Nick Kyrgios has criticised the World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA) settlement with world No. 1 Jannik Sinner, which sees the Italian receive a three-month ban for an anti-doping violation but retain all titles and prize money.
Kyrgios, vocal about doping in tennis, called the decision a “sad day for tennis,” adding that “fairness in tennis does not exist.”
Sinner tested positive for the banned substance clostebol last year, which he claimed entered his system through massages and sports therapy from a member of his support team.
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) cleared Sinner of wrongdoing, but WADA appealed the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
So wada come out and say it would be a 1-2 year ban. Obviously sinners team have done everything in their power to just go ahead and take a 3 month ban, no titles lost, no prize money lost. Guilty or not? Sad day for tennis. Fairness in tennis does not exist.
WADA accepted Sinner’s explanation, stating that he did not intend to cheat, and that his exposure to clostebol provided no performance-enhancing benefits.
However, under the code, athletes are held accountable for their entourage’s negligence. As a result, a three-month suspension was deemed appropriate.
Kyrgios took to social media, expressing frustration over the outcome, saying, “Obviously Sinner’s team have done everything in their power to just go ahead and take a 3-month ban, no titles lost, no prize money lost. Guilty or not? Sad day for tennis. Fairness in tennis does not exist.”
Sinner’s ban runs from February 9 to May 4, 2025, allowing him to return to training in April.
The Civil Protection Ministry confirmed that the measure, effective until March 14, aims to manage the ongoing tremors. This decision follows similar declarations for Santorini, Amorgos, and Anafi, as the area remains on high alert.
Between January 26 and February 12, over 17,500 earthquakes were recorded in the region, according to the Seismology Laboratory of the National University of Athens.
The seismic activity, originating from submarine faults in the sea area between Andros, Santorini, and Amorgos, is attributed to a combination of tectonic and deeper magmatic forces.
Seismic activity within the Santorini caldera remains steady, though increased ground deformation has been noted, prompting continuous monitoring. Public buildings have shown good resistance to seismic forces so far.
Precautionary measures advised by the Civil Protection Ministry include avoiding large indoor gatherings, staying clear of abandoned buildings, and steering clear of certain coastal areas and ports.
Schools in Thera, Ios, Anafi and Amorgos will remain closed until February 21. The Committees will reconvene on February 21 for further updates.
Panathinaikos BC claimed their 21st Greek Cup title on Sunday, February 16, defeating reigning champions Olympiacos BC 79-75 in a thrilling final in Heraklion, Crete.
The intense clash featured star-studded rosters, including former NBA players Kendric Nunn, Jerian Grant, Evan Fournier and Sasha Vezenkov.
Sloukas led the Greens with 17 points and 5 assists, while Nunn also contributed 17 points. Hernangómez added 11 points and dominated the boards with 17 rebounds.
The two teams will meet again in the Greek League and Euroleague later this season.
Valentine’s Day is the one day of the year where florists are booming with business and supermarkets bring out their best blooms and seasonal sweet treats to accommodate all those who want to spoil that special person in their lives.
This year, The Greek Herald decided to speak with two Greek Australian couples from across the nation to ask them how they met, how long they’ve been together and how they embrace their love on Valentine’s Day.
Juliana and Elias
Who are you and where are you from?
“We are Juliana and Elias Psomas, and we’re from Sydney, Australia,” Juliana told The Greek Herald.
The newlyweds both come from a mixture of islands and mainland in Greece, with Juliana’s family coming from Kalamata, Samos and Lesvos, and Elias’ from Lemnos and Farkadonna.
How did you both meet?
“We had added each other on Instagram. But it wasn’t really until two years later that we met, after I noticed him driving in front of me in traffic one day with his red Holden. I then decided to send him a DM (direct message),” the 30-year-old newlywed said.
“Our first date took place a week later at Kafeini in Ramsgate, and we’ve been pretty much inseparable ever since.”
How long have you been together?
“We’ve been together for just over four years now,” Juliana said.
“Two weeks into dating, he had asked me to be his girlfriend. Two weeks after that, he told me he loved me, and a year and a half later, he proposed in Disneyland in 2022. We just married last year in Lemnos in July.”
What does Valentine’s Day mean to you?
“We believe in loving and appreciating each other every day, and we do like to be romantic as well,” Juliana said.
“Elia especially, always has small romantic gestures like leaving notes for me sometimes before I go to work and small things like that, and it just make me feel loved every day. But I think Valentine’s Day is just an amplification of all of that, and it’s a day to celebrate all kinds of love.”
“For me, every day feels like Valentine’s Day, because I get to wake up next to the most beautiful, amazing woman in the world,” Elias said.
“February 14th is a day set aside to celebrate love, but for me, it’s a chance to express my love and gratitude to my wife, the one person who makes my world brighter and my life better.”
What will you be doing to celebrate Valentine’s Day this year?
“Growing up, my mum used to give my sisters and I roses and chocolates pretty much our whole lives for Valentine’s Day, until we had Valentines of our own,” Juliana said.
“This year, Elia and I will be going for coffee in the morning at the place we had our first date, Kafeini, which is what we do every year. We also do that for our anniversary. Then we’re probably going to go for a nice dinner at night.”
“For Valentine’s Day, even though we’ll both be working, I want to make the morning special by waking up early, making Julz a cup of Greek coffee, and sitting together on the couch, chatting about our dream holidays, whether it’s a getaway to Greece or a fun adventure in Disneyland,” Elias said.
“After work, I’ve planned a beautiful dinner to enjoy together, where I’ll surprise her with a meaningful gift that shows how much she means to me. To end the night, I’ll give her a massage to help her unwind, and we’ll wrap it all up by spending some quality time, just the two of us, savouring every moment.”
Stella and John
Who are you and where are you from?
“I am Stella Voudouris and my husband’s name is John Voudouris and we are both born and raised in Canberra,” Stella told The Greek Herald.
Stella’s parents are from Loutraki and Giannitsa in Greece, and John’s parents are from Sparti and Cyprus.
How did you both meet?
“I met John at school in college when I was in year 12 in 1991. We started dating soon after we met. There was instant spark and connection between us,” Stella said.
“We dated for 7 years, before we got married on Valentine’s Day in 1998. It’s not very often that Valentine’s Day falls on a Saturday, and we both thought it was the perfect day for us to get married.”
How long have you been together?
“We have been together for 34 years and will be married for 27 years this coming Valentine’s Day,” Stella said.
What does Valentine’s Day mean to you?
“Valentine’s day to me means to be grateful for all the love that I receive from my family, friends and the people that we have in my life,” Stella said.
“Our wedding anniversary makes it extra special as John and I celebrate each other and what we have achieved in lives.”
“Prior to Valentine’s Day being our wedding anniversary, I would have considered Valentine’s Day to hold the same value as Mother’s Day or Father’s Day – a day where a person that has value in your life is celebrated,” John said.
“However, considering that it is our anniversary, it holds deeper value as I celebrate our commitment and progress as a couple and a family.”
What will you be doing to celebrate Valentine’s Day this year?
“Our four children are the best gift we have ever received. We usually celebrate Valentine’s Day all together, whether we have a feast at home or go out for dinner, and this year will be no different,” Stella said.
“Now that our children are older, we also have new additions to add to our Valentine’s Day love. Our celebrations are held much earlier these days, and the kids go out after.”
For some, the day is anticipated; for others, it’s nothing special. While the movies depict singles swooning over secret love admissions, grand gestures, and surprise deliveries of bold, bigger-than-my-head bouquets of red roses come Valentine’s Day, reality suggests it’s quite the opposite.
But as the cynics continue their mission to boycott the day altogether, remain steadfast in the pursuit of love and remember, “If you look for it… you’ll find that love actually is all around.”
In today’s age, where meeting your partner IRL (in real life) is dubbed ‘old school,’ ghosting is the new norm, and “because they ran for the bus” is a viable excuse to say ‘see ya later,’ consider yourself a trooper if you put yourself out there at all – let alone broadcast it on TikTok for all to see.
A self-confessed lover girl (her words), and dating expert (mine), Sophia Amarandos is on her very own Bridget Jones-esque quest to find love, no matter how many glasses of wine, awkward dinners, or “What do you do for fun?” it takes.
Sophia’s TikTok mini-series has two main origins: First, she used to have a dating podcast, and is therefore dipping her toe back in. Second, after a viral TikTok about a Jonas Brothers concert, she decided to share her love life next.
“I’ve been doing my mini-series for close to a year now. Do I have thousands of followers? No. But if someone gets a laugh out of it, then it’s worth it. It shows that dating isn’t always fun or easy, but it’s worth it if it’s what you want,” she says.
As for falling in love, Sophia sees it as exactly that – falling. When asked what it means to her, and whether it’s something we have control over or if it just happens to us, I expected the usual responses: “You have control over your life,” “You just have to make it happen,” or “It’s a numbers game.” Instead, her answer was straightforward, understated, and perfectly simple.
“I feel like falling in love is not something that you can create. When you fall in life, you trip – it’s done without purpose. It just happens, and you have no control over the outcome. Falling in love is kind of the same. You’ve got no control over the moment and it just happens,” she explains.
When the inevitable blunder does come around, and you trudge home with heavy heels after yet another disappointing date, there’s only ever one thing, person, or place that can make you feel like everything’s okay – for most, it’s our best friends.
“After a crappy date, I pick myself up by making sure I’m surrounded with good people and great food. I go to one of my best friends’ houses for dinner and wine, and we just hang out; it just refreshes my soul,” Sophia says.
Just like Bridget Jones goes hand in hand with The Weather Girl’s ‘It’s Raining Men,’ the soundtrack of songs Sophia’s dream love life includes ‘Dela’, the last song in George of the Jungle, where they’re dancing around the tree singing, “I’ve been waiting for you all my life.”
For now, though, her playlist is about hope, patience, and waiting for what she wants.
“I’m learning about what I want and need in a partner, and that dating should be fun. I’ve realised that it shouldn’t be this heavy, anxiety-provoking thing. I’m learning to trust my gut and to ask for what I want,” she says.
As for her self-confessed lover-girl mentality – that hasn’t changed. Once a hopeless romantic, always a hopeless romantic.
Over 200 people attended the annual award ceremony of the Certificates of Attainment in the Greek Language 2024 that took place at Macquarie University’s Arts Precinct on Thursday, February 13, 2025.
The event was held as part of the celebration of the International Day of Greek Language 2025, making it an even more special occasion.
Among the attendees were the successful candidates and their families, school principals, Greek language teachers, Heads of Languages in NSW schools, representatives of community organisations, and Greek community media.
His Grace Bishop Christodoulos of Magnesia, representing His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia, with Certificate recipients of A2 level. All photos copyright Effy Alexakis, photowrite.
Distinguished guests included His Grace Bishop Christodoulos of Magnesia, representing His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia; the Consul General of Greece in Sydney, Yiannis Mallikourtis; the High Commissioner of the Republic of Cyprus in Australia, Antonis Sammoutis; the Head of the School of International Studies of the Faculty of Arts at Macquarie University, Professor Julian Droogan; the Chair of the Discipline of Global Cultures & Languages of the School of International Studies, Dr Wes Robertson; the President of the Macquarie Greek Studies Foundation Ltd., Theophilos Premetis; the Chief Executive Officer of the NSW Federation of Community Language Schools, Michael Christodoulou; and members of the board of directors of the Macquarie Greek Studies Foundation Ltd.
(L-R) Professor Julian Droogan, Head of the School International Studies of the Faculty of Arts at Macquarie University, Mr Antonis Sammoutis, High Commissioner of the Republic of Cyprus in Australia, His Grace Bishop Christodoulos of Magnesia, representing His Eminence Archbishop Makarios Primate of the Greek Orthodox Church in Australia, Mr Michael Christodoulou, Chief Executive Officer NSW Federation of Community Language Schools, Dr Wes Roberston, Chair of the Discipline of Global Cultures & Languages of International Studies, and Dr Patricia Koromvokis, Lecturer in Global Cultures & Languages in the School of International Studies and Head of the Examination Centre for the Greek Language Certificate Macquarie University.(L-R) Dr Patricia Koromvokis, Lecturer in Global Cultures & Languages in the School of InternationalStudies and Head of the Examination Centre for the Greek Language Certificate Macquarie University, Dr Wes Roberston, Chair of the Discipline of Global Cultures & Languages of International Studies, Mr Yiannis Mallikourtis, Consul General of Greece in Sydney, Mr Antonis Sammoutis, High Commissioner of the Republic of Cyprus in Australia, Mr Michael Christodoulou, Chief Executive Officer NSW Federation of Community Language Schools, Mr Leon Bombotas, and Mr Paul Tsanis Board Members of the Macquarie Greek Studies Foundation Ltd. and Mr Theophilos Premetis, President of the Macquarie Greek Studies Foundation Ltd.
The Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Greece, Giorgios Kotsiras, the Deputy Minister for Education, Religious Affairs, and Sports of Greece, Zetta Makri, and the President of the Centre for Greek Language in Greece, Emeritus Professor of the Philology Department of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Theodoros Papaggelis, delivered brief speeches via video and warmly congratulated the successful candidates, their teachers and their families.
The Deputy Minister for Education, Religious Affairs, and Sports of Greece, Ms Zetta Makri delivering a video message.The Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Greece, Mr Giorgios Kotsiras delivering a video message.
Dr Patricia Koromvokis, Lecturer in Global Cultures & Languages in the School of International Studies and Head of the Examination Centre for the Greek Language Certificate, warmly congratulated the successful recipients and acknowledged their achievement which made their teachers, their schools and their families proud.
Dr Koromvokis also acknowledged the unwavering commitment of parents and families by saying: “Somehow, in the midst of this whirlwind of modern family life, you make time for Greek education, whether it’s waiting in your cars during lessons, helping with homework late in the evenings, or driving long distances to ensure your children can attend their Greek classes. Your presence here today demonstrates this unwavering commitment.”
“Without your daily support, encouragement, and sacrifice, none of this would be achievable. You transform what could be seen as just another academic requirement into something far more meaningful – and we greatly thank you for that!” she added.
Dr Wes Roberston, Chair of the Discipline of Global Cultures & Languages of International Studies delivering his speech.
The event and the Greek language exams 2024 were sponsored by the Macquarie Greek Studies Foundation Ltd. MC was the Greek language teacher, Mary Vartzoumas.
The Certificate of Attainment in the Greek Language is a globally recognised title that proves the level of proficiency of its holder in the market and is considered a prerequisite for the practice of various professions in Greece. The registrations for the Exams for the Certificate of Attainment in Greek 2025, which is conducted under the auspices of Macquarie University, are now taking place. For more information click here.
Food is at the heart of Greek culture, and this year’s Antipodes Festival is celebrating it in style with ‘Taste of the Aegean,’ proudly supported by The Greek Herald.
In an exciting partnership with Antipodes Festival, The Greek Herald is proud to present this mouth-watering segment, where some of Australia’s most talented Greek food personalities will take the stage to share their passion, expertise, and delicious creations.
From artisan pastries and authentic Greek sweets to modern takes on traditional dishes and expertly crafted cocktails, ‘Taste of the Aegean’ will bring festival-goers up close with the masters of Greek cuisine. Whether you’re keen to watch live cooking demonstrations, discover new flavours, or learn the secrets behind your favourite Greek dishes, this segment promises to be a feast for the senses.
Here’s a closer look at the Greek foodies who will be bringing their expertise, creativity, and love of Greek gastronomy to Antipodes 2025.
Hellenic Wine & Spirits
Renowned for sourcing the finest wines and spirits from Greece, Hellenic Wine & Spirits is set to bring a taste of the Mediterranean to the Antipodes Festival with a special showcase of Greek-inspired cocktails. As a leading importer and distributor, they champion Greece’s rich drinking culture, offering everything from crisp Assyrtiko wines and bold Xinomavro reds to traditional spirits like Tsipouro, Ouzo, and the aromatic Mastiha liqueur.
At this year’s festival, their expert mixologists will be shaking up a selection of cocktails featuring Greece’s most iconic spirits, giving festival-goers a unique opportunity to experience classic flavours in a fresh and modern way. Whether it’s a refreshing Mastiha Spritz, a bold Ouzo-based creation, or a twist on the classic Greek frappe with a spirited kick, Hellenic Wine & Spirits is set to bring a new dimension to the Antipodes Festival’s food and drink experience.
Get ready to sip, savour, and discover the best of Greece – one cocktail at a time!
Angie Giannakoudakis
With a career spanning hospitality, food consulting, and cultural advocacy, Angie Giannakoudakis has dedicated herself to showcasing the richness of Greek cuisine and traditions in Australia. Known for her deep knowledge of Greek gastronomy and her innovative approach to food and drink experiences, she has worked across renowned venues, championing authentic ingredients, traditional techniques, and modern interpretations of Greek flavours.
Beyond the kitchen and bar, Angie is a respected consultant and creative force in the industry, collaborating on projects that celebrate Greek heritage and elevate Mediterranean-inspired hospitality. Whether curating menus, developing unique dining experiences, or sharing her expertise at major events, she brings a deep passion for storytelling through food and drink.
At this year’s Antipodes Festival, Angie will once again bring her infectious enthusiasm and expertise to the stage, ensuring festival-goers experience the true essence of Greek hospitality.
Vanilla
A name synonymous with Greek hospitality and indulgent desserts, Vanilla has become a staple of Melbourne’s Greek food scene, attracting thousands of visitors to its iconic Oakleigh location. At the heart of this beloved family business is George Giannou, a master pastry chef whose passion for Greek sweets has helped make Vanilla one of the largest Greek pastry destinations in the southern hemisphere.
Born in Naoussa, northern Greece, a region famous for its luscious fruits and rich pastry traditions, George developed a love for desserts from a young age. After migrating to Australia at 13, he later joined the Vanilla family in 2009, bringing his expertise and creativity to the Vanilla Bakehouse team, where he now leads an artisan pastry workshop dedicated to crafting authentic Greek cakes, biscuits, and pastries.
With over 50 years of hospitality experience, the Spanos family continues to uphold its commitment to quality, using only the best ingredients—free from preservatives or additives—to create its extensive range of traditional and modern Greek delights. From their famous loukoumades and galaktoboureko to handcrafted cakes and biscuits, Vanilla has become more than just a café—it’s a meeting place, a family destination, and a true taste of Greece in Melbourne.
At this year’s Antipodes Festival, Vanilla will bring its passion for Greek sweets to the spotlight, sharing the secrets behind its most beloved desserts and showcasing why it remains a must-visit for lovers of authentic Greek patisserie.
Philip Vakos
Celebrating 10 years of Bahari – The Hellenic Palate, Philip Vakos has firmly established himself as a key figure in Melbourne’s modern Greek food scene. His Swan Street restaurant has become a sought-after foodie destination, where he blends traditional Greek flavours with contemporary flair, creating dishes that respect Greek culinary heritage while keeping guests intrigued with unexpected twists.
With Bahari now expanding to two floors—offering a cosy dining space downstairs and a cocktail bar and event space upstairs – Philip continues to push boundaries in Greek Australian dining.
Born and raised in Tasmania, Philip was influenced by the cooking of his Cretan grandmothers, who taught him that the secret to great Greek food lies in simplicity – but with a touch of mystery. Despite initially studying accounting, his true passion for food led him to MasterChef Australia in 2010, which became the launchpad for his culinary career.
Philip has since shared his love for Greek cuisine through countless cooking demonstrations at major festivals, including the Lonsdale Street Greek Festival, Oakleigh Glendi, Moonee Valley Festival, and more. His passion extends beyond the kitchen, with his involvement in charity events for organisations like the Make-A-Wish Foundation and the National Breast Cancer Foundation.
A familiar face in the media, Philip has made regular TV appearances on Everyday Gourmet (Channel 10), Farm to Fork (Channel 10), and The Cook Up with Adam Liaw (SBS Food). Alongside his wife Heleena, he also runs The Gringlish Co., a catering company bringing his signature Greek-meets-modern approach to events across Melbourne.
At this year’s Antipodes Festival, Philip will once again bring his energy and expertise to the food stage, showcasing his creative take on Greek classics and proving why he remains a standout in Australia’s Greek culinary scene.
This year’s Antipodes Festival is being held at Lonsdale Street, Melbourne, on Saturday, February 22 to Sunday, February 23. ‘A Taste of the Aegean’ Cooking Demonstrations are running over both days, proudly supported by The Greek Herald. For more details visit: www.antipodesfestival.com.au
The Inner West Hawks FC officially launched their 2025 season with a vibrant celebration at Club Five Dock RSL on Wednesday, February 12.
Players, sponsors, families, and community leaders came together to mark the occasion, reinforcing the club’s legacy, community spirit, and ambitions for the future.
The event highlighted the club’s strong ties to the Cyprus Community of NSW, with board members from both organisations in attendance.
Emcee and operations manager Phillip Phillips opened the evening by recognising the dedication of volunteers who make the club thrive.
Phillip Phillips and George Phillips.
Club President George Phillips followed with an inspiring address, reflecting on the club’s journey from its founding in 1978 as Cyprus United Soccer Club to its current identity as the Inner West Hawks. He welcomed players, families, and supporters, emphasising that “football is not just a game, it’s a journey… a journey of discipline, teamwork, passion and resilience.”
The Club President also spoke of the club’s history, noting that while it was founded by Greek Cypriots, “Inner West Hawks represents the diversity of modern Australia that reflects the ever-changing communities of Sydney’s Inner West and Australia overall.”
Phillip Phillips.Michael Kyriakou.
A strong connection to the Cypriot community
Cyprus Community of NSW President Michael Kyriakou spoke about the long-standing relationship between the Hawks and the Cypriot community, highlighting the club’s roots and its continued presence as a pillar of multicultural football in Australia.
Mr Kyriacou noted how Cypriots have contributed to the sport in Australia for decades, well before the club’s official founding in 1978.
“We’re proud to have a… continued association with the sports club,” he said, reaffirming the community’s support for the Hawks.
Honouring a true Hawks legend
A special moment of the evening was the recognition of Panteli Christou, a 92-year-old lifelong supporter of the Hawks. A familiar figure at Arlington Oval, Christou is known for attending multiple games in a single day, arriving early in the morning and staying until the last match has been played.
His passionate presence on the sidelines, often offering commentary and encouragement to players, has made him a beloved part of the Hawks family. In honour of his unwavering dedication, he was awarded a Life Membership Badge, receiving a standing ovation from the crowd.
Panteli Christou.Bouzouki player.
Football wisdom from a Socceroo legend
A highlight of the night was a special guest appearance by former Socceroo and Hawks player Mark Bosnich, who delivered an engaging speech, sharing insights from his career and offering valuable advice to the club’s young players.
Bosnich shared three key principles that guided his own football journey. He first emphasised the importance of enjoyment, telling players, “If you’re doing something that you enjoy, you will do it better, trust me.”
He also spoke about the value of empathy, explaining that “if you have empathy and you can understand your teammates, you know which foot to pass it to them. You know whether or not to put a ball in behind for them because they’ve got great pace… It’s knowing the strengths and weaknesses of each other, of your teammates.”
Mark Bosnich.
Finally, he stressed the need for focus, recalling a lesson from Sir Alex Ferguson, “Your concentration, your breathing… and enjoy yourselves.”
Bosnich also expressed his strong support for the club’s continued growth and encouraged players and their families to remain united in their passion for football.
“You’ve got a direct line to me now for anything… Clubs like Inner West Hawks are the future of our game, and it’s important that everybody feels like they have a voice,” he said.
The evening wrapped up with a lively dinner and a performance by a talented bouzouki player, adding a festive touch to the occasion. With the new season now officially underway, the Inner West Hawks FC community is looking ahead to another year of passion, hard work, and success both on and off the pitch.
Neoléa, in collaboration with the Panarcadian Association of South Australia “O Kolokotronis”, hosted a cooking workshop on Sunday, February 9, at the Panarcadian Hall.
The event marked the second instalment of the Syllogo Initiative; a project by Neoléa dedicated to celebrating and supporting local Greek clubs and associations by showcasing their unique regional culture and helping ensure that cultural knowledge is accessible across generations.
With over 60 guests from a diverse group of Greek Australians participating, the workshop featured a captivating cooking demonstration led by Panarcadian member, Nitsa Mihalopoulos. Nitsa shared her personal secrets and a step-by-step process behind her homemade hilopites, a traditional Greek small square pasta.
All photos copyright Sophia Zavlagka.
The event highlighted the cultural significance of this multi-day process, from kneading the dough to drying the finished product.
Attendees learned about the time-honoured tradition of making hilopites, a communal activity where villagers, particularly women, would gather to prepare large batches for the year. Fascinating stories were shared about the sheer scale of production, including anecdotes of boys stomping on the dough to knead it.
Whilst the recipe’s time constraints prevented full hands-on participation, guests were actively engaged throughout the afternoon. They watched the kneading process firsthand and were able to experience the texture of the dough at various stages, from the raw ingredients to finished pasta.
The delicious aroma of kokkinisto sauce filled the hall as generous servings of hilopites were distributed after the demonstration, much to the delight of the attendees.
The cooking process and final product.
The afternoon concluded with a dynamic panel discussion facilitated by Anastasia Mavrides and members of the Panarcadian Association. The discussion explored the relevance and impact of Greek associations in today’s world, focusing on how different generations within the Greek community can interact, share knowledge, and maintain vital cultural connections.
Treasurer of the Panarcadian Association, Chris Karahalios, said after the event, “Everyone in this room has a connection to Greece. It is so important that we teach our children and our grandchildren about the connection and encourage them to learn about our culture, about our food, our Greek dancing, and of course, speaking our language. If these things die, our culture slowly dies with it, making it harder to pass on from one generation to another.”
Councillor Zoi Papafilopoulos, Local Ward Councillor and Panarcadian Association Committee Member, added, “Our elderly members often hold the key to preserving traditional customs, recipes, songs and stories that might otherwise be lost.”
“It’s important we take time to learn from them so they can pass down this knowledge to our younger generations, ensuring our cultural heritage remains alive,” Cr Papafilopoulos added.
“The energy and passion of the young people from Neoléa to facilitate this is inspiring; their dedication ensures our cultural heritage will flourish for generations to come. It was an honour to collaborate with them.”
After the tremendous success of last year’s performances, the Greek theatre production Opou Gis Kai Patris is set to return for its highly anticipated sequel, Opou Gis Kai Patris 2.
Taking place from March 6 to 9, 2025, at the Greek Theatre – Mantouridion in Sydney, this immersive theatrical experience promises to captivate audiences once again with its poignant storytelling, powerful performances, and vibrant cultural heritage.
Following the overwhelming response to last year’s debut, Opou Gis Kai Patris – which translates to Where Earth Meets Homeland – returns with a new chapter that continues to explore the deep connection between the Greek diaspora and its roots.
The play delves into the themes of identity, belonging, and the unbreakable ties to one’s heritage, all brought to life by the talented duo Stamatis Tzelepis and Elena Tsefala from Greece, and accompanied by Greek Australian actors John Daviskas, Lucy Miller and Nicholas Miralis.
The show’s author Konstantinos Kalymnios, along with a dedicated creative team, has crafted a sequel that builds upon the emotional foundation set in the first production, further enhancing the narrative with compelling storylines and unforgettable performances.
Opou Gis Kai Patris 2 will continue to resonate with audiences both young and old, bridging the gap between generations by portraying the timeless experience of those who seek to maintain their Greek cultural identity in a foreign land.
As the Greek Australian community continues to grow and thrive, this production serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving one’s heritage while embracing new identities.
This year’s performances will take place at the Greek Theatre – Mantouridion Marrickville, a space known for its intimate setting and dedication to showcasing Greek culture. With limited seating available, tickets are expected to sell quickly, so theatergoers are encouraged to secure their seats early to avoid disappointment.
Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to experience a piece of Greece in the heart of Sydney with Opou Gis Kai Patris 2 – a testament to the power of storytelling, cultural pride, and the universal search for belonging.
