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Legends unite: A memorable dinner celebrating South Melbourne and Sydney Olympic

Andriana Simos
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Legends unite: A memorable dinner celebrating South Melbourne and Sydney Olympic

Following the thrilling 2025 Greek Herald Cup match on Saturday, January 18, which saw South Melbourne triumph over Sydney Olympic 2-1, the evening transitioned seamlessly into a glittering Legends Dinner at Lakeside Stadium in Melbourne, Victoria.

The exclusive gathering brought together icons of Greek Australian football, community leaders, and fans to celebrate decades of shared history and success.

A grand opening

The night began with a warm welcome from Master of Ceremonies Ashley Maikousis, who set the tone with her heartfelt words.

The Greek Herald Cup legends dinner
Ashleigh Maikousis.

“Tonight presents a wonderful opportunity to better strengthen the relationship between our two great clubs, to celebrate our rich histories, and to remind ourselves of how much more each club has to contribute to the football landscape in this country,” she said.

Ms Maikousis also congratulated both teams for their spirited performances earlier in the day, praising the Sydney Olympic players for their hard-fought effort and South Melbourne for keeping The Greek Herald Cup in Melbourne.

The MC also took a moment to acknowledge the event’s importance beyond the pitch: “What we as clubs have contributed to our communities and continue to do so goes far beyond 11 players in blue and white kicking a ball around. It has always been, and will always be, much more than that.”

Looking back at 1984

The evening celebrated the iconic 1984 season, a year when both South Melbourne and Sydney Olympic left indelible marks on Australian football. Club legends from that era, including Alan Davidson, John Yzendoorn, and Peter Laumets, reminisced about their triumphs. They were joined by Sydney Olympic’s Peter Katholos, Chris Kalantzis, and Terry Patalis, who spoke of their own journeys and the fierce rivalry they shared with South Melbourne.

The Greek Herald Cup legends dinner
The Greek Herald Cup legends dinner

Nick Maikousis, President of South Melbourne, gave a stirring speech, reflecting on the significance of 1984.

“1984 was the beginning of South’s NSL-winning culture and mentality,” he said. “That year gave the Melbourne Greek community its first taste of national success.”

The Greek Herald Cup legends dinner
Nick Maikousis.

Maikousis highlighted the efforts of former President Leonidas Anezakis, who played a pivotal role in assembling the team that would go on to win the 1984 championship.

The audience was treated to a video showcasing highlights from the 1984 season, followed by interviews with both South Melbourne and Sydney Olympic legends.

The Greek Herald Cup legends dinner
The Greek Herald Cup legends dinner

Nick Staikos, MP for Bentleigh and Victorian Minister for Consumer Affairs and Local Government, added his voice to the celebrations and praised The Greek Herald for its vital role in connecting the Hellenic community.

“The Greek Herald… have been around for nearly 100 years. Certainly, their print edition has been around for nearly 100 years. But as a more recent generation of Greek Australians, their online presence is really what keeps our community connected to each other, and I think that is very, very special,” Mr Staikos said.

The Greek Herald Cup legends dinner
Nick Staikos MP.

Rivalry and Unity

Damon Hanlin, President of Sydney Olympic, also addressed the crowd with a mix of humour and heartfelt sentiment.

“Congratulations to South Melbourne on a well-deserved win today,” he said.

Mr Hanlin then struck a more serious tone, emphasising the need for unity in Australian football: “We’re our own worst enemy as footballers in this country. We’re the only country on earth that has so many codes that compete with us, yet football is the most beautiful game in the whole world. Unity is what will keep this dream alive.”

The Greek Herald Cup legends dinner
Damon Hanlin.

A toast to the future

As dinner was served, conversations flowed about the upcoming National Second Tier (NST) competition and the bright future of both clubs.

While acknowledging the challenges in establishing the NSD, Maikousis expressed optimism: “The rivalry between the two clubs is extraordinary because we’ve represented the same communities. Whilst we have different supporters, there’s always been a lot of respect between us.”

Hanlin echoed these sentiments, adding, “Believe in each other. Believe that this National Second Division can be more than just a community game.”

Attendees enjoyed the night.

The event concluded with a heartfelt thanks to the sponsors, organisers, and attendees. The evening was elevated by the presence of several distinguished guests including Mr Staikos; Nina Taylor, MP for Albert Park; NSW Finance Minister, Courtney Houssos; and South Melbourne Chairman Bill Papastergiadis OAM.

With memories shared and friendships strengthened, the Legends Dinner was a fitting end to a day that celebrated not only the rich history of Greek Australian football but also its promising future.

Melbourne hosts a Greek sporting extravaganza at the 2025 Greek Herald Cup

The Greek Herald
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Melbourne hosts a Greek sporting extravaganza at the 2025 Greek Herald Cup

By Takis Triadafillou and Andriana Simos

On Saturday, January 18, more than 2,000 fans gathered at Melbourne’s Lakeside Stadium to witness the much-anticipated showdown between South Melbourne FC and Sydney Olympic FC in the second edition of The Greek Herald Cup.

This event proved once again to be a celebration of Hellenic heritage, blending football, music and culture into an unforgettable experience.

More than 2,000 fans gathered at Melbourne’s Lakeside Stadium to witness the second installment of The Greek Herald Cup. All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Costas Deves, Takis Triadafillou, Mary Sinanidis and Andriana Simos.

The name of the cup was dedicated to The Greek Herald – a newspaper that has served as a main source of information, updates, and announcements for Sydney Olympic and South Melbourne throughout their illustrious histories. As the tournament’s namesake, The Greek Herald Cup paid homage to the newspaper’s unwavering support of both clubs and its pivotal role in connecting the Greek community.

For Sydney Olympic and South Melbourne, The Greek Herald Cup came just in time as they prepare for the 2025 National Second Tier (NST) competition. Both clubs are part of the eight foundation clubs to participate in the NST, set to commence in October 2025.

the greek herald cup

the greek herald cup

the greek herald cup

A feast for the senses

This year’s event wasn’t just a football match – it was a full-fledged cultural celebration that delighted fans of all ages.

Doors opened at 1pm, with lively Greek music filling the stadium’s outdoor spaces. Mini matches from local junior teams took centre stage in the afternoon, energising the growing crowd.

the greek herald cup
Live music was provided on the day.

the greek herald cup
Mini matches.

Kids adorned in Greek flags ran around the stadium, their excitement contagious as they waved their banners proudly. The vibrant blue and white colours symbolised the shared heritage that brought the community together for this special event.

As families cheered for their teams, the tantalising aroma of souvlaki filled the air, drawing hungry crowds to the food stalls. Loukoumades, drizzled with honey and sprinkled with cinnamon, proved to be a crowd favourite, offering a sweet indulgence that paired perfectly with the summer vibe.

the greek herald cup

the greek herald cup

the greek herald cup

For those looking to cool off, scoops of refreshing ice cream were on hand, completing a menu that brought a taste of Greece to the heart of Melbourne.

“It was more than just football—it’s a celebration of community and connection,” one onlooker told The Greek Herald on the day.

the greek herald cup
For those looking to cool off, scoops of refreshing ice cream were on hand.

the greek herald cup
(L-R) Bill Papastergiadis OAM, Dimitra Skalkos and Nick Staikos MP.

the greek herald cup

A historic rivalry reignited

As the clock struck 6.30pm, the players walked out to thunderous applause. A minute’s silence was observed in memory of Stefan Kamasz before the coin toss initiated the clash of the titans.

the greek herald cup
South Melbourne FC.

the greek herald cup
Sydney Olympic FC.

the greek herald cup

South Melbourne wasted no time asserting dominance. Ross Archibald’s stunning 38th-minute goal set the tone, electrifying the crowd and reaffirming his place as a fan favourite.

Max Mikkola extended the lead just after half-time with a powerful strike in the 46th minute, putting South Melbourne firmly in control.

the greek herald cup
Sydney Olympic FC coach Labinot Haliti.

the greek herald cup
South Melbourne FC coach Esteban Quintas.

South Melbourne wasted no time asserting dominance.

Sydney Olympic fought back valiantly. A tactical shift from their coach, Labinot Haliti, brought fresh energy to the pitch, culminating in Teng Kuol’s 87th-minute goal. Despite relentless efforts in the dying minutes, South Melbourne held firm, emerging victorious with a 2-1 scoreline.

The winning team was presented with their trophy by Victorian Minister for Consumer Affairs and Local Government, Nick Staikos, Parliamentary Secretary for Education Nina Taylor, New South Wales Minister for Finance, Courtney Houssos, and The Greek Herald publisher Dimitra Skalkos, while fans erupted into cheers of pride and joy.

the greek herald cup

the greek herald cup

Trophy presentation by Victorian Minister for Consumer Affairs and Local Government, Nick Staikos, Parliamentary Secretary for Education Nina Taylor, NSW Minister for Finance, Courtney Houssos, and The Greek Herald publisher Dimitra Skalkos.

the greek herald cup

the greek herald cup

Ms Skalkos said after the event, “We have been proudly covering both South Melbourne and Sydney Olympic for decades, serving as a vital source of updates for their fans and the broader community. Partnering with these two historic Hellenic heritage clubs for the Greek Herald Cup is an honour, especially as they prepare to retake the national stage in 2025.”

“We are proud supporters of both clubs and wish them every success in the upcoming competition. It is our hope to continue this cherished tradition for many years to come,” Ms Skalkos added.

the greek herald cup

the greek herald cup

the greek herald cup

The Greek Herald Cup was not just about football – it was a nostalgic reminder of the clubs’ pivotal roles in supporting Greek migrants during the NSL era. Both teams celebrated their shared history, with heartfelt speeches at a post-match dinner attended by players, officials, and legends from both sides.

With another successful Greek Herald Cup in the books, the anticipation for future matches grows. As these two clubs prepare for the NST, fans are left with memories of a night that perfectly captured the passion, culture, and history of Greek football in Australia.

*All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Costas Deves, Takis Triadafillou, Mary Sinanidis and Andriana Simos

Greek connection to heartwarming adoption reunion story

The Greek Herald
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Greek connection to heartwarming adoption reunion story

Maria Pittas and James Pappas have found themselves at the centre of an inspiring story wherein they were reunited with their biological siblings (including one another) through a DNA test taken by Cathie Grissell.

The siblings, all adopted at birth, were separated for decades after being abandoned or placed in adoption.

Maria, who began searching for her siblings four years earlier, initially reached out to James but received no response. James was at first skeptical, but later responded and learned he had another sister, Debbie, bringing the total to four siblings including Cathie.

The siblings met for the first time in early 2025. Despite uncertainties about their birth parents, they expressed gratitude for the families that raised them.

“We just hope they’re at peace with their decisions,” Cathie said.

The siblings were all born in hospitals linked to Australia’s forced adoption practices, a painful history still affecting many families today.

Source: Daily Telegraph.

Australia’s Holy Eparchial Synod reviews case of Deacon Mario Baghos

The Greek Herald
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Australia’s Holy Eparchial Synod reviews case of Deacon Mario Baghos

The Holy Eparchial Synod of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia (GOAA) convened on Friday, January 17, under the leadership of His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia.

After an opening prayer, the Synod ratified the minutes of the previous session and proceeded to address the agenda items, making necessary decisions.

One of the highlights was the honouring of His Eminence Metropolitan Iakovos of Ireland, who is currently visiting Australia. At the suggestion of Archbishop Makarios, Metropolitan Iakovos was awarded the Medal of the Order of the Christ-Loving by the GOAA.

Greek Orthodox Eparchial Synod reviews case of Mario Baghos 

Following the award, Metropolitan Iakovos thanked the Archbishop and Bishops, and shared updates on the establishment of the newly formed Holy Metropolis of Ireland.

Later, the Synod reviewed the case of Deacon Mario Baghos and forwarded its recommendations, as per the Holy Canons, to the Holy and Sacred Synod of the Ecumenical Patriarchate.

The Synod also unanimously approved the “Special Regulation for the Compilation of the List of Those Eligible for the Episcopacy,” which will now be submitted to the Ecumenical Patriarchate for final approval.

Petsios family close SA tomato farm after 65 years due to virus

The Greek Herald
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Petsios family close SA tomato farm after 65 years due to virus

The owners of SA Tomato, a 65-year-old tomato nursery in Adelaide, South Australia, are considering legal action after closing their business due to a tomato virus crisis.

Peter and Oriana Petsios, who have run the family business for decades, were devastated to shut down after a seedling tested positive for tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) in mid-December 2024. The virus was first detected at their business in August.

“We’re all devastated – it’s a matter for the courts now,” Peter said, adding they had lost approximately $3 million and feared losing their home.

“It’s an unwinnable war. It’s very unfair. We’ve lost our reputation completely. They’ve destroyed a South Australian business.”

The Petsios family laid off their remaining staff after the December test, which came from a sacrificial crop sent to a Victorian customer. The batch was part of a nationally approved deal, but the Victorian glasshouse also tested positive for the virus and is now under quarantine.

Photo: Growing Produce.
The tomato virus. Photo: Growing Produce.

Petsios believes the test result was a “false positive,” citing more than 400 subsequent negative tests from the same batch. He plans to pursue legal action and is calling for changes to national legislation regarding ToBRFV, which he argues should be removed from the National Priority Plant Pests list.

He also criticised biosecurity measures, claiming that diagnostic protocols were inconsistent, test results were delayed, and communication with growers was poor.

“If I’ve failed, imagine how many other people are failing out there. They have raised the bar to a level that can’t be passed. It’s very unfair,” he said.

A state government spokesperson stated they would support SA Tomato in restarting its operations and continue to review ToBRFV eradication protocols.

Meanwhile, the opposition has expressed concern that the closure of SA Tomato is a major loss for the industry as it recovers from the virus crisis.

Source: The Advertiser.

Trade relations the focus of meeting between Greek and Australian business leaders

The Greek Herald
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Trade relations the focus of meeting between Greek and Australian business leaders

A recent meeting between the Thessaloniki Chamber of Commerce and Industry (EBETH) and Elena Limnios, President of the Hellenic Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry National Federation (HACCI NF), aimed at boosting trade and business ties between Greece and Australia.

The EBETH delegation included First Vice President Konstantinos Moraitidis, General Secretary Panagiotis Menexopoulos, Financial Supervisor Themistoklis Sarassidis, Business Support Officer Maria Tsakiri, and Board Member Konstantina Kyrgidou.

hacci australia
The meeting.

The discussions highlighted Australia’s potential for imported Greek products, particularly in food, beverages, and construction materials, sectors where Thessaloniki and Northern Greece have strong export-oriented businesses. However, the lack of a direct flight from Thessaloniki remains a challenge for fostering closer trade links.

The Greek Australian community’s solid reputation in Australia and its efforts to drive collaboration between the two countries were also emphasised.

In a move to further strengthen relations, the three largest Greek Chambers (EBETH, EBEA, and Piraeus Chamber) along with SEVE have signed a memorandum with HACCI NF to establish a regular communication channel.

Semaphore Greek Festival 2025: Uniting South Australia through Hellenic culture

Peter Tantalos
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Semaphore Greek Festival 2025: Uniting South Australia through Hellenic culture

The Semaphore Greek Festival, held on 18 – 19 January 2025, celebrated its 44th year, transforming the Semaphore foreshore into a hub of Hellenic culture and traditions.

Organised by the Greek Orthodox Community of the Nativity of Christ, Port Adelaide & Environs (PAGOC), with the support of more than 350 volunteers, this year’s Semaphore Greek Festival theme “Όλοι Μαζί” (“All Together”) was a message to welcome the South Australian community to celebrate, in joy and unity, the richness of Hellenic culture. 

This inclusive message was well received by South Australians, with tens of thousands of attendees descending on the Semaphore Greek Festival over a sunny two days of festivities. 

The festival officially kicked off on Saturday with an opening ceremony. The Hon. Peter Malinausaks MP, Premier of South Australia, launched the event with an address, expressing his appreciation to PAGOC and all the volunteers for bringing this amazing festival together. 

“This community, the Greek community in this State, has always given everything they have. They have been able to represent and elevate our State in almost every facet…” the Premier said.

“Today, at this festival, as you’ve been doing for 44 years, we celebrate the characteristics amongst the Greek community that I think is most valued, and that is your warmth and generosity, sharing the Hellenic culture with every South Australian in the absolutely outstanding location.”

Dr. Alexandra Theodoropoulou, Consul General of Greece in SA, expressed her joy and honour of seeing this “little Greece in the heart of South Australia in this beautiful place right by the beach,” and encouraged all attendees to “dance as we do in Greece, eat as we do in Greece and be hospitable as Greeks do in SA.”

The Hon. Mark Butler MP, Minister for Health and Aged Care, while highlighting PAGOC’s efforts throughout the year to nurture its community members, remarked that “at a time where there is conflict and disharmony in the world, festivals like this remind us that this country is the best and most successful multicultural nation…”

“The Greek Australian culture, which has been contributing so much to our country for decades and decades, every year puts on an event like this to showcase their culture and remind Australia what we have to cherish…” Mr Butler added.

President of PAGOC, John Douvartzidis, concluded the official ceremony by acknowledging “that in Australia, and especially SA, we are blessed to be in the most multicultural community in the world. This has allowed our forefathers that came here, through hard work, to prosper. But they did that always having the ability to keep their faith, culture and customs – it was never taken away from them.”

The festival showcased performances by various dance groups over two days, including the Greek Orthodox Community of South Australia Dance Group, the Port Adelaide Greek School Dance Group, the Pontian Brotherhood of SA Dance Group, the Cretan Association of SA Dance Group, the Greek Lyceum of SA Dance Group, and the Port Adelaide Greek Dance Academy, among others. 

The diversity of these groups and their performances highlighted both traditional Greek dance styles and contemporary interpretations, offering attendees an immersive connection to the richness of Hellenic culture and heritage.

Throughout the weekend, attendees were captivated by the live sounds of traditional Greek music, performed by local singer Paras Siasos and accompanied by Enosis band which energised the festive atmosphere. 

The venue was lined with cultural stalls including the Greek Museum of South Australia and the Port Adelaide Greek School. These stalls showcased Greek-inspired goods, and student projects alongside unique exhibitions.

The festival delighted attendees with a Greek feast of authentic cuisine, featuring an array of Yiros, Lamb Kontosouvli, Spanakopita, and honey rich Loukoumades, with each dish lovingly prepared by local volunteers using inherited recipes and techniques. 

The festival also featured a variety of interactive and entertaining activities for attendee participation, including the lively “Who Loves Pita” and “Honey, I Ate the Loukoumades” competitions, as well as the plate-smashing event, Spasta!

Each evening, as the warm night breeze swept over the festival, interstate artist Xara Dimitriou, supported by Enosis Band, took centre stage. Their captivating performance, filled with authentic Greek melodies, echoing along the Semaphore shores, inspiring festivalgoers to dance with enthusiasm late into the night. 

Through dance, music, food, and faith, the festival celebrated the cherished traditions and heritage passed down through generations, creating an atmosphere of kefi that united attendees in joyous cultural celebration. 

Ange Postecoglou’s future with Tottenham Hotspur in doubt after tough start to 2025

The Greek Herald
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Ange Postecoglou’s future with Tottenham Hotspur in doubt after tough start to 2025

Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou is under increasing pressure and could be sacked before the end of January following a poor run of form, according to Sporting News.

The Australian coach, who has overseen Spurs’ 15th-place standing in the Premier League after a 3-2 defeat to Everton, faces a crucial few days ahead of talks with the club’s hierarchy. Tottenham have gone winless in their last six league matches and have only one victory in their last 10 outings since November.

Despite the tough situation, Postecoglou remains determined.

After today’s loss at Goodison Park, he said, “The situation we’re in, will eventually dissipate. I certainly hope and believe it will. We’ll give ourselves the opportunity to get consistency in performance and results. I haven’t lost belief or determination to turn it around and the players showed in the second half they haven’t either.”

Photo: Getty Images.

Postecoglou, who signed a four-year contract in 2023 that runs until June 2027, may face a compensation settlement if dismissed by club chairman Daniel Levy.

Tottenham’s Carabao Cup semifinal second-leg clash at Liverpool on February 6, with Spurs leading 1-0 from the first leg, could be pivotal in determining his future.

While no immediate replacements have been linked, former Borussia Dortmund manager Edin Terzic and ex-England boss Gareth Southgate have emerged as potential candidates.

Source: Sporting News.

Shoalhaven Councillor Ben Krikstolaitis faces calls to resign

The Greek Herald
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Shoalhaven Councillor Ben Krikstolaitis faces calls to resign

Shoalhaven Councillor Ben Krikstolaitis is facing growing calls to resign after he proposed a motion urging the New South Wales government to place Shoalhaven City Council into administration.

Krikstolaitis, a Jervis Bay Labor member, described the new mayor, Patricia White, as incompetent and criticised the council’s leadership for mismanaging the city’s finances.

In a motion presented at a recent Labor branch meeting, Krikstolaitis stated: “The Shoalhaven Independents, Mayor Patricia White and her colleague councillors cannot demonstrate an ability to oversee either the strategic or financial management of Shoalhaven City Council, which has quickly fallen into disarray.”

His motion follows a report from an independent economic group in November 2023, which found the council to be financially unsustainable, warning that it could lose millions over the next decade unless significant changes were made.

Ben Krikstolaitis.

In response, the council has implemented rate hikes and suspended over 90 projects to address the financial crisis.

Fellow councillors have strongly condemned Krikstolaitis’ remarks. Councillor Selena Clancy said she would call for his resignation at the first council meeting of 2025, stating, “I will be asking him to consider resigning because he doesn’t have confidence in the mayor or his fellow councillors.”

Community members are also demanding his resignation. Shoalhaven resident Jacqui Burke has launched an online petition, which has gathered nearly 200 signatures.

“The residents of Shoalhaven City, as well as all people who believe in the fair and ethical conduct of those in power, must now stand together to demand his immediate resignation,” Burke said.

Councillor Bob Proudfoot has proposed a motion for the January 21 council meeting, calling for clarification of Krikstolaitis’ “ill-informed” comments.

Source: Daily Telegraph.

Philippoussis and Baghdatis to play in new legends format at the Australian Open

The Greek Herald
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Philippoussis and Baghdatis to play in new legends format at the Australian Open

Australia will take on the World as some of the most loved names in tennis take to the courts in a fresh new format for the Australian Open Legends Cup, presented by Marriott Bonvoy.

The action starts on Tuesday, January 21, with the finals and trophy presentations set to take place on Friday, January 24.

Fans can look forward to a star-studded lineup as two formidable teams face off in an exhilarating mix of men’s, women’s, and mixed doubles matches.

The legendary field collectively boasts more than 20 Grand Slam titles, including six singles crowns. 

Three men and three women will make up each team, and every player will participate in three doubles matches – two men’s or women’s doubles and one mixed doubles.  

Representing Australia:

  • Pat Rafter (AUS)
  • Lleyton Hewitt (AUS)
  • Mark Philippoussis (AUS)
  • Sam Stosur (AUS)
  • Alicia Molik (AUS)
  • Casey Dellacqua (AUS)

Representing the World:

  • Tommy Haas (GER)
  • James Blake (USA)
  • Marcos Baghdatis (CYP)
  • Daniela Hantuchova (CZE)
  • Andrea Petkovic (GER)
  • Iva Majoli (CRO)

Tennis fans can anticipate thrilling rallies, friendly rivalries, and unforgettable moments as these legends bring their skill, charisma, and love for the game back to the court.

“The AO Legends World Team Cup is an exciting new way to present our legendary players and we expect to raise the tournament to a whole new level,” AO World Team Cup Tournament Director Andre Sa said.

“It’s a real celebration of the sport, showcasing legendary players and highlighting the camaraderie and spirit of tennis to fans onsite in Melbourne and around the world.”

Source: Australian Open.

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