplish even more initiative,” Mr Chrysoulakis said.
Mr Chrysoulakis was accompanied to the event by His Eminence Metropolitan Myron of New Zealand.
The evening concluded with the presentation of awards to the high achievers, celebrating their excellence. As a surprise, the students were offered membership to the Greek Community, encouraging them to participate in its events and stay connected to their heritage.
Bentleigh MP Nick Staikos has been promoted to the Victorian ministries of Consumer Affairs and Local Government as part of a major cabinet reshuffle under Premier Jacinta Allan’s Labor government.
“I am looking forward to working hard in these important portfolio areas, as well as continuing as the Member for Bentleigh, which is the honour of my life,” Staikos said in a post on Facebook.
The reshuffle follows the departure of former Treasurer Tim Pallas, who announced his decision to leave politics after more than a decade managing the state’s finances. This prompted a series of appointments and role changes within the cabinet, with Jaclyn Symes becoming Victoria’s first female treasurer.
While much attention has been given to Symes’ historic appointment, Staikos’ elevation has also been noted as a key development. As Minister for Consumer Affairs and Local Government, Staikos will have the opportunity to play a vital role in supporting Victorian communities and ensuring fair consumer practices.
Other changes in the cabinet include Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny taking on the role of Attorney-General, while Police Minister Anthony Carbines assumes additional portfolios for Community Safety and Victims. Housing Minister Harriet Shing will oversee the Suburban Rail Loop alongside her existing responsibilities.
Danny Pearson’s portfolios of Assistant Treasurer, Suburban Rail Loop, and responsibility for WorkSafe and the TAC have been replaced by roles focused on Finance, Economic Growth, and Jobs.
Opposition Shadow Treasurer Brad Rowswell issued a statement congratulating Ms Symes on her new role but criticised the government’s economic track record, calling for an “urgent change of course” to address growing state debt.
Following hearings on 10 and 11 December 2024, The Honourable Justice Ashley Black upheld the appointment of voluntary administrators, dismissing claims from a creditor and secured lender who sought to overturn the decision.
The ruling, handed down on 18 December 2024, marks a significant moment for the organisation as it navigates its financial future.
A complex financial dispute
The Cyprus Community of NSW Ltd, a long-standing cultural organisation, was placed into voluntary administration on 16 September 2024, as the board cited concerns over its financial position. Facing significant debts, including a multimillion-dollar loan due in February 2025, the board argued that administration was necessary to prevent insolvency.
However, this decision was challenged by Cyprus Capital Ltd and its Directors Dr Con Costa and Dorothy Bassil, who had previously sought court injunctions that blocked the organisation from holding members’ meetings to approve property sales.
On 29 November 2024, Cyprus Capital director Dr Costa issued a media release announcing that legal action had been launched to challenge what he called the “improper” appointment of administrators to the organisation. The statement underscored the plaintiffs’ belief that the administration was unnecessary and claimed it was orchestrated to bypass proper member involvement in critical decisions, such as the future of the organisation’s valuable real estate assets.
The Cyprus Club at Stanmore in Sydney’s Inner West.
Central to the case was the organisation’s ownership of valuable real estate in Stanmore, including land with a potential redevelopment value of up to $75 million. Despite these assets, the organisation was unable to access the funds due to the injunctions and governance barriers that had been created. Without member approval, critical property sales or redevelopment could not proceed, leaving the organisation unable to address its financial shortfalls.
However, the administrators and directors countered that financial pressures, ongoing legal disputes, and governance challenges made administration the only viable option to ensure the organisation could meet its obligations.
Appointment of Receivers
In addition to the administrators, Cyprus Capital Ltd, one of the major creditors, appointed receivers from Olvera Advisors on 14 October 2024. This move transferred control of the community’s key assets, including the Cyprus Club and surrounding properties, to the receivers, who are tasked with selling the community’s property to repay a secured debt owed to Cyprus Capital Pty Ltd.
The appointment of both administrators and receivers has created a complex dynamic, with both parties managing the club’s assets simultaneously.
The appointment of both administrators and receivers has created a complex dynamic at the Cyprus Community of NSW.
Court decision and Implications
Following the court hearings this month, Justice Black ruled in favour of the administrators, finding that the board’s decision to appoint them was reasonable under the circumstances.
The court determined that while the organisation was not immediately insolvent, it was likely to become insolvent in early 2025 without urgent intervention. The ruling highlighted the organisation’s inability to sell or redevelop its properties due to the injunctions and the lack of member approval.
The court also rejected claims that the administrators’ appointment was made for improper purposes, instead recognising it as a responsible measure to stabilise the organisation’s finances.
With this decision, the administrators, Morgan Kelly and David Kennedy, can now continue their efforts to restructure the organisation and prepare a plan for its creditors and members.
Costs order
The court ordered that the plaintiffs, Dr Con Costa and Cyprus Capital Ltd, must pay the legal costs of the administrators and the Cyprus Community of NSW Ltd. This includes the costs of both the primary proceedings and the cross-claim.
The outcome means the Cyprus Community of NSW Ltd will remain under administration as it seeks to resolve its financial and governance challenges.
The Lefkadian Brotherhood of NSW held its annual Christmas lunch on Tuesday, December 17, at The Aegean 2.0 restaurant in the Bexley Golf Club.
The festive gathering brought together members and friends for an afternoon of good food, lively dancing and joyful celebrations.
Attendees enjoyed a delicious spread of traditional dishes, fostering a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
The lunch was enjoyed by everyone in attendance.
The dance floor came alive as guests shared in the festive spirit, creating memorable moments for all in attendance.
President Steve Orfanos extended heartfelt Christmas and New Year wishes to all members and friends of the Lefkadian Brotherhood, emphasising the importance of community and togetherness during the holiday season.
The event was a resounding success, with everyone leaving with smiles and cherished memories of a beautiful celebration.
The NSW Government has appointed four new Trustees, including Maria Vassiliadis, to the Responsible Gambling Fund Trust (RGF), tasked with advising on the funding of initiatives that prevent and reduce gambling harm.
The appointments were approved by Minister for Gaming and Racing David Harris following a merit-based selection process.
Minister Harris said,“The appointment of these highly qualified individuals ensures we have the right people with the right expertise to drive meaningful change for individuals and communities across NSW.”
“With their wealth of experience in governance, healthcare, policy and social impact, the new trustees will strengthen the Trust’s work and help deliver evidence-based solutions to minimise harm caused by gambling across the state,” he added.
Established in 1995 through a levy on casinos, the RGF plays a crucial role in directing funds to programs that promote safer gambling practices and supporting initiatives aligned with the Office of Responsible Gambling’s goal of working towards zero gambling harm in NSW.
RGF Trustees are appointed to provide expert advice to the Minister on the use of the fund for harm minimisation efforts, including research, community education, support services, and policy development. They also offer strategic guidance on gambling policy and regulation.
NSW Minister for Gaming and Racing David Harris.
The four new Trustees are:
Luke Lindsay has experience overseeing statewide gambling support services and community programs. His expertise in healthcare and mental health will benefit the RGF in its role funding support services in NSW.
Siobhan Toohill is an experienced leader and former Chief Sustainability Officer at Westpac, where she instigated the introduction of voluntary gambling blocks on credit cards. She has extensive experience in environmental, social and governance initiatives and will bring valuable insights to the RGF.
Maria Vassiliadis has a legal background with extensive experience as a senior government executive responsible for the development and implementation of policy and regulation. She has held senior roles with the eSafety Commissioner and the federal Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts, and brings subject matter expertise in gambling and online safety regulation and e-safety to the RGF.
Kara Lamond has a strong background in government and not-for-profits, specialising in policy development and reforms within the health and justice sectors. Committed to supporting disadvantaged communities, she will make a meaningful contribution to the RGF.
The four trustees replace the following outgoing trustees who have reached the end of their tenures: Dr Clive Allcock, Prof Paul Delfabbro, Elizabeth Lyne, and Prof Joel Negin.
The 11-member RGF Trust is chaired by Chris Bertinshaw and supported by the Office of Responsible Gambling.
For more information on its programs and initiatives, visit the GambleAware website: https://gambleaware.com.au
Pavlos, the son of former Greek King Constantine, is reportedly taking steps to regain Greek citizenship, but a key hurdle remains — the issue of a surname.
Under Greek law, applicants must provide a surname, but members of the former royal family, including Pavlos, have never had an official one.
Queen Anne-Marie of Greece, Crown Prince Pavlos of Greece and Marie-Chantal, Crown Princess of Greece at King Charles’ coronation. Photo: finance.yahoo.com
They can reapply under a 1994 law, provided they declare their intention to accept Greece’s republican constitution and renounce any claim to a royal title.
Pavlos would need to make this declaration before an Athens registrar and select a surname for official records in order to receive Greek citizenship.
Panathinaikos BC is in discussions to hold the 7th Pavlos Giannakopoulos Tournament in Australia, specifically in Melbourne and Sydney, two cities with large Greek communities.
The Greens are in advanced talks to be in Australia in September 2025, giving many Greeks the chance to see their team up close.
Initially, the tournament will be held in Melbourne in mid-September, alongside FK Partizan, on September 18.
It will then move to Sydney, where two Australian teams – reportedly the Sydney Kings and Melbourne United – will join to compete in the 7th Pavlos Giannakopoulos Tournament on September 21 – 22.
This is a significant move for Panathinaikos, bringing the club closer to the Greek diaspora.
All Saints Grammar at Belmore was not far behind, claiming 91st place. They dropped by five places from 86 in the 2023 HSC. School captain Vasileios Manis received a ‘First in Course’ Award for Modern Greek Extension.
St Euphemia College at Bankstown came in 148th place on the HSC school ranking list for 2024, up from 224th place in 2023. School student Mary Glekas secured the title of ‘First in Course’ for Modern Greek Continuers.
Amid a shake-up in the top ranks of the HSC schools leaderboard this year, North Sydney Boys High School pipped James Ruse Agricultural High School for the second year running.
