The Greek Orthodox Community of South Australia (GOCSA) will hold its highly anticipated election on Saturday, 11 January 2025, at the Olympic Hall, from 9am to 6pm. The election marks a pivotal moment as candidates present their vision for the future of this historic organisation.
Among the hopefuls is Peter Ppiros, a candidate representing the Independent Progressive Alliance. Ppiros is well-known for his tenure as the General Secretary of GOCSA from 2016 to 2022 and as a newspaper editor.
His campaign centres on fostering unity, enhancing transparency, and ensuring the independence of the community.
“If our team is elected, our first priority will be to reunite our Community, which has been divided over the past two years. This division has had a negative impact on the life, activities, and functioning of our historic organisation,” Ppiros told The Greek Herald in a statement.
“As a matter of priority, we will ensure that our churches, which have been operating at reduced capacity or intermittently over the past two years, return to normal functioning.
“At the same time, we will conduct a thorough investigation into the Community’s finances, including those of our Community care home, ensuring full transparency and providing detailed reports to members regarding the financial situation.”
Ppiros said his group would also safeguard “through legal measures… both the democratic constitution and the assets of the Community.”
“This will ensure that any future attempts at engagement with the Archdiocese will be firmly grounded in state-backed guarantees of the Community’s democratic operation and the protection of its assets,” he added.
“The candidates of the Community Independence platform will remain committed to the constitution, particularly Articles 2A and 4A, which pertain to the independence and autonomy of the Community. The cornerstone of our good governance is: DEMOCRACY – TRANSPARENCY – PROGRESS!”
Second-hand stores and deceased estates are a place where all sorts of items can be found. It’s hard to walk away from a pile of photographs and not wonder about them.
Canberra speech pathologist Jes is on a mission to reunite lost photographs with their families, not just in Australia but around the globe.
For 20 years, with support from her husband, Jes has been collecting old photographs from rubbish tips and deceased estates. The first old photograph Jes felt compelled to purchase was of a woman with a beautiful smile holding a bunch of flowers.
“I loved looking at the photos and would wonder who these people were, what lives they’d led, and what stories they’d held,” Jes told The Greek Herald.
“I couldn’t bear thinking these photos could be lost to history, so I’d purchase them with the intent of one day returning them to their families.”
Many years ago, while in Yass, New South Wales, Jes came across a large photo album containing many photographs of a Greek wedding in Sydney.
“The Greek wedding photos are part of a large photo album I found many years ago,” she explained.
“The album has photos from Sydney, Cooma, Narooma, Leeton, Ingham in Queensland, and even a postcard from Italy.
“Some of the photos have Greek written on the back. There is even a photograph of a man who migrated from Romania to Australia.
“The owner of the album remains a mystery, but there seems to be a connection between migrants to Australia – I wonder if the album belonged to someone in the Canberra / Yass region who themselves was a new migrant, or perhaps helped new migrants settle into Australia.”
In May 2024, Jes posted the Greek wedding photographs on her new Instagram and Facebook page – The Lost Portrait Archive– in the hope the happy couple would be identified.
The photographs were taken in 1958 at a Greek Orthodox church in Surry Hills, Sydney.
In November 2024, people began to comment on the social media post with someone identifying a couple who were guests at the wedding. Before long, the bride and groom were identified as Jim and Koula.
Jes was excited to find out that the couple’s grandson had identified a great uncle in the photograph and thought the bride and groom in the photograph could be his grandparents.
The grandson visited his yiayia and asked to see her wedding photo and sure enough – his grandparents were the unidentified couple.
“I was so excited when the couple was identified,” Jes said.
“The couple is so beautiful – they are so in love. I’d looked at them (the photos) for many years and had always hoped they’d be identified one day.”
This labour of love not only stems from wanting to return photos to loved ones, but the meaning a photograph can have to a person.
“My husband and I have had a difficult couple of years, birthing stillborn twins followed by a pregnancy ending in miscarriage,” Jes said.
“For us, the photographs that the midwives took of our twins are all we have left of them. The photos hold such meaning.
“We felt the old photographs I’d collected might hold that same importance to family members and that it was time to finally start to identify and reunite them with their families.”
Jes checks the social media pages daily to answer comments and sometimes to follow a lead that could lead her to a potential family.
“It’s such an honour to be able to return these photos to loved ones,” she said.
“In some cases, families had never seen the photos before. It’s a very special feeling knowing they’re back where they belong.
“I’d be most appreciative if readers could join my Facebook and/or Instagram account and have a look through the photos to see if they recognise anyone. Any help is much appreciated.”
*If any reader recognises in one photo above the lady in the background who is behind the groom as he is getting in the car, please contact Jes via her Facebook page The Lost Portrait Archive. The mystery lady was once the owner of the album that Jes had found.
Three Greek Orthodox private schools in Sydney, New South Wales, are set to have their government funding increased from 2024-2029, according to analytics presented by TheSydney Morning Herald (SMH).
The analysis shows that St Euphemia College in Bankstown will have its funding raised by $2153, from $12,757 to $14,910 over the 2024-2029 period.
All Saints Grammar in Belmore is set to have its funding increased by $1880 from $10,983 in 2024 to $12,863 in 2029.
Despite this small funding boost, other private schools are shown to have cuts in the coming years. These include the Athena School in Newtown, Northern Beaches Christian School, St Augustine’s College in Brookvale and MLC School in Burwood, which are set to lose more than $2000.
According to the SMH, 30 NSW schools are set to lose funding, while another 66 will see reductions in their School Resourcing Standard (SRS) percentage, according to Senate estimates.
The SRS formula, part of the Gonski reforms, calculates government funding for each school.
Private schools receive a “capacity to contribute” score based on family income, lowering their base SRS. While the federal government covers 80% of private school SRS, NSW funds the rest.
For state schools, NSW is the primary funder. Overfunded independent schools will have their funding gradually reduced until 2029.
Zoe Karatzovalis, 25, has realised her childhood dream of joining The Wiggles, after years of performing as a professional dancer.
Growing up in Port Lincoln, South Australia, Zoe and her brother Kosta watched The Wiggles daily, sparking her passion for dance.
“I always dreamed of one day joining The Wiggles on stage,” she told ABC News.
After training at Sydney’s Brent Street Performing Arts School, Zoe pursued dance but faced challenges during the 2020 lockdown. She opened a dance studio, Infinite Abilities Performing Arts, for people of all abilities, including those on the autism spectrum.
Nick Kyrgios has revealed he will avoid serving for the next few days to give himself the best chance of being fit for the Australian Open.
The 29-year-old, aiming to play in Melbourne for the first time in three years, withdrew from an exhibition match with Novak Djokovic on Wednesday, January 8, due to a grade-one abdominal strain.
“I’ve still got five days up my sleeve, so I’m just going to probably not serve for the next couple of days,” Kyrgios told Seven. “I’ll do everything I can to be ready in time.”
Nick Kyrgios teamed up with Novak Djokovic for Brisbane International doubles this year. Photo: Ryan Pierse/Getty Images.
Kyrgios, who returned to competition last week after 18 months due to knee and wrist injuries, expressed concerns about his wrist holding up for the Australian Open, stating it felt like “I’ve been hit by a bus” after his doubles matches in Brisbane. The abdominal strain, however, was an unexpected setback.
Kyrgios has had a busy summer off the court, from sparring with Jannik Sinner to his return to the Davis Cup fold after a four-year absence.
A rescue plan for Jon Adgemis’ Linchpin Group (formerly Public Lifestyle Management – a key pillar of his Public Hospitality Group), has been approved despite a last-minute attempt by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) to block it.
Adgemis, a former KPMG deal-maker, must pay $400,000 by Friday, January 10 to finalise the deal, which aims to settle $64 million in debts with a $7.7 million plan, including a $1 million cash payment and a $6.7 million convertible note from Archibald Capital.
While staff will receive full entitlements, unsecured creditors will only recover 13.3 cents on the dollar.
Peter Crinis and Jon Adgemis. Photo: David Swift.
The plan covers only part of the group’s debts, and if Adgemis fails to meet payment conditions by March 2025, the deal may collapse.
Adgemis is also facing legal battles, including a court case with his former business partner, Peter Crinis, and multiple claims from lenders, such as Milbrook and Angas Securities, over properties and assets. Adgemis’ yacht has also been seized.
Despite approval, concerns about financial mismanagement, including allegations of withdrawing $9 million from the business, remain unresolved.
The Semaphore Greek Festival 2025 is just around the corner, set to take place on January 18 and 19 at Semaphore Foreshore, South Australia.
Known as one of the state’s most beloved summer events, this festival promises a vibrant celebration of Greek culture with a packed programme that offers something for everyone.
Under the theme “Όλοι Μαζί” (All Together), the festival will immerse attendees in Greek traditions, from tantalising food and drink to traditional music, dance, and even unique competitions.
Here’s a detailed look at what you can expect:
Saturday, January 18: A day of energy and tradition
11:00 AM – DJ Apostal
12:30 PM – Who Loves Pita Competition
1:00 PM – DJ Apostal
1:30 PM – Honey, I Ate the Loukoumades Competition
2:00 PM – DJ Apostal
2:30 PM – Half-time with Port Adelaide AFL Players
3:00 PM – Spasta! Plate Smashing Competition
3:15 PM – DJ Apostal
4:00 PM – St George College Dance Group
4:15 PM – Messinian Dance School SA
4:30 PM – Port Adelaide Greek School Dance Groups
5:00 PM – Official Opening Ceremony
5:30 PM – Just Dance Fitness with Martha
6:00 PM – Enosis Band feat. Xara Dimitriou
7:15 PM – Greek Orthodox Community of SA Dance Academy
7:30 PM – Enosis Band feat. Xara Dimitriou
8:30 PM – Port Adelaide Greek Dance Academy
8:45 PM – Enosis Band feat. Xara Dimitriou
11:00 PM – See You Tomorrow!
Sunday, January 19: Family fun and Cultural highlights
11:00 AM – DJ Apostal
12:00 PM – Yiros Yiros Oli Competition
12:30 PM – DJ Apostal
1:00 PM – Honey, I Ate the Loukoumades Competition
1:30 PM – DJ Apostal
2:00 PM – Half-time with Port Adelaide AFLW Players
2:30 PM – What-A-Melon Eating Competition
2:45 PM – DJ Apostal
3:15 PM – Messinian Dance School SA
3:45 PM – Port Adelaide Greek School Dance Groups
4:00 PM – DJ Apostal
4:45 PM – Cretan Association of SA Dance Group
5:00 PM – Greek Lyceum of SA School of Greek Dance and Culture
5:15 PM – Pontian Brotherhood of SA Dance Group
5:30 PM – Just Dance Fitness with Martha
6:00 PM – Enosis Band feat. Xara Dimitriou
8:15 PM – Port Adelaide Greek Dance Academy
8:45 PM – Raffle Draw
9:00 PM – Enosis Band feat. Xara Dimitriou
10:00 PM – See You Next Year!
This year’s festival promises to be a true celebration of community, culture, and connection. Whether you’re there to dance, eat, compete, or simply enjoy the atmosphere, the Semaphore Greek Festival 2025 is an event not to be missed.
Mark your calendars and join the fun – Όλοι Μαζί, All Together!
The Australian football community is united in mourning the passing of Football Australia Hall of Fame Inductee, Stefan Kamasz, a revered figure whose contributions to the game shaped its landscape across decades.
Kamasz passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday night at the age of 76, leaving behind a legacy of exceptional service and dedication to football in Australia. He was also a prominent Philhellene, with a love of the Greek island of Poros.
It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of Stefan Kamasz, a Hall of Fame Inductee and a towering figure in Australian football.
Stefan’s immense contributions to our game over decades have left an indelible mark on the sport we all cherish.
Kamasz was born in England in 1949 and began his football journey playing for Farsley Celtic in the Yorkshire League. In 1969, he migrated to Newcastle, Australia, at the age of 19, joining Northern NSW club Weston Bears.
As a player, Kamasz achieved remarkable success, winning three championships in 1971, 1972, and 1973, after falling short in the 1969 Grand Final. These early years reflected his deep love for the game, which would continue to define his life and career.
After hanging up his boots, Kamasz transitioned into football administration, where his influence was profound. He served as Treasurer and later President of the Northern NSW Soccer Federation between 1978 and 1982, overseeing the creation of the Northern State League. His leadership extended nationally as a Director of the Australian Soccer Federation (ASF) and Team Manager of the Socceroos during their victorious Merlion Cup campaign in Singapore in 1982.
Kamasz’s administrative acumen shone during his tenure as General Manager of the National Soccer League (NSL) from 1982 to 1988 and again from 1996 to 2004. He was instrumental in professionalising the league and establishing its key accolades, including the Joe Marston Medal for the Grand Final’s best player and the Johnny Warren Medal for the league’s most outstanding player. These awards remain cornerstones of Australian football today.
In addition to his work in the NSL, Kamasz served as Acting CEO of Soccer Australia and later as CEO of A-League club Sydney FC. He was also General Manager of Sydney Olympic FC from 1990 to 1993, Head of Competitions for Football NSW from 2005 to 2006, and CEO of the Johnny Warren Football Foundation.
When the NSL was restructured in 2004, Kamasz played a key role in the development of the A-League as a member of the implementation panel responsible for the landmark Kemeny Report.
Kamasz’s dedication extended to governance, serving on the Board of Football Australia from November 2020. He was an active member of the Football Australia Referees Committee and the Football Development Committee, contributing his wealth of knowledge and strategic insight. Kamasz stepped down from the Board in March 2022 due to personal reasons but remained a passionate advocate for the game.
His lifetime achievements were recognised when he was inducted into the Football Australia Hall of Fame in 2014.
Beyond his formal roles, Kamasz was known for his mentorship, kindness, and ability to inspire those around him. His vision for football as a unifying force for communities was deeply felt, and his influence extended from grassroots initiatives to the elite levels of the sport.
Anter Isaac, Chairman of Football Australia, paid tribute to Stefan’s immeasurable contributions: “Stefan Kamasz was a giant of Australian football, whose influence and vision have left an enduring legacy.”
“His dedication to the game, from grassroots to the professional level, helped shape the sport we know and love today. Stefan’s knowledge, leadership, and passion for football inspired so many within our community,” Isaac added.
“Stefan was universally admired across the Australian football community as both a pioneering sports executive and a dignified gentleman who consistently championed the protection and well-being of everyone within the football family.
“He will be deeply missed, but his contributions will never be forgotten. On behalf of Football Australia and the entire Australian football family, I offer our sincerest condolences to his family, loved ones, and friends during this difficult time.”
As people honour the remarkable life and contributions of Stefan Kamasz, Football Australia extended its deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all those who were privileged to know and work with him.
A rising trend of sun tanning among teenagers is raising alarms about long-term skin cancer risks, with experts warning that sun exposure in the first 15 years of life plays a crucial role in determining future skin cancer risk.
Social media platforms like TikTok have fuelled the trend, with young people, particularly girls, posting videos of themselves sunbathing without sunscreen, often on days with high UV ratings.
Teenager Mya Nicolitsi, 14, told The Advertiser she tans regularly, typically two to three times a week in summer.
“Everyone wants tan skin,” she explained, adding that while she checks the UV index and uses sunscreen, she’s aware of the potential risks. “I do worry about it even though it seems like I don’t.”
In contrast, Adelaide twins Jacqui and Victoria Hondrou, who have fair skin, have turned to self-tanning products instead of sunbathing. The pair, who launched their own self-tanning brand, are encouraging young women to seek safer alternatives to sun tanning.
“We’ve been seeing a lot of Tik Toks of young girls sort of (wanting) the tan lines, and loving that the UV is over a certain number, so they can get the tan lines from the sun so we come up with creative ways of how to have an alternative to get them, but not using the dangerous sun,” Victoria told The Advertiser.
“There is definitely a better way of doing it, and you can achieve that using self tan, and it takes quicker than you can get it from the sun.”
This comes as data from the Cancer Council shows that one in five Australians aged 15-24 tried to get a suntan in the past year. This age group is also less likely to use proper sun protection compared to older Australians, and young women are more likely to seek a tan than men.
Cancer Council SA’s Diem Tran cautioned that the desire for a suntan is “something to certainly avoid,” as any change in skin colour signals damage, including DNA damage.
“Melanoma is the most common cancer in young people aged 15 to 39,” she said, urging young people to take the risks seriously. She also recommended South Australians “slip, slop, seek and slide” when the UV index is three or above.
Greece and Australia are tied for 6th position in the ranking of the world’s most powerful passports according to the Henley Passport Index. It gives unrestricted access to 189 destinations.
This puts both countries ahead of Belgium, New Zealand, Portugal, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom, which hold 5th place out of 190 destinations.
The Henley Passport Index, now in its 20th year, uses data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) to track the visa freedoms of 227 countries.
The gap between the most and least powerful passports has never been wider, with experts calling for a rethinking of citizenship, especially as political instability and climate crises displace communities globally.
Singapore has reclaimed its spot at the top, with its passport offering visa-free access to 195 destinations worldwide. Japan follows closely in second place, with access to 193 countries, thanks in part to regaining visa-free entry to China after the pandemic.
The third spot is held by France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Finland and South Korea, which enjoy unrestricted access to 192 destinations, while seven EU countries, including Austria, Denmark and Sweden, share fourth place with 191 destinations.
The UAE has made the most notable improvement, jumping 32 places to 10th, with access to 185 destinations. Meanwhile, China has climbed from 94th to 60th over the past decade.
As global mobility continues to shift, Greece and Australia remain among the top 10 most powerful passports, alongside other European and Pacific nations.
