A Sandringham family has been left traumatised after a group of four masked intruders, armed with large knives, targeted their home for the sixth time in a series of brazen attacks.
The Pappas family, who have been repeatedly harassed by the same group, fear for their safety as the criminals continue to invade their property.
Mother Helen Pappas described one of the most unsettling incidents, recalling how the intruders “unlocked one of my son’s rooms and walked in.”
She told 7News, “We were traumatised for a very long time and we still are.”
Despite their repeated encounters with the intruders, the family feels helpless.
“They’re obviously going to use them,” Helen warned, referring to the knives carried by the intruders. “We actually don’t feel safe in our own homes… There’s only so much police can do.”
The latest attack has raised concerns about the effectiveness of current security measures in the area, with the Pappas family now fearing for their safety, with incidents like this becoming a growing problem in the Sydney area.
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis met with new main opposition leader Nikos Androulakis on Wednesday, December 4, emphasising the importance of maintaining “open channels of communication” between the government and opposition.
Prior to their meeting, Mitsotakis expressed his pleasure in having the opportunity for a “sincere” discussion, noting that such exchanges are vital, especially in difficult times.
Androulakis, leader of the PASOK-Movement for Change party, raised the topic of Mitsotakis’ recent meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Mitsotakis described the conversation as “interesting” and said, “We expect developments” following the discussions.
In his remarks, Mitsotakis officially congratulated Androulakis on his new role and acknowledged that while opposition parties don’t always align with the government, it is crucial to engage in open, sincere dialogue for the country’s benefit.
Androulakis, in turn, highlighted the reunification of the Parthenon Marbles as a “national goal with powerful symbolism” for his party, adding that PASOK-KINAL is ready to assist in achieving it.
Drawing from his experience in the European Parliament, Androulakis stressed the importance of “consensus” and “sincere dialogue” in addressing national challenges, noting that his party has already submitted several proposals focused on social, economic and national issues.
Perry Kouroumblis, 65, has spent his first night in an Australian prison after being formally charged with the 1977 murders of Suzanne Armstrong, 28, and Susan Bartlett, 27, in Melbourne’s Collingwood.
Kouroumblis faces two counts of murder and one count of rape over the brutal killings, which left the victims with over two dozen stab wounds. Armstrong’s 16-month-old son was found unharmed in his cot.
The murders, which occurred between January 10 and 13, 1977, had remained unsolved for nearly five decades. Kouroumblis, who was 17 at the time, is accused of raping Armstrong during the same period.
He was extradited from Italy on Tuesday, December 3, after being arrested in Rome in September.
A sketch of Perry Kouroumblis in court. Photo: Anita Lester / AAP.
At Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, December 4, Kouroumblis appeared bleary-eyed following hours of police interviews. He was remanded in custody and will return to court for a committal hearing in February. Kouroumblis maintains his innocence.
Outside court, the victims’ family members expressed mixed emotions. Suzanne Armstrong’s sister, Gayle, shared her relief, saying she was “ecstatic” that the accused had been charged. She also noted she gave Kouroumblis “a dirty look” in court.
Martin Bartlett, Susan’s brother, said the families hoped for closure after nearly 50 years.
Kouroumblis, a dual Australian-Greek national, had lived in Greece until 2016. A 20-year statute of limitations had prevented his arrest until his travel to Italy allowed for extradition.
Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Shane Patton called the murders “gruesome” and one of the state’s most serious and prolonged cold cases.
The head of the British Museum, George Osborne, has said a deal to return the Parthenon Marbles to Athens is still far from being reached. While discussions are ongoing with Greek officials, Osborne confirmed the museum is exploring an agreement where some sculptures might return to Athens in exchange for Greek treasures being displayed in London.
Speaking on the Political Currency podcast, Osborne cautioned that an agreement is not imminent. “We’re still some distance from any kind of agreement,” he said, noting that any resolution would involve some of the marbles being returned to Athens, where they originated from, while Greece would lend treasures to the British Museum.
Photo: Facundo Arrizabalaga / EPA.
The Parthenon Marbles, which form part of a 2,500-year-old frieze, were stolen from the Acropolis by British diplomat Lord Elgin in the early 19th century.
Osborne also praised UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s approach to the issue, noting that Starmer is more open to the return of the marbles than his predecessor, Rishi Sunak. Osborne said Starmer had emphasised that the decision rests with the British Museum’s trustees, independent of the government.
Discussions about a potential “Parthenon Partnership” are described by both sides as “constructive,” with a British Museum spokesperson suggesting it could balance global access to the collection while maintaining its integrity.
The Jewish Museum of Greece announced the passing of Zanet Nachmia, the last Holocaust survivor from the northwestern Greek city of Ioannina, at the age of 99, just before her 100th birthday.
Born in 1925 in Ioannina, Nachmia was one of six children in a Jewish family. In 1944, she and her family were deported to Auschwitz-Birkenau, where 1,850 members of the city’s Jewish community were murdered. Nachmia survived Auschwitz, as well as other camps, including Mauthausen and Gelenau, before being forced to work in a factory in Breslau (now Wroclaw). Only she and her older brother Michael survived.
Photo: Jewish Museum of Greece.
After the war, Nachmia returned to Ioannina, married fellow Auschwitz survivor Israel Tsitos, and settled there for the rest of her life. She is survived by children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
The Jewish Museum of Greece expressed its sorrow, noting that Nachmia had supported the museum by donating family photographs and sharing her personal testimony. Her funeral will be held in Ioannina on December 5.
Get ready, everyone! The Hellenic Club of Canberra is embarking on an exciting new chapter in its storied culinary journey with the grand opening of Mazi, its brand-new Greek Mediterranean restaurant, on Thursday, December 5.
Mazi, which means “together” in Greek, perfectly encapsulates what the new restaurant is all about – a place to gather, share delicious meals, and celebrate life’s moments in good company.
A culinary dream team
Mazi is helmed by the dynamic duo of Spiros Tsiros and Petar Mlekanov, two passionate restaurateurs bringing a world of experience and a personal connection to Greek culture.
Mazi is helmed by the dynamic duo of Spiros Tsiros and Petar Mlekanov.
For Spiros, the Hellenic Club has been a cherished part of his life since he was just five years old. Now, as the proud operator of Mazi, he’s thrilled to create a warm and inviting space that feels like home. Petar, who grew up just 100km from the Greek border, brings his love of Greek and Mediterranean cuisine to every dish.
With flavours inspired by family traditions and the vibrant culture of Greece, Mazi promises an unforgettable dining experience infused with heart and heritage.
From the name itself, Mazi reflects the Hellenic Club’s vision: a place where friends and family come together to share incredible food, raise their glasses, and revel in life’s joys. Picture vibrant mezze platters, rich moussaka, fresh seafood, and traditional desserts, all crafted with love and authenticity.
Mazi promises an unforgettable dining experience infused with heart and heritage.
The atmosphere will be just as inviting, with a refreshed and vibrant interior designed to transport people straight to the Mediterranean.
Whether it’s a relaxed family dinner, a celebration with friends, or a date night with someone special, Mazi will be the go-to spot for a true taste of Greece.
Mazi’s doors officially open on Thursday, December 5. Find out more here.
The second Mousik-i Festival, held on Saturday, November 30, at the Northcote Social Club in Melbourne, offered an exciting glimpse into the vibrant future of the Greek Australian music scene.
Four bands, each representing a distinct musical genre, came together for a one-of-a-kind evening that had something for every music enthusiast.
The night kicked off with Delyrium, led by the well-known musician Paddy Montgomery, who guided the group, played the lyra, and sang. Songs from Crete, performed with the band’s unique approach, began to warm up the audience.
Next on stage were Anatreptix, who delivered a special set featuring guest artist Iríne Vela. The group revisited classic rebetika from the 1930s-50s with finesse and a strong female presence, which bandleader Katerina Stevens proudly highlighted. Their performance infused the night with a mix of nostalgia and heartfelt emotion.
Cats and the Canary, the only band to have performed at both instalments of the festival, delivered a lively set blending Greek Swing with jazz, rock, and blues influences. This time, they surprised the audience with two 1960s-inspired Greek Disco tracks. Fronted by Alkistis Pitsaki for the second time, their energetic performance and song choices made patrons dance from disco to syrtos.
Closing the night were the electrifying H Division, the Melbourne-based rap group that had the crowd buzzing with their high-energy set. Performing mostly original tracks, they captivated the audience, many of whom sang along. The performance also served as the unofficial launch of their member Skee latest album, Puzzle, recently released on digital platforms, creating a buzz about the group’s bright future.
Once again, the Mousik-i Festival proved to be a vital platform for celebrating and promoting the diversity and creativity of the Greek Australian music scene. The future looks bright for this musical showcase with plans already underway for the next festival in spring 2025.
Perry Kouroumblis, 65, has appeared in Melbourne Magistrates’ Court, charged with two counts of murder and one count of rape in connection with the 1977 killings of housemates Suzanne Armstrong and Susan Bartlett.
Kouroumblis, who was 17 at the time of the murders, is accused of stabbing the women, aged 27 and 28, in their Collingwood home.
Kouroumblis, who was extradited from Italy this week, appeared in court on Wednesday, December 4, from behind glass, flanked by two security guards.
BREAKING: alleged Easey Street killer Perry Kouroumblis has been charged with two counts of murder and one count of rape.
The 65yo arrived at court a short time ago. He is expected to face the court for a brief hearing in the coming moments.@6NewsAUpic.twitter.com/2BrvakIoml
He covered his face with a black leather jacket as he was escorted to the dock, where he appeared with a grey beard and a dark jumper.
The victims’ family members, including Suzanne Armstrong’s sister Gayle Armstrong, attended the brief hearing.
Kouroumblis, a dual Australian-Greek citizen, was brought back to Melbourne after being arrested in Rome, where he had been living. He arrived at Melbourne Airport late Tuesday under police guard after a two-leg flight from Italy.
Saint Nectarios Burwood’s Youth In Action hosted a lively ‘Rock Around the Clock’ Trivia Night on Saturday, November 30, raising $3,842 to date for the organisation’s Christmas Hampers for refugees project.
Around 120 guests of all ages joined the fun, competing in trivia games and enjoying a night of dancing and games, including a hula hoop contest, coin toss, and The Price Is Right 1950s-style.
Diner-style pizza and coke spiders fuelled the crowd as they jived their way through the evening, earning extra points for their dance moves.
The event featured raffles and prizes for the best-dressed attendees and awards for the top three trivia teams, with the traditional wooden spoon handed to the last-place team.
All funds raised will go towards purchasing groceries for the hampers, which will be packed by youth volunteers and distributed to refugee families through Metro Assist.
The event was entirely planned and executed by Youth In Action’s team, under the leadership of Youth Coordinator Nicole Economos.
The Greek Orthodox Parish and Community of Belmore and District “All Saints” generously supported the event by providing their hall and bringing 35 attendees to help. Metro Assist also purchased a table, further contributing to the cause.
St Nectarios Burwood are still accepting donations to increase the number of hampers and are collecting non-perishable groceries and Christmas treats. Donations can be made online, or groceries can be dropped off at the Church office until Sunday, December 8, with packing set to begin next week.
Youth in Action have been active participants in this Christmas initiative over the past few years, as they showcase their compassion, dedication and hard work for an admirable cause.
A Greek father and son duo are paving the way to create everlasting monuments in the heart of Sydney.
Located in Sylvania, Sydney, you’ll find Andrew Stefadouros, and his son Patrick, who started up their own family business, which specialises in Orthodox monuments.
The business, Metropolis Monuments, opened up in April this year, and has already become a well-known company around NSW, Victoria, and surrounds, known for creating granite, marble and limestone monuments, as well as vaults.
They also design and develop various cross designs, statues and lettering, and cater predominantly to the Greek community, having one of the largest showrooms and display centres within the nation.
The story behind Metropolis Monuments
In an exclusive interview with The Greek Herald, Andrew and Patrick revealed how the business came about.
“My dad has been in the industry for 35 years, and recently parted ways with his previous business, so we then decided to open our venture together,” Patrick told The Greek Herald.
“It’s about carrying on a legacy.
“We’re both really passionate about the industry and the job itself is so fulfilling because we get to help out families in very stressful and tough times, and if we can make that process as easy as possible for them and give them something to remember their loved ones by, it’s very rewarding.”
The 25-year-old co-owner said he has been in the stonemason industry for the last eight years and shared what he loves most about catering to his clientele and creating everlasting monuments.
“I love just seeing how happy they [the clients] are once they see the final result and have something they remember their loved ones by,” Patrick said.
“Our pieces are something that pretty much last forever, and they’re a timeless legacy. It feels so special to create something that carries on in that way.”
Why stonemasonry?
Andrew shared what drove him to get into the industry in the first place.
“I was originally a stone mason, and then I was given the opportunity to get into the industry 35 years ago,” Andrew said.
“It was tough to get into, because we were probably the only Greeks trying to get into the business, and we kind of had to struggle at the start until people got to know us and trust us, and then just one thing led to another and here we are now.”
Andrew explained what he thinks is most important to keep up the business, as well as a happy clientele.
“Just offering a good quality job to the client, that’s something that is very important for us,” he said. “We’re also pretty good at what we do, and love providing a good service to the people.”
Working with family
When asked what it’s been like working alongside his son, Andrew said, “it’s been excellent.”
“We get on well, and we’re a father and son, so we complement each other,” he added. “Things he may lack in, I excel in, and vice-versa, and we’ve both got the experience and we really enjoy it.”
Patrick added that he’s also been loving the experience and is learning more and more about the job each day.
“I really enjoy it. My dad has been my mentor for the last eight to nine years and I’ve learned his way of doing things, but with more of a modern twist,” Patrick said.
“This job is something I’m quite passionate about because it’s all I’ve been doing since finishing my Higher School Certificate, and I love that I get to meet so many people from all walks of life, and I get to hear their stories and it’s such a fulfilling part of the job.”
Community response
Andrew and Patrick revealed how supportive the community has been so far since they opened.
“We’ve had quite positive feedback so far. It’s been good, we’re very grateful,” Andrew said.
“It’s been very positive… it was hard at first to get the name out, but slowly, slowly, God willing, we’ll keep growing and helping families out,” Patrick added.
