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Celebrating excellence in Modern Greek Studies at the University of Sydney

Andriana Simos
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Celebrating excellence in Modern Greek Studies at the University of Sydney

The University of Sydney’s (USYD) School of Languages and Cultures held its annual Awards Ceremony on Thursday, April 3 at the Holme Building, in a proud celebration of academic achievement across language disciplines.

Among the standout moments of the event was the recognition of outstanding students in Modern Greek and Byzantine Studies, a program that continues to enrich Greek language and culture education in Australia.

The ceremony was honoured by the presence of Ioannis Mallikourtis, Consul General of Greece in Sydney, who warmly congratulated the recipients of this year’s awards and commended the ongoing efforts to preserve and promote Hellenic heritage through academic excellence.

Award highlights in Modern Greek and Byzantine Studies

On the night, a range of prestigious prizes were presented to students excelling in Greek studies:

  • Maria Kakali was a standout recipient, taking home two major honours: Order of the Australian Hellenic Education Progressive Association (AHEPA) Scholarship in Modern Greek; and The Politis Family Scholarship in Modern Greek and/or Byzantine Studies.
  • Gabriella Michalopoulos was awarded the Modern Greek Studies Foundation Prize in Modern Greek Studies 1.
  • Zijun Tang received both the Robert William Henderson Memorial Prize and the Modern Greek Studies Foundation Prize in Modern Greek Studies 2.
  • Stavroula Nterzoti received the Modern Greek Studies Foundation Prize in Modern Greek Studies 3.
  • Anargyros Kallos earned the Sydney University Greek Society (SUGS) Prize for Modern Greek and Byzantine Studies.
  • Savvina-Elisavet Turner was awarded the Zarax Prize, recognising the best senior essay in Modern Greek and Byzantine Studies.

Each award represents not only academic merit but also a commitment to preserving Hellenic language, identity, and inquiry.

These prizes are made possible through generous donations from benefactors and associations such as AHEPA NSW, the Modern Greek Studies Foundation, and the Politis family—along with active support from the Sydney University Greek Society (SUGS).

The enduring success of the Modern Greek and Byzantine Studies program at the University of Sydney is largely credited to its devoted academic leaders, Professors Vrasidas Karalis and Anthony Dracopoulos, whose guidance and mentorship continue to inspire generations of students to engage deeply with Greek culture, history, and language.

Angela Antartis awaits sentencing for violent hostage attack in Adelaide

The Greek Herald
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Angela Antartis awaits sentencing for violent hostage attack in Adelaide

Angela Antartis, 26, is awaiting sentencing after pleading guilty to her role in a brutal hostage attack in January 2023.

Along with Zoran Aligrudic, 44, Antartis forcibly detained a man at a carport in Kilkenny, subjecting him to a violent and dehumanising assault while both were under the influence of methamphetamine.

In his victim impact statement, the victim described the ordeal as the “worst events of his 25 years of life,” leaving him with nightmares and severe anxiety.

“I am scarred from their actions both physically and mentally,” he said.

The District Court was told the attack involved prolonged physical abuse, including forcing the victim to strip naked and cutting off parts of his hair and beard.

The incident was driven by the duo’s belief that the victim had been charged with and pleaded guilty to indecent assault.

During the attack, they also made phone calls to the victim’s accuser, forcing him to apologise.

Antartis, from Woodville North, pleaded guilty to false imprisonment and multiple counts of assault.

Her co-defendant, Aligrudic, also pleaded guilty to drug trafficking and firearm possession. His lawyer explained that the offending was impulsive, driven by methamphetamine use following the breakdown of his marriage.

Antartis’ counsel highlighted her history of childhood trauma, which contributed to her methamphetamine addiction and criminal behaviour.

While in custody, Antartis is seeking drug rehabilitation programs and hopes to start anew upon release.

Judge Rauf Soulio will deliver sentencing for the two defendants next month.

Source: The Advertiser.

Zionist Federation of Australia takes legal action against journalist Mary Kostakidis

The Greek Herald
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Zionist Federation of Australia takes legal action against journalist Mary Kostakidis

The Zionist Federation of Australia has filed a legal complaint with the Federal Court of Australia against renowned Australian journalist Mary Kostakidis, accusing her of antisemitism over posts she made on social media platform X.

The complaint, initially lodged with the Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) in July 2024, follows Kostakidis’ social media sharing of footage related to the late Lebanese Hezbollah leader, Hassan Nasrallah, alongside commentary critical of Israel’s actions.

The Federation’s chief executive, Alon Cassuto, submitted the AHRC complaint under Section 18C of the Racial Discrimination Act, arguing that Kostakidis’ post, which referenced Israeli government actions and suggested they were “getting some of their own medicine,” was offensive and insulting to Jewish people.

This was in the context of ongoing violence in Gaza, which the International Court of Justice had suggested may constitute genocide.

The AHRC’s conciliation process ended without resolution, prompting the Zionist Federation to take the matter to the Federal Court, marking the final step in their legal pursuit.

Kostakidis, a former SBS presenter, is now set to defend her right to speak freely on political issues, particularly regarding Israel’s controversial policies.

She has expressed regret if her social media post was misconstrued, but maintains that reporting on controversial statements should not be censored.

Legal experts suggest the case could have broader implications for freedom of speech in Australia, particularly regarding criticism of Israel and the conflation of anti-Zionism with antisemitism.

Kostakidis is not alone in facing legal action over her stance, as other prominent figures, including academic Dr Randa Abdel-Fattah and university professors Dr Nick Riemer and John Keane, have also been subjected to similar scrutiny for their criticisms of Israel.

Kytherian youth honoured at prestigious Aroney Awards Dinner Dance

The Greek Herald
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Kytherian youth honoured at prestigious Aroney Awards Dinner Dance

Kytherian youth were celebrated at the Kytherian Association of Australia’s (KAA) annual Aroney Awards Dinner Dance held on Saturday, April 5 at The Concord Club in the Sydney suburb of Concord.

Thanks to a trust established by the late Kytherian benefactor, Nicholas Anthony Aroney, the KAA has been hosting the Aroney Awards for over 35 years.

On the night, the senior high school students performed various dances in traditional costume.

kytherian youth aroney awards
kytherian youth aroney awards
kytherian youth aroney awards

This was followed by the award ceremony where Higher School Certificate (HSC) students were acknowledged for their achievements and received awards from Aroney Trustee, Angelo Crones.

The HSC students were: Ellie Marmara (highest ATAR of 97.40), Stephanie Avgoustou, Tina Cassimatis, Sofia Castrisos, Vasiliki Dimitra Cominos, Catherine Coutts, Christopher Drakakis, Bianca Feros, Eliza Feros, Michael Hatzis, Lily Henderson, Jordana Lilly Hughes, Angelo Magoulas, Kiki Margetis, Magdalene Miltiades, Alexandra Notaras, Elizabeth Notaras, Tiana Roins, Zachary Simos, Chrissie Sioulas, Mia Andrianna Sofios, Politimi Tzannes, Tiana Tzoukas and Paris Venetoulis.

kytherian youth aroney awards
Ellie Marmara who had the highest ATAR.
kytherian youth aroney awards
Ellie Marmara who had the highest ATAR
Ellie Marmara who had the highest ATAR

The winner of the fifth KAA Youth Scholarship ($2000), an incentive of esteemed past president, the late Emmanuel Alfieris, was presented by Vice President Spiro Coolentianos and the President of the Kytherian Youth Association (KYA) and last year’s winner Anne-Marie Aroney to joint winners, Tiana Tzoukas and Christine Karabalis.

Finalists were Tina Cassimatis, Kiki Margetis, Magdalene Miltiadies, Tiana Roins, Sia Stratikopoulos and Paris Venetoulis.

kytherian youth aroney awards
Youth Scholarship Finalists.
kytherian youth aroney awards
Anne-Marie Aroney and Spiro Coolentianos with scholarship winner, Tiana Tzoukas.
kytherian youth aroney awards

In her speech, President of the KAA, Barbara Zantiotis, congratulated the students and stressed the importance of the Aroney Awards as they recognise the effort, perseverance and diligence the students place into their final year of school, which is a stepping stone for their future endeavours. 

LA institution Papa Cristo’s to shut its doors after 77 years

The Greek Herald
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LA institution Papa Cristo’s to shut its doors after 77 years

Papa Cristo’s, a beloved Greek restaurant and market in Los Angeles, will close its doors on May 4 after 77 years of serving the community.

The family-owned establishment, which began as C&K Importing Co. in 1948, became a staple of the Byzantine-Latino Quarter, offering Greek specialties and Mediterranean delights.

The restaurant, located on the corner of Pico and Normandie, will close after its building was listed for sale at $5.2 million.

Mark Yordon, a cousin of owner Chrys Chrys, who has worked at Papa Cristo’s for nearly 40 years, explained that the decision to close was made when the family learned the building was being sold.

While Yordon did not directly link rising rent to the closure, Chrys confirmed that the rent had become unaffordable, adding, “The rent got too high, and there’s nothing we can do about it.”

Papa Cristo’s grew from a small market to a full-fledged taverna, known for its hearty portions and vibrant atmosphere.

The restaurant’s loyal following has been especially vocal since the news broke, with many fans hoping for a future revival in a smaller location.

Despite facing challenges like the pandemic and rising costs, including potential tariffs, the restaurant remained a community hub.

Yordon expressed that, given the current economic conditions, it might be the right time for the family to step back. Chrys, now 80, may retire following the closure.

In a post on social media, Chrys hinted that Papa Cristo’s may not be gone for good, saying, “The story of Papa Cristo’s doesn’t end here — exciting things are coming.”

Source: LA Times.

Historic Armenian, Assyrian, Greek genocide commemoration at St Paul’s Cathedral Melbourne

The Greek Herald
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Historic Armenian, Assyrian, Greek genocide commemoration at St Paul’s Cathedral Melbourne

The Australian Hellenic Council (AHC) has warmly acknowledged the profound success of the ecumenical evening prayer service held at St. Paul’s Cathedral in Melbourne on April 6, honouring the victims of the Armenian, Assyrian, and Greek genocides.

The deeply moving service, hosted by the Anglican Diocese of Melbourne in collaboration with the Armenian, Assyrian, and Greek Orthodox Churches, served as a powerful testament to interfaith solidarity and remembrance. 

The solemn event brought together a diverse congregation to reflect upon the tragic historical events and to offer prayers for the souls of the victims. The service underscored the enduring importance of acknowledging these atrocities and promoting peace and understanding within our community. 

armenian assyrian greek commemoration

The AHC extended its sincere gratitude to all participating clergy, especially those of the Anglican Church, whose initiative this was, the Armenian and Assyrian churches who have been at the forefront of the campaign for Genocide recognition, as well as His Grace Bishop Evmenios of Chora and Father Phillip of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia for attending. 

The collaborative nature of the service, bringing together different Christian denominations, exemplified the power of unity in the face of shared historical trauma. 

The AHC was honoured by the presence of distinguished guests, including Federal Senator Raff Ciccione, Chair of the Senate Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Legislation Committee, and Ann-Marie Hermans, Victorian State Member of the Legislative Council. Their attendance highlighted the significance of the event and the ongoing commitment of Australian political leaders to recognising and addressing historical injustices. 

armenian assyrian greek commemoration

“This ecumenical service on April 6th was a deeply significant moment of remembrance and solidarity,” Peter Stefanidis, President of the AHC, said.

“The coming together of these diverse communities to honour the victims of the genocides is a powerful symbol of our shared humanity and our commitment to ensuring that these atrocities are never forgotten.

“Furthermore, we acknowledge that this same day marks the 111th anniversary of the massacre of the Greeks in Thrace, known to our community as ‘Mavro Pascha’ (Black Easter). We are profoundly grateful to the Anglican Diocese of Melbourne and all participating churches, and community leaders for their leadership in organising this impactful event.” 

Dean Kalimniou, for and on behalf of the Joint Justice Initiative, stated that: “We are grateful to the Anglican Church for its support and principled stance towards the recognition of the plight of Genocide victims everywhere. It is only by recognising such criminal acts, that we can provide true context to the suffering of victims and ensure that such crimes are never again repeated.” 

The AHC remains committed to working alongside all communities to promote education, awareness, and recognition of the Armenian, Assyrian, and Greek genocides. It believes that by remembering the past, we can build a more just and peaceful future for all. 

Australian embassy in Athens to host ballot boxes for federal election

The Greek Herald
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Australian embassy in Athens to host ballot boxes for federal election

Australians abroad, including Greek Australians, will be able to cast their votes in the upcoming federal election through overseas voting centres, including one at the Australian embassy in Athens.

The embassy will host in-person voting from April 23 to May 2, with the following schedule:

  • April 23 to April 25: 8.30 am – 3.00 pm
  • April 28 to April 30: 8.30 am – 3.00 pm
  • May 2: 8.30 am – 12.00 pm

The embassy is located at 5 Hatzigianni-Mexi, and the phone number for inquiries is +30 21 0870 4000.

While voting is not mandatory for Australians overseas, the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) notes that if citizens fail to vote and do not notify the AEC, they may be contacted for an explanation.

The AEC has announced that overseas voting centres will be available globally, but their hours of operation will vary. A list of these centres, along with specific dates and hours, is available on the AEC website.

For those unable to vote in person, the AEC encourages applying for a postal vote through their website. The AEC has also issued a warning about the potential risks of unsolicited postal ballot requests from political parties, which may compromise voter privacy.

Daughter-in-law jailed for 27 years for brutal murder of Kon Kritikos

The Greek Herald
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Daughter-in-law jailed for 27 years for brutal murder of Kon Kritikos

Danielle Birchall, 49, has been sentenced to 27 years in prison for the brutal murder of her de facto father-in-law, Kon Kritikos, in 2020.

The Victorian Supreme Court handed down the sentence on Friday, April 4, with Justice Christopher Beale describing the attack as “savage.”

Birchall had claimed she only went to Kritikos’ home in Coburg on November 11, 2020, to have a conversation.

However, a jury found that she viciously attacked the elderly man with a weapon, intending to steal money for drugs and a new car. After the assault, she left Kritikos dying on the floor.

Later that evening, Birchall returned with her partner, George Kritikos, to find his father semi-conscious and moaning.

Photo: NewsWire / Ian Currie.

When George asked who had attacked him, Kon responded, “afti, afti, afti”—meaning “she did it” in Greek. Kritikos was hospitalised but passed away two weeks later from his injuries.

Birchall denied responsibility for the murder, but the jury convicted her of the crime in November 2024. Justice Beale described the killing as particularly cruel, emphasising the victim’s frailty and the prolonged suffering he endured.

“You subjected him to many blows – his was an agonising death,” the judge said. Birchall’s lack of remorse and denial of responsibility influenced the decision, along with concerns about her moderate risk of reoffending.

While accepting that Birchall suffered significant childhood abuse and has post-traumatic stress disorder, which may complicate her time in custody, the judge sentenced her to 27 years in prison with a non-parole period of 20 years.

Birchall has already served nearly four years behind bars.

Source: 9News.

Andrew Liveris promises affordable tickets and local access for Brisbane 2032 Olympics

The Greek Herald
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Andrew Liveris promises affordable tickets and local access for Brisbane 2032 Olympics

Brisbane 2032 Olympics organising committee president, Andrew Liveris, has pledged to offer “affordable” tickets for the Games and ensure that Brisbane residents have guaranteed access to key events, including the opening and closing ceremonies.

In an interview with the ABC, Liveris pointed to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, where tickets were sold for around 40 euros ($70), as an example of affordable pricing.

He emphasised that the goal is to make tickets accessible for the general public, not just VIPs.

“We will have affordable ticket pricing for the demographic that we care about, which is the citizen that isn’t the elite VIP,” Liveris said.

Liveris also highlighted Brisbane’s intention to ensure families can attend major events, such as the swimming finals, at reasonable prices. He referenced the Sydney 2000 Games as a model for how to allocate tickets to ensure inclusivity.

“One thing Sydney did well, which we will learn from… is making sure that tickets were put to one side for school kids and others,” he said.

Additionally, Liveris expressed his commitment to securing guaranteed spots for Brisbane residents at the opening and closing ceremonies.

“This is not an event for tourists. This is an event for the nation, the state, the region, and the city,” he affirmed.

While high-priced tickets with perks will still be available, the revenue generated will help subsidise more affordable options, which Liveris suggested could range from $30 to $50.

The Brisbane 2032 Games are projected to raise significant revenue, with about a third coming from ticket sales and merchandise. The delivery cost for the Games is expected to be around $5 billion.

Liveris also shared his excitement for the new stadium at Victoria Park, which will enhance both the athlete and fan experience. He noted that the new precinct, featuring an aquatic centre and village, will be a key attraction for visitors.

On the topic of sports for the Games, Liveris mentioned that over a dozen new sports had applied for inclusion, with selection criteria focused on financial viability, gender balance, and global appeal.

“I want revenue because this is a commercial activity. We’re privately funded,” he said.

Brisbane 2032 is expected to announce its official sports lineup in the first half of next year.

Source: ABC News.

Labor pledges funding to make Pontiaki Estia in Brunswick more accessible

The Greek Herald
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Labor pledges funding to make Pontiaki Estia in Brunswick more accessible

Peter Khalil, Federal Member for Wills, was in Brunswick on Sunday, April 6 to announce that a re-elected Albanese Labor Government will deliver $49,500 for Pontiaki Estia to install an elevator at their premises on Sydney Rd.

This commitment will support the Association’s diverse membership – particularly elderly patrons and those with additional mobility needs – by providing improved access to the building, making it an accessible and welcoming environment to all.

The elevator will mean that more members of the Pontian community can participate in the wide range of cultural, social and educational events that the Association runs. 

This investment builds on the Albanese Labor Government’s commitment to upgrading and increasing the accessibility for many important community group’s buildings in Wills.

pontiakia estia
Pontiaki Estia‘s premises on Sydney Rd hold many fun events.

Mr Khalil said, “the Central Pontian Association in Brunswick works to preserve Pontian culture within our community, and this commitment from the Albanese Labor Government, means that more community members will be able to join in on the important cultural, social and educational activities that the group runs.”

“Making the Central Pontian Association’s Brunswick rooms more accessible through the installation of an elevator builds upon the Association’s commitment to supporting its diverse membership to connect with their heritage, build relationships and seek support in an accessible and accommodating space,” Mr Khalil added.

“Only a re-elected Albanese Labor Government will continue to support the many important community and cultural groups that Wills is home to.”

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