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Betty Ivanoff appointed new Chair of South Eastern Sydney Local Health District

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Betty Ivanoff appointed new Chair of South Eastern Sydney Local Health District

The South Eastern Sydney Local Health District (SESLHD) has announced the appointment of Betty Ivanoff as the new Chair of its Board, effective January 1.

Ivanoff succeeds Dr Debra Graves, who finished her tenure as chair at the end of 2024.

Dr Graves, who has served as Chair since August 2023, has been a member of the SESLHD Board since 2015 and has played a key role in overseeing healthcare quality, safety, and medical appointments. During her leadership, she successfully guided the organisation through the COVID-19 pandemic and a period of growing healthcare demands.

Tobi Wilson, SESLHD’s Chief Executive, thanked Dr Graves for her dedication, stating, “Dr Graves has shown a steadfast commitment to patient care and a genuine interest in our staff, their work, and achievements.”

Betty Ivanoff appointed new Chair of South Eastern Sydney Local Health District. Photo: Anna Kucera.

Ivanoff brings extensive legal and governance expertise to the role, having held various executive and board positions across both the private and not-for-profit sectors.

Minister for Health Ryan Park expressed confidence in her appointment, highlighting her strong background in leadership and governance.

Additionally, Emilija Beijic has been appointed as a new member of the SESLHD Board. Both Ivanoff and Beijic will join the District in the new year, and the leadership team looks forward to their contributions.

“We are excited to welcome Betty and Emilija to the District in 2025,” Wilson said.

Mulholland welcomes appointment as Victoria’s Shadow Minister for Multicultural Affairs

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Mulholland welcomes appointment as Victoria’s Shadow Minister for Multicultural Affairs

Evan Mulholland, Liberal Member for Northern Metropolitan Region, has welcomed the announcement by Brad Battin, Leader of the Opposition, that he will serve as Shadow Minister for Multicultural Affairs.

“I am a proud grandson of migrants. In the first moments of my first speech to Parliament I told the story of my late nonna and nonno, Teresa and Domenico Caruso, who came to Australia in the 1950s with nothing but a suitcase. I am a beneficiary of Australia’s great migrant story,” Mr Mulholland said.

“My electorate of northern metropolitan is home to so many families who have come from all over the world and chosen the northern suburbs of Melbourne to live, work and raise a family.

“I know firsthand from my own family the experience of coming to Australia and have seen how our multicultural and multi-faith communities here in Victoria strengthen our state and make a meaningful contribution.”

Mr Mulholland added, “The Liberals and Nationals understand that by encouraging and supporting multicultural communities, these Victorians can better contribute to a richer and more tolerant society.”

“I’ve been listening to multicultural and multi-faith communities and understand that big priorities for them are tackling the cost-of-living crisis and ensuring that freedom of religion and freedom of worship are respected,” he said.

“I am looking forward to getting to work in this role and meeting with as many community members as possible to hear how the Liberal Party can work with you.”

Mr Mulholland recently forced the Allan Labor Government to abandon its election commitment to abolish the Lord’s Prayer from Parliamentary proceedings, after a petition he initiated gained 11,000 signatures and sparked a stunning backdown from the government as a result of the backlash from faith communities.

In addition to this appointment, Mr Mulholland has also been appointed as Shadow Minister for Major Projects and Shadow Minister for Arts and Creative Industries, as well as retaining his position as Deputy Leader of the Liberal Party in the Legislative Council.

“As a member of Brad Battin’s leadership team, I will be a strong voice at the table for the hopes and aspirations of Victoria’s multicultural and multi-faith communities,” Mr Mulholland said.

Amanda Rishworth appointed NDIS Minister in pre-election cabinet reshuffle

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Amanda Rishworth appointed NDIS Minister in pre-election cabinet reshuffle

In a significant cabinet reshuffle, Amanda Rishworth has been appointed the new Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), following Bill Shorten‘s retirement from parliament.

Rishworth, currently serving as the Social Services Minister, will oversee the NDIS portfolio, with Anne Aly continuing her role as Early Childhood Minister and assisting Rishworth in the new position.

Shorten’s departure, effective Monday, marks the end of his 17-year political career. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese praised Shorten’s contributions to the NDIS, vowing to uphold Labor’s commitment to people with disabilities, families, and carers.

“When Labor established the NDIS, we made a promise… we will keep that promise,” Albanese said.

Photo: Jacob Shteyman /AAP Photos.

The reshuffle also sees Katy Gallagher, Finance Minister, take on Shorten’s Government Services portfolio, which includes overseeing services like Centrelink.

In a move aimed at gender balance, Anika Wells, Minister for Sport and Aged Care, has been promoted to cabinet, making the frontbench an equal split of men and women for the first time.

Wells’ promotion comes amid internal tensions in the caucus, particularly from Victorian members, as her appointment follows Shorten’s exit.

The reshuffle continues the government’s focus on improving support for people with disabilities and addressing the growing costs of the NDIS.

Source: ABC News.

Cyprus gains access to US military hardware under new defence agreements

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Cyprus gains access to US military hardware under new defence agreements

Cyprus has been authorised to purchase military equipment directly from the United States after joining three US defence programmes on Wednesday, January 15. These include the Foreign Military Sales (FMS), Excess Defence Articles (EDA) and Title 10 security assistance provisions.

Under the FMS programme, Cyprus can now bypass private companies and purchase military hardware directly from the US government.

This move is expected to offer cost savings, as the US typically buys military equipment in bulk, allowing for cheaper prices than those available through private sellers.

The US Defence Security Cooperation Agency described FMS as “a fundamental tool of US foreign policy,” allowing for better maintenance of equipment and enhanced training for Cyprus’ National Guard.

Photo: Jason Amadi / Army.

Cyprus is only the third country to establish a government-to-government military hardware agreement with the US, following similar agreements with Israel and Serbia.

The EDA programme provides Cyprus with surplus US military equipment at discounted or even no cost, helping modernise its forces.

Cyprus is also set to receive French Mistral surface-to-air missiles as part of the EU’s defence support package.

The move comes amid Cyprus’ shift away from Russia as a military supplier, following sanctions on Russian defence exports after the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. As a result, Cyprus is increasingly turning to Western countries and Israel for its military upgrades.

Source: Cyprus Mail.

Princess of Wales offers support to cancer patient’s mother Tina Adamou

The Greek Herald
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Princess of Wales offers support to cancer patient’s mother Tina Adamou

Catherine, the Princess of Wales, shared a heartfelt message of support with Tina Adamou, a mother whose life has been upended by her daughter’s battle with cancer.

Catherine, who herself received treatment at the same hospital, visited cancer patients at the Royal Marsden Hospital in London on Tuesday, January 14.

Photo: Video Screenshot.

During her visit, Catherine met with Adamou, whose 19-year-old daughter is currently in intensive care.

As Adamou became visibly distressed, the princess comforted her with a reassuring embrace and words of encouragement.

“It will get better. There is light at the end of the tunnel,” she shared.

Source: The Independent

Israel and Hamas agree to ceasefire deal

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Israel and Hamas agree to ceasefire deal

US President Joe Biden has confirmed that Israel and Hamas have agreed to a ceasefire deal, following months of negotiations.

The agreement, still pending final approval from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, includes the phased release of hostages held by Hamas and Palestinian prisoners in Israeli custody. It also promises to allow displaced Palestinians in Gaza to return home and provide much-needed humanitarian aid.

Biden announced that the first phase of the ceasefire would begin with the release of some hostages, including women, the elderly and injured individuals.

“For the sake of the people of Israel and the families waiting in agony and for the sake of the innocent people in Gaza who suffered unimaginable devastation because of the war,” Biden said.

The deal is set to pause fighting for six weeks, with the goal of opening negotiations for a broader peace settlement. Over six weeks, 33 of the nearly 100 Palestinian hostages are to be reunited with their loved ones after months in captivity with no contact with the outside world, though it’s unclear if all are alive. Israel will also withdraw forces from populated Gaza areas.

Despite the optimism, questions remain about the long-term impacts of the ceasefire. Key issues like the future governance of Gaza and the return of all displaced people are still unresolved.

According to 9 News, an estimated 90 per cent of Gaza’s population was displaced amid what became a humanitarian crisis.

Photo: AP.

International leaders, including Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Foreign Minister Penny Wong, have welcomed the ceasefire but urged for lasting peace and the protection of humanitarian efforts.

The ceasefire marks a crucial moment in a conflict that has claimed tens of thousands of lives, displaced millions and caused widespread destruction. It offers a glimmer of hope for peace, though many, including families of hostages, remain cautious until they see the agreement fully realised.

Source: 9 News.

Thanasi Kokkinakis faces uncertain tennis future as chronic injury takes a toll

The Greek Herald
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Thanasi Kokkinakis faces uncertain tennis future as chronic injury takes a toll

Thanasi Kokkinakis has expressed serious concerns about his future in tennis after a chronic pectoral injury severely affected his Australian Open campaign.

The 28-year-old suffered a heartbreaking loss to Jack Draper in the second round, following a gruelling five-set match. Despite being in a winning position, Kokkinakis struggled physically, calling for a trainer midway through the fourth set.

Thanasi Kokkinakis grimaces during his second-round match. Photo: Getty.

“I’m pissed. Even if I won, I wouldn’t have been able to play the next match,” Kokkinakis said. He revealed his right pectoral muscle was “gone” before the match, and he is certain of a tear. Kokkinakis has battled the injury for years and is uncertain about surgery, citing the lack of guarantees.

“One thing is for sure: I can’t keep doing what I’m doing. It’s mental torture and physical torture,” he added. The injury has hindered his performance in recent tournaments and may sideline him for an extended period.

Kokkinakis plans to consult medical experts soon, but remains uncertain about his playing future. “I know I don’t have forever left,” he said, acknowledging the doubt surrounding his career.

Source: The Age.

Mitsotakis nominates Tasoulas as next President of Greece

The Greek Herald
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Mitsotakis nominates Tasoulas as next President of Greece

Greece’s Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has nominated Konstantinos Tasoulas, the Speaker of Parliament, as the next President of Greece.

Praising his broad parliamentary support and unifying leadership, Mitsotakis highlighted Tasoulas’ repeated election as Speaker with historic majorities.

The nomination breaks tradition by selecting a figure from the governing majority, which Mitsotakis justified as prioritising public trust over political alignment.

He also expressed gratitude to outgoing President Katerina Sakellaropoulou and proposed a constitutional reform to limit the presidency to a single six-year term.

Parliament will vote on the nomination within ten days, while Tasoulas’ successor and parliamentary seat adjustments are under consideration.

Source: Ekathimerini

Cretan folk band ‘Xylourides’ to host night of music, culture and tradition in Sydney

The Greek Herald
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Cretan folk band ‘Xylourides’ to host night of music, culture and tradition in Sydney

Xylourides, the electrifying youth brigade of Cretan folk music, are set to take Sydney by storm on Wednesday, February 12 with their debut performance at the Factory Theatre.

Drawing from their legendary Cretan heritage, the trio—Adonis, Nikos and Apollonia Xylouris—are breathing new life into an ancient art form with their youthful energy and unrivalled virtuosity.

Born from the heart of Crete’s musical tradition and the revered legacy of icons like Nikos Xylouris, Psarantonis, and Psaragiorgis, Xylourides are more than just guardians of Cretan folk—they are its bold new ambassadors.

Hailing from the mountain village of Anogeia, a place rich in musical and cultural significance, they have transformed their ancestral craft, combining it with their own distinct style that is as electrifying as it is deeply rooted in tradition.

The trio’s performance is a masterclass in musical synergy. Nikos, renowned for his blistering speed on the lyra (a traditional Cretan string instrument), leads with raw virtuosity. Adonis, wielding the lauto (a Cretan lute), provides rhythmic propulsion, wrenching deep, resonant notes that drive the music forward in thrilling bursts of melody. And Apollonia, with her powerful percussion, brings a pulsating heartbeat to every song, guiding the trio through hypnotic grooves that echo the timeless dances of their homeland.

Together, the Xylourides captivate audiences, combining the fervour of youthful passion with the discipline and wisdom passed down through generations. This synthesis of tradition and innovation has made them one of the most exciting acts in the world of world music today.

Following a rapturous reception at Melbourne’s Antipodes Festival in 2024, Xylourides now bring their unique sound to the Factory Theatre on 12 February 2025.

Prepare for an unforgettable evening as they transport audiences into the heart of Crete’s musical soul—where the nights stretch endlessly, and the rhythms pulse through the mountains and into the morning light.

Don’t miss your chance to experience the future of Cretan folk music live in Sydney. This is more than just a concert—it’s a celebration of culture, tradition, and the power of music to unite us all.

Event Details:

  • Date: Wednesday, 12 February 2025
  • Time: Doors open at 7.00 PM, Main act at 7.30 PM
  • Venue: Factory Theatre, Sydney
  • Tickets are available to purchase here.

Polites family legal battle heats up with estate investigation

The Greek Herald
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Polites family legal battle heats up with estate investigation

The bitter legal dispute within one of the state’s wealthiest families centred around the estate of Florence Gemenis Polites, who passed away in March 2024 at the age of 102, has exacerbated.

The case, which involves her multimillion-dollar estate and a 1999 will, was escalated following claims that an investigation into her assets could expose confidential company files.

Markas Salkanovic, 54, a convicted attempted drug importer, is embroiled in a Supreme Court battle over his late grandmother’s estate. However, his uncle, 70-year-old George Constantine Polites, the estate’s executor, has appealed a court ruling to appoint an administrator, Sarah Hooper, to investigate the estate.

Lawyer Sarah Hooper, the appointed administrator of Florence Polites’ will. Photo: Track Legal.

Dick Whitington, KC, representing Polites, voiced concerns about the potential leak of confidential information. He warned that granting Hooper access to company files detailing assets and finances across multiple trusts could result in sensitive data being shared with third parties, including Polites’ twin grandsons—Con Junior (Alex) and Marcus, 40.

Whitington further argued that such an investigation would be “time consuming” and would likely lead to the disclosure of files to “any interested persons.”

While Whitington denied claims that his client was “deficient” as executor, the court was told that the grandsons had signalled a challenge to the will before recent changes in state law, though no formal claim has been made yet.

On the other side, Graham Edmonds-Wilson, KC, for Salkanovic, dismissed concerns over file access as “overblown” and argued there was no valid reason to block the investigation.

Justice Tim Stanley reserved his decision, and a Court of Appeal hearing is scheduled for later this year.

Source: The Advertiser.

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