Sydney Roosters chairman Nick Politis has taken a firm stand against cocaine use, declaring that any player caught using the drug will be immediately kicked out of the club, regardless of the NRL’s two-strike policy.
Politis, who is in agreement with coach Trent Robinson on the issue, emphasised that the Roosters’ stance is one of “zero tolerance.”
“My view is if somebody’s caught doing cocaine or leaning over snorting something, we’re going to get rid of them,” Politis told The Sunday Telegraph.
“Our stance is zero tolerance. We are very strong on it. Trent (Robinson) is very strong on it.”
Photo: Phil Hillyard.
Politis’ comments come amid rising concern over cocaine use among high-profile NRL players. Last year, players including Ezra Mam and Josh Addo-Carr made headlines after being involved in cocaine-related incidents.
Other players, such as Latrell Mitchell and Cameron Munster, have faced sanctions after being photographed with substances that were suspected to be cocaine.
While the NRL’s current illicit substance policy allows players a first strike, followed by counselling, a second strike could result in a suspension or even dismissal.
Politis, however, believes the mere association with drugs damages the club’s reputation.
“That’s enough to do damage to a club,” he said, stressing that the Roosters’ policy aims to set an example for younger fans and families.
Despite some NRL officials and coaches feeling frustrated with the ongoing issue, former players and club executives largely agree that drug use, while present in the sport, is not as rampant as the media suggests.
The debate continues as the NRL reviews its drug policy, with Rugby League Players Association chief Clint Newton noting that the review aims to ensure the policy is best practice for player health and safety.
Nick Kyrgios has launched a fiery, expletive-filled attack on Channel Nine‘s Tony Jones following the presenter’s controversial remarks about Novak Djokovic.
Jones had called Djokovic a “has-been” and “overrated,” sparking a backlash that led to both Jones and Channel Nine issuing public apologies.
Djokovic, who had initially refused to attend post-match media, acknowledged the apology through Tennis Australia, stating, “Novak acknowledges the apology has been given in public as requested, and is now moving on and focusing on his next match.”
Kyrgios, never one to hold back, took to Facebook to vent his frustration.
“How the f*** does this guy still have a f***ing job? It is putrid stuff,” Kyrgios said, before calling Jones an “absolute flop” and “Chompers mate.”
Earlier, Kyrgios had also criticised Jones on Instagram, sharing a video of the comments and adding, “Coming from this clown – couldn’t run around a park this bloke.”
The drama comes amid wider controversy surrounding Jones, who had also labeled American tennis player Danielle Collins a “brat” after her post-match behavior during a win over Australian Destanee Aiava.
In the wake of the tension, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese weighed in, calling for greater kindness and respect.
“We need more kindness and generosity and respect. Just across the board,” Albanese told ABC radio, urging a shift in tone across public discourse.
Author Christos Tsiolkas, best known for his novel The Slap, has lent his support to the Save Our Arts campaign, highlighting the financial challenges faced by Australian artists.
Reflecting on his own journey, Tsiolkas recalled working as a veterinary nurse while writing The Slap, noting, “It gave me the space to write.”
Despite years of struggling to make a living, the success of The Slap allowed Tsiolkas, in his late 40s, to finally secure financial stability, a rare feat for many in the arts.
Tsiolkas is now backing the Save Our Arts campaign, which aims to address the lack of financial support for Australian creatives and advocate for arts policy reform ahead of the upcoming federal election.
Photo: Eddie Jim.
The campaign, which builds on the 2022 Fund the Arts movement, seeks to ensure a future where Australian artists can thrive. It proposes creating 200 fellowships for emerging artists, increasing the Translation Fund for Literature, and providing $5 billion over ten years for cultural infrastructure.
Tsiolkas’ support is rooted in his own experience of struggling to sustain a career in the arts. “I feel like I’m part of a really lucky generation,” he told ABC, emphasising the rising costs of housing, healthcare and education that make it harder for artists today.
He credits early government support, such as a publishing subsidy for his first novel Loaded, for enabling his career.
“One of the things that’s hardest to fight against is a notion that being an artist or being a writer is a really bougie thing,” he said, stressing that financial barriers should not prevent anyone from pursuing creative careers.
As Police Commissioner Karen Webb nears retirement, NSW Police is facing a series of high-profile personnel changes that will shape the force for years to come.
Webb, the state’s first female top cop, is expected to retire by the second half of 2025 after a tumultuous tenure that saw her navigate scandals and historic reforms. Her departure would leave Premier Chris Minns with a challenging decision to find a successor.
Andrew Koutsoufis.
Deputy Commissioner Peter Thurtell, Assistant Commissioners Michael Fitzgerald, Mark Walton, and Danny Doherty are also expected to step down in the near future, triggering a series of promotions and shifts within the force.
Among the potential replacements for Homicide Squad boss Danny Doherty, Superintendent Andrew Koutsoufis, currently overseeing the Raptor Squad, is also being speculated.
With a background as a detective on several high-profile murder investigations, Koutsoufis is a strong contender for one of the most coveted positions in NSW Police.
The weekend delivered two exhilarating matches that kept fans on the edge of their seats as Oakleigh Cannons and East Kew secured crucial victories to bolster their finals hopes.
In a match filled with drama and skill, Oakleigh Cannons edged out Malvern in a thrilling 3-2 encounter. The first half was a showcase of football at its finest, with both teams trading blows.
Oakleigh’s number 3 opened the scoring with a stunning long-range strike, but Malvern quickly countered, and by halftime, the score was deadlocked at 2-2.
Photo: Kostas Deves.
The second half was just as intense. Oakleigh’s number 4 dazzled the crowd with a brilliant run, beating several defenders before being brought down in the box. The resulting penalty was evenly converted by number 19, who bagged his second goal of the match.
Despite relentless pressure from Malvern in the final minutes, Oakleigh’s goalkeeper proved unbeatable, making a series of spectacular saves to secure the win.
Meanwhile, East Kew and Springvale delivered another electrifying contest. Springvale shocked the crowd with an early goal-of-the-season contender—a 40-yard screamer in just the 3rd minute.
However, East Kew’s number 37, Uly, turned the game around with two clinical finishes before halftime, giving his side a 2-1 lead.
Photo: Kostas Deves.
The second half saw Springvale pushing for an equaliser, but East Kew’s keeper stood firm, denying multiple chances. East Kew extended their lead with a third goal, seemingly putting the game out of reach.
Yet Springvale fought back, reducing the deficit with a stunning 20-yard free kick. Despite their best efforts, East Kew held on for a 3-2 victory.
Both Oakleigh Cannons and East Kew showcased courage and determination, securing vital wins to keep their finals aspirations alive.
Fans can look forward to more thrilling encounters as the season heats up and the race for the finals intensifies.
Business Sydney Executive Director Paul Nicolaou has slammed Sydney’s high street parking fees, calling them a “de facto congestion tax” on the city.
Nicolaou’s comments follow revelations that the City of Sydney’s parking meters generated a staggering $41.5 million in revenue last financial year, with the highest-earning meter on Hickson Rd, Dawes Point, raising nearly $190,000 alone.
Nicolaou emphasised that exorbitant parking costs are driving businesses away from the city.
“Most people just cannot come into the city because it is too expensive, and one of the things that is driving business away from the city is the cost of parking,” he said.
Meter revenues along popular streets like Hickson Rd, Crown St, and Sussex St have sparked frustration among locals.
Sarah Saelens, a mother who parked near the Sydney Festival, expressed anger upon learning her meter contributed to nearly $200,000 in revenue.
“I didn’t realise how much money (the machine) was making,” she said.
Calls are now growing for the City of Sydney to reduce parking fees to help revive local businesses, with NRMA’s Peter Khoury arguing that charging premium rates while covering administrative costs is a “business model that would be the envy” of any CBD company.
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis hailed the Onassis Foundation’s 160 million euro donation to establish 22 model public schools as a “lasting and long-term donation,” on Monday, January 20.
Speaking at an event at Maximos Mansion, Mitsotakis praised the Foundation’s continued support for education, culture and learning.
The new schools, which will be integrated into socially disadvantaged areas, aim to provide students with opportunities to explore subjects beyond the standard curriculum, including cultural and sports activities.
These activities will also be open to students from surrounding schools, with additional teacher compensation for their extra work.
Το Ίδρυμα Ωνάση θα διαθέσει 160 εκατομμύρια ευρώ σε βάθος 12ετίας για την αναβάθμιση των κτηριακών εγκαταστάσεων και του εξοπλισμού των επιλεγμένων σχολικών μονάδων. Τα πρώτα 6 αναβαθμισμένα σχολεία αναμένεται να λειτουργήσουν τον Σεπτέμβριο του 2025. https://t.co/E8ouhbzA22pic.twitter.com/TiYcONEoY9
Mitsotakis emphasised that the creation of model schools is a key priority for the New Democracy government.
With the addition of these 22 schools, the number of model institutions in Greece will increase by 50%, benefiting nearly 30,000 students over the next 12 years.
“A liberal government like ours advocates equal opportunities and for children from areas with economic and social problems to be able to have access to the best possible education,” Mitsotakis said.
Donald Trump was inaugurated as the 47th President of the United States on Monday, January 20, following a norm-breaking election campaign.
Due to extremely cold weather, the ceremony was held indoors at the US Capitol, where Trump swore in and delivered an inaugural address declaring, “America’s decline is over.”
Trump immediately pledged to take action on immigration, including declaring a national emergency at the US-Mexico border and halting the practice of “catch and release.” He also emphasised his plans to reinstate the “Remain in Mexico” policy and send troops to the border.
Among the day’s first actions, Trump signed an executive order to fly the US flag at full staff on all Inauguration Days. Meanwhile, his new vice president, JD Vance, was sworn in, and Trump was welcomed by a marching band and military personnel.
Photo: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images.
Trump made a statement about the Gulf of Mexico, declaring plans to rename it the “Gulf of America,” and his intention to restore William McKinley’s name to Mount McKinley.
During the inauguration parade, tech mogul Elon Musk sparked a social media stir when he finished his speech thanking Trump’s supporters with a gesture that some commentators compared to a Nazi salute. The controversy quickly gained attention online.
Foreign dignitaries, including Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, also attended the ceremony, emphasising the importance of the US-Australia alliance. Wong expressed her honour in representing Australia, calling it a “privilege” to witness the peaceful transfer of power in such an important democracy.
Meanwhile, Trump supporters, including Cuban American Jos Fiallo, showed enthusiasm for his stance on immigration, stating, “If you want to come to this country, you have to do it right.”
Trump also outlined his commitment to tackling inflation, restoring American borders, and improving domestic crisis management. Despite the late start, the atmosphere at the inaugural parade in the Capital One Arena was upbeat, with loud music and excited crowds.
While Trump’s policies on immigration and the economy dominated the day, his remarks also targeted international issues, particularly the Panama Canal, which he claimed was unfairly given to Panama and now controlled by China.
As he wrapped up his inaugural address, Trump stated he will fight and win for the American people.
“In recent years our nation has suffered greatly, but we are going to bring it back,” he said.
He promised the “four greatest years of American history.”
Following the thrilling 2025 Greek Herald Cup match on Saturday, January 18, which saw South Melbourne triumph over Sydney Olympic 2-1, the evening transitioned seamlessly into a glittering Legends Dinner at Lakeside Stadium in Melbourne, Victoria.
The exclusive gathering brought together icons of Greek Australian football, community leaders, and fans to celebrate decades of shared history and success.
A grand opening
The night began with a warm welcome from Master of Ceremonies Ashley Maikousis, who set the tone with her heartfelt words.
Ashleigh Maikousis.
“Tonight presents a wonderful opportunity to better strengthen the relationship between our two great clubs, to celebrate our rich histories, and to remind ourselves of how much more each club has to contribute to the football landscape in this country,” she said.
Ms Maikousis also congratulated both teams for their spirited performances earlier in the day, praising the Sydney Olympic players for their hard-fought effort and South Melbourne for keeping The Greek Herald Cup in Melbourne.
The MC also took a moment to acknowledge the event’s importance beyond the pitch: “What we as clubs have contributed to our communities and continue to do so goes far beyond 11 players in blue and white kicking a ball around. It has always been, and will always be, much more than that.”
Looking back at 1984
The evening celebrated the iconic 1984 season, a year when both South Melbourne and Sydney Olympic left indelible marks on Australian football. Club legends from that era, including Alan Davidson, John Yzendoorn, and Peter Laumets, reminisced about their triumphs. They were joined by Sydney Olympic’s Peter Katholos, Chris Kalantzis, and Terry Patalis, who spoke of their own journeys and the fierce rivalry they shared with South Melbourne.
Nick Maikousis, President of South Melbourne, gave a stirring speech, reflecting on the significance of 1984.
“1984 was the beginning of South’s NSL-winning culture and mentality,” he said. “That year gave the Melbourne Greek community its first taste of national success.”
Nick Maikousis.
Maikousis highlighted the efforts of former President Leonidas Anezakis, who played a pivotal role in assembling the team that would go on to win the 1984 championship.
The audience was treated to a video showcasing highlights from the 1984 season, followed by interviews with both South Melbourne and Sydney Olympic legends.
Nick Staikos, MP for Bentleigh and Victorian Minister for Consumer Affairs and Local Government, added his voice to the celebrations and praised The Greek Herald for its vital role in connecting the Hellenic community.
“The Greek Herald… have been around for nearly 100 years. Certainly, their print edition has been around for nearly 100 years. But as a more recent generation of Greek Australians, their online presence is really what keeps our community connected to each other, and I think that is very, very special,” Mr Staikos said.
Nick Staikos MP.
Rivalry and Unity
Damon Hanlin, President of Sydney Olympic, also addressed the crowd with a mix of humour and heartfelt sentiment.
“Congratulations to South Melbourne on a well-deserved win today,” he said.
Mr Hanlin then struck a more serious tone, emphasising the need for unity in Australian football: “We’re our own worst enemy as footballers in this country. We’re the only country on earth that has so many codes that compete with us, yet football is the most beautiful game in the whole world. Unity is what will keep this dream alive.”
Damon Hanlin.
A toast to the future
As dinner was served, conversations flowed about the upcoming National Second Tier (NST) competition and the bright future of both clubs.
While acknowledging the challenges in establishing the NSD, Maikousis expressed optimism: “The rivalry between the two clubs is extraordinary because we’ve represented the same communities. Whilst we have different supporters, there’s always been a lot of respect between us.”
Hanlin echoed these sentiments, adding, “Believe in each other. Believe that this National Second Division can be more than just a community game.”
Attendees enjoyed the night.
The event concluded with a heartfelt thanks to the sponsors, organisers, and attendees. The evening was elevated by the presence of several distinguished guests including Mr Staikos; Nina Taylor, MP for Albert Park; NSW Finance Minister, Courtney Houssos; and South Melbourne Chairman Bill Papastergiadis OAM.
With memories shared and friendships strengthened, the Legends Dinner was a fitting end to a day that celebrated not only the rich history of Greek Australian football but also its promising future.
On Saturday, January 18, more than 2,000 fans gathered at Melbourne’s Lakeside Stadium to witness the much-anticipated showdown between South Melbourne FC and Sydney Olympic FC in the second edition of The Greek Herald Cup.
This event proved once again to be a celebration of Hellenic heritage, blending football, music and culture into an unforgettable experience.
More than 2,000 fans gathered at Melbourne’s Lakeside Stadium to witness the second installment of The Greek Herald Cup. All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Costas Deves, Takis Triadafillou, Mary Sinanidis and Andriana Simos.
The name of the cup was dedicated toThe Greek Herald– a newspaper that has served as a main source of information, updates, and announcements for Sydney Olympic and South Melbourne throughout their illustrious histories. As the tournament’s namesake, The Greek Herald Cup paid homage to the newspaper’s unwavering support of both clubs and its pivotal role in connecting the Greek community.
This year’s event wasn’t just a football match – it was a full-fledged cultural celebration that delighted fans of all ages.
Doors opened at 1pm, with lively Greek music filling the stadium’s outdoor spaces. Mini matches from local junior teams took centre stage in the afternoon, energising the growing crowd.
Live music was provided on the day.Mini matches.
Kids adorned in Greek flags ran around the stadium, their excitement contagious as they waved their banners proudly. The vibrant blue and white colours symbolised the shared heritage that brought the community together for this special event.
As families cheered for their teams, the tantalising aroma of souvlaki filled the air, drawing hungry crowds to the food stalls. Loukoumades, drizzled with honey and sprinkled with cinnamon, proved to be a crowd favourite, offering a sweet indulgence that paired perfectly with the summer vibe.
For those looking to cool off, scoops of refreshing ice cream were on hand, completing a menu that brought a taste of Greece to the heart of Melbourne.
“It was more than just football—it’s a celebration of community and connection,” one onlooker told The Greek Herald on the day.
For those looking to cool off, scoops of refreshing ice cream were on hand.(L-R) Bill Papastergiadis OAM, Dimitra Skalkos and Nick Staikos MP.
A historic rivalry reignited
As the clock struck 6.30pm, the players walked out to thunderous applause. A minute’s silence was observed in memory of Stefan Kamasz before the coin toss initiated the clash of the titans.
South Melbourne FC.Sydney Olympic FC.
South Melbourne wasted no time asserting dominance. Ross Archibald’s stunning 38th-minute goal set the tone, electrifying the crowd and reaffirming his place as a fan favourite.
Max Mikkola extended the lead just after half-time with a powerful strike in the 46th minute, putting South Melbourne firmly in control.
Sydney Olympic FC coach Labinot Haliti.South Melbourne FC coach Esteban Quintas.
South Melbourne wasted no time asserting dominance.
Sydney Olympic fought back valiantly. A tactical shift from their coach, Labinot Haliti, brought fresh energy to the pitch, culminating in Teng Kuol’s 87th-minute goal. Despite relentless efforts in the dying minutes, South Melbourne held firm, emerging victorious with a 2-1 scoreline.
The winning team was presented with their trophy by Victorian Minister for Consumer Affairs and Local Government, Nick Staikos, Parliamentary Secretary for Education Nina Taylor, New South Wales Minister for Finance, Courtney Houssos, and The Greek Herald publisher Dimitra Skalkos, while fans erupted into cheers of pride and joy.
Trophy presentation by Victorian Minister for Consumer Affairs and Local Government, Nick Staikos, Parliamentary Secretary for Education Nina Taylor, NSW Minister for Finance, Courtney Houssos, and The Greek Herald publisher Dimitra Skalkos.
Ms Skalkos said after the event, “We have been proudly covering both South Melbourne and Sydney Olympic for decades, serving as a vital source of updates for their fans and the broader community. Partnering with these two historic Hellenic heritage clubs for the Greek Herald Cup is an honour, especially as they prepare to retake the national stage in 2025.”
“We are proud supporters of both clubs and wish them every success in the upcoming competition. It is our hope to continue this cherished tradition for many years to come,” Ms Skalkos added.
The Greek Herald Cup was not just about football – it was a nostalgic reminder of the clubs’ pivotal roles in supporting Greek migrants during the NSL era. Both teams celebrated their shared history, with heartfelt speeches at a post-match dinner attended by players, officials, and legends from both sides.
With another successful Greek Herald Cup in the books, the anticipation for future matches grows. As these two clubs prepare for the NST, fans are left with memories of a night that perfectly captured the passion, culture, and history of Greek football in Australia.
*All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Costas Deves, Takis Triadafillou, Mary Sinanidis and Andriana Simos
