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George Peppou’s cultured meat company to make substantial cuts to workforce

The Greek Herald
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George Peppou’s cultured meat company to make substantial cuts to workforce

Sydney-based start-up Vow, pioneering cultured meat production, is laying off 25 staff members, or 30% of its workforce, due to slower-than-expected regulatory approvals.

CEO George Peppou explained this was a difficult decision prompted by a challenging funding environment and the need to focus on market access and product development.

Vow, which has raised over $50 million from investors like Hostplus and Blackbird Ventures, is known for producing innovative products like foie gras from quail cells and woolly mammoth meatballs.

While its products have been served in Hong Kong and Singapore, the company has yet to secure approvals to sell in Australia.

Meat grown from cells.

Despite this setback, Peppou remains confident in Vow’s long-term vision: “Vow is the only company in the world to have solved the first two challenges of scale and market demand.”

However, he emphasised that the regulatory process for cultured meat has been more time-consuming than anticipated.

Peppou expressed hope that the laid-off staff would remain within the start-up ecosystem, as they were integral to the company’s innovation. Investors, including Blackbird, continue to back Vow’s vision despite the sector’s broader struggles, acknowledging the challenges faced by alternative meat companies.

Source: Sydney Morning Herald.

Tennis greats urge Nick Kyrgios to play on

The Greek Herald
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Tennis greats urge Nick Kyrgios to play on

Lleyton Hewitt and Todd Woodbridge have weighed in on Nick Kyrgios‘ future in tennis, urging patience as the 29-year-old star continues his recovery from injury.

After a disappointing first-round loss to Britain’s Jacob Fearnley at the Australian Open, Kyrgios sparked retirement speculation, suggesting he might never return to singles at the tournament. The loss came after battling an abdominal injury leading up to the event, which raised concerns about his ability to remain competitive.

Australian tennis great Todd Woodbridge emphasised the need for Kyrgios to keep playing to build stamina for future Grand Slam campaigns. “He was never going to have a great tournament,” Woodbridge said on Channel 9.

“We want him to keep playing, build some stamina, some matches so he can get to Wimbledon, where he is a contender, and be fit, healthy, and back up all the tour.”

Lleyton Hewitt and Todd Woodbridge. Photo: Channel 9.

Kyrgios has been named in Hewitt’s Davis Cup squad for the upcoming tie against Sweden, marking his first inclusion in five years. However, Hewitt noted that Kyrgios’ primary focus for the moment is doubles. “At this stage it was more looking to play doubles,” Hewitt said.

“So that is the main focus for the Davis Cup at this stage but to have him back in the team, this is only the start of his comeback.”

Former player Jelena Dokic also urged patience, highlighting that Kyrgios has been absent from competitive tennis for almost two-and-a-half years, making his return a significant challenge.

“Let’s not forget, it hasn’t been a six-month break, it has been one match in almost two-and-a-half years. That’s massive,” Dokic said.

“The game has moved on, whereas he almost has to come from zero… He is going to potentially play just doubles, play smaller tournaments and put in a year or two of work and really be patient.”

Source: The Advertiser.

Rena Morfi to headline 2025 Antipodes Festival and the Greek Festival of Sydney

The Greek Herald
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Rena Morfi to headline 2025 Antipodes Festival and the Greek Festival of Sydney

The Greek Communities of Melbourne and New South Wales have announced that their headline artist for their respective festivals this year will be the immensely talented Rena Morfi (aka Souli Anatoli) who will bring her extraordinary voice, engaging stage presence and boundless energy to the world-renowned Greek Festivals in Melbourne (Antipodes) and Sydney (Greek Fest @ Darling Harbour) this February.

Catch her live at the Antipodes Festival in Melbourne on Saturday, February 22, and at the Greek Fest @ Darling Harbour in Sydney on Sunday, February 23.

Known for her ability to sing everything from heartfelt ballads to upbeat swing tunes, Rena’s performances promise to be full of energy, emotion, and incredible music.

Rena is one of the most sought-after performers on the Greek music scene. She rose to fame as the lead singer of the acclaimed swing band “Imam Baildi,” in which her unique voice and electrifying stage presence brought a modern twist to traditional Greek sounds.

As a solo artist, she has continued to push musical boundaries, releasing hits like “Otan Sou Horevo,” “Pouli Tha Gino,” and “Ego Esena De Thelo.” Rena’s ability to blend the old and the new has made her a much sought after artist and a favourite among audiences of all ages.

Jorge Menidis, Director of the Antipodes Festival, said: “We are excited that our 2025 program will be headlined by the talented Rena Morfi. She brings something truly special to our festival stage and complements the 75+ hours of programming that the festival team has put together.”

Greek Festival of Sydney Chair Nia Karteris shared Menidis’ enthusiasm for the talented Morfi adding, “Her performances are full of life and soul, and we’re thrilled to have her here in Australia. She will light up Darling Harbour and be the cherry on top of our landmark February event!”

Rena is known not just for her voice, but for her ability to connect deeply with her audience. Whether she’s performing a tender ballad or an energetic dance number, she creates an atmosphere that feels intimate and electric all at once.

Event Details:

  • Melbourne – Antipodes Festival: Main Stage – Saturday, 22nd February
  • Sydney – Greek Festival of Sydney: Darling Harbour – Sunday, 23rd February

Don’t miss the chance to experience the magic and vibrant celebration of community and culture at the Melbourne Antipodes Festival and its Sydney counterpart, the Greek Fest @ Darling Harbour.

For more details visit: www.antipodesfestival.com.au or www.greekfestivalofsydney.com.au

Sam Konstas’ heroics help Sydney Thunder break BBL finale drought

The Greek Herald
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Sam Konstas’ heroics help Sydney Thunder break BBL finale drought

Sam Konstas played a starring role in the Sydney Thunder’s crucial 61-run victory over the Perth Scorchers at ENGIE Stadium on Monday, January 13, leading his side to a significant step towards breaking their eight-year BBL title drought.

Opening the batting, Konstas hit a commanding 53 off 42 balls, providing the Thunder with a strong foundation. Despite a middle-order wobble, helped by a late surge from Tom Andrews, the Thunder posted a challenging total of 7/158.

In reply, the Scorchers, battling to end a three-match losing streak, were bowled out for just 97, suffering a heavy defeat. The loss was sealed early as they lost Finn Allen and Sam Fanning within the first two overs, with Fanning’s run-out typifying their disastrous chase.

Photo: Cricket Australia.

While Chris Green also impressed with the ball, taking 3 wickets and celebrating his 100th wicket for the Thunder, it was Konstas who caught the eye in the batting department. The 21-year-old, opening alongside David Warner (8 off 7), immediately capitalised on the hard ball. His attacking play included a top-edge off Lance Morris for six, followed by two more boundaries to complete the second over.

Konstas’ efforts weren’t just about runs—he also made an impact off the field, welcoming his U19 World Cup-winning teammate Mahli Beardman to the BBL in style. His performance was yet another reminder of his growing reputation as one of Australia’s most exciting young talents.

Source: FOX Sports.

Stefanos Tsitsipas attributes early Australian Open exit to ‘karma’

The Greek Herald
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Stefanos Tsitsipas attributes early Australian Open exit to ‘karma’

Stefanos Tsitsipas expressed frustration and reflection after his unexpected first-round exit at the Australian Open on Monday, January 13, admitting that he felt “karma hit me” following his loss to American Alex Michelsen.

The Greek star, who reached the final in Melbourne in 2023, was defeated 7-5, 6-3, 2-6, 6-4 by the 18-year-old wildcard.

Tsitsipas had withdrawn from doubles play with his brother Petros, hoping to conserve energy for a deep run in singles. “My whole (plan) was to try to go deep. I knew the first thing I had to consider was not playing doubles,” Tsitsipas explained.

“The whole purpose was just to save up on some energy and be fresher hopefully in the deeper draw of the tournament. I guess karma hit me.”

According to 7 News, the 26-year-old acknowledged that his mindset and the game itself had changed. “When I came around in 2018, the game was very different. It wasn’t as physical,” Tsitsipas said.

Despite winning the ace count 13-8 and edging Michelsen in overall winners 46-45, Tsitsipas struggled to capitalise on key moments. Michelsen, in contrast, produced three critical return winners in the decisive ninth game of the fourth set to seal the win.

Source: 7 News.

US Congress debate bill to lift Cyprus’ arms embargo

The Greek Herald
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US Congress debate bill to lift Cyprus’ arms embargo

A new bill introduced in the United States House of Representatives by members of the Congressional Hellenic Caucus calls for the permanent removal of the arms embargo on Cyprus.

While the US has already lifted the embargo, it must be renewed annually, creating uncertainty and hindering long-term defence planning for the island.

The US initially imposed the embargo in 1987 to prevent an arms race between Cyprus and Turkey and encourage a peaceful resolution to the island’s divisions.

However, under the provisions of the 2019 Eastern Mediterranean Security and Energy Partnership Act, the embargo was partially lifted, allowing for defence equipment transfers to Cyprus, contingent upon annual certification by the US president.

Photo: Petros Karadjias / AP.

The new bill aims to eliminate the annual renewal process and permanently lift the restrictions on the export of US arms and military assistance to Cyprus. It proposes an amendment to Section 1250A of the National Defence Authorisation Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2020.

Cyprus has met the conditions outlined in 2019, including efforts to combat money laundering and prevent Russian military vessels from accessing its ports. Given Cyprus’ strengthened regional role and evolving geopolitical dynamics, the bill argues that the arms embargo and its associated waivers are now outdated and no longer align with US interests.

In related news, four Greek American US Representatives—Nicole Malliotakis, Gus Bilirakis, Chris Pappas, and Dina Titus—have introduced a bipartisan resolution urging President-elect Trump to prioritise a Cyprus solution. The resolution condemns Turkey’s ongoing occupation of the island and calls for US leadership in seeking a resolution to the conflict.

Greece condemns Turkish leader’s ‘revisionist’ claims about Dodecanese Islands

The Greek Herald
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Greece condemns Turkish leader’s ‘revisionist’ claims about Dodecanese Islands

Greece’s Foreign Ministry issued a firm response on Tuesday, January 14, to remarks made by Devlet Bahceli, leader of Turkey’s Nationalist Movement Party and government partner of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

Bahceli had claimed that the Dodecanese Islands were “stolen” from Turkey and stated that “having the Dodecanese live without Turkey is clearly unreal,” emphasising that Turkey would never relinquish its “sovereign rights in the Blue Homeland.”

The Greek Foreign Ministry reiterated that the status of the Dodecanese is governed by the 1947 Paris Peace Treaty, which formally transferred the islands to Greece. The ministry stressed that, as a sovereign state, Greece would not relinquish its right to self-defence, as outlined in Article 51 of the United Nations Charter.

“All the more so since Greece is threatened with war (casus belli) in case it exercises a right deriving from its sovereignty in accordance with International Law,” the statement added.

The Greek Foreign Ministry also called for responsibility and prudence, asserting, “Maintaining peace requires prudence and a sense of responsibility, not hostile statements. Issues pertaining to sovereignty lie outside the scope of any discussion and any revisionist views are categorically rejected.”

Greek PM extends congratulations and invitation to Lebanon’s new President

The Greek Herald
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Greek PM extends congratulations and invitation to Lebanon’s new President

Lebanon’s newly elected President, Joseph Aoun, has received a series of congratulatory messages following his election, signalling strong international support for his leadership.

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced he had a “warm and constructive call” with the new President, congratulating him on his election.

He also extended an invitation to President Aoun for an official visit to Greece, emphasising a desire to strengthen bilateral ties between the two nations.

Joseph Aoun was elected by Lebanon’s parliament on the 13th attempt, securing 99 out of 128 votes, effectively ending a more than two-year vacancy in the presidency. His election brings increased optimism, particularly regarding the stability of Lebanon.

Aoun’s election, which followed the departure of former President Michel Aoun in October 2022, was supported by international powers including Saudi Arabia, France and the United States, all of which had positive relations with him during his tenure as head of Lebanon’s armed forces.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres described the election as “a critical step towards overcoming Lebanon’s political and institutional impasse.” At the same time, US President Joe Biden praised Aoun as “the right leader for this time.”

St Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church in New York host historic Epiphany ceremony

The Greek Herald
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St Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church in New York host historic Epiphany ceremony

The St Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church and National Shrine at Ground Zero in New York hosted a historic Epiphany ceremony on Sunday, January 12, marking the first Casting of the Holy Cross and Blessing of the Waters on the Hudson River in 23 years.

The event was a significant spiritual moment for the Orthodox community in America.

With the blessing of Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, the day began with Matins and the Divine Liturgy of the Sunday after Theophany, celebrated by Protopresbyter Rev. Fr. Andreas Vithoulkas and Rev. Fr. Samuel Davis.

The church was filled to capacity with over 500 worshippers from New York’s diverse Orthodox communities.

Following the service, a procession made its way to the North Cove Marina, located near the World Trade Centre. There, the Great Sanctification of Theophany took place, and the Holy Cross was cast into the Hudson River. Eight brave individuals, undeterred by the icy waters, dove in to retrieve the Cross.

Young Logan Triantafillou, the first to retrieve the Cross, received heartfelt congratulations and blessings. The ceremony’s spiritual atmosphere was further enhanced by the powerful chanting of Protopsaltis Dimitrios Katsiklis.

The event marked a milestone for the St Nicholas church, which was destroyed in the September 11, 2001 attacks.

The church’s revival is a testament to the dedication of Archbishop Elpidophoros, Rev. Fr. Vithoulkas, major benefactors like Michael Psaros, and the leadership of the parish council, including Dimitrios Papakostas and Executive Director Andy Veniopoulos.

Source: Orthodox Times.

Maria Sakkari exits Australian Open in first round

The Greek Herald
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Maria Sakkari exits Australian Open in first round

Maria Sakkari’s Australian Open campaign ended in the first round on Tuesday, January 14, as the Greek tennis star was defeated 6-4, 6-7 (4), 6-4 by Colombia’s Camila Osorio after a gripping 2-hour, 32-minute battle on Court 3.

The contest was closely contested from the start. Sakkari opened with a break but quickly found herself trailing 1-3 after losing three straight games. She fought back to level at 3-3 and 4-4, but ultimately lost her serve again in the 10th game, giving Osorio the first set 6-4.

In the second set, Sakkari rallied from a 2-4 deficit, winning a crucial tie-break 7-4 to level the match at one set apiece. However, the third set saw both players exchange breaks early, with Sakkari leading 4-3 before facing a pivotal game at 4-4.

Despite saving three break points and reaching game point, Sakkari could not hold serve, allowing Osorio to break and lead 5-4. The Colombian sealed the match 6-4 in the final game.

Sakkari, who has been recovering from a shoulder injury and was playing in Australia for the first time in five months, acknowledged that she is still working on regaining her top form.

With the win, Osorio advances to the second round. For Sakkari, it was the earliest exit from the tournament since 2018 and her first first-round loss in Melbourne since 2021.

Source: Tennis News.

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