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HACCI National Federation names new Chair and unveils stronger national collaboration

The Greek Herald
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HACCI National Federation names new Chair and unveils stronger national collaboration

In a move that marks a milestone for the Hellenic Australian professional community, the Hellenic Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry National Federation (HACCI NF) announced that HACCI NSW has officially joined the National Federation, further solidifying the connection of Hellenic-Australian business communities across the nation.

The announcement was made by the outgoing HACCI NF Council Chair (and HACCI Victoria Board Chair) Fotini Kypraios, who passed the helm of the rotating HNF Council Chair to HACCI WA President, Dr Elena Limnios, during her speech at the end of the 2024 HACCI Excellence Awards ceremony.

“When we come together, we achieve more than we ever could on our own,” Ms Kypraios said.

“This has been vividly demonstrated through our events and the broadening of our network that now includes all active HACCI chambers across Australia, united and communicating more effectively than ever before.”

Expanding global and national reach

HACCI NSW was part of the initial discussions that led to the formation of the HACCI National Federation in February 2023; the chamber represents a vibrant community of businesses and professionals of Hellenic heritage in New South Wales. Its decision to join the National Federation comes as an effective form of acknowledgement of the significant work HACCI NF has done in a relatively small period of time.

During 2024 alone, HACCI NF has signed MoUs with the Greece’s leading Industry, Commerce, and Export Organisations: the Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Athens (ACCI), Piraeus (PCCI), Thessaloniki (TCCI), Rethymnon (RCCI), the National Chamber Network of Women Entrepreneurs (EEDEGE), and the Greek Exporters Association (SEVE).

These relationships have enabled HACCI to offer its members unprecedented access to international markets and collaborative opportunities.

In May, HNF hosted a series of events in Perth, Adelaide, Darwin, and Melbourne, showcasing The Ellinikon, Europe’s largest urban renewal project currently in development in Athens. This extremely successful roadshow caught the interest of prospective investors from all over Australia, cementing HNF’s status as the most trusted liaison between Greece and Australia’s business communities.

Introducing the HACCI National Federation’s new Leadership

Elena Limnios
Dr Elena Limnios is the new Chair of the HACCI National Federation.

During her speech at the HACCI Excellence Awards, HACCI NF Inaugural Council Chair Ms Kypraios praised her successor to the Federation’s rotating leadership role, Dr Limnios, and highlighted her pivotal role in the Ellinikon roadshow success.

A distinguished figure from Western Australia, Dr Limnios brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to this role, having significantly contributed to HACCI’s initiatives, including spearheading the celebrated ‘The Ellinikon’ urban renewal project roadshow. Her vision and dedication were crucial in showcasing this landmark development to 400 participants across Australia, bolstering HACCI’s reputation for hosting influential and impactful events.

“Now more than ever, HACCIs across Australia are working in unison, empowering our members to thrive within a supportive and interconnected business community,” Dr Limnios said, inviting all Greek Australians in business to join the Federation’s mission, celebrate the Hellenic spirit, and engage with this dynamic national network.

“With this spirit of unity, we look forward to exciting developments for our members in 2025 and beyond.”

Dr. Limnios thanked the leadership and collaborative spirit demonstrated by member states, which has been instrumental in creating a unified national approach.

“Having worked for over 15 years in the mutual and co-operative space with some of Australia’s largest member-owned businesses, I commend the HNF members and their leaders for fostering such exceptional ‘συνεννόηση’ – a true ‘meeting of the minds.’ This cohesion is rare, powerful, and something we are all committed to preserving,” she said.

Dr Limnios emphasised that 2025 promises further strategic advancements, with the Federation committed to strengthening its governance structure and building a unified voice for Hellenic Australian businesses.

“We are dedicated to our common purpose: empowering Greek Australian business through collaboration and connectivity across Australia. We invite Greek Australian business communities in other states to connect with us and establish local chambers that contribute to our national collective. The recent re-invigoration of HACCI NSW is something we have been encouraging and we warmly welcome them to the Federation,” Dr Limnios said.

“Together, we celebrate the contributions and achievements of Greek Australians, enhancing networking opportunities that promote collaboration domestically and with our peers in Greece.”

Enhancing connections through national collaborations

These two significant developments in the HACCI National Federation organisation are complemented by the welcoming of Alex Demetriou as the new Chair of HACCI South Australia, succeeding inaugural chair Kostas Koutsonas.

Mr Demetriou, a Partner in Charge at KPMG Australia, brings his expertise in accelerating business growth to HACCI, promising to inject new energy and ideas into the Federation’s initiatives.

To celebrate these achievements and the vibrant community spirit, the 2024 HACCI Excellence Awards Gala Ball was enhanced by the presence of prominent Hellenic wine growers from South Australia, illustrating the power of the national HACCI Chamber network and the caliber of opportunities that arise from such collaborations.

Looking forward

HACCI Victoria is set to launch a new website, currently under development, which will feature member-only access to resources, a directory, and the HACCI AGORA — a platform designed to foster national and international collaborations. Additionally, HACCI has refined its membership offerings based on stakeholder feedback, allowing members to tailor their involvement and maximise their engagement with the chamber’s activities.

As the chamber where legacy meets innovation, HACCI continues to drive towards the future, creating more opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs to connect, collaborate, and succeed.

HACCI National Federation Council Chair: Dr Elena Limnios (HACCI WA President)

HACCI NF Council Members:

  • (HACCI NSW President) George Mavrakis
  • (HACCI NT Chair) Angela Tomazos
  • (HACCI SA Chair) Alex Demetriou
  • (HACCI Victoria Chair) Fotini Kypraios

Saint Andrew’s Theological College in Sydney set to move to new premises

The Greek Herald
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Saint Andrew’s Theological College in Sydney set to move to new premises

Saint Andrew’s Theological College in Sydney will relocate to its own state-of-the-art facilities next year, to coincide with the College’s 40th anniversary.

The announcement was made by His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia during the College’s Open Day, held online via Zoom on Wednesday, December 4.

Saint Andrew’s Theological College in Sydney set to move to new premises
Saint Andrew’s Theological College in Sydney set to move to new premises
The College’s Open Day was held online via Zoom on Wednesday, December 4.

Archbishop Makarios, who also serves as the Dean of the College, shared the news with joy and emotion, emphasising the commitment of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia (GOAA) to provide students with modern facilities that integrate contemporary tools with traditional theological studies. This includes digital libraries, virtual learning platforms and advanced communication technologies.

The Greek Herald understands the College will be moved to the site of the former St Basil’s aged care home in Kensington, Sydney, which closed in early 2024, requiring elderly residents to be relocated to other St Basil’s homes. The Kensington site was previously operated by Castellorizian Aged Care.

Saint Andrew’s Theological College in Sydney set to move to new premises
Saint Andrew’s Theological College in Sydney set to move to new premises

The Open Day was attended by prospective students, faculty, and alumni. His Grace Bishop Silouan of Adelaide, Sub-Dean Associate Professor Philip Kariatlis, and Registrar Father Anastasios Kalogerakis also addressed participants.

A video featuring student testimonies and a detailed presentation of the curriculum further enriched the event, concluding with a lively Q&A session.

Greek Sydney real estate agent charged in bikie-linked drug probe

The Greek Herald
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Greek Sydney real estate agent charged in bikie-linked drug probe

A Greek real estate agent in Sydney’s Inner West has been arrested in connection with a Comanchero-linked criminal syndicate.

Police allege the group was involved in drug trafficking and kidnapping conspiracies uncovered during investigations into a 2023 Marrickville barbershop shooting.

The 31-year-old was charged with drug supply and participating in a criminal group. Although not tied to the Marrickville shooting, he faces allegations of organising a drug premises.

Known for boasting about his 300 km/h Nissan Skyline R35 GTR, the real estate agent has been refused bail.

The raids seized $550,000 in luxury goods, vehicles worth $500,000, and illicit drugs. Several alleged syndicate members were also arrested as police continue their investigation into the group’s activities.

Source: The Daily Telegraph

Sydney construction boss George Alex jailed for $10 million tax fraud

The Greek Herald
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Sydney construction boss George Alex jailed for $10 million tax fraud

Sydney construction boss George Alex has been sentenced to more than nine years in prison for masterminding a $10 million tax fraud scheme targeting the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).

Alex, along with his co-conspirators Lindsay Kirschberg, Pasquale Loccisano, Gordon McAndrew, and former New Zealand rich-lister Mark Bryers, was found guilty of conspiracy to cause loss and conspiring to deal with the proceeds of crime.

The NSW Supreme Court described the multimillion-dollar operation as a “revolving door” scam designed to evade pay-as-you-go (PAYG) withholding taxes over two years.

Justice Desmond Fagan criticised the group’s lack of remorse, stating, “It is a fraud on all other taxpayers who lawfully pay for… services for the common good.” He identified Alex as the central figure in the operation, noting his higher level of criminal responsibility compared to his accomplices.

George Alex has been sentenced to more than nine years in prison.

Alex received a sentence of nine years and three months, with a non-parole period of six years and two months. Loccisano and Bryers were sentenced to eight and a half years, with a non-parole period of six years, while Kirschberg and McAndrew received eight years, with a non-parole period of five and a half years.

The conspirators operated three labour hire companies that supplied workers to construction firms, including industry giant Multiplex. Instead of paying workers’ wages and entitlements directly, the funds were funneled through shell companies, allowing the group to accumulate PAYG tax debts. The shell companies were then shut down before the ATO could intervene.

The six-month trial, which cost taxpayers $6 million in legal aid for four of the offenders, revealed the continuous and deliberate nature of the fraud. Justice Fagan highlighted the scale of the operation and Alex’s personal enrichment as driving factors in the scheme.

Source: news.com.au

Theo Onisforou opposes fashion duo’s plan to close iconic Paddington pub

The Greek Herald
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Theo Onisforou opposes fashion duo’s plan to close iconic Paddington pub

Property developer and fashion entrepreneur Theo Onisforou has played a pivotal role in defeating a proposal to close Paddington’s historic Village Inn and convert it into a fashion store.

The NSW Land and Environment Court dismissed the application by Alemais founders Chris Buchanan and Lesleigh Jermanus, who sought to repurpose the 1854-built pub they purchased for $6.22 million in 2022. Senior Commissioner Susan Dixon ruled the proposed change of use was not in the public interest, noting a lack of evidence that the pub was unviable.

Onisforou, founder of The Intersection and landlord to high-end brands like Zimmermann and Scanlan Theodore, was a vocal opponent in the case. Describing the pub as a “longstanding, vibrant addition” to the area, he declared, “I would buy it in a heartbeat.”

the village inn
Inside the iconic Village Inn.

The proposal faced overwhelming community opposition, with 236 objections compared to just three in support. Independent Sydney MP Alex Greenwich and local residents also spoke out against the plan.

Buchanan and Jermanus had argued the pub’s closure would leave the property unused, claiming the existing business was unsustainable despite its $2.35 million annual revenue. However, Woollahra Council’s legal team successfully countered these claims, securing a judgment in favour of preserving the Village Inn’s legacy.

The Village Inn, originally known as the Rose and Crown, is one of Paddington’s oldest surviving pubs.

Source: realcommercial.com.au

Accused sex predator surgeon Richard Sackelariou to face victims in court

The Greek Herald
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Accused sex predator surgeon Richard Sackelariou to face victims in court

The once prestigious Double Bay plastic surgeon and now accused sex predator, Dr Richard Paris Sackelariou, will face his young victims during a day-long sentence court hearing in May next year.

According to The Daily Telegraph, the 68-year-old will be brought before Newcastle District Court in person to hear up to six victim impact statements from young girls he has admitted to grooming by showering them with cash and compliments before luring some of them to a hotel room for sex.

The incidents are alleged to have taken place between September 2021 and October 2022.

Sackelariou pleaded guilty last month to paying multiple young girls thousands of dollars to perform sexual acts on him in various locations across Sydney, in Newcastle and Queensland.

richard sackellariou

Sackelariou declared his guilt to ten charges: using a carriage service to procure someone under the age of 16 for sexual activity, six counts of cause child between 14 and 18 to do an act of child prostitution, possession of child abuse material, cause a child 14 and over to make child abuse material and possession or control of child abuse material using a carriage service.

Prosecutors withdrew a further 30 charges.

The court heard Sackelariou remains in custody on remand and will be transported from jail to attend sentencing proceedings in person in May next year.

Source: The Daily Telegraph

NT builder George Milatos faces $2.7 million compensation bill after losing court appeal

The Greek Herald
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NT builder George Milatos faces $2.7 million compensation bill after losing court appeal

Northern Territory builder George Milatos has lost his appeal in the NT Supreme Court, leaving him liable for more than $2.7 million in compensation to homeowners of defective Bellamack properties.

According to ABC News, the NT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NTCAT) previously found that homes built by Milatos were structurally unsafe during cyclones and posed significant safety risks.

His appeal, which challenged the validity of NTCAT’s ruling and its authority to impose such a large compensation order, was dismissed on Thursday, December 5 by Justice Jenny Blokland.

The case involves five homeowners who purchased properties in 2013 under an NT government-backed affordable housing scheme in Bellamack, a suburb of Palmerston. Soon after moving in, they reported severe defects, with engineering reports confirming the homes were unsafe.

george milatos
The housing assessment found that the defective homes may not withstand cyclonic conditions. Photo: ABC News.

One homeowner told the ABC he doubted any compensation would ever be received, noting Milatos’ claims of financial hardship and the possibility of bankruptcy.

The NT government has distanced itself from the issue, citing a 2013 regulatory change that switched from an insurance-based scheme to a fidelity fund, leaving homeowners unable to seek recourse from the government for demolishing or rectifying the homes.

Milatos, whose building licence expired in 2021, still has the option to challenge the decision in the NT Court of Appeal.

Source: ABC News.

Brisbane Olympics chief Andrew Liveris backs new stadium at Victoria Park

The Greek Herald
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Brisbane Olympics chief Andrew Liveris backs new stadium at Victoria Park

Andrew Liveris, President of Brisbane’s 2032 Olympic Games Organising Committee, has called for a new stadium to be built at Victoria Park, describing it as a logical choice due to its open space and excellent transport links.

His support adds momentum to a growing campaign for a world-class sports and entertainment hub in Queensland, which could be used for AFL and cricket after the Games.

Speaking on The Courier-Mail and Nova 106.9’s Toward the Games podcast, Liveris remarked, “If a stadium like that appears at Victoria Park… [I] would say wow, what a great answer for the Olympics.”

He emphasised the need for larger venues to generate sufficient ticket revenue and cited Paris’ Stade de France as an example of what Brisbane could achieve.

Brisbane Olympics chief Andrew Liveris backs new stadium at Victoria Park.

A recent report by consultancy group Arcadis highlighted the benefits of the Victoria Park site, and Liveris expressed optimism that the Queensland government’s ongoing 100-day review would yield a positive outcome. However, he admitted concerns over delays and “chopping and changing” in planning, urging the review to be the final one.

The International Olympic Committee has been supportive of Brisbane’s progress, with Liveris stating the city is “setting the benchmark” for future Games planning.

Next year and 2026 are expected to be pivotal as organisers finalise venues, sports, and sponsorships, aiming to position Brisbane as a global destination.

Source: The Courier-Mail

Greek Consul General in Melbourne honoured by Elderly Citizens Federation

The Greek Herald
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Greek Consul General in Melbourne honoured by Elderly Citizens Federation

By Bill Roumeliotis

On Thursday, December 5, the Federation of Elderly Citizens’ Clubs of Melbourne and Victoria hosted a farewell luncheon at a Greek taverna in honour of the Greek Consul General in Melbourne, Emmanuel Kakavelakis.

Mr Kakavelakis is being promoted to the rank of Ambassador and will soon take on a new diplomatic post in Syria.

The reception was attended by the Very Reverend Archimandrite Father Irineos, Liberal state MP Matthew Guy, Manningham City Councillor Jim Grivas, psychologist Mrs Kalampouka, Kostas Alaveras from the St. Panteleimon Community and Parish in Dandenong, who oversaw the event’s organisation, representatives of Greek organisations and federations, and members of the Greek media.

In his address, the President of the Federation, Yiannis Kostoulias, expressed heartfelt gratitude: “Today, we bid you farewell with deep sadness – first as an exceptional individual and then as our Consul General. During your tenure, you gave so much to us, standing by the Federation and our elderly without discrimination.”

“It is unfortunate that we must part due to your well-deserved promotion, but we will always hold you in our hearts with boundless respect,” he added.

“For this reason, we dedicate this small farewell reception to you today and wish you the very best in life. Mr Kakavelakis, please know you will always remain in our hearts because you were so well-loved, and we thank you for your contributions. We hope that we too met your expectations and that you will fondly remember the moments we shared. A big thank you from all the Elderly Citizens’ Clubs for everything you have done.”

In response, Mr Kakavelakis thanked the Federation for their work and service to the elderly. He remarked that he would always remember the Greek community of Melbourne, describing it as exceptionally vibrant.

Mr Kostoulias then presented the Consul General with a commemorative plaque as a token of the Federation’s love and friendship.

Finally, all attendees wished Mr Kakavelakis a safe journey, continued success, and every success in his new diplomatic role.

Christodoulides and Trump commit to strengthening Cyprus-US relations

The Greek Herald
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Christodoulides and Trump commit to strengthening Cyprus-US relations

Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides and US President-elect Donald Trump have reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing the strategic partnership between Cyprus and the United States.

Following a telephone conversation on Thursday, Christodoulides shared on X that he had an “excellent discussion” with Trump.

“I congratulated him on his election victory, and we expressed our shared commitment to continue enhancing the Cyprus-US strategic partnership,” he wrote. “We will work together to further reinforce our relations for the benefit of our countries and the region.”

The leaders also addressed concerns about regional developments. Christodoulides underscored Cyprus’ role as a dependable US partner in fostering peace, stability, and development in the area.

In a separate statement, Cypriot government spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis said the two leaders highlighted the strong collaboration between the two nations, particularly in defence, security, investments, the economy, humanitarian aid, and crisis management in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Source: Ekathimerini

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