“This project will be an iconic moment for our Greek Orthodox community in Northern Australia,” Luke Gosling MP said after making the announcement, describing the new space as a much-needed community hub in the heart of Darwin.
The funding will be allocated solely to the construction of the community centre and related site amenities.
In a statement, the church clarified that funds “would not be used to build the parish church.”
The planned facility will feature a large-format reception hall with a commercial kitchen, a mid-sized space for 80–120 people with a kitchenette, and two smaller rooms suitable for 25–35 people each.
These areas are intended to support a variety of community events, learning opportunities, and multipurpose uses.
“The facility will be open to all community groups and be another piece of community infrastructure to help support our growing multicultural population,” the church’s statement read.
The Holy Eparchial Synod of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia (GOAA), presided over by His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia, concluded its regular session for the Pentecostarion period on 25 April 2025.
The Synod reviewed and approved agenda items, including the ratification of previous minutes and the endorsement of several key initiatives.
The Synod acknowledged two significant international honours awarded to His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew: his election as a permanent member of the French Academy and his receipt of the prestigious Templeton Prize. These distinctions, the Synod noted, reflect global recognition of the Patriarch’s leadership and his contributions to elevating the Orthodox Church worldwide.
The Synod also expressed condolences on the passing of Pope Francis, highlighting his simplicity, humility, wisdom, and commitment to Orthodox-Catholic friendship. Letters were sent to Vatican Nuncio in Australia, Archbishop Charles Daniel Balvo and local Roman Catholic archbishops in Australia.
Canonical permission to preach during the Divine Liturgy and other services was granted to Dr. Philip Kariatlis and ten additional laypersons from the Archdiocesan Districts of Melbourne and Chora.
The Synod also reviewed the progress of the “Our People, Their Stories” project, launched by Patriarch Bartholomew during his visit to Australia last October.
It was also unveiled that in celebration of the 1700th anniversary of the First Ecumenical Council of Nicaea, St. Andrew’s Theological College, in cooperation with the New South Wales Ecumenical Council of Churches, will host an international academic conference titled “Nicaea at 1700: A Council for the Ages?” on 22–23 August 2025 in Sydney.
The anniversary will culminate in a Synodal Divine Liturgy on 24 August, presided over by Archbishop Makarios.
The NSW Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Prue Carr, has praised the work of the Federation of Community Language Schools which is supported by around 3,500 teachers teaching 61 community languages to 36,000 students at 500 schools across the state.
The Minister was opening the Federation’s Annual Teachers Conference at Sydney University on Saturday, April 26.
Minister Carr’s video appearance.
Speaking to the conference in a prerecorded video message, Ms Carr described the organisation as a powerhouse: “The impact you have on children all across the state cannot be underestimated.”
“You help kids stay connected to who they are, keeping language alive in homes and hearts for generations,” Ms Carr added.
“The NSW Government is so proud to be backing your work to be as wide ranging as possible.
“In 2024 the Government boosted support for the eligible community language schools with an extra $100 per student to ease the load on families and to support the Federation’s work even further.
“The new funding will help ensure students can maintain connection to their heritage and alleviate some of the costs that parents face in supporting their children’s language education.”
The Minister’s remarks were supported at the conference by the Parliamentary Secretary to the Attorney General, Hugh McDermott, the Shadow Treasurer, Damien Tudehope and the NSW Director General of Education, Murat Dizdar.
Murat Dizdar, NSW Director General of Education.
Hugh McDermott, Secretary to the Attorney General.Damen Tudhope, Shadow Attorney General.
The Conference also heard from Keynote Speaker, Professor Beniko Mason of Shitennoji University, Osaka who argued that the most effective method of teaching children language was through storytelling or what she also referred to in the lecture as “story listening.”
She encouraged teachers to engage students through “compelling storytelling and fostering natural language acquisition without forced output or drills.”
Keynote speaker Associate Professor Aniko Hatoss.
Associate Professor Aniko Hatoss University of NSW University told the conference: “Teachers today need to be reflective and open to questioning old methods and assumptions and to shift their strategies to respond to the numerous challenges posed by our digital era.”
She said technology (including AI) can be a game-changer, as it “allows for innovation not only in material development but also in developing new course design strategies and strengthening trans-local connections.”
Keynote speaker Prof Benikoi Mason.
The CEO of the Federation, Michael Christodoulou AM, thanked the Deputy Premier for her video message.
“We very much appreciate her time, her thoughtful words, her support and her sincerity expressed in that message which addressed all participants at the conference,” Mr Christodoulou said.
“New South Wales has the largest number of language schools and the most community language students in the country.”
Cypriot courage was powerfully remembered at the 2025 ANZAC Day march in Sydney, with 104-year-old veteran Evripidis Mouxouris once again stepping forward to honour his compatriots and lead the Cypriot community in commemorating the fallen.
Born in Morphou, Nicosia in 1921, Mr Mouxouris’ enduring passion for the freedom of his ancestral homeland remains as strong today as it was during the Second World War.
In 1943, he enlisted alongside 800 members of the then-Progressive Party of Working People, volunteering to join the newly formed Cyprus Regiment.
Throughout the war, Mr Mouxouris served in Palestine, Egypt, and Italy, seeing action on the frontlines at Ancona and later helping to transport supplies across the Adriatic Sea.
After the 1974 coup and subsequent invasion of Cyprus, he migrated to Australia in 1976, carrying with him the pain of displacement but also an unwavering spirit.
Speaking ahead of the march, Mr Mouxouris had urged younger generations to continue the struggle for Cyprus’ freedom. Reflecting on his experiences, he expressed frustration with the inhumanity of war, noting the senselessness of conflict and loss.
Despite the hardships he endured, he remains a proud Australian-Cypriot, humbly committed to keeping alive the memory of his fallen comrades and reminding all of the sacrifice that freedom demands.
His participation in this year’s ANZAC Day march stood as a poignant tribute to the enduring ties between Cyprus and Australia and the shared sacrifices made in the name of liberty.
Fresh findings from the ongoing criminal investigation into the 2005 death of National Guardsman Thanasis Nicolaou have uncovered a troubling pattern of bullying, drug use, and alleged cover-up by senior military officials, according to a report submitted to the Law Office of the Republic of Cyprus.
Nicolaou, a 26-year-old architect who returned from Australia to complete his national service, was found dead under the Alassa bridge in Limassol in September 2005.
Initially ruled a suicide, a 2020 exhumation and forensic reanalysis confirmed he had been strangled, shifting the case into a criminal investigation.
Led by investigators Pappas and Athanasiou, the latest inquiry includes testimony from fellow soldiers describing sustained bullying, hazing, and isolation of Nicolaou.
He was reportedly forced into humiliating acts, refused to participate in illegal activities, and was ostracised for his stance.
Several witnesses described unchecked cannabis use within the barracks, with soldiers openly smoking near dormitories and officers turning a blind eye. The unit was marked by a lack of discipline, with soldiers regularly leaving the camp undetected.
Crucially, multiple testimonies suggest Nicolaou may have been ambushed outside the camp, with a planned act of intimidation escalating into fatal violence. Witnesses believe his body was deliberately placed under the bridge to simulate suicide.
Nicolaou had reportedly confided in two individuals about tensions with specific soldiers. According to the investigation, senior officers knew of the abuse he faced but failed to act.
“The entire hierarchy of the brigade knew what was happening… Rather than taking action, they downplayed or even potentially covered up the incidents,” the report stated.
On the day of his disappearance, Nicolaou’s mother warned his unit about ongoing bullying and urged them to contact police. The commanding officer declined, claiming her son would return, a decision investigators say may have altered the case’s outcome.
The report also criticises the original military inquiry, citing a conflict of interest by the officer in charge, who also served as duty supervisor the night Nicolaou disappeared.
The investigation, later deemed superficial by the European Court of Human Rights, had concluded suicide without thorough examination.
For the first time, responsibility has been formally attributed to two senior army officers. The case now awaits further legal review by the Law Office to determine next steps.
Special mention was also made by state MP Cressida O’Hanlon of the Dunstan electorate, who said: “It was an honour to be alongside the St Basil’s community and to see the Evzones up close, hearing the remarkable story behind their uniform, with its 400 pleats representing 400 years of enslavement and the nails in their tsarouchia (traditional shoes) symbolising their strength and resilience. It was an inspiring visit and I am grateful that our State had the opportunity to host them.”
On Sunday, April 27, the Evzones attended the Divine Liturgy at the Church of Saint George in Thebarton, where a large congregation had gathered to participate in the service and catch a glimpse of the Presidential Guard.
Their presence evoked strong emotion, with young children approaching the Evzones in awe.
Later that afternoon, at the Thebarton Hellenic Festival 2025, the Evzones became the centre of attention as crowds flocked to see them, take photographs, and express their pride.
The sound of Greek music filled the air, with the band Zeus and DJs setting the rhythm, while the aromas of souvlakia, loukoumades, and other Greek delicacies filled the space.
For nearly three days, Adelaide had the joy of hosting the Evzones, who have now travelled to Sydney, where they will remain until Sunday, May 4.
Yet another Australian political party has adopted recognition of the Greek Genocide as policy. Family First has issued a powerful statement adopting a party policy on recognising the 1915-1923 Armenian, Assyrian and Greek Genocides and encouraging the Australian federal government to do the same.
Family First has joined the Australian Greens as the second political party contesting the 2025 Federal Election with an official policy supporting recognition of the Greek Genocide.
Family First is standing 100 candidates in the upcoming Federal Election to be held on 3 May 2025, as well as Senate candidates in New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria and South Australia.
The statement, which was published on National Director Lyle Shelton’s social media platforms, said: “The genocide began under the cover of the Gallipoli campaign and Australian PoWs were among the first-hand witnesses to the mass killing of some 2.5 million Christians.”
It went on to say, “If elected, Family First Senators will push for Australian government recognition of the genocide.”
The Joint Justice Initiative (JJI), comprised of representatives of the Greek, Armenian and Assyrian communities, has welcomed the adoption of a party policy by Family First.
On behalf of the Australian Hellenic Council (AHC) president, Peter Stefanidis, commented: “The adoption of a policy of recognition gives hope to our community that truth and justice will no longer be sidelined for diplomatic convenience.”
On behalf of the JJI, Dean Kalimniou observed: “No entity that engages in the political process and stands up for justice, no matter how small, is insignificant. The descendants of the survivors of the Genocide are not going anywhere. We will continue to engage with well-meaning politicians of the entire political spectrum in order that the Genocide is officially recognised in Australia and justice is delivered to the victims.”
Greek communities across Tasmania and Queensland played a prominent role in this year’s ANZAC Day commemorations on Friday, April 25, honouring the shared history and sacrifices of Australian and Greek servicemen.
Tasmania: United in remembrance
In Hobart, the Greek Community of Tasmania joined forces with the Pontian Federation of Australia to participate in the city’s ANZAC Day march.
The procession moved along Macquarie Street, culminating at the Cenotaph, where a wreath-laying ceremony took place.
Manoli Kalimnios, President of the Greek Community of Tasmania, laid a wreath on behalf of the community, paying tribute to the enduring bonds between Greece and Australia.
This event underscored the deep historical ties and shared values between Greece and Australia, commemorating the bravery of those who served and sacrificed in defence of freedom and democracy.
These commemorations highlight the strong presence and active participation of Greek communities in ANZAC Day events across Australia, reflecting a shared commitment to honouring the past and fostering enduring friendships.
Ange Postecoglou’s difficult debut season in English football hit a new low on Sunday, April 27, as Tottenham were thrashed 5-1 by Liverpool at Anfield, marking their 19th Premier League loss of the season — equalling the club’s all-time record set in 1993-94.
The heavy defeat left Spurs languishing in 16th place and intensified pressure on the Australian manager, whose side was no match for a dominant Liverpool team that clinched the Premier League title in emphatic fashion.
Postecoglou’s squad, featuring several changes, briefly stunned the Anfield crowd with an early goal from Dominic Solanke. But the lead quickly evaporated as Liverpool stormed back through goals from Luis Diaz, Alexis Mac Allister, Cody Gakpo, Mohamed Salah, and an own goal from Destiny Udogie.
The Spurs were overwhelmed as Liverpool’s relentless attack played to the rhythm of an electric home crowd, celebrating their record-equalling 20th English top-flight title.
The result further compounds Tottenham’s struggles under Postecoglou, who is facing mounting criticism with just four games remaining. His side has failed to find consistent form throughout the season, and Sunday’s defeat highlights the gulf between Spurs and the league’s top contenders.
With Tottenham in danger of their worst-ever Premier League finish, questions are growing about the direction of the club under Postecoglou’s leadership.
The Battle of Crete & Greece Commemorative Council actively participated in this year’s events organised by various organisations and committees for ANZAC Day, paying tribute to the memory of the Australian and New Zealand soldiers who died during the First World War.
The ceremonies were conducted with respect and emotion, reflecting the deep bonds that have been forged between the Greek and Australian peoples.
ANZAC Day is a national day of remembrance in Australia and New Zealand, dedicated to those who served and sacrificed their lives in military operations, particularly during the First World War and the Gallipoli campaign. On the island of Lemnos, where Australian soldiers who fought in Gallipoli are buried, the commemorations carry particular symbolism, honouring not only their sacrifice, but also highlighting Greece’s historical role as a bridge between nations.
Members of the Battle of Crete & Greece Commemorative Council, representing organisations and communities that preserve the memory of the Battle of Crete, once again honoured the Australian and New Zealand soldiers who gave their lives for their homeland. Their presence at the events underlined the enduring ties developed between Greeks and Australians.
The commemorations began on Thursday, April 24 with a special memorial service held at the Heidelberg Repatriation Veterans’ Hospital. Tony Tsourdalakis represented the Council, laying a wreath at the memorial plaque in the hospital’s garden dedicated to the memory of Australian soldiers who participated in the Battle of Crete. The event was coordinated by Robert Winther, General Manager of the hospital, who has worked closely with the Council since its founding.
On Friday, April 25, ANZAC Day itself, Members of the Council attended Dawn Services held across various suburbs of Melbourne.
Council President Natasha Spanos and Secretary Anna Psaraki laid wreaths at the Oakleigh and Clayton RSL Sub-Branches respectively. Cretan Brotherhood of Melbourne President Milton Stamatakos and Vice-President Kyriakos Cherekakis attended ceremonies at the Darebin and Camberwell RSL Sub-Branches respectively.
Treasurer Mary Rissakis and Assistant Treasurer Maria Maniou of the Pancretan Association of Melbourne participated in services at the Ringwood and Boronia RSL Sub-Branches. Mr Tsourdalakis, President of the Intercommunities Council of Victoria, attended the wreath-laying ceremony at the Epping RSL, while Panagiotis Andrinopoulos, Secretary of the Australian Hellenic Memorial, attended the Mount Waverley RSL service.
Peter Ford was present at the Caulfield RSL ceremony, and Shirley Devery was at the Coburg RSL. Finally, with particular emotion, the President of the Greek Returned Servicemen’s League, Nikolaos Makridis, represented the Council by laying a wreath at the Shepparton RSL service.
The highlight of the commemorations was participation in the grand ANZAC Day Parade in the city of Melbourne. Ms Spanos officially represented the Council, marching with a six-student delegation from Oakleigh Grammar. They marched with the 2/2 Field Regiment Association.
The Council’s participation in the ANZAC Day ceremonies was not merely symbolic; it was an active reminder of shared history and the responsibility to uphold peace and international cooperation. The speeches delivered, the wreaths laid, and the moving presence of descendants of the veterans proved that the sacrifice of these individuals remains alive in collective memory.
In her ANZAC Day message, Ms Spanos emphasised: “These events are a powerful link in maintaining historical consciousness and the friendship between Greece and Australia—a friendship forged on the battlefield and one that has endured through time, inspiring younger generations.”
“It is important to recognise that the ideals which represent us as a people are not achieved without sacrifice and hard struggle. Let us emulate the example of the heroes who sacrificed themselves for humanity and never allow anyone to diminish the honour of our two homelands, Greece and Australia. Eternal be their memory!” she added.
