The Hellenic Presidential Guard, known as the Evzones, was officially welcomed to the Parliament of New South Wales during their visit to Sydney this week, commemorating 125 years of shared history between Australians and Hellenes in defending common values.
Wearing their traditional ceremonial uniforms, the Evzones took part in a symbolic event that celebrated the enduring relationship between Greece and Australia.
The occasion honoured more than a century of friendship, cultural ties, and cooperation between the two nations, particularly in times of conflict and mutual support.
Present at the event were the NSW Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper, State Member for Miranda, Eleni Petinos MP, and Hellenic Club of Sydney’s Nick Hatzistergos, who all paid tribute to the longstanding bond between the Greek and Australian peoples.
The visit is part of a broader program of events in Sydney marking ANZAC Day and the 125th anniversary of Greek-Australian solidarity.
The Los Angeles Chargers have proudly announced the NFL has awarded the team with international marketing rights to Greece, marking the first time the sport is introduced in an organised and strategic manner to the Greek market.
As part of the NFL’s Global Markets Program, this milestone represents a bold step in expanding the game’s global reach—bringing the excitement and tradition of American football to a nation renowned as the birthplace of the Olympic Games and for its deep athletic heritage.
To celebrate this momentous occasion, the Chargers hosted an exclusive press conference on Friday, April 25, at the iconic Hotel Grande Bretagne, a Luxury Collection Hotel, in Athens.
The event welcomed prominent members of the Greek media and distinguished representatives from the Chargers organisation, including Fred Maas, Chief of Staff and Counsellor for the Los Angeles Chargers.
During his stay in Athens, Mr Maas also met with several key government officials, including ministers and deputy ministers and sports facilities to discuss the potential of American football in Greece and the broader impact of the sport on local communities.
This initiative holds special meaning for the organisation, as Greece is also the ancestral homeland of Dean Spanos, Controlling Owner and Chairman of the Board for the Los Angeles Chargers. His family roots add a personal dimension to this launch, making the expansion to Greece not only strategic, but deeply symbolic.
On the occasion of his visit to Greece, Mr Maas stated: “It’s an honour to be here in Greece. This is really a special time and place for us. Ever since I met our Owner Dean Spanos, it’s always been a dream of his to bring the NFL and the Chargers to Greece. This year, it was made possible through the expansion of the NFL’s Global Markets Program. This is truly an opportunity for the Spanos Family to come to Greece and expose the game they love to the country they love.”
A new chapter for American football in Greece
Greece, with its longstanding legacy as the home of the Olympic Games and its vibrant sports community, offers a unique opportunity for the NFL and the Chargers to foster a meaningful cultural and athletic exchange. Through grassroots development, youth engagement, and local fan outreach, the Chargers aim to introduce the values of American football—teamwork, discipline, resilience, and strategic thinking—to Greek audiences.
Interestingly, the roots of American football trace back to ancient times. In Ancient Greece, athletes played a sport known as Episkyros, involving scrimmage lines and ball-handling strategies that echo the foundational elements of the modern game. Forms of traditional football may have been played throughout Europe and beyond since antiquity, many of which involved handling of the ball and scrummage-like formations. This cultural bridge provides a unique narrative connecting the past with the present.
The initiative represents a bold commitment to the long-term development of the sport across Europe, positioning Greece as a dynamic new entry point for the NFL’s global growth. The Chargers plan to collaborate with local institutions and sports communities to build awareness, offer training experiences, and cultivate a passionate fanbase.
The introduction of American football in Greece is more than just a game—it’s a symbol of expanding possibilities, shared values, and the universal language of sport. With the support of the local community and the vision of the Los Angeles Chargers, this launch marks the beginning of an exciting new journey.
The Greek Secretary General of Sport, George Mavrotas stated: “It is my great pleasure to welcome on behalf of the Greek Government the Los Angeles Chargers delegation in Greece, homeland of the family of Chargers (Controlling) Owner & Chairman of the Board Dean Spanos.”
“Los Angeles is indeed a special place also for me, as it is a milestone in my sport career: It was the place of my first of five Olympic Games, back in 1984, in the age of 17 years old with the Greek Water Polo team,” Mr Mavrotas added.
“As we all know, Greece is the birthplace of values’ based sport. It is both the home of Ancient Olympic Games hosted in Ancient Olympia… and Athens was also the first host of the modern Olympics in 1896. Sport creates bridges and there is a strong connection between US and Greece through sport.
“We strongly believe that the current LA Chargers initiative will not only boost American’s football popularity in Greece, but also, through the exchange of knowledge and expertise will also promote all aspects of sport integrity.
“Nowadays, sport is business, but we must always keep in mind that it is also values. It is a social tool that can change cultures and mindsets, conveying the correct messages to the society.
“Last, but not least, this project will further strengthen the friendship and collaboration between our countries, in which the Greek-American community had always played a vital role. Thus, it is with great pleasure and interest that we expect the outcomes of this initiative and we are ready to collaborate aiming at a win-win sport cooperation. Welcome LA Chargers, welcome NFL in the place where all about sport begun!”.
Live Draft from Athens, Greece
For the first time ever, the NFL Draft was live from the heart of Greece, marking a historic moment as the birthplace of democracy welcomed the future of American football.
Against the stunning backdrop of Athens, with over 5 million global viewers, fans witnessed the electric atmosphere as the Chargers and Chargé d’Affaires at the US Embassy in Athens, Maria Olson, announced their fifth-round pick (158th overall) live from the balcony of Hotel Grand Bretagne, blending the ancient spirit of Greek culture with the modern pulse of the NFL.
It was more than just a show — it was a celebration of sport, global connection, and the Chargers’ bold commitment to growing football on new soil. Greece became a part of NFL history, and the energy was unforgettable.
With a sense of historical debt permeating the atmosphere, Lemnos once again paid tribute to the fallen of the Gallipoli Campaign, hosting anniversary events that highlighted the island’s enduring bond with the ANZAC forces.
The events, which took place on Tuesday, April 29, and were entitled: “Day of Honour and Remembrance for the Fallen of the Gallipoli Campaign”, were co-organised by the North Aegean Region and the Municipality of Lemnos.
The official ceremony, which took place at the Moudros Commonwealth Cemetery under adverse weather conditions, with a lot of wind, was attended by the Australian Ambassador to Greece, Alison Duncan, honouring the strong historical ties between Australia and Lemnos.
The dignitaries were welcomed by the Prefect of the Regional Unit of Lemnos, Apostolos Koutsoyiannis.
The ceremony began with a memorial service, followed by the laying of wreaths and the playing of the national anthems, while the official guests then delivered brief greetings.
Those present had the opportunity to tour the photography exhibition of the Moudros Cultural Association “Pavlos Kountouriotis”, which was presented by Niki Photiadi.
The events continued at the Portianos Commonwealth Cemetery with another memorial service and the laying of wreaths, while they culminated at the Portianos Cultural Centre.
There, the president of the War Museum of Athens, Lieutenant General (retd) Konstantinos Karamesinis, delivered a speech on the topic “The Contribution of Lemnos to the Battle of Gallipoli”, highlighting the strategic role of the island in the First World War.
The commemoration events concluded with the screening of the documentary ANZAC DAY AND LEMNOS – 110 YEARS, which sheds light on the multifaceted connection of Lemnos with this historic campaign of the 20th century.
To mark the commencement of Term 2 at St Spyridon College, staff and students gathered at St Spyridon Church in Kensington, Sydney on Tuesday, April 29 to warmly welcome a delegation from the Presidential Guard of the Hellenic Republic, known as the Evzones.
A Paschal Doxology was celebrated by Very Reverend Fathers Steven Scoutas and Stavros Ivanos, in the presence of Parish President Elia Economou and members of the Executive Parish staff.
The service marked a significant moment, blending the spirit of Easter with the honour of hosting one of Greece’s most revered ceremonial units.
Following the service, Father Steven delivered a heartfelt address to the Evzones, acknowledging their distinguished role in Greek history and their visit as a powerful symbol of the enduring bond between Greece and Australia.
Head of College, Amelia Katsogiannis, also addressed the gathering, stating: “The Evzones inspire us to live with purpose, to honour our roots, and to lead with integrity, strength and dedication.”
Lieutenant Commander Tzinieris, visibly moved, spoke directly to the students, while Lieutenant Kontogiannis focused on explaining the symbolism behind the official Evzones uniform, deepening the audience’s appreciation for the traditions and sacrifices represented by the Guard.
The event reflected the spirit of excellence and pride that St Spyridon College tries to uphold — a day that left a lasting impression on all who attended.
The Australian Government Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) has officially launched the Lemnos Remembrance Trail website, offering a new and accessible way to explore an often-overlooked chapter of Australia’s military history.
Available at www.lemnosremembrancetrail.gov.au, the newly unveiled site recognises the service and sacrifice of the Australian women and men who served on the Greek island of Lemnos during the First World War.
Positioned less than 100 kilometres from the Gallipoli Peninsula, Lemnos played a pivotal role as a staging post, logistical base, and medical hub during the Gallipoli campaign, whose 110th anniversary was commemorated this Anzac Day.
The digital platform, launched on 22 April, forms the first phase of the wider Lemnos Remembrance Trail project. The second phase – the physical construction of the trail itself – is expected to commence in the coming months, with completion anticipated in time for ANZAC Day 2026.
The website offers a rich trove of rare photographic material, capturing life on Lemnos between the winter of 1914 and the winter of 1915–16. Visitors can also discover the personal stories of individuals who played a key role in this significant period, highlighting both the hardships and enduring spirit of those stationed on the island.
The project aims not only to honour the historical importance of Lemnos, but also to raise public awareness and encourage future visits to the site once the physical trail is completed. Through the website, Australians and history enthusiasts worldwide can already begin engaging with the story of Lemnos’ vital contribution to the Anzac legacy.
Ahead of the performance on Sunday, May 11 in the prestigious Verbrugghen Hall at Sydney’s Conservatorium of Music, Dioni speaks to The Greek Herald about her eclectic international career, the influence of her Greek heritage, and the honour of bringing these beloved songs to life alongside conductor George Ellis.
Your career spans a range of musical genres and international stages — tell us a bit about this.
Yes – from Electronica (my band Astyplaz with whom we have toured the U.S and Canada), jazz, soul and funk, Spanish, French chansons and Latin, to musical theatre and of course, Greek repertoire. This includes original material, albums and singles, international compilations (Buddha Bar XI) which received a lot of radio airplay. As for the stages – from the historic Olympia Theatre (Maria Callas) and the Ancient stadium of Delphi – to the awesome industrial venue Usine In Montreal and other notable venues throughout Europe.
What does it mean to you, personally and professionally, to perform the songs of the Golden Age of Greek cinema?
Firstly, I’d like to thank the Greek Festival for this opportunity and share my excitement to perform in this ambitious project and delighted to be back in the city in which I was born and raised in. On both a personal and professional level, I am honoured to be working with the esteemed conductor George Ellis and his orchestra for the first time, together with the incomparable George Doukas with whom I have enjoyed working with numerous times over the years. We will be presenting these iconic songs in a different and classical approach – notably with a symphony orchestra.
How has your Greek heritage shaped your identity as an artist, and how do you see that influence coming through in this concert?
Undoubtedly it has shaped me as I chose Greece as my base where I have lived for many years now; as for this concert in particular, well I think without the knowledge of the Greek language and having been exposed to the music from a young age it would be difficult to interpret and understand the songs and their nuances. My heritage means everything to me.
The music of Hatzidakis and other iconic composers carries deep emotional resonance for many Greeks — how do you prepare to interpret and honour such beloved material on stage?
I suppose being well-versed with their music and knowing the material well, you can only hope that one’s unique and individual interpretation will do justice to honouring these compositions. One of the songs (a crowd favourite) which was composed by George Katsaros, I actually had the privilege of working and touring with for a few years.
You’ll be performing in the historic Verbrugghen Hall with conductor George Ellis — what can audiences expect from this collaboration, and how have you approached blending classical performance with cinematic nostalgia?
The arrangements have been carefully considered and re-worked so as to provide this nostalgic and simultaneously cinematic feel. The use of a classical orchestra (together with a rhythm section and bouzouki/baglama) I believe helps achieve this. Also, I have a background in theatre so I hope I can bring this element to the stage!
For those less familiar with this era of Greek cinema, what makes these songs timeless and relevant today?
Most of these songs are still played in Greece to this day so those unfamiliar with the films may have actually heard the songs. A lot of themes are relevant and will always be current (eg. rich versus poor). These songs shaped the attitudes of the Greek migrants who came to Australia and were passed on to succeeding generations – that is why Greek Australian society is more conservative than the society in Greece.
What do you hope the audience walks away with after experiencing Τα Κινηματογραφικά, especially those in the diaspora who may be reconnecting with their cultural roots through music?
I hope they experience most emotions, which I believe is the mark of a successful concert. To be moved, to feel joy, to make them ponder and walk away with a general feeling of enjoyment.
Is there anything else you’d like to say?
Thank you for the interview and we hope you enjoy the concert.
Event Details:
WHAT: Τα Κινηματογραφικά: Songstresses of the Golden Age of Greek Cinema
WHEN: 11 May 2025 | 6:30 PM
WHERE: Verbrugghen Hall, Conservatorium of Music, 1 Conservatorium Rd, Sydney NSW 2000
PERFORMERS: George Ellis (Conductor), Dioni Vertzayas (Vocalist)
“Keep going,” was the sentiment George Kouvaros left audiences with as he wrapped up the midday panel discussion at the 2025 Greek Australian Writers’ Festival held at Little Bay’s scenic Prince Henry Centre on Sunday, April 27.
“Keep on telling the stories of Greek migration, Greek diaspora and Greek culture – because thisstory is unfinished.”
As a third-generation Greek Australian, Kouvaros’ words powerfully struck me. Connecting to one’s diasporic lineage is not an ‘old story,’ but rather a continued story of answering undeniable callings to honour one’s Greek legacy.
In conversation with Dr Andonis Piperoglou, Kouvaros’ book launch and panel discussion unearthed his elliptical prose, Patrimonies: Essays on Generational Thinking, by discussing how the text intertwined elements of memoir, cultural criticism and photography – ultimately prompting readers to think: what does a legacy ask of us and how do we give back to our patrimony?
Kouvaros said that to answer this question, we must first genuinely think about it.
“Don’t assume,” he said, adding that the Greek story is not fixed, rather it is something that is constantly transforming itself and we need to look at traditions amongst ourselves in our community.
Kouvaros’ discussion was not the only hot topic at this year’s Greek Australian Writers’ Festival presented by the Greek Festival of Sydney, Francom and UTS Journalism and Writing, and directed by Dr Helen Vatsikopoulos with Deputy Director Dr Vassiliki Veros.
In a parallel session, Karen Martin brought to life a historically rich and mythological story in Delphi – the sequel to Dancing the Labyrinth which won the Eyelands Book Award Self-Publishing category in 2024. Blending Greek myth, history and imagination through the virtue of a female protagonist, the novel illuminates misconceptions of our past.
In the next sessions of the day, award-winning young writer and lawyer, Emily TsokosPurtill, debuted her new fiction novel Matia that connects four Greek Australian women from the same family across continents and time.
This was a perfect pairing with Will Kostakis’ parallel session that focused on his novel, We Could be Something, which is similarly, about the power of family, love and identity, and which recently won the 2024 Prime Minister’s award for young adult literature.
After a light lunch, audience members were moved by the memoir of a deep friendship between two intellectuals: Nikos Papastergiadis and John Berger. John Berger and Me written by Nikos Papastergiadis, covers the experiences of peasant life and a reflection of migration.
Next door, people were learning about the story of the search of one of Australia’s first Greek convicts transported to Australia. Shelly Dark’s memoir, Hydra In Winter,is colourful and anecdotal – seeking to discover her husband’s great-great-great grandfather Ghikas Voulgaris’ life story in a winter travel expedition to a Greek island.
The day was packed out, with many attendees extremely pleased and entertained with the array of fiction and non-fiction literature and photography.
Author Ms Dimitriadis said, “Today showcased how multifaceted and how many stories have not been told in the Greek community.”
The final parallel session featured an extensive collection of Greek Australian and historical-themed photography in Effy Alexakis’ The Heart of Giving, Marios Kalyvas and Aretha Zygouri’s Glimpses of the Silk Road,and Eirini Alligiannis Art on the Wall. Also featured was Anastasia Hronis’ The Dopamine Brain, a non-fiction text aiming to scientifically answer why we struggle to balance pleasure and purpose.
But it didn’t end there! The festival closed by inviting audience members to discuss their favourite Greek stories in an open discussion.
An intellectually driving day where Greek writers from across Australia came together, sharing their work and purposely engaging with the community on a cultural level.
Oakleigh Grammar students have returned from the Round Square Footprints of Unity Conference in Perth with lasting memories, new friendships, and a renewed sense of purpose.
Centred on the thought-provoking theme “What footprints do you want to leave?”, the conference challenged student delegates to reflect deeply on the impact they have on the world around them. Through a range of physical, cultural, and service-based activities, the conference beautifully wove together the Round Square IDEALS of leadership and service.
Delegates participated in many experiences, among them a bushwalk and a rock-climbing wall which culminated in a powerful “leap of faith” challenge. These experiences highlighted the importance of overcoming fear and supporting one another in the face of adversity.
The program also included meaningful engagement with the local Indigenous culture of Perth, providing students with a profound appreciation for Indigenous people’s connection to land and environmental stewardship. A highlight for many was learning and performing We Are Australian with Indigenous verses—an experience described as truly special.
Service learning was at the heart of the conference, with students creating sandwiches for those in need and constructing possum boxes to protect local wildlife—tangible acts of care that brought the conference theme to life.
Delegates were intentionally separated into mixed-school groups for activities. While initially challenging, this led to unexpected connections across cultures.
The spirit of the conference was further enhanced by the leadership of Year 10 and 11 students from host schools Scotch College and Bunbury Cathedral Grammar School, who guided each activity group with maturity and enthusiasm.
Oakleigh Grammar is proud to be part Round Square and be able to offer such powerful experiences to its students, to further their development outside of school walls.
Sydney has been gripped by an unprecedented wave of excitement for the Australian premiere of Stelios, the captivating film chronicling the life of the legendary Greek singer Stelios Kazantzidis.
In a phenomenal three-day run, the film has ignited a box office frenzy, selling over 2,000 tickets and boasting multiple completely sold-out sessions, demonstrating the enduring power of Kazantzidis’ story and the vibrant enthusiasm of Sydney’s audiences.
The evening crackled with energy, featuring a lively opening reception complete with live music, traditional Pontian delicacies, exquisite wines from RawVine Estate, and authentic Greek beers from Seven Seals, setting the stage for the powerful film experience.
The unstoppable momentum continued as eager audiences flocked to subsequent screenings. Thursday, April 24, saw hundreds of attendees packing four completely sold-out sessions at Palace Norton Street.
The weekend witnessed a further surge in demand, with Sunday, April 27, once again experiencing three jam-packed sessions at Palace Cinema Norton St.
The buzz is palpable across the city, with a special screening also held on Monday, April 28, for university students in collaboration with the Sydney University Greek Society (SUGS), further amplifying the film’s reach.
The Greek Orthodox Community of NSW (GOCNSW) is thrilled by the overwhelming community embrace of the film.
“The phenomenal turnout underscores the profound connection even younger generations within our community feel towards iconic cultural figures like Stelios Kazantzidis, and their appreciation for initiatives that preserve his indelible legacy,” Harry Danalis, President of the GOCNSW, said.
Nia Karteris, Chair of the Greek Festival of Sydney and Vice President / Secretary at GOCNSW, added, “Palace Cinemas Moore Park provided a magnificent backdrop for this exceptional premiere, solidifying its place as a cherished venue for the Greek Film Festival. We are absolutely delighted by the audience’s passionate response to our efforts in honouring the memory of Stelios Kazantzidis with an unforgettable experience.”
Stelios, featuring a compelling portrayal by Christos Mastoras, offers a deeply moving and insightful exploration of an extraordinary life – from Kazantzidis’ early struggles as a Pontic refugee child to his triumphant rise as a beloved musical icon.
The film delves into his timeless music, significant relationships, personal battles, and the unwavering adoration of his devoted fanbase.
The electrifying reception in Sydney underscores the enduring resonance of Kazantzidis’ story, particularly within the Greek diaspora.
For those yet to experience the powerful impact of Stelios, remaining screenings at Palace Cinemas are highly recommended – an experience that promises to be truly unforgettable.
Members of Pharos Alliance also met with Consul General of Greece in Melbourne, Dimitra Georgantzoglou.
The meeting with Department officials continued the discussion about various items, including potential support for an after-hours Greek literacy program at Clarinda Primary School, which has an established Greek language program, continued support for the state’s only Greek Bilingual program at Lalor North Primary School, also the Department’s exploration of VIT and permission to teach in order to deal with a shortage of language teachers, and the Department’s ongoing support for the work of Pharos Alliance.
The Consul General graciously received Pharos Alliance at the offices of the Consulate and engaged with them in a discussion about who they are, their work and objectives.
Ms Georgantzoglou was well informed about some of the challenges facing Greek language teaching in the diaspora and welcomed the work being undertaken to halt further decline and to create opportunities for Greek to flourish. She said she is keen to stay connected with Pharos Alliance and is willing to support in her capacity as Consul General in Melbourne.
These were very productive meetings in which the Pharos Alliance was able to make these officials and government representatives aware of its work and of the great need for a more systematic and coherent policy support for the language.
In both meetings, comments were made that the Pharos Alliance is appreciated because it is an umbrella organisation, bringing together all interests and institutions involved in Greek language.
“We take our advocacy role seriously and wish to continue to consult with the community to review our work, take stock of needs and requests from the community and revise and modify priorities if this is needed. Hence, we have organised a series of regular Open Meetings, commencing with one scheduled for 7.00pm on Wednesday 28 May at the Greek Centre,” President of Pharos Alliance, Professor Joseph Lo Bianco, said.
Please RSVP at pharos.au@gmail.com if you wish to attend the open meeting. All are welcome.
