Home Blog Page 452

First Greek Youth Comedy Gala delivers a night of laughter in Sydney

The first-ever Greek Youth Comedy Gala, held under the Greek Festival of Sydney, took centre stage at the Canterbury Leagues Club in Belmore, Sydney on Saturday, March 15, delivering an unforgettable evening of cheeky, witty, and daring humour.

With a lineup of emerging comedic talent, the night proved that stand-up comedy is much more than just telling jokes – it’s a powerful form of storytelling, a reflection on society, and an expression of real-life experiences.

The audience was treated to sharp observational humour, bold punchlines, and moments that challenged, entertained, and even shocked – a true testament to the art of comedy.

The first Greek Youth Comedy Gala in Sydney was enjoyed by everyone in attendance. All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Andriana Simos.

A showcase of Greek Australian talent

Hosted by Anthony Locascio, fresh off his successful Pappou tour, the night saw some of Australia’s most promising young Greek comedians take the stage.

Greek Youth Comedy Gala
Anthony Locascio was the host.

The stellar lineup included headliner Elouise Eftos, Charissa Bossinakis, Stella Kappos, Chris Demos, Korinna Gouros, and Mariah Nicholas, all of whom delivered unique, hilarious, and thought-provoking sets

The event highlighted the vibrancy of Greek Australian culture, as these young comedians used their heritage, upbringing, and lived experiences to craft humorous and relatable narratives.

A celebration of comedy and community

The Greek Festival of Sydney has long been a platform for cultural expression, and this inaugural comedy gala was no exception. Laughter filled the room as the audience embraced a night of entertainment that seamlessly blended heritage, modern experiences, and comedic storytelling.

Stand-up comedy is one of the most difficult art forms, requiring not only sharp humour but also the ability to provoke thought, challenge norms, and sometimes even offend. This event encapsulated all those elements, making it a triumph for Greek Australian talent.

Greek Youth Comedy Gala
Korinna Gouros.

A bright future for Greek Australian comedy

The success of the Greek Youth Comedy Gala marks an exciting new chapter for young Greek Australian comedians. The event not only showcased fresh talent, but also reinforced the importance of comedy as a cultural and artistic expression.

With such an incredible response, it is clear that this will be the first of many Greek comedy galas to come.

*All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Andriana Simos.

Melbourne bayside suburb to commemorate Imbros and the ANZAC connection

Sunday, March 23 will witness the unveiling of a special commemorative plaque in Hampton in recognition of the role of the northern Aegean island of Imbros in the Gallipoli campaign.

The plaque is one of a number of new specially created bronze plaques that will be inserted in the footpaths of the streets of a former veterans housing estate created after First World War. Imbros will be honoured along with a number of others, mostly commemorating battles of the Western Front.

The Castlefield Estate was created on 67 acres of land by the government to house veterans and their families in the 1920s.

melbourne imbros
Information board to be installed at the Castlefield Estate. Photo supplied by Robert Curtain.

The project was initiated by locals, led by the former Bayside Mayor Felicity Frederico OAM and media consultant Robert Curtain. Auspiced by the Sandringham & District Historical Society and supported by Bayside Council and corporate sponsors, the project received funding from the Victorian Government’s Victoria Remembers grant program. The Society has created a very informative webpage detailing each of the streets, their battlefield connections and details on the first residents, with brief military biographies of the veterans.

Melbourne’s Imvrian community – many of whom settled in the bayside area – have been invited to participate in the event with a stall and exhibition explaining the role of Imbros in the Gallipoli campaign. This photographic exhibition has already been shown in Melbourne and Sydney. Historian and author Jim Claven will be in attendance. His book on that role – From Imbros Over The Sea – will be available for purchase.

melbourne imbros
Part of the great Allied camp on Imbros during the Gallipoli campaign in 1915-16. Source: AWM.

Mr Claven said that it was especially significant that Imbros should have been chosen all those years ago as one of the battles to be recognised.

“Imbros was one of the key advanced bases of the whole Gallipoli campaign, with the campaign headquarters, medical facilities, rest camps and supply bases located there. It was home to major military aircraft bases and its harbour was a key roadstead connecting the battle front with Allied bases across the sea,” Mr Claven said.

He added that his research had shown that Imbros and its people – overwhelmingly Hellenic in character at the time – met the ANZACs and other Allied soldiers; welcoming them and helping them visit their island. Like nearby Lemnos and Tenedos, Imbros provided one of the first major contacts between Australians and Greeks.

“How appropriate that this recognition should be bestowed in a suburb that has also provided a new home to Hellenes from Imbros in Melbourne,” he added.

melbourne imbros
Imbros Street, Castlefield Estate, Hampton. Photo: George Xinos, 2025.

George Xinos of the Imvrians’ Society of Melbourne thanked all involved in this important project and the Society welcomed its recognition of this important role it played in Australian history.

The unveiling ceremony will be overseen by Her Excellency the Hon Professor Margaret Gardner AC Governor of Victoria, in the presence of many dignitaries.

The event will take place at Castlefield Reserve and commence at 11am and conclude at 3pm. No bookings are necessary. All are welcome.

Cyprus Community of SA Ladies Auxiliary celebrate IWD with inspirational afternoon tea

The Cyprus Community of South Australia’s Ladies Auxiliary hosted a grand celebration for International Women’s Day (IWD), bringing together over 220 guests at the Cultural Centre of the Cypriot Community in Welland on Sunday, March 16.

In a warm and welcoming atmosphere, attendees gathered for an afternoon tea dedicated to honouring and uplifting women.

cypriots in sa

The keynote speaker, Adriana Christopoulou, a Multicultural Advocate in SA, delivered a thought-provoking speech, sharing her personal journey of growing up in a traditional Greek family, overcoming challenges, and achieving her goals.

cypriots in sa
Adriana Christopoulou, a Multicultural Advocate in SA.

The event was further enriched with live Greek music, performed by Asimina Karanikolas and Paraskevi Kontoleon, two talented young women from the community. Their heartfelt songs paid tribute to women and deeply moved the audience.

Among the distinguished guests was Ms Quin Tram, President of the Vietnamese Community and Councillor for the Woodville Ward at the City of Charles Sturt, who attended alongside other esteemed community members to show their support for the occasion.

cypriots in sa

The President of the Ladies’ Auxiliary, Thekla Petrou, expressed her gratitude to all attendees, highlighting how their presence encourages the continuation of such community events. She also extended special thanks to the Board of Directors and the dedicated team of women who worked tirelessly to ensure the event’s success. Concluding the celebration, she wished all women many happy returns on this significant day.

The event was a resounding success, strengthening community bonds and celebrating the achievements and resilience of women in South Australia.

Sydney’s Samians and Kytherians unite over wine and heritage

By Takis Triadafillou

On Saturday, March 15, at the Samian House in Kingsgrove, Sydney, an important meeting took place between the Samian Brotherhood of Sydney & NSW and the Kytherian Association of Australia.

The meeting aimed at strengthening relationships and cooperation between the Samians and Kytherians, focusing on wine production and the enhancement of friendship and love between the two communities.

samians kytherians wine event

In a speech, the President of the Kytherian Association, Barbara Zantiotis, said, “this meeting is not only an opportunity to exchange ideas and explore our shared path in the field of wine production, but also a celebration of the friendship and brotherhood that unite our places.”

“I am particularly happy that we are here today, at the Samian House, to discuss and create the foundations for a stronger collaboration. Samos and Kythera share many common values and traditions, and this meeting reminds us how important it is to move forward together, united with our history and culture,” Ms Zantiotis added.

samians kytherians wine event
Emanuel Valageorgiou (left) and Barbara Zantiotis (right).

The President of the Samian Brotherhood, Emanuel Valageorgiou, also spoke about ties between the Kytherians and Samians.

“It is a great honour for me to be here today, along with friends from Kythera, to strengthen the bonds that unite us and to jointly explore the possibilities for the development of wine production in both our regions,” Mr Valageorgiou said.

“Samos and Kythera, although different places, share a common history, tradition, and passion for the products of our land, especially wine, which is inextricably linked with our identity and culture.”

samians kytherians wine event
samians kytherians wine event

Trade Commissioner of Greece in Australia, Chrysa Prokopaki, also honoured the event with her presence.

“The purpose of this collaboration is to promote Greek culture and unite for a common product,” Ms Prokopaki said.

“The event took place with the goal of strengthening cultural relations. There was a strong sense of appreciation from the participants and a desire for this collaboration to continue in the future, with the addition of more associations.”

The event was accompanied by delicious and traditional Greek dishes prepared by Gloria Tzannes and the other ladies of the Kytherian Association.

Australian Greek Ex-Servicemen’s Association honour heroes of 1821

The Australian Greek Ex-Servicemen’s Association Inc. held a Greek National Day celebration on Sunday, March 16 at the Holy Monastery of “Axion Esti” in Northcote, Victoria.

A memorial service was conducted inside the church by His Grace Bishop Evmenios of Chora. Due to heavy rainfall, the wreath-laying ceremony took place inside the church, beneath the Holy Icon of the Virgin Mary.

Australian Greek Ex-Servicemen's Association Inc. held a Greek National Day celebration

The event was honoured by a large attendance, with a number of officials laying wreaths including Bishop Evmenios; Emily Dimitriadis, Deputy Mayor of Darebin City Council – South East Ward; Katerine Theodosis, Councillor of Merri-bek City Council – West Breen Ward; and Nikolaos Makridis, President of the Australian Greek Ex-Servicemen’s Association.

Numerous representatives from Greek community organisations, as well as Senior Sergeant Stylianos (Steve) Spyrou and Sergeant Con Matsamakis, also attended to pay tribute to the heroes of 1821.

Australian Greek Ex-Servicemen's Association Inc. held a Greek National Day celebration

Following the wreath-laying ceremony, a minute’s silence was observed in honour of the fallen heroes.

Later, guests and members of the Australian Greek Ex-Servicemen’s Association gathered for a reception, where the Association’s President, Mr Makridis, spoke about key moments that shaped the Greek War of Independence.

*All photos supplied by Natasha Spanos

GCM sends condolences to GOCNSW following death of Secretary Michael Tsilimos

The Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM) has extended its deepest condolences to the Greek Orthodox Community of New South Wales (GOCNSW) following the passing of Secretary Michael Tsilimos.

Full statement in English:

On behalf of the Greek Community of Melbourne, we extend our deepest condolences to the Greek Orthodox Community of NSW on the passing of your esteemed Secretary, Mr. Michael Tsilimos. His sudden loss has deeply saddened us, and our hearts are with you during this difficult time.

Michael was a valued member of the Greek Orthodox Community of New South Wales, whose dedication, hard work, and commitment to the Greek Australian community left an indelible mark. His contributions as Secretary will always be remembered with great respect and admiration. His tireless efforts in service of his community were an inspiration to us all, and his passing is a significant loss to both Sydney and the broader Greek community in Australia.

A steadfast champion of immigrant rights and workers’ welfare, Michael fiercely defended the rights of migrants in the workplace and worked tirelessly to address the everyday challenges faced by the Greek Australian community. His unwavering commitment and advocacy made a lasting impact, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

Please know that we stand with the Greek Orthodox Community of New South Wales in mourning and share in your grief. Our thoughts and prayers are with Michael’s family, friends, and all members of your community. May his memory be eternal, and may you find comfort in the legacy of love and service he leaves behind.

Jake Wyllie steps up for George Kambosos Jr showdown as Daud Yordan withdraws

Ferocious’ George Kambosos Jr will now face a huge all-Australian clash against young, knockout artist Jake Wyllie in his Sydney homecoming this Saturday – live worldwide on DAZN.

The 24-year-old Queensland native steps in at under a week’s notice for the main event after Kambosos Jr’s original opponent Daud Yordan was today ruled out on medical grounds following a visit to a hospital in his homeland of Indonesia.

Wyllie, promoted by No Limits Boxing, has an impressive resumé of 16 wins in 17 fights with 15 victories by way of knockout. And he is ready to spoil Kambosos Jr’s homecoming party at the Qudos Bank Arena – brought to fans around the globe under the sponsorship of Riyadh Season.

“This is what dreams are made of. I’d already arranged tickets to come watch on Saturday and now I’m fighting in the main event,” said the Australian Super-Lightweight Champion, Wyllie (16-1-0, 15 KOs).

“This is the opportunity of a lifetime and I’m ready to take it with both hands. George has boxed at the highest level in the sport but I’m young, ambitious, and ready to put it all on the line in Sydney on Saturday. Expect fireworks! Jake ‘The Machine’ Wyllie is coming,” he said.

1920x1080_KAMBOSJRYORDAN

The mission remains the same for Kambosos Jr, however, with the former Undisputed Lightweight World Champion relishing his first test in the 140lb division as he sets his sights on a potential World Title date with IBF king, Richardson Hitchins.

“I am ready to showcase all the hard work I have been putting in over the last 3 months, no matter who the opponent is,” Kambosos Jr (21-3-0, 10 KOs) said.

“Boxing is unpredictable and it is very unfortunate to have Daud Yordan medically pull out, five days before the event, but the Ferocious show goes on because there is no show without me.

“Victory is the only thing on my mind, no matter what, and it sets up my 140-pound World Title shot next. I want to give a good local Aussie kid a shot. Jake Wyllie, 16-1, 15 KOs, stands out. He is the current Australian 140 National Champion, the only one that hasn’t been disrespectful for a payday, and I like how he has gone about his business in the boxing world.

“So, I’m giving Jake the ‘Rocky’ shot! The opportunity, but that’s where it ends. This is not a Rocky movie, don’t get it twisted, there is no happy ending. A Ferocious statement is what you’ll see on Saturday night. Victory by any means.”

Last remaining tickets are on sale now for Saturday’s blockbuster event at Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena, which showcases two huge women’s World Title fights – brought to you by Matchroom Boxing in partnership with DiBella Entertainment and Ferocious Promotions, and in association with Tasman Fighters and Goldstar.

WBC World Featherweight queen Skye Nicolson (12-0, 1 KO) continues her quest to become ‘Future Undisputed’ – but must take care of undefeated, mandatory American rival, Overtime Boxing’s Tiara Brown (18-0, 11 KOs).

Another long-standing rivalry will be settled in Sydney as Cherneka Johnson (16-2-0, 6 KOs) defends her WBA World Bantamweight title in a rematch against Great Britain’s Nina Hughes (6-1-0, 2 KOs), after their first fight was marred in controversy last May.

And rising Heavyweight sensation Teremoana Jr (6-0, 6 KOs) will be out ensure that the Aussies rule when the Olympian bids for his seventh successive stoppage when he faces James ‘The Beast’ Singh (12-5-0, 11 KOs).

Matchroom Sport chairman Eddie Hearn said: “The biggest card in Australia so far this year has just got even bigger.

“First and foremost, we wish Daud Yordan a speedy recovery. Now young Jake Wyllie comes in at short notice with a life changing opportunity to shock the world and wreck George Kambosos Jr’s plans.

“He is a dangerous puncher with a rising reputation as a stoppage sensation, so expect fireworks this Saturday at the Qudos Bank Arena. Sydney we’re coming – and I cannot wait.” 

Event Details:

Jessica Mauboy and husband Themeli Magriplis welcome first baby

Jessica Mauboy and her husband, Themeli Magriplis, have stepped into a new chapter of their lives, welcoming their first child, a baby girl named Mia, on January 13.

In an interview with Stellar, the singer describes the experience as “a bit of a rollercoaster but a magical one,” revealing that she has been writing lullabies for her daughter and is mesmerised by the resemblance they share.

“I look at her and it’s ‘whoa!’ because I see myself, that little frown,” Mauboy said in the interview.

The couple chose to keep Mia’s birth private, allowing time to adjust to parenthood without external pressure.

“The arrival of Mia brought me back to being a young girl again: how do I do this? Am I going to be a good mum?” she reflected.

Alongside embracing motherhood, Mauboy is also launching her new sun-care brand, Desert Rose Australia, inspired by her Northern Territory upbringing and the importance of sun protection.

On March 31, Mauboy will take the stage on Australian Idol as a guest performer, marking another milestone in both her personal and professional journey.

Source: Stellar

Adelaide pastor Daniel Menelaou arrested in US over child abuse material allegations

Daniel Menelaou, a 28-year-old youth pastor formerly associated with Adelaide’s Futures Church, has been arrested in Georgia, USA, on charges related to child exploitation material.

According to The Advertiser, the Roswell Police Department apprehended Menelaou following a tip-off from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, alleging his involvement in sharing illicit content via the messaging app Kik.

Authorities have charged Menelaou with six counts of possessing material depicting minors in sexually explicit conduct.

Fotis Antonios arrested in connection to alleged billion-dollar scam
Adelaide pastor Daniel Menelaou arrested in US over child abuse material allegations.

The arrest followed investigations by the Roswell Police and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, during which several electronic devices were seized for analysis.

Menelaou reportedly admitted to receiving and sharing the explicit videos and acknowledged a pornography addiction.

Prior to his relocation to the United States, Menelaou served as a youth pastor at Paradise Church in Adelaide from 2018. In the US, he was affiliated with Future Church in Alpharetta, Georgia. Both institutions have expressed shock and condemnation regarding the allegations.

Future Church has terminated Menelaou’s position, stating the charges are “abhorrent, appalling, and completely contrary to everything we stand for,” and has pledged support for his wife during this challenging time.

Source: The Advertiser

Greece tops new Astons ranking of world’s most powerful passports

Greece has been ranked among the most powerful and accessible passports in the world, according to the latest analysis by global investment migration firm Astons.

Greek passport holders can travel to 176 countries visa-free or with a visa-on-arrival, placing Greece ahead of both the UK (172) and the US (171) in global mobility rankings.

With Spain’s decision to end its Golden Visa programme, Greece has become the most attractive option for investors seeking European residency and, eventually, citizenship.

anafi
Anafi island. Greece has become the most attractive option for investors. Photo: Visit Greece.

The Greek Golden Visa programme grants a five-year residency for a minimum investment of €250,000, with a fast processing time of just 60 days. After seven years, holders can apply for full citizenship, securing one of the world’s most desirable passports.

As demand surges, experts warn that Greece’s investment scheme may not be available indefinitely, making now a crucial time for investors to secure residency.

Source: Forbes.com