Dedes had told The Greek Herald in an earlier interview, “We are blessed within Dedes Waterfront Group to have so many beautiful and varied brands, so one day is definitely never the same – my wife Kerrie and I have wonderful people around us from our HQ to of course our great venues.”
Flying Fish opened first at Jones Bay Wharf in 2004 before relocating in 2018 to The Star. The seafood restaurant earned its first chefs’ hats in the 2005 Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide, with chef Peter Kuruvita in the kitchen and Sri Lankan snapper curry on the menu.
Beloved seafood restaurant Flying Fish set to close from April 11. Photo: Dedes Watefront Group.
“We’ve had eight great years at The Star, there were some onerous days during COVID, but it’s time to fly again,” Dedes said.
The closure of the restuarant’s location in The Star may not be the end of the Flying Fish. “We’re looking at sites in the Sydney CBD to relocate,” Dedes said.
The fast-serve retail outlet Flying Fish & Chips, also owned by Con and Kerrie, will continue to operate in The Star’s cafe court. “We’ve had a good relationship with The Star and look forward to that continuing,” Dedes said.
Efforts are underway to allow the Holy Fire Ceremony in Jerusalem’s Church of the Holy Sepulchre to take place smoothly this Orthodox Easter, with Israeli authorities specifying conditions for its safe and proper conduct.
The following three fundamental prerequisites must be met for the ceremony to take place: restoration works within the Church to be completed; the availability of an appropriate and accessible shelter in the event of a possible bombardment; and the full assurance of security conditions for all participants.
Israeli authorities have reportedly taken measures to safeguard the orderly delivery of the sacred ceremony. They said the ceremony will take place when “the full completion of the required works, the removal of all obstacles, and the guarantee of conditions of absolute safety” are realised.
Authorities noted that only 50 people are permitted inside the Church of the Holy Sepulchre due to ongoing works and only those with pre-approved permits will be granted access to the site.
While Israeli Police continue to prepare for the Holy Fire Ceremony and Paschal celebrations, the final decision to hold the ceremony will be announced on April 1. Authorities have emphasised that scheduled events may be subject to change or cancellation if the region’s security requires.
This comes after Israeli Police recently blocked Catholic Church clergy from entering the holy site for the first time in centuries to celebrate the Palm Sunday liturgy, a move the Latin Patriarch of Jersualem, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, described as “absurd and flagrantly disproportionate.”
The Latin Patriarch stated that “This incident is a grave precedent,and disregard the sensibilities of billions of people around the world who, during this week, look to Jerusalem.”
He emphasised that Church authorities have acted responsibly since the escalation of the conflict and have complied with all restrictions and felt the decision to bar the leaders from conducting the liturgy was “manifestly unreasonable and grossly disproportionate measure.”
The Church of the Holy Sepulchre has remained closed to the public since late February 2026 due to the Middle East conflict.
Thrace Plastics Group has announced the acquisition of Australia’s BHA Holdings Pty Ltd (Bulk Handling Australia), for $23.3 million (near €14.0 million).
BHA Holdings operates across Australia and New Zealand’s packaging sector has maintained a presence for over 40 years in local markets, serving the packaging needs of key sectors such as agriculture, mining, chemicals, and food.
Thrace Group is a Greece-owned and based company engaged in the production and trade of plastic products, textiles and packaging materials. The company operates through its local and international subsidiaries.
The CEO of Thrace Group, Mr. D. Malamos, stated, “We welcome the people of BHA Holdings to Thrace Group. This is an acquisition with clear strategic value, as it involves a company with related operations and a strong position in the markets in which it operates.
“The addition of BHA Holdings significantly enhances our capabilities, creates meaningful synergies with our existing operations, and expands our international footprint. At the same time, it gives us the opportunity to further strengthen our presence in a sector where we already have a strong commercial and production presence in Europe, now expanding into the markets of Australia and New Zealand.”
The acquisition is strategically significant for Thrace Group as it involves a company operating in the bulk bags (FIBC) sector, where Thrace Group already holds a strong presence in the European market, including a local presence in Ireland, Scandinavia, and Greece.
Bringing BHA Holdings into Thrace Group is expected to create significant synergies with its existing products and commercial activities, while improving its ability to offer more comprehensive solutions to local markets.
The General Manager of BHA Holdings Pty Ltd, Raymond Purcell said, “Our integration into Thrace Group marks a new era for our company. We are particularly pleased to become part of a strong international Group with a long-term vision, significant expertise, and a strong presence in international markets.
“We believe that this partnership will create new growth opportunities and further enhance the value we offer to our customers.”
The deal strengthens the Thrace Group’s already strong position position in the FIBC/Bulk Bags sector and expands both its geographic reach and overall production and commercial capabilities.
The agreement is also expected to drive sales growth for both BHA’s existing operations and Thrace Group’s wider product portfolio in the markets of Australia and New Zealand.
In addition, the opposite seasonal cycles in these markets compared to Europe should help maintain steady commercial activity and improve year-round use of the Thrace Plastics’ production capacity.
A 54-year-old man has been arrested after police discovered the bodies of his mother and sister in an advanced state of decomposition in a sealed room in his apartment.
The arrest took place in the Athens neighborhood of Zografou after a relative alerted authorities. Officers, acting on a prosecutor’s order, found the two women in a room that had a door sealed with plaster.
The man denied any involvement in their deaths and told investigators the women died of natural causes. He said he moved their bodies into the room to conceal the deaths, fearing he might lose the home if their deaths were reported.
He claimed his sister, 56, died first from cancer and he placed her in the room with their mother, 91, who died two days later. He said the deaths occurred about three months ago. This timelines is broadly consistent with an initial forensic assessment.
Authorities said autopsies scheduled for Tuesday are expected to determine the exact causes of death.
A Greek-owned container ship off Saudi Arabia’s Ras Tanura reported two incidents in which projectiles landed in the water nearby, maritime security sources said on Monday.
The Liberian-flagged Express Rome was about 22 nautical miles (40.7km) northeast of Ras Tanura when two unidentified projectiles splashed close to the vessel within an hour of each other, according to British maritime risk management group Vanguard. All crew were reported safe.
Vanguard noted that Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps had previously claimed to have targeted the Express Rome on March 11.
The UK Maritime Trade Operations also confirmed receiving a report from a ship’s security officer reporting two unknown nearby projectile splashes in a short time frame, with no injuries reported.
No group has claimed responsibility for the latest incident, and the vessel’s operator has not commented.
Commercial vessels have come under attack from multiple missiles and drone strikes in the Gulf and Strait of Hormuz since the U.S. and Israel attacked Iran on February 28.
US President Donald Trump has issued a threat to strike Iran’s energy plants and oil wells if it fails to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
In a post on his platform Truth Social, Trump said if the Iran’s leaders refused to make a deal, the United States would be “blowing up” Iran’s strategically important Kharg Island.
On the platform he said the US was in “serious discussions” with a “NEW, AND MORE REASONABLE, REGIME” to end the war.
“Great progress has been made but, if for any reason a deal is not shortly reached, which it probably will be, and if the Hormuz Strait is not immediately “Open for Business,” we will conclude our lovely “stay” in Iran by blowing up and completely obliterating all of their Electric Generating Plants, Oil Wells and Kharg Island (and possibly all desalinization plants!), which we have purposefully not yet “touched”,” he said.
The White House has pointed to an April 6 deadline for Tehran to respond to this deal. However, Iran maintains that the US peace proposals are “unrealistic, illogical and excessive.”
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said it had received US peace proposals via intermediaries. This followed talks on Sunday between the foreign ministers of Pakistan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye.
“Our position is clear. We are under military aggression. Therefore, all our efforts and strength are focused on defending ourselves,” Baghaei told a press conference.
Tensions between Iran’s Islamic regime and Trump escalated as thousands of additional American troops were deployed to the Middle East. These troops were in addition to 2,500 marines sent over the weekend, according to US officials cited by Reuters.
While there are no plans to send forces into Iran, the buildup is intended to strengthen readiness for possible future operations, including potential missions such as targeting key oil export infrastructure like Kharg Island.
The conflict has widened regionally, with Israel intercepting drones from Yemen after Iran-aligned Houthi forces launched missiles, and Hezbollah firing rockets from Lebanon. Israel responded with strikes on military targets in Tehran and Hezbollah-linked sites in Beirut.
Turkey also reported that a ballistic missile fired from Iran briefly entered its airspace before being intercepted by NATO defences, marking the fourth such incident since the war began.
Canberra’s Greek community has concluded its 2026 Greek Independence Day commemorations with a memorial service and wreath-laying ceremony at the Australian Hellenic War Memorial, bringing together clergy, officials and community members in a tribute to history, faith and national identity.
The service was led by His Grace Bishop Athinagoras of Canberra, alongside clergy, and formed the final event in a week of celebrations marking March 25.
Wreaths were laid by the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia, the Embassy of Greece in Australia, the High Commission of the Republic of Cyprus, the Greek Orthodox Community and Church of Canberra, the Hellenic Club of Canberra, and a range of Greek associations across the ACT.
Federal MPs David Smith, Member for Bean, and Steve Georganas, Member for Adelaide, also paid their respects, laying wreaths during the ceremony.
Wreaths were laid by officials in attendance.
Earlier in the day, a church service was held, with students from the Greek School of Canberra participating through poetry recitations, delivering their performances with confidence and pride.
The memorial marked the conclusion of a week of events that saw the nation’s capital awash in blue and white, in one of the most visible Greek Independence Day commemorations in recent years.
On Wednesday evening, Canberra’s skyline was transformed as landmarks including Questacon, the National Museum of Australia, the Royal Australian Mint and the National Carillon were illuminated in blue as part of a coordinated “Blue Buildings Tour.” The initiative brought together community leaders, including Ambassador of Greece to Australia Stavros Venizelos and Greek Orthodox Community and Church of Canberra President John Loukadellis, alongside members of the Hellenic youth community.
In a historic first, the Greek National Anthem was performed from the National Carillon Bell Tower by Australia’s senior carillonist, Dr Thomas Peter Laue. The performance, which also included the Australian National Anthem and a curated musical programme, was widely regarded as a defining moment of the celebrations, resonating across the capital.
Earlier on March 25, the community gathered at St Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church for the Feast of the Annunciation, grounding the national day in its spiritual significance.
The week also saw strong youth participation, with young Greek Australians travelling from interstate to attend events, including a waterfront gathering hosted by the Hellenic Youth Club of Canberra, fostering connection and shared identity among the next generation.
While this year’s commemorations were initially expected to coincide with a visit from Kyriakos Mitsotakis, the trip was postponed due to ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
Despite this, Canberra’s Greek community delivered a series of events marked by visibility, dignity and pride, culminating in Sunday’s memorial service – a moment of reflection that honoured both the legacy of 1821 and the enduring strength of Hellenism in Australia.
As the commemorations drew to a close, organisers expressed their gratitude to all who participated, marking the occasion with a final message: Long live Greece!
The Greek Orthodox Community of New South Wales (GOCNSW) hosted a distinguished cross-party delegation from the Hellenic Parliament, alongside representatives of the Consulate General of Greece in Sydney, during a special visit to its Saturday Greek School program.
The visiting delegation included Maximos Charakopoulos, Secretary of the Parliamentary Group of New Democracy; Filippos Fortomas, Chair of the Parliamentary Committee for Hellenism Abroad; Stavros Michailidis, Member of Parliament (PASOK – Panhellenic Socialist Movement); and Konstantinos Barkas, Member of Parliament (SYRIZA – Coalition of the Radical Left). They were joined by the Consul General of Greece in Sydney, George Skemperis.
Representing the GOCNSW were President Con Apoifis, Secretary George Diamataris, and Board Members Manos Fountoulis, Peter Tsintilas, and Stanley Koulouris.
At the heart of the visit was a dynamic, student-led presentation that powerfully demonstrated the strength of Greek language education and student leadership within the Community’s programs. Students confidently took centre stage, showcasing their linguistic skills, cultural understanding, and public speaking abilities through a carefully curated program of performances.
The presentation featured poetry recitations commemorating the historic significance of 25 March 1821, with students including Sakis Tomaras, Haralambos Kapsimalis, and Giannis and Dionysios Marinos delivering works such as “To the Flag” and “Our Flag” with clarity, pride, and emotional depth. The program culminated in a moving rendition of Rigas Feraios’ “Thourios”, followed by a unified and spirited message from the students, reflecting their strong connection to Hellenic identity and heritage.
This student-driven showcase highlighted not only language proficiency, but also critical skills in confidence, collaboration, and cultural expression – key outcomes of the Community’s educational approach. The delegation witnessed firsthand how the program empowers young Greek Australians to actively engage with their heritage while developing leadership capabilities for the future.
The visit continued with a vibrant display from the junior Greek dance students, aged three to eight, who performed traditional dances under the guidance of Mrs Paroula’s dance program. Their performance offered further insight into the breadth of co-curricular opportunities that enrich the learning experience and strengthen cultural connection.
A highlight of the day was the hands-on preparation of traditional koulourakia, led by Mrs Fay, pastry chef from Cake on Road. This experiential activity exemplified the program’s commitment to immersive learning, allowing students to engage meaningfully with Greek traditions, language, and customs in a real-world context.
The GOCNSW commended the dedication and professionalism of its teaching staff and School Principal in delivering a program that not only preserves language, but actively cultivates confident, capable, and culturally grounded young leaders.
The Community extended its sincere congratulations to the students for their outstanding efforts and enthusiasm and expresses deep appreciation to families for their ongoing support.
Visits such as this reaffirm the vital role of Greek language education in sustaining cultural identity across generations, while strengthening the bonds between Greece and the Greek Australian diaspora. Through initiatives like the Afternoon and Saturday Greek Schools of the GOCNSW, the enduring spirit of Hellenism continues to thrive – driven by the voices, leadership, and achievements of its youngest generation.
On the evening of March 21, the Kalavryton Society “Aghia Lavra” successfully held its 62nd Annual Ball, while also commemorating the 205th Anniversary of the Greek War of Independence.
The event was a truly memorable evening, filled with emotion, tradition, and pride in Greek heritage.
The Society was particularly honoured by the presence of Christina Stefanidou, Counsellor for Economic and Commercial Affairs, who represented the Consul General of Greece in Sydney, George Skemperis. Her attendance highlighted the importance of maintaining strong ties between Greece and the Greek diaspora in Australia.
Christina Stefanidou (centre).
The event brought together a large number of Kalavrytians, friends, and supporters of the Society, creating a warm and festive atmosphere. Among those in attendance were the Society’s two Honorary Presidents, Konstantinos Kolovos and Dimitris Margaronis, whose contributions remain invaluable.
A highlight of the evening was the impressive performance of traditional dances by Sophia Ventouris School of Greek Dance, who transported the audience to the heart of Greek tradition and history.
The event was also attended by representatives from prominent Greek community organisations, including the Pan Laconian Association NSW “The Spartans,” the Pan Thessalian Federation “Karaiskakis,” the PanAchaian Philanthropic Association, the Helmos Philanthropic Society “St Haralambopoulos,” and the Meteora Thessalias Benevolent Society, reinforcing the spirit of unity and cooperation within the Greek community of New South Wales.
The 62nd Annual Ball was not only a celebration of an important historical anniversary, but also a living testament to the strength, cohesion, and cultural identity of the Greek diaspora. Events such as this ensure that our traditions remain alive and are passed on to future generations.
Sydney’s Greek Independence Day commemorations reached new heights this year, as thousands gathered from 11am at Hyde Park before taking part in a unified march through the CBD to the Sydney Opera House, transforming the city into a powerful display of Hellenic pride.
Hyde Park was filled with parishes, schools and community organisations assembled in formation, a sea of blue and white flags set against a clear Sydney sky. The scale of the gathering was immediately striking, setting the tone for a day that balanced solemn remembrance with vibrant celebration.
Hyde Park was filled with parishes, schools and community organisations assembled in formation. All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Andriana Simos.
Proceedings commenced at the ANZAC Memorial, with Master of Ceremonies Stan Kondilios formally welcoming official guests and attendees. A ceremonial military band marked the beginning of the memorial service, which was led by His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia and included the mounting of the catafalque party.
In a deeply resonant address, Archbishop Makarios described the day as one that “touches not only the hearts of Greeks, but also the soul of every person who cherishes justice, liberty and human dignity,” while calling for unity across the community.
“When Greeks are united, they achieve the impossible,” he added.
Archbishop MakariosAnthony AlbaneseEveryone listened intently to the speeches.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese delivered a deeply reflective address, grounding the commemoration in remembrance and shared history.
“We gather in respect. We gather in gratitude. Above all, we gather to remember,” he said, honouring those who stood “against darkness” and those who made “the ultimate sacrifice.”
He described the Greek War of Independence as “a remarkable moment in the story of a remarkable nation,” built on the powerful call of “freedom or death,” and acknowledged Greece’s enduring contribution to democracy.
“Australia without Greeks is beyond imagining. You are cherished, you are celebrated and well and truly cemented in how we see ourselves as a country,” he said.
The ceremony continued with the wreath-laying conducted by official dignitaries, followed by the Ode of Remembrance. The Last Post sounded across Hyde Park before a minute’s silence was observed, with the Rouse and the national anthems bringing the memorial to a close.
People who laid a wreath included Anthony Albanese.
Archbishop Makarios of Australia.
Ambassador Stavros Venizelos.
High Commissioner Antonis Sammoutis.
Sophie Cotsis MP.
Eleni Petinos MP.
Hellenic parliament delegation.
Con Apoifis.
From there, the event shifted from reflection to movement.
Led by a police escort and marching bands, the parade stepped off from Hyde Park, moving past St Mary’s Cathedral and through the CBD in a powerful procession of flags, students and community groups. Chants of “Ζήτω η Ελλάς” echoed throughout the city.
The procession culminated at the Sydney Opera House, where the forecourt and steps were transformed into a striking celebration framed by Sydney Harbour.
Marching through the Sydney streets.
The march ended at Sydney Opera House.
Official guests waited outside NSW Parliament House.
The official program resumed with Masters of Ceremonies Dimitri Kametopoulos and Kosta Papanikitas, who opened proceedings. There was also the singing of the National Anthems by the combined choir of St Spyridon College, All Saints Grammar and St Euphemia College.
The combined choir.
Among dignitaries present were Federal Minister for Home Affairs Tony Burke, NSW Minister for Industrial Relations Sophie Cotsis representing Premier Chris Minns, Member for Miranda Eleni Petinos, Greece’s Ambassador to Australia Stavros Venizelos, High Commissioner of the Republic of Cyprus to Australia Antonis Sammoutis, and Consul General of Greece in Sydney George Skemperis, alongside a cross-party delegation of the Hellenic Parliament.
The delegation included Maximos Charakopoulos, Secretary of the Parliamentary Group of New Democracy; Filippos Fortomas, Chair of the Hellenic Parliament’s Special Permanent Committee on Greeks Abroad; Stavros Michailidis from PASOK; and Konstantinos Barkas from SYRIZA.
Masters of Ceremonies Dimitri Kametopoulos and Kosta Papanikitas.
President of the Greek Community of New South Wales (GOCNSW) Con Apoifis then addressed the crowd, reflecting on the significance of the day and the enduring legacy of the Greek community in Australia.
“Today is more than a commemoration, it is a reminder of who we are,” he said. “We are both Greek and Australian, enriched by two cultures that share a deep love of community, family and freedom.”
Ambassador Venizelos described the moment as one of pride: “To stand here in front of the iconic Sydney Opera House and see such a large and vibrant crowd fills me with pride and gratitude.”
Con ApoifisStavros Venizelos.
Minister Cotsis highlighted the contribution of Greek Australians: “Many Greek migrants came here with very little, but built better lives for their families and helped shape the Australia we know today.”
Speaking in Greek, Mr Charakopoulos praised the diaspora: “We are here not only to convey the warm wishes of Greece, but to say how proud we are of you… who keep the Greek flag held high and carry the homeland in your hearts.”
Sophie CotsisMaximos Charakopoulos
The cultural program that followed showcased the strength and continuity of Hellenism through dance, music and youth participation.
Senior dance groups from the Greek Orthodox Community of NSW Dancers, the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia – St Spyridon Haskas Greek Dancing, Hellenic Lyceum of Sydney, Aristotelion Academy of Greek Traditional Dance, Rallis School of Greek Dance and the Greek Orthodox Parish and Community of Kogarah delivered powerful performances.
Dancing groups.
They were followed by intermediate groups including the Greek Orthodox Community of NSW Dancers, St Euphemia Greek Orthodox Church, St Raphael Greek Orthodox Church, St Stylianos, Sts Peter & Paul and St Gregory Greek Orthodox Church, Archangel Michael Greek Orthodox Church, St Paraskevi Greek Orthodox Church, Sophia Ventouris School of Greek Dance and the Pan Macedonian Association of NSW.
Junior performers from the Greek Orthodox Community of NSW Dancers, St Euphemia College, St Spyridon College, All Saints Grammar, All Saints Greek Orthodox Parish, St Gerasimos Greek Orthodox Church and the Kalymnian Association of NSW Dance Group brought energy and pride to the stage.
The program concluded with performances from the Cretan Brotherhood of NSW, the Pontoxeniteas NSW Dancing Group and the Cyprus Community of NSW Dancing Group.
Set against the backdrop of Sydney Harbour, the performances created one of the most visually powerful moments of the day.
Organisers, along with members of the community, expressed a clear desire for Hyde Park to remain the focal point of future March 25 commemorations, following the strength and unity witnessed this year.
What unfolded across the day was more than a commemoration. It was a statement of presence, identity and continuity. With Hyde Park firmly established as a central gathering point and the procession to the Opera House delivering a cohesive and memorable experience, this year’s celebrations have set a new benchmark for Greek National Day in Sydney.
As the official proceedings concluded, the spirit of the day carried beyond the formal program, with attendees gathering along the harbour precinct, where the sounds of Greek music and moments of traditional dance reflected the enduring vibrancy of Hellenism against the backdrop of Sydney Harbour.
*All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Andriana Simos
