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Estudiantina of Melbourne brings Rebetika to life at Brunswick Ballroom

Pamela Rontziokos
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Estudiantina of Melbourne brings Rebetika to life at Brunswick Ballroom

Melbourne’s vibrant Greek music scene is about to experience an unforgettable event as Estudiantina of Melbourne launches their debut album at Brunswick Ballroom on Sunday, March 9. As part of this year’s Brunswick Music Festival, this event, Journey to Rebetika, will celebrate the timeless and evocative sounds of Rebetika and Smyrneika, two musical traditions deeply rooted in Greek history and culture.

A Passionate Tribute to Greek Musical Heritage

Formed in January 2024, Estudiantina of Melbourne is more than just an ensemble – it is a dedicated group of musicians committed to preserving and reviving traditional Greek music. Specializing in Smyrneika—a genre shaped by Greek, Turkish, Jewish, and Armenian influences—the group brings a rich, authentic sound to Australian audiences. Their instrumentation, featuring the oud, bouzouki, violin, kanun, and guitar, weaves a mesmerizing tapestry of sounds that transport listeners to another era.

Beyond Smyrneika, Estudiantina of Melbourne also delves into Rebetiko, a poignant expression of urban Greek folk music. Originating from the working-class struggles of early 20th-century Greece, Rebetiko’s deeply moving melodies and lyrical storytelling resonate with themes of adversity, displacement, and resilience. The ensemble masterfully blends the traditional sounds of the bouzouki, baglama, and accordion, capturing the spirit of this genre with authenticity and passion.

Meet the Musicians

The group’s diverse and talented lineup includes:

  • Paul Karalis (bouzouki) – A lifelong musician inspired by family support and a passion for sharing Greek music with new generations.
  • Jenny Dixon (violin, viola) – A classically trained musician with an impressive career spanning major orchestras and folk ensembles.
  • Maria Antaras-Dalamagas (accordion, vocals) – A self-taught accordionist whose love for Rebetika was inspired by childhood memories of her yiayia’s singing.
  • Alex Petropoulos (vocals, violin) – A classically trained violinist turned Rebetiko enthusiast, deeply connected to Greek musical traditions.
  • Camille El Feghali (qanun, nay, mizmar, buzuq) – A multi-instrumentalist specializing in Middle Eastern maqam music, enriching the group’s sound with his vast experience.
  • Vagellis Ginis (vocals) – A seasoned Rebetiko performer from Athens with a career spanning Greece’s most renowned music venues.
  • Con Kalamaras (vocals, baglama, guitar) – A key figure in Melbourne’s Rebetiko scene, co-founder of the Melbourne Rebetiko Festival, and a passionate advocate for the genre.

The Cultural Heartbeat of Brunswick

Brunswick has long been a hub for Melbourne’s Greek community, serving as a cultural melting pot where Rebetika thrives. With its rich immigrant history, the suburb has fostered a deep connection to the music, with venues, festivals, and community events keeping these traditions alive. Journey to Rebetika at Brunswick Ballroom is not just an album launch – it is a cultural celebration that pays homage to the resilience and artistry of the Greek-Australian musical heritage.

This is a unique opportunity to experience the raw emotion and exquisite musicianship of Estudiantina of Melbourne as they take audiences on a journey through the heart and soul of Rebetika.

Date: Sunday, March 9, 2025

Time: 1:00 PM
Venue: Brunswick Ballroom
Tickets: Get your tickets here

Be part of this unforgettable afternoon of music, history, and cultural celebration. Secure your tickets today and immerse yourself in the mesmerizing world of Rebetika.

Zeljko Kalac calls for greater support as South Melbourne prepares for NSD

The Greek Herald
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Zeljko Kalac calls for greater support as South Melbourne prepares for NSD

Former Socceroos goalkeeper Zeljko Kalac shared his thoughts, in a recent interview with Optus Sport, on the newly established National Second Division (NSD), highlighting the need for greater media and financial backing for the competition.

His remarks come as South Melbourne FC, one of Australia’s most historically significant Hellenic heritage football clubs, prepares to compete in the inaugural season of the NSD, set to begin in October 2025.

Kalac, who came through the ranks during the National Soccer League (NSL) era, expressed optimism about the NSD’s potential, emphasizing its importance in preserving and celebrating the nation’s football history.

“I think the concept is fantastic. I actually think it’s a very sellable product,” Kalac stated.

“I would love to watch Sydney United play South Melbourne. It recreates a bit of history. We try to walk away from history here in Australia, but history is important. This is a good way to start.”

His comments underscore the excitement surrounding the competition, which will feature several clubs with deep-rooted football legacies, including South Melbourne FC. The club, which has a storied past in Australian football and won multiple NSL championships, sees the NSD as a pathway to re-establishing itself on a national stage.

South Melbourne FC prepares for the National Second Division. Photo copyright: The Greek Herald / Andriana Simos.

However, Kalac also raised concerns about the challenges clubs may face in making the NSD sustainable and competitive. He pointed out that critical aspects such as travel costs, accommodation, and investment will play a significant role in ensuring the league’s success.

“We’ll see what the flights are like. We’ll see what accommodation is like. What’s it going to cost the clubs? You know, you’ve got to take it seriously. These clubs need to go into the B League and invest and try to win the B League. It’s got to be real,” he stressed.

A central theme of Kalac’s comments was the ongoing struggle for media and financial support in Australian football. He lamented the lack of recognition for clubs outside the A-League and reiterated the resilience of traditional football institutions despite the challenges they face.

“We are the most played sport in Australia. Where’s the media support? Where’s the financial support?” Kalac questioned.

“They still try to kick us in the guts, but we’re still there. We’re still there.”

His call for greater support resonates deeply with clubs like South Melbourne, which have long advocated for increased visibility. As one of the eight foundation clubs in the NSD, South Melbourne FC carries the weight of history and ambition, hoping to lead the resurgence of football at this level.

For South Melbourne and other participating clubs, the competition represents a long-awaited opportunity—but one that must be backed by tangible support if it is to thrive.

Klavdia to represent Greece in 2025 Eurovision

The Greek Herald
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Klavdia to represent Greece in 2025 Eurovision

After an eight-year hiatus, Greece’s Eurovision national final, Ethnikós Telikós 2025, returned overnight, with Klavdia emerging victorious with her ballad Asteromáta. She will represent Greece at the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest in Basel this May.

Klavdia secured 44 points, narrowly beating Evangelia’s Vále, which earned 42 points.

Other notable placements included Barbz with Sirens (30 points) and Dinamiss with Odyssey (24 points).

The final standings were:

  1. Klavdia – Asteromáta – 44 points
  2. Evangelia – Vále – 42 points
  3. Barbz – Sirens – 30 points
  4. Dinamiss – Odyssey – 24 points
  5. Xannova Xan – Play It! – 20 points
  6. Kostas Ageris – Gi mou – 18 points
  7. Rikki – Elevator (Up and Down) – 14 points
  8. Konstantinos Christoforou & Kostas Karafotis – Parádeisos – 13 points
  9. Thanos Lambrou – Free Love – 12 points
  10. Georgina Kalais & John Vlaseros – High Road – 8 points
  11. Andy Nicholas – Lost My Way – 8 points
  12. Nafsika Gavrilaki – Unhurt Me – 0 points

The event, held at the Christmas Theatre in Athens, was determined by a mix of public vote (50%), Greek jury (25%), and international jury (25%). Greek Eurovision legends Helena Paparizou and Sakis Rouvas hosted the show.

Source: Aussie Vision.

Nick Kozakis: A Greek Australian visionary shaping the world of film

The Greek Herald
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Nick Kozakis: A Greek Australian visionary shaping the world of film

By Nikita Chronis

Filmmaking is an art unlike any other, where directors craft stories using tools of colour, character, and creative collaboration. 

Among our Greek Australian community, 2024 Aria award-winning filmmaker Nick Kozakis is carving out a reputation as an innovative and exciting voice in cinema – both at home and abroad. Recently, Nick reflected on his heritage, journey and ambitions.

“Growing up, I didn’t really lean into my Greek identity, not as much as my brothers at least,” he admits. “I was more Anglicised, and suffered from the odd pang of cultural cringe; but the festivals, dances, and mythology left a mark on my imagination.” 

Classics like Aesop’s Fables and Disney’s animated Hercules (1997) sparked his early creativity, as well as fascination with his Hellenic heritage. 

While initially focused on graphic design, Nick found his way to filmmaking through experimentation. 

“I started with a camcorder, shooting pranks and stunts with friends, in a very Jackass-y way. It was raw but exciting – I could create whatever I wanted, whenever I wanted. It wasn’t like I needed a 9-5 job just to switch on the camera. The energy was electric,” he says. 

Nick’s passion deepened when he entered Swinburne University of Technology, and met fellow Greek Australian filmmaker Jason Raftopoulos, despite initially feeling out of place. 

“The turning point for me was watching a screening of Jason’s short film Father’s Day, which he himself screened during an editing class. It was the proof of concept for his later feature film, West of Sunshine. I was shocked at how genuinely amazing it was,” Nick explains.

“I quickly connected with him, and soon after he borrowed my red camera for another film he was shooting. We developed our relationship from there.”

At university, Nick embraced risk-taking, learning through trial and error. 

“I experimented a lot and failed a lot,” he shares. “But those failures taught me invaluable lessons. Playing it safe wouldn’t have gotten me anywhere.” 

This willingness to push boundaries has become a cornerstone of his filmmaking philosophy. 

“Look, at university, we were taught to be like Swiss army knives. We understood the relevance and importance of the rules of filmmaking. Yet, I believe that the more you master those rules, the more experimental you can afford to be. The crazier I was in my films at university, the harder I fell – but the more I learnt! I like stretching myself and falling over and over again,” he chuckles.

Nick cites David Fincher and Joseph Kahn as major influences. 

“Their visual sensibility is genius,” he says. “They have inspired so many amazing filmmakers over the years. I mean, they built entire worlds in their movies within three minutes!” 

Photo: Nina Franova / Getty Images.

Describing his approach to the craft and filmmaking style, Nick emphasises the importance of camera movement in creating a sense of urgency or stability. 

“For me, the camera is a character. In our film Godless: The Eastfield Exorcism (2023, winner of the 2023 Sitges Film Festival and nominated for multiple AACTA awards), the camera is always slow and lurking whenever we have stability in the narrative. However, when anything chaotic or violent is taking place, the camera is handheld and frenetic. When the picture suddenly stops, it is like an indication for the audience to take a breath; as if some semblance of calm, just for that moment, has returned,” he explains.

Nick is passionate about delving deeper into his Greek heritage through film. 

“Greek mythology is an endless well of inspiration,” he says, hinting at an upcoming project exploring these stories. 

“Storytelling is deeply embedded in Hellenic culture, from ancient plays to modern cinema… I would love to rediscover and tap into my roots once again.”

Next year, the Greek Australian filmmaker is busy with numerous projects, including features such as Body Farm with Brianna Gardner and Muck Up Day with Jessica Liley and Chooseday Films. He’s also continuing collaborations with Sooshi Mango, blending humour and creativity in quirky ways. 

“We just finished a parody of a cinema classic, and it’s been a blast. I’m keen for everyone to see it!” Nick concluded.

Godless: The Eastfield Exorcism can be watched on Binge, Foxtel and Shudder.

Federation of Greek Elderly Citizen Clubs of Melbourne & Victoria host Vasilopita cutting event

The Greek Herald
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Federation of Greek Elderly Citizen Clubs of Melbourne & Victoria host Vasilopita cutting event

The Federation of Greek Elderly Citizen Clubs of Melbourne & Victoria (FGECCMV) held its annual Vasilopita cutting ceremony on Tuesday, January 28, in a festive event filled with joy, music, and dancing.

Members and attendees enjoyed a rich spread of food, drinks, and desserts, creating a warm atmosphere to welcome the new year.

The Federation’s president, John Kostoulias, along with the Board of Directors, volunteers, and everyone who contributed to the event’s success, received congratulations for the impeccable organisation.

The Federation continues to operate as a vital support network for elderly Greek Australians, ensuring they remain connected with their heritage and community.

Dignitaries present at the event included Federal MP Keith Wolahan, Manningham Council members: Anna Chen, Isabella Eltaha, and Jim Grivas, Healthy Ageing Participation Officer Fia Moraitis, the Coordinator of the FGECCMV, Kyriaki Antoniadou, Kaiti Georgiou on behalf of the Cyprus Community of Melbourne and Victoria, Martha Antoniadis, Treasurer of the FGECCMV and Kostas Alaveras, Member of the Coordinating Council of SAE Oceania.

Closing the event, the Federation’s president thanked all attendees and wished them health and happiness for the new year.

Bill Papastergiadis OAM recognised among Law Firm Leaders of the Year

The Greek Herald
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Bill Papastergiadis OAM recognised among Law Firm Leaders of the Year

Bill Papastergiadis OAM, Melbourne Managing Partner and Chair of the National Executive of Moray & Agnew, has been recognised as one of the Law Firm Leaders of the Year for Australia and New Zealand. This was announced in the 2025 publication, Australasian Lawyer and NZ Lawyer ‘Law Firm Leaders of the Year’.

Australasian Lawyer and NZ Lawyer, Australia’s leading independent legal publication, conducted a far-reaching analysis of the legal industry over the last 18 months examining the most influential leaders with exceptional leadership, strategic vision, problem solving and legal expertise and contribution to their firm’s success. Mr Papastergiadis was ranked as one of the standout performers with exemplary professional abilities and expertise.

Chris Sweeney, Managing Editor for Special Reports at Australasian Lawyer and NZ Lawyer shared his insights on the selection process, stating, “The standard of nominees was extremely high and showcased how deep the industry’s talent pool is. Mr Papastergiadis was recognised on this year’s prestigious list for his leadership, vision and outstanding ability to problem solve for clients.” 

The Australasian Lawyer publication detailed: “Since Papastergiadis’ tenure began in 2007, the firm has expanded from five partners to 30 and an increase in staff from 10 to over 200 strong.  Traditionally an insurance firm, through his vision and leadership, it has diversified, now comprising 50% insurance practitioners and 50% of lawyers working over the full range of commercial areas such as: corporate, property, construction, government, workplace and commercial litigation.

Creating a culture of flexibility, camaraderie and excellence, is important.  Mr Papastergiadis is quoted as saying:

“I try to be transparent, friendly and responsible.  I treat people with respect and, in particular, our younger people, who are more vulnerable.  I want to make sure that we are offering at every opportunity, the best version of ourselves to them and the best example, and then it’s about watching those people flourish.”

The publication states “Papastergiadis’ hands-on management has resulted in significant organic growth in the last 18 months, driven by understanding the importance of diversity within the firm and is being active in ensuring the firm supports women.  These efforts are evidenced by females comprising the majority of employees: 65% of all staff and, 59% of all legal staff.”

The publication goes on to state “Bill is also passionate about supporting immigrant communities in Melbourne and is President of the Greek Community of Melbourne group and in 2019 was awarded the Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for his service to that community.”

“To be acknowledged amongst fellow industry leaders is a great honour,” Mr Papastergiadis said whilst adding “I consider this recognition not just for me, but for the incredible team at Moray & Agnew who work tirelessly every day to deliver exceptional legal service.” 

Moray & Agnew has achieved recent success with its recognition in this year’s Legal 500 Asia Pacific Directory, a preeminent law firm directory which ranks Australia’s leading law firms. The firm achieved rankings in the top tiers for Construction, Real Estate, Insurance, Employment and Dispute Resolution.

This recognition is the latest in a number of accolades confirming Moray & Agnew Melbourne’s standing within the legal community as leaders in numerous areas of law. The firm consistently makes the rankings in a number of other top legal directories including Chambers and Doyle’s Guide.

Mr Papastergiadis concludes “As we look toward this year, we remain focused on growing our firm and providing exceptional service to our clients. Our outlook for the future is incredibly positive, and we are excited about the opportunities ahead.”

Spyridon Mouratidis wins international art award

The Greek Herald
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Spyridon Mouratidis wins international art award

Greek artist Spyridon Mouratidis, who is contributing to The Greek Herald, has received international recognition for his work, earning the prestigious “Excellence Award” at a watercolor exhibition in Nepal. This honor places him among the top ten artists worldwide to be celebrated at the event.

Earlier this year, Mouratidis was also awarded the “Nomination Award” in Singapore.

The award-winning piece is a watercolor painting of Little Bay, a suburb of Sydney, Australia, created in Corfu, Greece, and exhibited in Nepal. The artwork was inspired by a photograph taken by Kyriaki Orfanos, a Sydney resident.

Santorini volcano activity triggers meeting with civil protection officials

The Greek Herald
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Santorini volcano activity triggers meeting with civil protection officials

Increased volcanic activity in Santorini’s caldera has prompted Greece’s Civil Protection Minister to call an emergency meeting with local and disaster response officials.

The Climate Crisis and Civil Protection Ministry reported “mild seismic-volcanic activity” detected by monitoring sensors, similar to activity observed in 2011 that lasted 14 months without issues.

Scientists have noted a rise in activity along a central fault line in the northern part of the caldera but emphasised there is no immediate cause for concern.

Santorini, a top tourist destination known for its picturesque views, is an active volcanic site, with its last major eruption occurring in 1950. However, seismologist Efthymios Lekkas reassured the public, stating, “We have a very long time ahead of us before we face a big explosion.”

He emphasised that the volcano is a “living organism,” and while volcanic activity may cause small earthquakes, no major eruption is expected.

The meeting was attended by key officials, including the head of Greece’s fire department and the deputy minister for disaster recovery, to discuss the ongoing monitoring and response efforts.

Source: Ekathimerini.

Second round of presidential election voting set for Greece

The Greek Herald
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Second round of presidential election voting set for Greece

The Greek Parliament will hold its second roll-call vote for the presidency on Friday, January 31, requiring candidates to secure a two-thirds majority, or 200 votes, for election.

In the first round on January 25, Constantinos Tasoulas, nominated by New Democracy, led with 160 votes, followed by Louka Katseli from SYRIZA with 40, Tasos Giannitsis from PASOK with 34, and a candidate from the ‘Niki’ party with 14 votes.

If no candidate achieves the necessary majority, a third round will be held with a minimum requirement of 180 votes.

Further rounds with progressively lower thresholds (151 votes in the fourth and a relative majority in the fifth) are planned if needed.

Hellenic Train reveals cargo details of fatal Tempe train

The Greek Herald
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Hellenic Train reveals cargo details of fatal Tempe train

Hellenic Train released a statement on Thursday, January 30, detailing the cargo of the freight train involved in the deadly Tempe crash.

The 13-car train’s load included wide iron lamination products (sheet metal) in the first three derailed cars, followed by food preparations and foodstuffs in the 4th to 7th wagons. Beers were carried in the 8th and 9th wagons, iron wires in the 10th and 11th, and empty containers in the 12th and 13th wagons.

Photo: Vaggelis Kousioras / AP.

The company emphasised that the cargo was properly documented and in compliance with national and international regulations, with all records provided to authorities.

Hellenic Train reiterated its commitment to full cooperation in the ongoing investigation, noting that the cargo details had previously been clarified in a Greek Parliament inquiry.

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