In a new episode of the acclaimed The Louis Theroux Podcast, Nick Kyrgios shared his unfiltered thoughts on a range of conspiracies.
The discussion took an intriguing turn when Theroux prompted Kyrgios to consider who built the pyramids of Egypt.
“No, I don’t [think so]. Impossible,” Kyrgios responded emphatically. “That’s insanity. The fact that, how is that possible they [Egyptians] got every measurement correct, and they’re all aligned. And ‘they did it with rolling large stones on logs’ is an insane statement. Why are the doors so big? Like who needs to walk through the doors if they’re that big?”
“I don’t know who it was. I just don’t think that we were capable. It’s 2024, and we can’t even all get along. And you think that we built the pyramids? You’re insane. That’s insanity stuff,” he added.
Photo: The Louis Theroux Podcast.
Kyrgios, who was a finalist at Wimbledon in 2022, was further pressed on other unconventional subjects.
When asked about the moon landing, he remarked, “I have my thoughts on it. I just think it was interesting the Americans did it first because they had not one successful rocket that ever took off and then all of a sudden they were on the moon. You can read about it.”
The conversation even ventured into the shape of the Earth. “I’d probably be inclined to saying it’s round,” he said, “but I’m also not surprised if it was the other thing either. Maybe we need to have a beer and have this off-record.”
However, the dialogue between Theroux and Kyrgios delved much deeper than just conspiratorial musings. The pair candidly discussed the 29-year-old tennis player’s ongoing battle with mental health issues and his desire to retire in a manner that differs from the likes of Andy Murray and Rafael Nadal.
Kyrgios also addressed the criticism he has faced regarding his perceived underachievement in the sport, revealing the complexities behind his public persona.
Acting Lord Mayor Nick Reece is in a tight race with AFL legend Anthony Koutoufides for Melbourne Lord Mayor, according to early results from Victoria’s recent local government elections.
This comes as candidate Arron Wood bowed out of the race, declaring he will not run again after suffering two election defeats in a row.
Reece is currently leading with 24.3 per cent of the vote after 63,000 ballots have been counted. However, Koutoufides, who has secured 13.8 per cent, may still emerge victorious in the final stages as preference votes are distributed.
The race between Reece and Koutoufides is tight.
Koutoufides continues to pose the most significant challenge to Reece, with the former Carlton player likely to gain from the Liberals’ impressive performance, having placed Team Kouta ahead of Team Reece on their how-to-vote cards.
“We are pleased that our primary vote is well ahead of any others in a Melbourne Cup field of candidates… However, this race will come down to preferences. There is still a long way to go,” a Team Reece spokesman told Herald Sun.
A Team Kouta spokesman said it was “encouraged by the early results.”
“But it’s still the first quarter and there’s lots to play out,” he similarly added.
The official result is set to be announced by the VEC on November 7.
Beloved South Australian restaurant Zante Greek Street Food has officially closed after six years of serving delicious Greek cuisine.
Known for its classic offerings such as souvlaki, spanakopita, and loukoumades doughnuts, the eatery became a local favourite on Henley Beach Road during its time in business.
Sunday, October 27, marked the final day of trading for the restaurant. In a heartfelt message on Facebook, the owners expressed their gratitude to loyal customers for their support throughout the years.
“Today marks our final day, and as we close this chapter when we sold the business, we want to extend our deepest gratitude to each of you for the love, support, and unforgettable memories,” they said.
“Serving you has been an absolute joy, and we’re so grateful for the community that’s embraced us with open arms.
“We hope you’ll continue to support the new business that will carry forward in this space. Though we may not be here, we’ll always be around and part of this community.”
The reason behind the establishment’s closure remains unknown.
Jake Anastas, 29, has been identified as the third pilot killed in a mid-air plane crash in Sydney’s south-west on Saturday, October 26.
Mr Anastas was completing his commercial pilot’s licence training when the crash happened around Belimbla Park near Oakdale on Saturday.
The 29-year-old’s wife Tori told 9NEWS Mr Anastas was a “remarkable husband” who “had a tremendous impact on everyone in his life.”
The aircraft crashed in bushland near Oakdale after colliding midair. Photo: ABC News.
“He was my best friend and my world. He loved flying and made everything brighter, he always made me feel like I could soar with him,” she said.
Mr Anastas was one of three men who died when two light planes collided and crashed into bushland before midday on Saturday. The other two men who died were off-duty Qantas captain Gary Criddle, 72, who was instructing Mr Anastas, and Khadervali Gagguturu, 60, who was the pilot in the second aircraft.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau is investigating the crash.
A recent report by the Greek Office of Economic and Commercial Affairs in Sydney has highlighted Australia’s potential investment interest in Greece, underlining the strong economic relations between the two nations.
Over the past seven years, trade in goods and services has tripled, while inward investment has demonstrated a steady upward trend. Greece notably maintains a trade surplus, primarily exporting food and pharmaceuticals, while Australia imports minerals, energy, and agri-food products.
This cooperation is further enhanced by significant investments in energy, renewable energy, real estate, tourism, and shipping, alongside approximately 300,000 Australian tourists visiting Greece annually. The robust Greek Australian community plays a crucial role as a stable foundation, acting as a “bridge” for economic collaboration.
There has been significant investment in tourism. Photo: CNBC
Traditionally, Greece has shown a surplus in its trade balance with Australia. Although there was a slight decline in this surplus in 2023, the volume of trade in goods and services continued to rise. The services sector’s contribution to the overall trade volume is substantial, with a ratio of approximately 1:5—€266 million in goods compared to €1.2 billion in services by 2023. Both sectors display positive dynamics and strong surpluses.
In 2023, the total volume of bilateral trade in goods and services reached €1.46 billion, reflecting a 4.5% increase. Exports accounted for €1.36 billion, while imports totalled €103 million. Greece ranks as the 55th largest supplier to Australia, providing products worth €210 million. The services balance remains traditionally positive, with tourism and shipping serving as the main revenue sources.
According to the latest Eurostat data, the most significant contribution to Greece’s receipts from Australia comes from transport services, which constituted 57.1% of total revenues in 2023, generating €667 million. Maritime freight transport is the primary focus within this category. Tourism is another vital area, with Greece earning €483 million from Australian tourists in 2023—a remarkable 201.7% increase compared to the previous year, accounting for 41.4% of total receipts. Notably, Australian tourists have the highest average expenditure per capita, significantly exceeding that of other foreign visitors, highlighting the importance of this market.
Several major Australian companies are actively investing in Greece, including Macquarie (energy and infrastructure), ResMed (medical equipment), CSL Limited (pharmaceuticals), and Kourispower (hydropower). Noteworthy is Macquarie’s investment of AUD 3.4 billion (€2.1 billion) in Greece’s electricity network in September 2021, marking the most extensive privatisation in the country’s history. The firm also announced plans to invest AUD 2.44 billion (€1.5 billion) in renewable energy projects, telecommunications, and electrification.
Furthermore, an Australian investment has been completed for the construction of luxury tourist complexes in Folegandros, valued at €20 million, while a strategic investment in a large tourist complex in Ithaca is currently underway, with an initial budget of €650 million.
On the flip side, the most significant Greek investment in Australia comes from Metlen Energy & Metals (formerly MYTILINEOS Energy & Metals), which operates six photovoltaic parks with a total capacity of 530 MW. However, in mid-July, the company announced plans to sell its portfolio as part of its Asset Rotation Plan, highlighting Australia’s appeal for green energy investments.
The report identifies several sectors in which Greece presents attractive opportunities for Australian investors. The real estate industry, for instance, is thriving in Australia, enabling investors to assess international opportunities while managing specific investment nuances. This sector is particularly appealing for mid-cap investments, serving as an attractive entry point for cautious investors.
Moreover, Australia’s extensive experience in managing large-scale product distribution networks suggests that logistics infrastructure presents a viable opportunity for international companies considering operations in Greece. The transport sector also holds promise, as Australia’s geographical vastness has led to effective practices in combined transport, which could be beneficial in linking to international networks.
Enhancing the aviation sector between Australia and Greece is crucial, focusing on maximising existing frameworks, expanding investment opportunities, and fostering regulatory cooperation in aviation.
In terms of energy, Australia’s abundant resources, particularly in critical raw materials, underscore the need for policies to encourage Greek investments in this sector. Collaboration through existing multilateral energy forums can promote competitiveness and the exchange of best practices while supporting the development of sustainable energy production and storage technologies.
The financial sector remains a top priority for Australian investors, driven by a compulsory superannuation system that has positioned the Australian economy as a significant source of international investment funds, ranking fifth globally with AUD 4.5 trillion. This system facilitates close ties with Asian markets, such as China and Singapore, potentially allowing Greece to benefit from investments directed toward equities, real estate and infrastructure.
Australia and Greece have recently made significant strides in modernising their defense capabilities with the UH-60M Black Hawk helicopter.
These procurements aim to replace ageing fleets and strengthen each country’s armed forces, signaling a new era of aviation capability for both nations.
Sikorsky and the Australian Department of Defence (DoD) have provided updates on the progress of UH-60M Black Hawk procurement and fleet integration.
In Australia, the Army is moving forward with the helicopter’s induction, with several training exercises already in progress, including first-of-class flight trials. The fleet has already accumulated over 1,400 flight hours, supporting the Black Hawk’s gradual integration. According to the DoD, Australia expects to achieve initial operational capability in the coming months.
Since August 2023, ten Black Hawks have been delivered, with an additional two expected by November 2024, and the remaining 40 scheduled for delivery by 2030.
An ADF demonstration of the Australian Army’s new UH-60M Black Hawk helicopter on Tuesday. Picture: Liam Mendes / The Australian.
Greece, meanwhile, has formalised its acquisition of 35 UH-60M Black Hawks, complementing its MH-60R and S-70B helicopter fleets. The Hellenic Navy is set to enhance its operational capabilities through the deployment of these versatile aircraft, known for their multi-mission flexibility.
Sikorsky’s VP of Army and Air Force Systems, Hamid Salim, expressed appreciation for Greece’s long-standing trust in Sikorsky helicopters, emphasising the strategic value of an integrated “Hawk family” fleet for national security and humanitarian operations.
Both Australia and Greece’s Black Hawk orders aim to replace older helicopter models: Australia’s Taipan MRH-90s and Greece’s Bell UH-1s.
Recently, Sikorsky also received a US$1.2 billion contract modification to support Foreign Military Sales, which includes commitments to Australia, Greece, and several other nations. This work is set to conclude by December 2027 at Sikorsky’s facility in Stratford, Connecticut.
German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier began a three-day state visit to Greece on Tuesday, October 29, during which he visited the site of a Holocaust museum under construction in Thessaloniki.
Located near an old railway station, the site holds deep historical significance, as it was from here that tens of thousands of Jews were transported to Nazi concentration camps during Germany’s occupation of Greece in World War II. Tragically, over 90% of the vibrant Jewish community that once thrived in the region perished in these camps.
“What was done to the Jewish people here remains an enduring memory – a mark that cannot be erased. And today, we stand at the very place where this horror unfolded, here at the old railway station,” Steinmeier stated after a ceremony where he met with leaders of the Jewish community and relatives of Holocaust survivors.
Accompanying him was Greek President Katerina Sakellaropoulou, who recently visited the Auschwitz-Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp, which was located in occupied Poland during WWII.
Photo: ANA-MPA.
The museum’s construction, funded by the German government, Greek municipal authorities, and private donors, commenced earlier this year and is anticipated to take approximately two years to complete.
“It will not only be a place of remembrance for the millions of victims, but a tribute – a bright symbol against racism and anti-Semitism – serving as a constant reminder of the importance of humanity, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence,” David Saltiel, head of Greece’s Central Jewish Council, remarked.
Designed by architects Efrat-Kowalsky from Israel, Heide & von Beckerath from Germany, and Makridis Associates from Greece, the octagon-shaped museum aims to provide a poignant space for reflection and education.
Following his visit to Thessaloniki, Steinmeier will continue to Athens and then travel to the island of Crete, where he plans to visit a village that was destroyed by German forces during World War II.
Making a very good appearance, Stefanos Tsitsipas (No. 11) prevailed with a 2-0 set (6-3, 6-4) against Alejandro Tabilo (No. 22), thus easily qualifying for the “16” of the Paris Masters.
The leading Greek tennis player will face in the next round the 26-year-old Argentine, Francisco Cerundolo, number 29 in the world ranking, who eliminated Andrey Rublev after a tough battle (7-6, 7-6).
In the first set, the Greek champion managed to get into an advantageous position after the break he scored for 5-3, while afterwards he did not feel threatened by Tabilo.
In the second set, Tsitsipas turned up the pace in the final stretch and took the last three games, writing 6-4 and 2-0 in the sets.
Tsitsipas will face Cerundolo on Thursday, October 31 for qualification to the quarterfinals.
The Kytherian Association of Australia (KAA) held its ‘Back to our Roots’ initiative in the New England region of New South Wales over three fun-filled days from Friday, October 25 to Sunday, October 27.
The event saw more than 70 people travelling from Melbourne, Wollongong, Sydney, Newcastle, Port Macquarie, Brisbane and towns within the New England area to join the KAA in Armidale and Tamworth.
The weekend began on Friday, October 25 with the ‘Meet and Greet’ evening at the Whitebull Hotel where more than 50 people gathered to meet friends and relatives that they had not seen for more than ten years.
Those present also celebrated the 75th birthday of Sylvia Allegos whose father, Theodore Tambakis, operated the Golden Bell Cafe in Tamworth with his brothers. Through conversations with Paul Summers (Kalokerinos), Sylvia and her brother Nick discovered their fathers knew each other and at one point, Theodore worked in Paul’s father’s cafe. Koula Tzannes was instrumental to organising the evening.
At midday on Saturday, October 26, 48 people gathered for a walking tour of Beardy Street led by Emmanuel Calligeros. People learnt where many Greek shops used to be, and heard childhood stories from many who had grown up in Armidale.
The remainder of the afternoon was free time with several of those born in Armidale, driving past their family homes and also visiting Armidale Railway Station then Great Hops Brewery for a late lunch.
On Saturday night, more than 70 people gathered at the Servies Club for a dinner dance where the conversation flowed, more connections were made, and the 70th birthday of Emmanuel Calligeros was celebrated. The Kytherian World Heritage Fund gifted a book to everyone that attended. Jim Dedes played a significant role in organising the event and music for the night.
Dedes siblings.Tzannes family.
People travelled to St Demetrios church in Tamworth on Sunday, October 27, where a memorial was held for those whose relatives from the New England area had passed away. Father Edward Ward conducted the service and acknowledged the efforts of both the President of the KAA, Barbara Zantiotis and the President of St Demetrios Church, John Kalokerinos with the gift of an icon.
After church, more than 60 people visited the Longyard Hotel for lunch before some headed home and others chose to stay in the area to meet with friends and relatives. Kathy Calokerinos greatly assisted with organising this event.
The weekend was a great success. People learnt more about Kytherian ties to the region, made new friends, found relatives they didn’t know about and did so with plenty of fun and laughter.
The Greek Orthodox Community of New South Wales (GOCNSW) held a grand celebration on Monday, October 28 at 7pm, marking the 84th anniversary of OXI Day at the Greek Community Club in Lakemba.
The event was attended by numerous dignitaries including the Consul General of Greece in Sydney, Ioannis Mallikourtis; the NSW Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government, Emergency Services, and Youth Justice, Jihad Dib MP; the NSW Minister for Industrial Relations, Work Health and Safety, Sophie Cotsis MP; the President of the GOCNSW, Harry Danalis; and numerous mayors, councillors, and representatives from various Greek and Cypriot associations.
Students from the GOCNSW Saturday Schools at Clemton Park and Connells Point performed the national anthems of Australia and Greece, followed by a minute’s silence in honour of those who gave their lives for Greece.
Following this, Mr Danalis spoke about the significance of OXI Day for Hellenism and humanity. Additional addresses were given by the Consul General, Mr Dib, and Ms Cotsis.
Ioannis Mallikourtis.Harry Danalis.Sophie Cotsis MP.Jihad Dib MP.
Students from the Clemton Park and Connells Point afternoon schools also gave poetry recitations. Alexandra Kyriakou from Clemton Park recited the poem I Do Not Fear Them, Vasiliki Gesoura from Connells Point recited Freedom, Ismene Tsiota from Connells Point recited The No of ‘40, Argyro Asargiotis from Clemton Park recited Hope, and Eleni Petrakis from Clemton Park recited Victory Shout.
The event concluded with a traditional dance performance by the GOCNSW dancers, under the guidance of dance instructor Paroula Thurban.
The evening’s Master of Ceremonies was Artemis Theodoris, Board Member of the GOCNSW. The event concluded with a selection of refreshments and drinks offered to the attendees.
