Karidis Corporation has threatened legal action over the $40 million Jetty Road upgrade in Glenelg, arguing that local businesses and the wider community have not been properly consulted.
At a public meeting on Thursday, April 3, Peter Karidis said that Karidis Corporation is not trying to “stop the process,” but they are here to “make sure that we as a community are consulted properly.”
The project, which began in January, involves removing over 60 car parks to install new footpaths, funded in part by a 2.3% special levy on ratepayers.
Concepts of the $3.6 million upgrade of the Jetty Road precinct at Glenelg. Photo: Holdfast Bay Council.
Despite the council claiming it held 11 community sessions and sent brochures to 20,000 homes, business owners including Karidis and Andrew Taplin insist communication has been inadequate.
Holdfast Bay Mayor Amanda Wilson maintains the council’s process has been lawful and well-engaged: “There’s been no threats of any action because nothing that we’ve done has been unlawful.”
A 2024 survey found 92% of locals opposed the redevelopment. The upgrade is expected to be completed by 2027.
The family of Paul Grapsas, a 40-year-old father from Geelong fatally stabbed in 2023, has come face-to-face with his killer, Bailey Clifford, during an emotional pre-sentence hearing in the Supreme Court.
Clifford, now 20, has pleaded guilty to manslaughter, avoiding a murder trial. He stabbed Mr Grapsas seven times with a fishing knife after being caught breaking into the victim’s car late at night on Western Beach Road. Clifford was 18 at the time.
According to ABC News, the victim’s wife, Jessica Grapsas — pregnant with their third child at the time of the attack — gave a moving statement in court, confronting Clifford directly.
“Your crimes, Bailey Clifford, have ripped me in half,” she said, adding: “Paul’s precious life was taken and mine was shattered, to never again be the same.”
She described the devastation of losing her husband of 23 years, the trauma of discovering his lifeless body, and the toll of raising their three children without him.
The late Paul Grapsas with his wife Jessica.
“They need their father, I need their father,” she told the court. “Where is Paul’s fair trial? I am broken, I have lost my faith and trust in justice.”
Despite her pain, Ms Grapsas told the court she would forgive Clifford: “Nothing, not justice nor revenge, can reverse the wrong that you have done and what you have taken away from me.”
Clifford also addressed the court, reading from a letter and offering a rare personal apology: “I’d like to take this opportunity to apologise. I’m truly sorry for what I’ve done and what I’ve caused you all.”
His barrister, Moya O’Brien, said Clifford’s life deteriorated after a traumatic brain injury from a serious car crash, which led to drug use and a string of petty crimes. She argued that the fatal encounter was “reactive” and occurred in the dark.
Mr Grapsas was remembered as a kind-hearted family man, churchgoer and lover of fishing, footy, and video games. Videos shown in court depicted him joyfully playing with his children and his kids visiting his grave to sing him happy birthday.
Clifford now faces up to 25 years in prison. Justice Rita Incerti will deliver sentencing at a later date.
Appearing at the NSW Coroner’s Court, Chrysanthou represented the families of victims Dawn Singleton, Ashlee Good and Jade Young.
Chrysanthou made clear that while she was acting for members of the Singleton family, she was not representing Dawn’s father, businessman John Singleton — whose controversial comments have exposed internal family tensions.
Mr Singleton publicly criticised the inquest during a 60 Minutes interview on Sunday night, saying: “He kills these people, he gets killed. End of story.” He questioned the need for a month-long inquiry, claiming lawyers would “have a ball” and likening it to “the first five minutes of Taxi Driver.”
In court, Chrysanthou called the broadcast “insensitive and highly inaccurate,” though she did not specify which claims were disputed.
John Singleton (left) publicly criticised the inquest into the stabbings and his daughter’s (right) death during a 60 Minutes interview on Sunday night.
According to The Sydney Morning Herald, Chrysanthou emphasised that the families she represented “wholly support the inquest” and want answers that might help prevent future tragedies.
“From their perspective, their lives have been changed in a way that none of us can really comprehend not being in their situation,” she said.
“Children’s lives have been altered by what occurred. It’s important for them to understand if anything else could have been done, or any recommendations could be made by you to ensure if this happens again it won’t be as impactful on the family as it has been.”
State Coroner Teresa O’Sullivan acknowledged the grief of the families and noted the upcoming anniversary would be a particularly difficult time. She confirmed that sensitive CCTV and body-cam footage would not be shown during proceedings.
The inquest, beginning 28 April, will explore several issues including systemic failings in mental health care.
The attacker, Joel Cauchi, had a long history of schizophrenia and was known to Queensland’s mental health services before becoming homeless and ultimately launching his fatal knife attack in April 2024. He was shot dead by NSW Police Inspector Amy Scott, who confronted him alone in the shopping centre.
Councillor Katerine Theodosis has today called on fellow Merri-Bek Councillors to save Sparta’s Sister City Status ahead of a vote this Wednesday, 9 April 2025.
Merri-Bek Council has recently reviewed its Sister City relationships and council officers have recommended ending Merri-Bek’s long standing relationship with Sparta, Greece.
This is despite Merri-Bek being home to thousands of Greek migrants who have called Merri-Bek home for generations, and the city having its very own “Sparta Place” off Sydney Rd in Brunswick.
Far from simply symbolic, the Sister City Status supports local community groups to host international events and programs, maintain important cultural connections and cement Melbourne’s status as an international city.
Cr Theodosis said, “Merri-Bek has been a Sister City of Sparta for nearly 40 years, and is home to a proud and thriving Greek community.”
“Whilst our city has changed a lot over the years, the presence and contributions of our Greek Australian community remains strong,” she added.
“Ending this partnership would jeopardise important cultural, economic and historical ties between our two proud communities.”
President of the Pallaconian Brotherhood of Victoria, Chris Paikopoulos said “the relationship between our cities arose from the Australian Diggers who, after being protected by Spartans during WWII, sponsored Spartans to move to Australia and make Melbourne their home.”
“It costs council zero to have this relationship, but to us as Greek Australians it means a lot. It allows us to host a range of events and activities for Greek Australians and the broader community here in Merri-Bek,” Mr Paikopoulos said.
Merri-Bek Council will vote on whether to accept the Council Officer’s recommendation to end the Sister City partnership at their Wednesday meeting.
Doctors Without Borders (MSF) has reported the first cases of acute child malnutrition in the Zervos migrant camp on the Greek island of Samos, prompting fresh concerns over conditions at the facility.
According to Al Jazeera, MSF doctors diagnosed six children from Syria and Afghanistan — aged between six months and six years — with acute malnutrition requiring immediate medical attention.
Though MSF could not conclusively link the children’s condition to life in the camp, it warned that poor nutrition and limited healthcare posed serious risks to vulnerable residents.
“No child should suffer from malnutrition due to systemic neglect,” Christina Psarra, director general of MSF Greece, said. She stressed that children account for roughly a quarter of the camp’s population.
Greece’s Ministry of Migration and Asylum rejected the suggestion of a wider issue, claiming the cases were isolated.
“Under no circumstances is there generalised malnutrition due to living conditions,” the ministry stated, noting that asylum seekers are provided with three meals a day.
Οι Γιατροί Χωρίς Σύνορα διάγνωσαν και ανέφεραν 6 κρούσματα υποσιτισμού μεταξύ των παιδιών στην Κλειστή Ελεγχόμενη Δομή (ΚΕΔ) της Σάμου. Τα παιδιά ηλικίας έξι μηνών έως έξι ετών διαγνώστηκαν με σοβαρό ή μέτριο οξύ υποσιτισμό – περιπτώσεις που απαιτούν άμεση ιατρική παρέμβαση.
The Samos facility, which opened in 2021 with EU funding, was intended to replace the overcrowded and unsanitary Vathy camp. Surrounded by barbed wire and operating as a high-security centre, it has been heavily criticised in the past.
Amnesty International previously described conditions there as “inhumane and degrading”, citing issues such as water shortages and lack of essential services during peak overcrowding.
MSF has urged both Greek authorities and the European Union to take swift action, including restoring financial support for asylum seekers — which was cut off in June — and providing appropriate paediatric care and nutrition services.
Greece remains a key entry point for migrants arriving in Europe. In 2024, nearly one-third of those travelling from the Middle East and Africa to southern Europe landed in the country, according to the United Nations.
Dimitris Vounatsos, the former PASOK MP and a well-known figure in Lesvos and national politics, has died at the age of 82.
He passed away on Monday, April 7 at the Vostaneio Hospital in Mytilene, where he had been receiving treatment for a month following a stroke. Neurosurgery had been performed on him about a month prior.
Recognised across Greece for his distinctive personality and public presence, Vounatsos became widely known beyond the island of Lesvos, which he loved deeply and served passionately. He was a committed supporter of PASOK and its founder, Andreas Papandreou, whom he “adored.”
Born in Plomari, southern Lesvos, he was the son of the respected lawyer and politician Fokion Vounatsos, a participant in the National Resistance and former MP for the Centre Union. The elder Vounatsos also served as mayor of Plomari.
Dimitris Vounatsos, the former PASOK MP and a well-known figure in Lesvos.
Vounatsos followed in his father’s footsteps, becoming a lawyer himself. He was married to Myrsini Kountouri.
He studied law in Thessaloniki, where he became involved in student unionism. He held prominent roles, including president of the Law School’s Student Association and chair of the local branch of the National Union of Students of Greece (EFEE).
Vounatsos was first elected as MP for Lesvos in 1981 and was re-elected until 1993. He later returned to his legal practice but remained active in public life. In 1998, he was elected Prefect of Lesvos with the support of PASOK and DIKKI. In 2010, he was elected mayor of the newly unified Municipality of Lesvos, winning 57.80% of the vote.
His death was announced by Lesvos-based journalist Varvara Gigilini.
The formalities included the presentation of seven “1821 Scholarships” (the brainchild of Harry Mavrolefteros). The purpose of the scholarships is to encourage students to take up Greek.
The scholarships were presented by Louise Alfieris in memory of the late Emmanuel Alfieris, Maria and Keira Alexandrou on behalf of the Alexandrou family, Louisa Melas on behalf of the Daughters of Penelope, Mary Nagle on behalf of O’Connell Solicitors, Fiona Douskou, Dr. Ivan Valiozis and Virginia Valiozis, and Harry Mavrolefteros on behalf of First Education.
The scholarship recipients were Andoni Papadokokolakis, Carolyn Makridopolus, Harry Mavrolefteros, Katherine Mavrolefteros, Peter John Papanikolaou, Socrates Sioulas and Vicki Synesios. The selection committee was composed of Dimitris Kametopoulos, Stella Sorotou and Katerina Vetsikas.
The Foundation’s President, Costa Vertzayias spoke about the difficulties confronting the teaching of Greek and languages in general due to changes in government and university policies and that the maintenance and support for Greek involves all of us and should be the Community’s highest priority.
Elle Tamvakolos, Hellsoc UNSW President, spoke from the heart admitting how thrilled she was to discover Hellsoc and Greek at UNSW and this led to a re-awakening of interest in her roots.
During the night, a fabulous work of art (Sun offering / Gulf of Patraikos) by renowned artist Christina Tsaou (Tsaousoglou) was donated by the artist for auction with all the proceeds going to the Foundation. The successful bidder was Katerina Vetsikas, President of the Pan-Achaian Association of NSW, who also announced that the Bi-Lingual Bookshop will be opening up at Kogarah.
Amongst the guests were the presidents or office bearers of many associations including AHEPA NSW, Hellenic Lyceum of Sydney, Pan-Thessalian, Pan-Arcadian, Pan-Achaian, Hassion, Elasona and Hellsoc NSW.
Attendees at the event.
Donations were received from Angelo Hatsatouris (a longstanding trustee of the Foundation) worth $1,000 and $500 from each of the Hassion and Elasona Associations.
After the drawing of the raffle (with some wonderful prizes donated by Sam and Christina Tsatsoulis, Bowerhaus Jewellery, First Education, NAPF Electronics, Thai by the Beach Restaurant, Bi-Lingual Bookshop and others) guests danced the night away to the sounds of DJ Philippe.
Paul Nicolaou, tireless community worker and business leader, handled the difficult task of being the evening’s MC with considerable ease.
The Pan-Macedonian Association of NSW held a moving commemoration at the ANZAC Memorial in Hyde Park on Sunday, April 6, honouring the Battle of Vevi (April 1941) and the joint sacrifices of Greek and ANZAC forces during WWII.
Emceed by Themis Kallos, the ceremony brought together community leaders, dignitaries, and descendants of veterans to pay tribute to a pivotal yet often overlooked chapter of wartime history.
The formal proceedings began with the recital of The Ode and the Last Post, followed by renditions of the Australian and Greek national anthems.
Anastasia Karakominakis, President of the Pan-Macedonian Association of NSW, welcomed guests and reflected on the enduring friendship between Australia and Greece.
The recital of The Ode and the Last Post.
Anastasia Karakominakis, President of the Pan-Macedonian Association of NSW.
“The courage and sacrifice displayed by both Greek and Australian troops forced a bond that continues to be honoured and remembered to this day. We commemorate the Battle of Vevi not only as a moment of national resilience and sacrifice for Greece, but also as a powerful symbol of Hellenic Australian friendship, a bond born in battle and carried forth in peace,” Mrs Karakominakis said.
Ioannis Mallikourtis, Consul General of Greece in Sydney, reflected on the deep-rooted military history linking the two nations.
“This battle was not the first time Australians found themselves in Macedonia fighting alongside their Greek allies… but it was the first major engagement on Greek soil in WWII where Anzacs, British and Greek soldiers stood together in defiance of overwhelming odds,” Mr Mallikourtis said.
He also acknowledged the ongoing work of community organisations like the Pan-Macedonian Association in preserving and promoting these stories for future generations.
Renowned historian and author Jim Claven OAM delivered the keynote address, shedding light on the Battle of Vevi as a moment of exceptional courage and cooperation between Australian and Greek troops. Drawing on archival material and personal fieldwork in the region, Claven described the harsh conditions, fierce resistance, and historical significance of the battle, noting it was “a story of courage and defiance that should be better known… a critical moment of Anzac and Greek unity in the face of overwhelming odds.”
At the conclusion of the lecture, Mrs Karakominakis presented both Mr Claven and Mr Kallos with gifts as a token of appreciation for their ongoing support and dedication to preserving this shared wartime history.
The ceremony brought together community leaders, dignitaries, and descendants of veterans. All photos copyright The Greek Herald.
The ceremony then continued upstairs with prayers led by His Grace Bishop Iakovos of Miletoupolis and a symbolic Star Ceremony conducted by James Grey, followed by a solemn Wreath Laying Ceremony. It was during this final portion of the commemoration that His Grace offered his official address, representing the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia with a spiritual reflection on sacrifice and legacy.
The day concluded with refreshments, offering guests a chance to reflect, connect, and continue discussions about this shared chapter in Hellenic and Australian history.
Dr Alexandra Theodoropoulou, the Consul General of Greece in Adelaide, visited Darwin last week, where she was warmly welcomed at Charles Darwin University (CDU) by university and community leaders, including Vice-Chancellor Professor Scott Bowman, Pro Vice-Chancellor Professor Ruth Wallace, and Associate Professor George Frazis, Coordinator of Greek and Hellenic Studies at CDU.
During her visit, Dr Theodoropoulou delivered the Annual Aristotle Oration, titled “First Greeks, First Nations: A Sacred Bond with Nature.”
In her speech, she discussed the universal principles of Hellenic civilisation, drawing insightful parallels between the philosophies of Ancient Greece and the Indigenous Australian spiritual connection to nature.
Additionally, Dr Theodoropoulou presented Certificates of Attainment in Greek Language to four students for their achievements in Hellenic Studies:
Irene Koulianos (Level A1)
Artemios Skandaliaris (Level B1)
Evdokia Louloudia (Level B1)
Matthew Giakoumatos (Level B1)
While in Darwin, Dr Theodoropoulou also met with representatives from local Greek associations, clubs, and churches, including St Nicholas and St Savvas of Kalymnos.
She engaged with students, teachers, and the broader Greek community to learn more about their character, needs, and contributions.
The election commitment comprises $4 million towards the construction of a state-of-the-art Cultural and Language Enrichment Centre, next to St Anargiri Greek Orthodox Church, and $500,000 towards additional works on the site.
The centre will become a vital community and cultural hub, helping to preserve Greek heritage and bring people together.
(L-R) Clare O’Neil MP, Federal Member for Hotham, Rev Fr. Stavros Kakavas, and Julian Hill MP, Federal Member for Bruce.
The Federal Electorate of Hotham, especially the Oakleigh area, is renowned as the cultural heart of Melbourne’s Greek community and home to over 14,000 Greek Australians.
This vibrant, multi-generational community regularly hosts the city’s cultural events, including Easter services and the Oakleigh Glendi outdoor festival. However, it lacks a dedicated space for community gatherings, socialising and celebrating traditions.
There is a need for a community cultural hub, as seniors seek social support in their Greek language and youth groups, dancers and language school classes lack a consistent, sheltered, central space for their activities. Additionally, domestic and international visitors and exhibitions are often turned away due to the lack of available space.
This investment from the Albanese Labor Government will bring long-term benefits to the wider community, reflecting its dedication to, and appreciation of, Australia’s multicultural heritage and the people who enrich Australia.
Consistent with past practice, election commitments will be delivered in line with Commonwealth Grants Rules and Principles.
Clare O’Neil MP, Federal Member for Hotham, said, “The Culture and Language Enrichment Centre will reflect the rich Greek heritage that thrives in our south-east Melbourne community – and beyond – creating a vibrant, multi-purpose hub in Hotham.”
Clare O’Neil MP, Federal Member for Hotham, and Julian Hill MP, Federal Member for Bruce, visited St Anargiri church today.
“It will celebrate Greek Australian culture which enriches this country so much, strengthen community bonds across generations and serve as a cultural centrepiece for both Hotham and the broader city,” O’Neil added.
“Oakleigh is the heart of Melbourne’s Greek community, where I consistently see both young and older generations coming together to celebrate culture and traditions. However, there’s a real need for a dedicated space to support these activities.
“This election commitment from the Albanese Labor Government will provide a central hub that serves everyone and helps tackle isolation.
“I couldn’t be prouder to be in a position to deliver this critical cultural facility, creating a home for this wonderful community that has always been so hospitable and welcoming to others.”
Julian Hill MP, Federal Member for Bruce, said, “Growing up in Melbourne it was just a fact of life that you couldn’t play with your Greek friends some weekends because they were at Greek school. So many young Australian Greek kids have spent weeknights, weekend mornings or afternoons at language school, learning their family’s language and culture and making Australia a better, richer country in the process.”
“South-east Melbourne wouldn’t be the same without the contribution of Melbourne’s Greek community,” Mr Hill added.
