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Philological memorial to be held in Melbourne in honour of Peter Jasonides

The Australian Institute of Macedonian Studies (AIMS) is organising on Friday, July 11, 2025, at the Lyceum Theatre, Alphington Grammar, at 6.30 pm, a special Philological Memorial Ceremony to honour the memory of its first founding Secretary, Peter Jasonides. 

The Memorial ceremony for the late Peter, one year after his death, will include a 20-minute lecture by historian Terry Stavridis on Hellenism of Asia Minor.  

This will be followed by a salutation by the President of AIMS, Professor Anastasios Tamis, who will refer to the life and contribution of this enthusiastic and energetic leader, who served Hellenism as a leader of the Pontians, as President of the Pan-Macedonian Association, as a leader of the Greek Australian Students, as a founding Secretary of AIMS, as director of the Welfare Program of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia in Victoria,  as an initiator and communion of Pontian Greek culture and an honourer of its traditions.

The Peter Jasonides Award will then be presented to the student with the highest performance in the Modern Greek course at Alphington Grammar, while a special music group will perform traditional Pontian rhythms during the reception.

 Although official invitations will be sent, the Memorial ceremony is open to all those who wish to attend and remember the great contribution of this tireless patriot.

The national and social worker of the Greek community:

Naturally and irrevocably, all those who leave the earthly things, throw relatives, descendants and friends into orphans, deprive all those who have had the happiness to live with them of the right to experience, leave an irreplaceable void that cannot be filled with the tears and sorrow sown by their loss. Their loss throws the people around them into an intense mental and physical test. Fear, irresistible sadness, anger, despair and denial, are some of the emotions experienced by all those left behind to mourn them. 

All those who pass away have their own people to weep for them, mourn them and respectfully honour their memory. All those who pass away have their own, unique value, their own sign of dignity and their share of appreciation and respect. All people have their diversity, their otherness, which makes them all important and unique.

However, some transcended personal and family boundaries. They worked and were socially active. They felt that they were serving a debt to the society they were called to serve, or as they matured, they found themselves in various public positions or finally they chose as a purpose in life to serve the commons. Sensitive citizens emerged, people who felt that they were serving specific goals assigned to them by their fellow citizens. And it was this creative and participatory contribution that made them the pioneers of Hellenism. When death comes and deprives these individuals of their presence, then the void outweighs the family dividend, and their loss affects the events of a society. 

The saying that no one is irreplaceable is a myth and a grim fallacy. This is a deliberately erroneous assessment, aimed at devaluing the work of posterity for these personalities. The history and evolution of humanity have shown that each of the individuals with giving is indeed unique, authentic, and irreplaceable. No one filled Thucydides’ void, no one replaced Phidias, no one filled Aristotle’s void, nor the thousands of men and women who, with their uniqueness, left their own distinct imprint on life. And to come to our own world and our own time, neither new prime ministers, nor new church fathers, nor spiritual men, nor intellectuals and philosophers, nor poets and writers, painters and artists who were able to replace older figures were born. Like those who will follow, they cannot be considered to have filled a gap and replaced their predecessors in art, power, style, quality and vigour. 

Thus, the loss of public figures, leaders of communalism, citizens with sensitivities, as in the case of Peter Jasonides, takes on a tragic dimension, precisely because there is no way to find a replacement for him. His action and contribution remained and will continue to remain exclusive, without precedent or next contender. This is because he had a pioneering character, he was authentic, the product of selflessness and patriotism. He had as his source the unwavering love he felt for Greece, a country he did not experience, and for Pontus, an idealised axiom of homeland, in which he studied as a child. The Pontic dialect, the musicality of the dialect, the singing, the rhythm of the lyre and their dances he lived from his cradle, they were native sounds. Inside him lived the historical course of his Pontian ancestors, their testimonies, their tragic journey. 

He knew up close and from the inside all those who governed Pontian Hellenism, in Greece, in Europe, in America, their executives and leaders. He was familiar with the actions taking place, the campaigns for domination, the struggles for supremacy. He had direct communication with them. 

Galantomos (generous) and master of behaviour, he organised a plethora of cooperative lunches and dinners, visits and consultations, met and co-decided, disagreed and agreed. He was the Archon from Australia. Humble where it should be, strict and compelling, again, where it should be. He had his own opinion and ideas about collegiality, friendship, amity and  partisanship.  

From a high school student, he still taught the Pontian dances. As a tertiary student, he upgraded culturally the student conferences, which, until he took over the leadership, had only a social role. Assemblies focusing on social wellness and entertainment. Mr Jasonides gave these student gatherings a cultural and historical dimension. He was interested in the promotion of Greek culture and language. He wanted to highlight the cultural role of children born in Australia. He was one of them. 

With visibility in management, newspapers, symposia, he won all the leading positions in the Pontian and Macedonian community organisations of Australia. In their Federations, he worked pro bono in dozens of charitable organisations, in unions and associations, even in political party committees. He has delivered decades of service and civic engagement. How many are the young people of the second generation, the Australian born who gave their time and passion for Greece, the Greek communities, the unions, our national issues? Minimum. How many of them reached the entire contribution of Mr Jasonides, who had just begun to turn his hair white, before the psychopomp Hermes took him? 

He contributed to the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia, our historical communities, the student movement, our cultural tradition, education, arts and letters, Greek letters, Australian and Greek organisations, our Cyprus. His vacuum cannot be filled. Mr Jasonides, as well as some special figures who were fortunate enough to live among us, were and will remain irreplaceable and unique.

Nicholas Kalogeropoulos appointed to the Multicultural Business Ministerial Council

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The new Chair and members of the Multicultural Business Ministerial Council have been appointed.

The role of the council is to:

  • provide advice to the Victorian Government on key issues that affect multicultural businesses
  • advocate for Victoria’s multicultural businesses
  • provide a voice for small businesses across the state.

Ms Bihong Wang is the new council Chair. Ms Wang is the President of the Asian Business Association of Whitehorse. She is also on the Premier’s Business Council.

Dr Angraj (Raj) Khillan MBBS, MD, MIAP, FRCPCH (UK), FRACP is the new Deputy Chair for the council. Dr Khillan is the 2023 Victoria Australian of the Year. He is the Director and Consultant Paediatrician at the Western Specialist Centre. He is also the Founder and former Co-Chair of the Australia India Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The council members have a mix of skills and multicultural business experience.
The members are:

  • Dr Angeline Achariya, CEO of Innovation GameChangers and CEO of Monash Food Innovation Centre
  • Ms Lynda Cavalera GAICD FAMI CPM, General Manager, Growth at Teach for Australia
  • Mr Nicholas Kalogeropoulos, Director/COO of Global Hospitality Group and Director/Founding Partner of Calibre Feasts
  • Mr Hy (Andy) Tran, Head of Business Development, Interscale, and Co-Vice President of Vietnamese Australian Professional Network

Victoria is home to over 718,000 small businesses. 56% of Victorian small business owners have at least one parent born overseas.

Multicultural businesses play a crucial role in our community. They create employment opportunities and strengthen cultural diversity and inclusion across Victoria.

The Victorian Government offers a range of small business support. This includes the Small Business Bus, Small Business Mentoring Service and workshops.

Source: The Victorian Government.

Nick Politis targets English club ownership as NRL eyes Super League takeover

The Sydney Roosters are exploring a bold expansion into European rugby league, with chairman Nick Politis confirming interest in acquiring and rebranding an English Super League club—pending NRL control of the competition.

Politis has held high-level talks with ARL Commission chairman Peter V’landys and several Super League clubs, including Salford Red Devils, as part of a potential NRL-run European competition.

Discussions include rebranding Salford as the Manchester Roosters, uniting the greater Manchester region under a new identity.

“Nothing will happen unless the NRL is involved,” Politis told The Sydney Morning Herald.

“We see a lot of potential for the game in England and we want to be part of it if the NRL is on board. We see an opportunity and we will wait to see what happens next.”

The proposed plan hinges on the NRL taking over administrative control of the Super League by 2028. Earlier this month, the NRL agreed to consider acquiring a 33 per cent stake in the competition—but only if clubs support the league’s overhaul and transfer of control.

The Roosters’ interest follows recent meetings in Las Vegas between NRL officials and the owners of Wigan and Warrington, where UK stakeholders urged the NRL to help revive the financially troubled competition.

Politis has also engaged with York Knights owner Clint Goodchild, and is weighing alternatives including teams in London or York.

Meanwhile, Canterbury Bulldogs boss Phil Gould supports NRL involvement in the UK as a way to grow the sport and enhance development pathways, saying it could even surpass existing systems like the NSW Cup.

Under a proposed model, the Super League would become a 10-team competition, with eight clubs in England and two in France—Catalans Dragons and Toulouse—forming a cross-border league.

With several top UK clubs, including Wigan, St Helens, Warrington, and Leeds, reportedly backing the plan, the NRL’s next move could shape the future of rugby league on both sides of the globe.

Labor pledges $400,000 to Hellenic Museum in Melbourne for major Greek exhibition

The Hellenic Museum in Melbourne is set to receive $400,000 in federal funding for its upcoming exhibition, Rituals: Gifts for the Gods, if the Albanese Labor Government is re-elected.

The funding announcement was made by Labor Candidate for Melbourne, Sarah Witty, and Senator for Victoria, Jana Stewart, during a visit to the museum this week.

The world-class Rituals: Gifts for the Gods exhibition will feature more than 100 rare artefacts on loan from the Greek Ministry of Culture and partner institutions—many of which have never been displayed outside of Greece. The exhibition will explore over 8,000 years of Greek art, history, and sacred traditions.

Senator Stewart described the Hellenic Museum as “a beacon of cultural pride for the Greek community in Victoria and beyond,” adding that the exhibition “is a bridge between the ancient and the modern, connecting Australia’s Greek community with their heritage and fostering greater understanding between our nations.”

“When we invest in culture, we’re backing stronger, more inclusive communities and celebrating the rich diversity that defines our national identity,” the Senator added.

In a social media post, Senator Stewart also highlighted the exhibition’s potential to boost tourism and enrich Australia’s multicultural community.

Senator Witty echoed the importance of the investment, saying, “The Hellenic Museum is integral to our city’s identity, and this $400,000 investment will ensure it remains a vital cultural hub.”

She added that Labor’s support would help invest “in Melbourne’s cultural future and helping local communities thrive.”

This funding comes after Victoria’s Premier Jacinta Allan announced earlier this year a landmark collaboration with the Hellenic Museum, with the Victorian government offering free access for children to its upcoming “Rituals, Gifts for the Gods” exhibition.

NSW Parliament welcomes the Hellenic Presidential Guard

The Hellenic Presidential Guard, known as the Evzones, was officially welcomed to the Parliament of New South Wales during their visit to Sydney this week, commemorating 125 years of shared history between Australians and Hellenes in defending common values.

Wearing their traditional ceremonial uniforms, the Evzones took part in a symbolic event that celebrated the enduring relationship between Greece and Australia.

The occasion honoured more than a century of friendship, cultural ties, and cooperation between the two nations, particularly in times of conflict and mutual support.

Present at the event were the NSW Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper, State Member for Miranda, Eleni Petinos MP, and Hellenic Club of Sydney’s Nick Hatzistergos, who all paid tribute to the longstanding bond between the Greek and Australian peoples.

The visit is part of a broader program of events in Sydney marking ANZAC Day and the 125th anniversary of Greek-Australian solidarity.

Los Angeles Chargers bring the NFL to Greece, marking a historic first

The Los Angeles Chargers have proudly announced the NFL has awarded the team with international marketing rights to Greece, marking the first time the sport is introduced in an organised and strategic manner to the Greek market.

As part of the NFL’s Global Markets Program, this milestone represents a bold step in expanding the game’s global reach—bringing the excitement and tradition of American football to a nation renowned as the birthplace of the Olympic Games and for its deep athletic heritage.

To celebrate this momentous occasion, the Chargers hosted an exclusive press conference on Friday, April 25, at the iconic Hotel Grande Bretagne, a Luxury Collection Hotel, in Athens.

The event welcomed prominent members of the Greek media and distinguished representatives from the Chargers organisation, including Fred Maas, Chief of Staff and Counsellor for the Los Angeles Chargers.

During his stay in Athens, Mr Maas also met with several key government officials, including ministers and deputy ministers and sports facilities to discuss the potential of American football in Greece and the broader impact of the sport on local communities. 

This initiative holds special meaning for the organisation, as Greece is also the ancestral homeland of Dean Spanos, Controlling Owner and Chairman of the Board for the Los Angeles Chargers. His family roots add a personal dimension to this launch, making the expansion to Greece not only strategic, but deeply symbolic.

On the occasion of his visit to Greece, Mr Maas stated: “It’s an honour to be here in Greece. This is really a special time and place for us. Ever since I met our Owner Dean Spanos, it’s always been a dream of his to bring the NFL and the Chargers to Greece. This year, it was made possible through the expansion of the NFL’s Global Markets Program. This is truly an opportunity for the Spanos Family to come to Greece and expose the game they love to the country they love.”

A new chapter for American football in Greece

Greece, with its longstanding legacy as the home of the Olympic Games and its vibrant sports community, offers a unique opportunity for the NFL and the Chargers to foster a meaningful cultural and athletic exchange. Through grassroots development, youth engagement, and local fan outreach, the Chargers aim to introduce the values of American football—teamwork, discipline, resilience, and strategic thinking—to Greek audiences.

Interestingly, the roots of American football trace back to ancient times. In Ancient Greece, athletes played a sport known as Episkyros, involving scrimmage lines and ball-handling strategies that echo the foundational elements of the modern game. Forms of traditional football may have been played throughout Europe and beyond since antiquity, many of which involved handling of the ball and scrummage-like formations. This cultural bridge provides a unique narrative connecting the past with the present.

The initiative represents a bold commitment to the long-term development of the sport across Europe, positioning Greece as a dynamic new entry point for the NFL’s global growth. The Chargers plan to collaborate with local institutions and sports communities to build awareness, offer training experiences, and cultivate a passionate fanbase.

The introduction of American football in Greece is more than just a game—it’s a symbol of expanding possibilities, shared values, and the universal language of sport. With the support of the local community and the vision of the Los Angeles Chargers, this launch marks the beginning of an exciting new journey.

The Greek Secretary General of Sport, George Mavrotas stated: “It is my great pleasure to welcome on behalf of the Greek Government the Los Angeles Chargers delegation in Greece, homeland of the family of Chargers (Controlling) Owner & Chairman of the Board Dean Spanos.”

“Los Angeles is indeed a special place also for me, as it is a milestone in my sport career: It was the place of my first of five Olympic Games, back in 1984, in the age of 17 years old with the Greek Water Polo team,” Mr Mavrotas added.

“As we all know, Greece is the birthplace of values’ based sport. It is both the home of Ancient Olympic Games hosted in Ancient Olympia… and Athens was also the first host of the modern Olympics in 1896. Sport creates bridges and there is a strong connection between US and Greece through sport.

“We strongly believe that the current LA Chargers initiative will not only boost American’s football popularity in Greece, but also, through the exchange of knowledge and expertise will also promote all aspects of sport integrity.

“Nowadays, sport is business, but we must always keep in mind that it is also values. It is a social tool that can change cultures and mindsets, conveying the correct messages to the society.

“Last, but not least, this project will further strengthen the friendship and collaboration between our countries, in which the Greek-American community had always played a vital role. Thus, it is with great pleasure and interest that we expect the outcomes of this initiative and we are ready to collaborate aiming at a win-win sport cooperation. Welcome LA Chargers, welcome NFL in the place where all about sport begun!”.

Live Draft from Athens, Greece

For the first time ever, the NFL Draft was live from the heart of Greece, marking a historic moment as the birthplace of democracy welcomed the future of American football.

Against the stunning backdrop of Athens, with over 5 million global viewers, fans witnessed the electric atmosphere as the Chargers and Chargé d’Affaires at the US Embassy in Athens, Maria Olson, announced their fifth-round pick (158th overall) live from the balcony of Hotel Grand Bretagne, blending the ancient spirit of Greek culture with the modern pulse of the NFL.

It was more than just a show — it was a celebration of sport, global connection, and the Chargers’ bold commitment to growing football on new soil. Greece became a part of NFL history, and the energy was unforgettable.

ANZACs honoured at memorial events on Lemnos

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With a sense of historical debt permeating the atmosphere, Lemnos once again paid tribute to the fallen of the Gallipoli Campaign, hosting anniversary events that highlighted the island’s enduring bond with the ANZAC forces.

The events, which took place on Tuesday, April 29, and were entitled: “Day of Honour and Remembrance for the Fallen of the Gallipoli Campaign”, were co-organised by the North Aegean Region and the Municipality of Lemnos.

The official ceremony, which took place at the Moudros Commonwealth Cemetery under adverse weather conditions, with a lot of wind, was attended by the Australian Ambassador to Greece, Alison Duncan, honouring the strong historical ties between Australia and Lemnos.

The dignitaries were welcomed by the Prefect of the Regional Unit of Lemnos, Apostolos Koutsoyiannis.

The ceremony began with a memorial service, followed by the laying of wreaths and the playing of the national anthems, while the official guests then delivered brief greetings.

Those present had the opportunity to tour the photography exhibition of the Moudros Cultural Association “Pavlos Kountouriotis”, which was presented by Niki Photiadi.

The events continued at the Portianos Commonwealth Cemetery with another memorial service and the laying of wreaths, while they culminated at the Portianos Cultural Centre.

There, the president of the War Museum of Athens, Lieutenant General (retd) Konstantinos Karamesinis, delivered a speech on the topic “The Contribution of Lemnos to the Battle of Gallipoli”, highlighting the strategic role of the island in the First World War.

The commemoration events concluded with the screening of the documentary ANZAC DAY AND LEMNOS – 110 YEARS, which sheds light on the multifaceted connection of Lemnos with this historic campaign of the 20th century.

Evzones inspire students during memorable visit to St Spyridon College

To mark the commencement of Term 2 at St Spyridon College, staff and students gathered at St Spyridon Church in Kensington, Sydney on Tuesday, April 29 to warmly welcome a delegation from the Presidential Guard of the Hellenic Republic, known as the Evzones.

A Paschal Doxology was celebrated by Very Reverend Fathers Steven Scoutas and Stavros Ivanos, in the presence of Parish President Elia Economou and members of the Executive Parish staff.

The service marked a significant moment, blending the spirit of Easter with the honour of hosting one of Greece’s most revered ceremonial units.

Following the service, Father Steven delivered a heartfelt address to the Evzones, acknowledging their distinguished role in Greek history and their visit as a powerful symbol of the enduring bond between Greece and Australia.

Head of College, Amelia Katsogiannis, also addressed the gathering, stating: “The Evzones inspire us to live with purpose, to honour our roots, and to lead with integrity, strength and dedication.”

Lieutenant Commander Tzinieris, visibly moved, spoke directly to the students, while Lieutenant Kontogiannis focused on explaining the symbolism behind the official Evzones uniform, deepening the audience’s appreciation for the traditions and sacrifices represented by the Guard.

The event reflected the spirit of excellence and pride that St Spyridon College tries to uphold — a day that left a lasting impression on all who attended.

Lemnos Remembrance Trail website officially launched to preserve ANZAC stories

The Australian Government Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) has officially launched the Lemnos Remembrance Trail website, offering a new and accessible way to explore an often-overlooked chapter of Australia’s military history.

Available at www.lemnosremembrancetrail.gov.au, the newly unveiled site recognises the service and sacrifice of the Australian women and men who served on the Greek island of Lemnos during the First World War.

Positioned less than 100 kilometres from the Gallipoli Peninsula, Lemnos played a pivotal role as a staging post, logistical base, and medical hub during the Gallipoli campaign, whose 110th anniversary was commemorated this Anzac Day.

The digital platform, launched on 22 April, forms the first phase of the wider Lemnos Remembrance Trail project. The second phase – the physical construction of the trail itself – is expected to commence in the coming months, with completion anticipated in time for ANZAC Day 2026. 

The website offers a rich trove of rare photographic material, capturing life on Lemnos between the winter of 1914 and the winter of 1915–16. Visitors can also discover the personal stories of individuals who played a key role in this significant period, highlighting both the hardships and enduring spirit of those stationed on the island.

The project aims not only to honour the historical importance of Lemnos, but also to raise public awareness and encourage future visits to the site once the physical trail is completed. Through the website, Australians and history enthusiasts worldwide can already begin engaging with the story of Lemnos’ vital contribution to the Anzac legacy.

For more information and to explore this important chapter of history, visit www.lemnosremembrancetrail.gov.au.

Bringing the magic of Greek cinema to life: An interview with Dioni Vertzayas

Dioni Vertzayas is set to mesmerise audiences in Τα Κινηματογραφικά: Songstresses of the Golden Age of Greek Cinema, a concert celebrating the timeless music of Greece’s cinematic golden era.

Ahead of the performance on Sunday, May 11 in the prestigious Verbrugghen Hall at Sydney’s Conservatorium of Music, Dioni speaks to The Greek Herald about her eclectic international career, the influence of her Greek heritage, and the honour of bringing these beloved songs to life alongside conductor George Ellis.

Your career spans a range of musical genres and international stages — tell us a bit about this.

Yes – from Electronica (my band Astyplaz with whom we have toured the U.S and Canada), jazz, soul and funk, Spanish, French chansons and Latin, to musical theatre and of course, Greek repertoire. This includes original material, albums and singles, international compilations (Buddha Bar XI) which received a lot of radio airplay. As for the stages – from the historic Olympia Theatre (Maria Callas) and the Ancient stadium of Delphi –  to the awesome industrial venue Usine In Montreal and other notable venues throughout Europe.

What does it mean to you, personally and professionally, to perform the songs of the Golden Age of Greek cinema?

    Firstly, I’d like to thank the Greek Festival for this opportunity and share my excitement to perform in this ambitious project and delighted to be back in the city in which I was born and raised in. On both a personal and professional level, I am honoured to be working with the esteemed conductor George Ellis and his orchestra for the first time, together with the incomparable George Doukas with whom I have enjoyed working with numerous times over the years. We will be presenting these iconic songs in a different and classical approach – notably with a symphony orchestra.  

    How has your Greek heritage shaped your identity as an artist, and how do you see that influence coming through in this concert?

      Undoubtedly it has shaped me as I chose Greece as my base where I have lived for many years now; as for this concert in particular, well I think without the knowledge of the Greek language and having been exposed to the music from a young age it would be difficult to interpret and understand the songs and their nuances. My heritage means everything to me.

      The music of Hatzidakis and other iconic composers carries deep emotional resonance for many Greeks — how do you prepare to interpret and honour such beloved material on stage?

        I suppose being well-versed with their music and knowing the material well, you can only hope that one’s unique and individual interpretation will do justice to honouring these compositions. One of the songs (a crowd favourite) which was composed by George Katsaros, I actually had the privilege of working and touring with for a few years.

        You’ll be performing in the historic Verbrugghen Hall with conductor George Ellis — what can audiences expect from this collaboration, and how have you approached blending classical performance with cinematic nostalgia?

          The arrangements have been carefully considered and re-worked so as to provide this nostalgic and simultaneously cinematic feel. The use of a classical orchestra (together with a rhythm section and bouzouki/baglama) I believe helps achieve this. Also, I have a background in theatre so I hope I can bring this element to the stage!

          For those less familiar with this era of Greek cinema, what makes these songs timeless and relevant today?

            Most of these songs are still played in Greece to this day so those unfamiliar with the films may have actually heard the songs. A lot of themes are relevant and will always be current (eg. rich versus poor). These songs shaped the attitudes of the Greek migrants who came to Australia and were passed on to succeeding generations – that is why Greek Australian society is more conservative than the society in Greece.  

            What do you hope the audience walks away with after experiencing Τα Κινηματογραφικά, especially those in the diaspora who may be reconnecting with their cultural roots through music?

              I hope they experience most emotions, which I believe is the mark of a successful concert. To be moved, to feel joy, to make them ponder and walk away with a general feeling of enjoyment.

              Is there anything else you’d like to say?

                Thank you for the interview and we hope you enjoy the concert.

                Event Details:

                • WHAT: Τα Κινηματογραφικά: Songstresses of the Golden Age of Greek Cinema
                • WHEN: 11 May 2025 | 6:30 PM
                • WHERE: Verbrugghen Hall, Conservatorium of Music, 1 Conservatorium Rd, Sydney NSW 2000
                • PERFORMERS: George Ellis (Conductor), Dioni Vertzayas (Vocalist)
                • TICKET PRICE: From $60 + Booking Fee
                • Tickets can be purchased via the following link: https://shorturl.at/ZugRa