The Pan-Macedonian Association of Melbourne and Victoria held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Sunday, 15 March 2026, with a strong attendance of members and a constructive and positive atmosphere throughout the proceedings.
During the meeting, members reviewed the activities and achievements of the Association over the past year and discussed a number of important matters concerning the Macedonian community in Melbourne and Victoria.
These discussions reaffirmed the ongoing commitment of the Association and its members to preserving and promoting the history and culture of Macedonia within the Australian Greek diaspora.
At the conclusion of the current committee’s term, elections were conducted in accordance with the Association’s constitution. Members of the outgoing executive committee stood for re-election and were overwhelmingly returned to serve a second term, reflecting the confidence and strong support of the membership.
The meeting also saw the appointment of a new Vice President.
The newly elected Executive Committee of the Pan-Macedonian Association of Melbourne and Victoria is as follows:
President: Peter Stefanidis
Vice President: Victoria Papazoglou
Secretary: Harry Tsairis
Treasurer: Tony Tsiavis
Public Relations Officer: Voula Tsarouhidis
The Association looks forward to the continued work of the Executive Committee as it advances initiatives that support the Macedonian community and strengthens the Association’s role within the broader Australian community – both in protecting the identity and cultural heritage of Macedonia and in educating and inspiring the next generation to value and embrace their Macedonian heritage.
The Pan-Macedonian Association of Melbourne and Victoria thanked all members who attended the AGM and contributed to the constructive discussions and democratic process of the organisation.
Around 200 members of the Greek Orthodox community in Canberra gathered on Sunday, March 15 for an information session outlining a significant proposal that could shape the future of St Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church at Kingston.
The meeting, organised by the Greek Orthodox Community and Church of Canberra and District (GOCCC), focused on a proposed transfer of the church land to the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia (GOAA), with community members set to ultimately decide the outcome through a formal vote.
The session brought together clergy, community leadership and Archdiocesan representation, including parish priest Fr Petros Kipouros and His Grace Bishop Athenagoras of Canberra, reflecting the importance of the discussion for the local faithful.
A proposal for the future of the Church
At the centre of the discussion was a proposal that would see the St Nicholas Church land transferred to the Archdiocese, with the aim of securing the long-term future of the parish and strengthening its place within the canonical structure of the Church in Australia.
Under the proposal, St Nicholas would be elevated to the status of a Cathedral — a move described as both symbolic and practical, recognising its role in the nation’s capital and the recent establishment of the Diocese of Canberra under Bishop Athenagoras.
The Archdiocese has also indicated it would assist the community in pursuing Federal Government funding to support the construction of a new church hall on the site.
His Grace Bishop Athenagoras of Canberra was present at the meeting.
What the community is being asked to decide
Members will ultimately be asked to vote on whether to approve the transfer of the St Nicholas Church land to the Archdiocese, a decision that will directly affect governance, ownership and the long-term management of the site.
While an initial vote had been tentatively discussed, organisers confirmed to The Greek Herald that no formal date has yet been set, with further consultation required before proceeding.
According to presentation materials, a General Meeting for members is currently proposed for May, with a further information session scheduled for April to address outstanding questions.
Land ownership and structure
The proposal outlines a restructuring of land ownership within the precinct.
If approved, the church land — including the site earmarked for a future hall — would be transferred to the Archdiocese, while the GOCCC would retain ownership of the carpark. The aged care land would remain under St Basil’s and is considered a separate matter.
Safeguards and protections
Community members were told that a series of legal protections would be built into any agreement to safeguard the church’s future.
These include a covenant preventing the Archdiocese from selling, mortgaging or otherwise encumbering the land, as well as guarantees that the site must remain a Greek Orthodox church in perpetuity.
Importantly, provisions would require the land to revert to the GOCCC at no or nominal cost if the Archdiocese were ever unable or unwilling to operate the church.
The proposal also ensures that the community retains long-term control over any new hall built on the site.
Community members were told that a series of legal protections would be built into any agreement to safeguard the church’s future.
Governance changes
If the transfer proceeds, a new Parish Committee appointed by the Archbishop would oversee church operations, working alongside the parish priest and including representation from the current GOCCC committee.
At the same time, the GOCCC would remain active — continuing to manage broader community activities such as the Greek School, cultural initiatives, government engagement and its relationship with the Hellenic Club.
The organisation would also be rebranded as the Greek Orthodox Community of Canberra (GOCC).
Community response and concerns
The information session was described as positive and well attended, with strong engagement from community members.
However, attendees raised a number of questions, particularly around the purpose and benefits of the transfer, how the process would be implemented, and how funding for a new church hall would be secured.
Organisers acknowledged these concerns and committed to providing further detail at the next session.
Despite the questions, early sentiment appeared cautiously supportive.
“The majority of people were in agreement for the transfer, but required further information,” one organiser said following the meeting.
Next steps
A second information session is expected to take place in mid to late April, where additional details will be presented and community concerns addressed.
A final vote will be scheduled once members are satisfied they have sufficient information to make an informed decision.
If approved, the transfer would trigger legal processes, governance changes and the elevation of St Nicholas to Cathedral status.
If rejected, current ownership and governance arrangements would remain in place, and the community would need to independently fund any future development, including a proposed church hall.
The scales of justice are not just a phrase — they are a powerful symbol rooted in Greek thought and part of our shared Hellenic heritage.
Themis and Dike:
In our mythology, the Titanes or Goddesses, Themis the Goddess of Divine Law, natural order and justice served as a Counsellor to her husband Zeus. Her daughter Dike was the Goddess of Human Justice who worked with her mother Themis to enforce justice.
Both were originally depicted blindfolded holding the Scales of Balance representing impartiality and the sword represented their authority, standing on a snake to wipe out evil in their roles in enforcing justice and protecting against chaos.
A universal symbol:
Long before it became a symbol in our western courthouse, the concept that justice must be “weighed” fairly was a Greek contribution to civilisation and to our modern legal system as we know it today as we know it today.
Justice has never been passive — it requires action. And throughout history, women have too often been symbols of justice — but excluded from exercising it. International Women’s Day reminds us that the scales are not self-correcting. Women must lift them.
As a lawyer, I have always fought for equality for women and migrants in the legal profession — balancing the scales not only for women, but for all migrants.
Today in Australia 65% of law students are women, 63% of all lawyers are women yet only 28% make equity partner and 39% Board members. The scales are not balanced for women in law Australia. Similar statistics also apply in England and Wales.
The imbalance remains: women enter the legal profession in greater numbers, yet leadership positions still elude many; it matters because justice shaped without women’s voices is incomplete — and the work of rebalancing is not finished. Progress without power is not equality. Until women shape the decisions, not just enter the rooms, the scales remain uneven.
I have fought for equality of migrants and women throughout my legal career and to balance the scales in their favour.
Balancing the Scales for a community finding its voice
My own journey began in 1969, when I undertook a feasibility study for the introduction of Modern Greek at the University of Melbourne and in Victorian high schools.
In 1970, I was elected — the only student and the only woman — to the University’s Main Support Committee under the patronage of Sir Robert Menzies, then Chancellor. Together, we worked to secure the introduction of Modern Greek into formal education.
I believe that this honour should be shared by the whole Greek community and is testament to the high esteem that the University of Melbourne holds the Greek community of Melbourne. The Chancellor sitting next to me applauded every Greek name that was called.
Eugenia Mitrakas (middle in white suit), a Golden Alumna, alongside other University of Melbourne Golden Alumni.
Balancing the Scales through leadership and service
In 1970, I founded the Greek Professional Association to support our emerging professionals.
In 1972, four members of that association — myself included — helped found the Australian Greek Welfare Society — now Pronia — giving migrants, especially women, access to legal and social support and dignity.
Migrant women were navigating a new country without legal protection or representation. So, we built structures that gave them both. As Honorary Solicitor for Pronia, I helped create the legal foundation that ensured their voices were not ignored. This included incorporating the organisation as a company limited by guarantee, preparing and lodging annual reports, drafting all legal submissions, advising generally on governance matters, and assisting with the purchase of properties in Richmond and Brunswick.
By 1975, through our work at the Australian Greek Welfare Society, we could see that the scales would soon tip again — this time toward an ageing migrant population. We understood that within two decades, our community would face the challenge of caring for its elderly with dignity and cultural respect. So, we acted. In 1975, we founded the Australian Greek Society for Care of the Elderly — now Fronditha Care.
The Australian Greek Welfare Society. Photo: The Greek Community of Melbourne.
A society reveals its values in how it treats its elderly women. Balancing the scales means ensuring that strength in youth becomes dignity in age.
I am deeply honoured to have been a founding member of both organisations and humbled to have been made an Honorary Life Member of each. But more importantly, I am grateful that, in the 1970s, these organisations entrusted a young Greek woman lawyer with leadership at a time when such opportunities were rare.
Balancing the Scales in the Law
I came across the day-to-day problems faced by our community, particularly women in my practice. In the 1970s, I had a large practice dealing with family law, property law and personal injuries. I witnessed the legal issues faced by our community, particularly the women.
They sought me out because I was the only Greek woman solicitor in private practice. The scales were not balanced. These women carried families, culture and sacrifice — yet stood legally exposed. That imbalance demanded correction. These women traditionally did not work outside the home in Greece but became factory fodder in Australia, raised families and ran the household without any home help.
International Women’s Year 1975
On the 18th of December 1972 the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution proclaiming 1975 as the International Women’s Year (IWY). This resolution stressed that 1975 should be used as the year to “promote equality between women and men and ensure the full integration of women in the total development effort”.
A National Advisory Committee was established in Australia and in 1975 the Centre for Urban Research (CURA) published a report entitled “But I wouldn’t let my wife work here…” written by Des Storer and with research team including Arthur Faulkner and Toula Nikolaou. Des Storer and the research teams attended multiple meetings of Australian Greek Welfare (now Pronia) and sought our input.
Pronia followed this by holding a seminar on the topic at the Trades Hall Council shortly after to debate the working conditions of our community who were factory fodder, particularly the women.
Legal Submissions in the 1970s
As the Honorary Secretary of Pronia in the 1970s I drafted the first constitution as a company limited by guarantee and prepared all legal submissions.
My two major submissions in the 1970s were for the Sir John Minogue Motor Car Accident Inquiry in 1976 and the Sir Daryl Dawson Conveyancing Inquiry in 1977.
I prepared both submissions and was called to give oral evidence at both inquiries, and the issues gained considerable public attention. I was interviewed in the mainstream media, helping to bring the concerns of migrant women into the national conversation.
Sir John Minogue Inquiry into Motor Car Accident Compensation 1976
My core submissions before Sir John Minogue were for the introduction of a no-fault liability and the introduction of Medical Panels with a Greek doctor being appointed on the panel for an injured Greek. Both submissions were controversial in the 1970s but were legislated and became entrenched in our legal system 10 years later, thus removing the blame barrier particularly for migrant women. Justice should not depend on language, status or confidence. It must protect the vulnerable first.
Balancing the Scales required that the person assessing your injury and pain and thus medical panels with Greek doctors were also introduced in the late 1980s.
Sir Daryl Dawson Conveyancing Inquiry 1977
In 1977, before the Sir Daryl Dawson Conveyancing Inquiry — later a Justice of the High Court of Australia — I made submissions that shaped protections we now take for granted:
Section 32 Pre-Contract Disclosure
The Cooling-Off Period
The bold front-page warning: “THIS IS A LEGAL DOCUMENT — SEEK INDEPENDENT LEGAL ADVICE BEFORE SIGNING.”
Sir Daryl Dawson later recalled those submissions as groundbreaking. They too were legislated a decade later. These reforms protected the migrant family home — often a woman’s greatest achievement and only security. That was balancing the scales.
Interpreter services
The quality of interpreter services in the courts and medical examinations was a recurring item on the fortnightly Agendas for Pronia during my 10 years on the Board and no solution was available or foreseeable.
In 1984, I became the first woman, migrant and sole practitioner to be elected by all the members in Victoria on the Council of the Law Institute of Victoria where almost all members were the White Anglo Saxon Protestant Males from the big city law firms. My election to the Council was historic not only for the Greek community but for all women and ethnic solicitors in the whole of Victoria.
In 1985, I convened an Ad Hoc Committee of the Law Institute of Victoria which I chaired. My aim in convening this Committee of the Law Institute of Victoria was to try and see if we could find a solution to this issue that affected all migrants not only in Victoria but all of Australia.
Members of my committee included the Deputy Chief Magistrate, the Head of the Departments of Language and Culture Studies at Victoria College, a psychiatrist practising extensively in medico legal work, another senior member of the Law Institute Council, the Chairman of the Litigation Section of the Law Institute and Savas Augustakis, Co-Ordinator of the Legal Interpreter Services and also a Member of the Pronia Board.
The extensive written report was distributed to all interested parties and written comments were received from The Hon Sir John Young Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Victoria, The Hon Justice Bowen Chief Judge of the Federal Court of Australia , The Hon Justice Asche Senior Judge of the Family Court of Australia, Victorian Ethnic Affairs Commission and all known interpreters Associations in Victoria.
The report included a proposal for a Bill to amend the Evidence Act and to be cited as The Court Interpreters Act 1986.
This report led to the establishment of the National Australian Translators and Interpreters (NAATI), Australia’s national organisation that regulates the standards of translators and interpreters in Australia and a certifying body for practitioners in the translation and interpreting industry.
This report was groundbreaking not only for our Greek community but for all Australians in all states and is recognised globally.
Eugenia Mitrakas.
Balancing the scales at home: Stopping financial abuse
One of the most confronting imbalances I have witnessed throughout my career is financial abuse. Financial abuse has existed in our community throughout my legal career. Balancing the scales does not end in the courtroom or with law reform. It must extend into our homes.
I have observed that older migrant women can be particularly susceptible to financial and emotional pressure, sometimes even from within their own families. This is a deeply confronting reality.
However, elder abuse is not confined to the Greek community. I have witnessed it across the broader community as well — including during the COVID period — and have appeared before VCAT to defend and protect an elderly German woman from exploitation. Balancing the scales means having the courage to confront these injustices wherever they arise, and to stand firmly beside those who cannot stand alone.
Elder abuse has sadly been part of our community for decades. Today, my advocacy continues for families, particularly women facing “Inheritance Impatience” from within their own families. I don’t wish to go into this difficult topic today, but it is a topic that should be explored in depth.
In my own practice, I have done my utmost to protect those subjected to such pressures — most often elderly women — and to restore balance, dignity, and security where the scales have tipped against them.
Each generation faces its own imbalances. The form changes — but the responsibility does not. It is now our task to ensure that in our courts, in our profession, in our homes, and in our community — the scales remain balanced.
And when they tip — as they inevitably do — we must have the courage to lift them again. Those who came before us endured imbalance. We worked to rebalance it. It is now for the next generation to protect and extend what we have begun.
“I stood with Sir Robert Menzies in 1970 to give you a voice, with Sir John Minogue in 1976 to protect your body and with Sir Daryl Dawson in 1977 to give you a home. I have provided this work pro bonofor 55 years because your dignity is my mission. Do not let your security be taken by those you love most.” — Eugenia Mitrakas OAM
On Sunday, March 15, the Oceania Branch of the National Research Foundation “Eleftherios Venizelos” and the Cretan Association of Sydney and New South Wales with the support of the Cretan Federation of Australia & New Zealand, held a solemn memorial service to mark the 90th anniversary of the great statesman and ethnarch, Eleftherios Venizelos.
The service took place at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Annunciation of the Theotokos and was attended by a distinguished gathering of clergy, dignitaries, and community leaders, as well as the Cretan Youth of Sydney dressed in traditional Cretan Costumes.
The memorial service was presided by His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia, and assisted by His Grace Bishop Athenagoras of Canberra, His Grace Bishop Christophoros of Kerasounta, the Very Reverend Archimandrite Father Stefanos Tinkashvili, and Elder Antipas of Mount Athos.
Among the official representatives present were Athanasios Lambrou, First Counsellor for Public Diplomacy of the Consulate General of Greece in Sydney, representing the Consul General of Greece in Sydney, Georgios Skemperis, as well Archons of the Great Church of Christ of the Ecumenical Patriarchate.
The service brought together a broad cross-section of the Greek Australian community, underscoring Venizelos’ enduring influence and the pride that his legacy continues to inspire among Hellenes worldwide.
Representatives from various community organisations were present, including board members and representatives of the Cretan Association of Sydney & NSW, the Cretan Federation of Australia and New Zealand, AHEPA Sydney & NSW, the Athenian Association of NSW, the Cyprus Community of NSW, the Greek Australian Society, and the Greek Returned Services League of NSW.
Their presence reflected the unity and strength of the Greek community in Australia, with Venizelos remaining a central figure in the collective historical identity of Hellenism.
Gift and Tribute
Following the service, attendees moved to St Andrew’s Theological College Hall, where a special tribute to Eleftherios Venizelos took place. In a gesture of deep respect, a bust of Venizelos was presented as a gift to Archbishop Makarios.
The commemoration also included a screening of the documentary “For Crete and Freedom – A Journey towards Unification”, that showcased the historic union of Greece and Crete, and the influence of Venizelos.
As the architect of Cretan union with Greece, Venizelos played an instrumental role in the island’s integration into the Greek state, a fact that was highlighted in the documentary and resonated with many attendees who deeply honour this aspect of his legacy.
National Research Foundation Oceania Branch President Tony Tsourdakakis said, “With deep respect for our historical memory and national heritage, the Oceania Branch of the National Research and Studies Foundation “Eleftherios K. Venizelos” continues its work with dedication in preserving, studying, and promoting the political and historical legacy of the great Greek statesman.”
“Eleftherios Venizelos was one of the most significant figures in modern Greek history, whose leadership played a decisive role in shaping modern Greece and strengthening the country’s democratic institutions and European orientation,” Mr Tsourdalakis added.
“For Hellenism worldwide, and particularly for the Greek diaspora in Oceania, preserving historical memory and highlighting the work and principles of Venizelos is both a duty of honour and a responsibility to future generations.
“Through initiatives, events, and research activities, the Oceania Branch seeks to enhance knowledge of our history and maintain a living connection between Greeks of the diaspora and the values, ideals, and vision that Eleftherios Venizelos championed. This work also serves as a bridge of memory, education, and national consciousness, uniting Hellenism across borders and generations.”
Cretan Association of Sydney & New South Wales President Terry Saviolakis.
Cretan Association of Sydney & New South Wales President Terry Saviolakis said, “When one thinks of a Cretan revolutionary fighter, the image that often comes to mind is that of a Kapetanios, dressed in traditional costume and armed with a mahera. In 2026, however, we honour a great Greek statesman, Eleftherios Venizelos — truly a revolutionary fighter in his own right — who used diplomacy to secure the union of Crete with Greece and to expand Greek territory following the First World War.”
“Crete did not gain its freedom during the Greek War of Independence in 1821, but instead continued its struggle through decades of revolts until its eventual union with Greece in 1913 — a cause realised through the leadership of Eleftherios Venizelos,” Mr Saviolakis added.
“It was an honour to commemorate the great statesman and Ethnarch, Eleftherios Venizelos, in Sydney on the 90th anniversary of his passing.”
The Holy Monastery of Prophet Elijah in Tyrnavos has held its first monastic tonsure in 110 years, marking a significant moment in the revival of monastic life at the historic monastery.
Festal Vespers were celebrated on the eve of the Sunday of the Veneration of the Holy Cross at the historic monastery. The service was presided over by His Eminence Metropolitan Leronymos of Larisa and Tyrnavos.
During the service, the monastic tonsure of Georgios Bentikougias was performed and he received the monastic name “Georgios”. The name honours the two New Martyrs of Tyrnavos – Georgios of Rapsani and Georgios of Tyrnavos – who are regarded as a source of pride and a spiritual adornment of the local Church.
The name also reflects the legacy of the late spiritual father Archimandrite Georgios Kapsanis, the former abbot of the historic Holy Monastery of Saint Gregory on Mount Athos.
Addressing those who gathered, Metropolitan Leronymos emphasised that the monastic calling is a path of sacrificial offering, obedience, and total dedication to Christ.
The Brighton Hotel Sydney hosted an Ouzo Talk live debate on Monday night as part of the Greek Festival of Sydney, with panellists taking on one of the most enduring and emotionally charged questions in Hellenism: is Greek identity and Orthodoxy one and the same?
Hosted by Tom Skolarikis and Nick Athanassiou, the event was recorded as a live podcast episode and brought together four speakers from markedly different backgrounds and perspectives: Dr Vasilis Adrahtas and Dr Vicky Petrakis on the affirmative side, and James Arkoudis and comedian Anthony Locascio arguing the negative.
Ouzo Talk hosts Tom Skolarikis and Nick Athanassiou.
Among those in attendance was the Consul General of Greece in Sydney, Georgios Skemperis, alongside representatives from university Greek societies and the broader community.
From the outset, the debate was framed not as a clash between believers and non-believers, but as a deeper inquiry into history, philosophy, culture and the lived experience of Greek identity, especially in the diaspora.
Skolarikis said the format aimed to revive a long-standing Greek tradition of open dialogue, noting the question remains controversial because of how deeply faith and culture are intertwined in communities outside Greece.
“Debate and argument are part of our Greek heritage and DNA,” he said.
“We know how intertwined faith and identity is when it comes to the Greek diaspora, in particular,” he said. “The church and Orthodoxy have played a huge role in our communities over the years. But can they be separated?”
The case for unity: faith as the foundation of identity
The affirmative case sought to argue that Greek identity and Orthodoxy are inseparable at a foundational level.
Dr Vicky Petrakis, drawing on Greek philosophy and early Christian theology, argued that Orthodoxy and Greekness are united through the shared ideals of freedom, virtue and reason. She contended that the language and intellectual tools used by the early Church Fathers to explain Christian doctrine were themselves shaped by Greek philosophical thought.
“Orthodoxy and Greek identity mandate us, through their historical connections, to express through our life and works what it means to be a virtuous and free individual,” Petrakis said.
She later argued that while it is possible in a narrow sense to be Greek without being Orthodox, the deeper question lies in what constitutes the essence of Greek identity.
Dr Vicky Petrakis.
“Orthodoxy is therefore the definition of what it is to be Greek, a free citizen, because the basis of that freedom lives within us,” she said.
Her teammate, Dr Vasilis Adrahtas, took a more dialectical approach, insisting that the debate should focus on present reality rather than what participants might wish Greek identity to become in the future.
“The motion is not about what we would like identity to be in the future… but it’s about facts,” he said.
Adrahtas argued that while Greek identity and Orthodoxy are not identical in a simplistic sense, they remain deeply bound together as a historical and cultural structure, particularly in the diaspora. He described the Church as the only enduring national network of Hellenism in Australia with continuity, discipline and institutional presence.
“The church basically represents the only network of a social body of Hellenism in Australia that is all over the country and has some sort of discipline, stability and viability,” he said.
Dr Vasilis Adrahtas.
The case for distinction: identity beyond religion
On the opposing side, James Arkoudis argued that Greek identity is far broader than religion and cannot be reduced to Orthodoxy alone. He maintained that religion is transnational, while Greek identity has its own distinct civilisational, historical and philosophical character.
“It cannot be just its religion, because religion is transnational. There are Orthodox Serbs, Bulgarians, Russians and whatnot, but Greeks have their own identity,” he said.
Arkoudis traced Greek identity through ancient ideals, Roman influences and later historical developments, contending that while the Church played an important role during Ottoman rule, especially in preserving communal life, this did not make Orthodoxy synonymous with Greekness.
“Greek culture is bigger than that. It’s not just that,” he said.
He also argued that modern Greek identity had already moved beyond that equation, saying Greece and the diaspora should take greater responsibility for preserving language, history and culture without outsourcing Greek knowledge to others.
James Arkoudis.
Personal experience meets philosophy
Locascio, the night’s wildcard speaker, brought a more personal and contemporary argument to the negative side. Openly acknowledging he was not an academic, the comedian grounded his case in lived experience as an Australian performer of Greek and Italian heritage.
“I am an Australian comedian with Greek and Italian heritage,” he said. “My very existence belies it. I’m not Orthodox at all… I would love to see whichever of you that decides that the affirmative will win tonight come and look me in the face and tell me that I’m not Greek afterwards.”
In one of the night’s more memorable interventions, Locascio warned against the dangers of basing identity too rigidly on any one ideology.
“A healthy, secure relationship with that ideology allows it to act as a stable base on which to build a more nuanced, complex identity, but an insecure, rigid clinging relationship to that ideology makes it a prison,” he said.
His contributions frequently drew laughter and applause from the audience, blending humour with more reflective moments that resonated throughout the room.
Anthony Locascio (right).
Audience questions spark deeper debate
Following the formal debate, the evening opened into an extended and lively Q&A, which in many ways became the most dynamic part of the event.
Questions from the floor moved the discussion from theory into the practical realities of diaspora life in Australia, including the role of Greek schools, weddings, language and music in preserving Hellenism, and whether Greek identity can or should evolve beyond religious structures.
Some audience contributions also challenged the philosophical foundations of the motion itself. One question pointed to the Greek War of Independence and the rallying cry “freedom or death,” arguing that the willingness to embrace death appeared to contradict core Christian teachings and raised deeper tensions between Greek identity and religious doctrine.
Another questioned whether Greek philosophy, which predates Christianity by centuries, suggests that Greek identity exists independently of Orthodoxy, proposing instead that the faith may be an expression of Greek identity rather than its defining feature.
Diaspora realities and the question of what endures
Addressing questions around the role of the Church in the diaspora, Adrahtas acknowledged its continuing centrality in Australia, even while expressing hope that Hellenism might one day flourish more independently in the long term.
Another discussion point focused on whether Greek philosophy predating Christianity suggested that Greek identity existed independently of Orthodoxy. Petrakis responded by arguing that the Church Fathers drew on Greek philosophy precisely because it provided the conceptual framework to explain Christian belief and the Incarnation.
There was also debate over whether language, music, custom and even symbols such as the mati were more accurate markers of Greek identity than faith alone. The exchanges reflected a broad agreement on one point even where disagreement remained on the motion itself: Greek identity is layered, living and still contested.
A close vote, but no clear consensus
At the beginning of the evening, audience members were invited to vote on the motion via QR code, then vote again after hearing the debate. By the end of the night, the affirmative side had made only a slight gain, with support for “yes” rising from 32 per cent to 34 per cent, while “no” fell from 68 per cent to 66 per cent.
The modest shift suggested that while the affirmative team persuaded some, most in the room remained unconvinced that Greek identity and Orthodoxy are truly one and the same.
Still, if the final numbers showed limited movement, the debate itself revealed something more significant: that within the Greek Australian community, questions of faith, culture, language and belonging remain deeply alive and far from settled.
The full debate will be released as an Ouzo Talk podcast episode on major streaming platforms.
A 36-year-old man accused of siphoning and laundering money through an alleged phishing scheme has had his case delayed in court.
Brent Galambos, of Tomakin, appeared in Batemans Bay Local Court facing charges of obtaining data with intent to commit a computer offence and dishonestly obtaining personal financial information. He has not yet entered pleas.
Galambos’ lawyer said the matter was delayed due to the complexity of the case and because the brief of evidence has yet to be served.
Brent Galambos, of Tomakin, appeared in Batemans Bay Local Court facing charges of obtaining data with intent to commit a computer offence and dishonestly obtaining personal financial information. Photo: Tom McGann / The Daily Telegraph
Police allege Galambos sent suspicious texts to people across Australia where he claimed they had missed mobile service payments and that their accounts would be subsequently restricted. The messages allegedly contained a link to a malicious website designed to harvest banking details.
The alleged mass text campaign in August 2025 drew the attention of the Australian Federal Police, who began investigating Galambos and collecting reports.
During a search of Galambos’ coastal home, police allegedly seized several electronic devices, including mobile phones found hidden in an in-ground drainage pipe.
A date for the next court appearance has not yet been announced.
Every 26 minutes one Australian is told they have blood cancer. Each day 53 Australians are diagnosed with this disease.
But 31-year-old Brisbane hairdresser and barber, Michael Langanis hopes to lower this statistic by supporting the Leukaemia Foundation’s call to raise funds for blood cancer research.
The decision is personal as the family wanted to honour their beloved father and grandfather Dimitrios Kassapidis after he lost his fight with blood cancer in February 2014, aged 82.
This is the third time Michael and his family have supported the World’s Greatest Shave run by the Leukaemia Foundation. The first time Michael, then aged 18, decided to support the fundraising event, was a month after his grandfather passed away and the second event took place in 2022.
Michael with his late grandfather.
“After losing my grandfather to blood cancer, I felt strongly about supporting the Leukaemia Foundation,” Michael tells The Greek Herald.
“Taking part in the World’s Greatest Shave felt like a meaningful way to honour his memory and help raise awareness for the cause.”
Michael’s mother Koula is also on board behind the scenes, helping to raise awareness by running the social media campaign for the fundraising event on Saturday, March 28 at Laganis Studio in Teneriffe (Brisbane).
On the day, Michael will shave the head of his friend Daniel, who is on a working holiday from the United Kingdom.
“Daniel has been growing his hair for several years,” Michael said.
“When I commented on the length of his hair he mentioned he had been thinking about cutting it one day. I suggested he consider doing it as part of the World’s Greatest Shave campaign.”
Michael and his friend Daniel.
This is the first time the event has been run in the salon. Family, friends and clients have been invited to witness the World’s Greatest Shave. Michael’s mum Koula is confident that their target of $5,000 will be reached.
“This is a bigger event this year,” Koula said.
“People know Michael through his salon, so we thought we would go all out this year. We have already raised $3,000 in ten days. It is the most we have raised.
“We are getting the story out (in the community) and people have been very generous. Donations raised will go directly to the Leukaemia Foundation as part of the World’s Greatest Shave campaign.”
The Leukaemia Foundation states that blood cancer is Australia’s hidden cancer crisis with 150,000 Australian families battling the disease.
Thousands of participants across Australia will take part in the World’s Greatest Shave raising funds to help research and to support services that provide accommodation, financial assistance and awareness. Although fundraising can be run anytime, March is the official time for school and community events.
Last year $600,000 was committed to five new research projects, 547 families were provided with 39,854 nights of accommodation, 1,879 families were provided with transport assistance and 866 families were given financial assistance.
Although it is called the World’s Greatest Shave, participants can opt to have their hair shaved, coloured or cut.
The Cyprus Community of NSW has announced the launch of a new online Volunteer Hub to connect members and the wider public with charitable initiatives supported by the community in Australia and abroad, following the strong response to the recent Australia–Cyprus Achievement Awards.
The announcement follows the awards evening held on 26 February at the Chau Chak Wing Museum at the University of Sydney, which drew nearly 200 guests despite strong winds and heavy rain.
The elegant celebration of Cypriot achievement and community spirit, accompanied by traditional Cypriot music, recognised outstanding members of the community while also highlighting the growing role of younger generations through the Jack Passaris Memorial Award and the Chrysanthi Kyriacou medals.
In the weeks following the event, the Community reported a significant increase in enquiries from people interested in joining the organisation and volunteering in charitable initiatives.
To coordinate this growing interest, the Community has launched a Volunteer Hub on its website, allowing members and the wider public to register and participate in community and charitable activities.
Honorary President Michael Kyriacou said the Volunteer Hub is designed to be accessible to people of all ages who care about their community.
“This initiative is open to everyone. People can contribute as little or as much as they like — by lending a hand, spreading the word or simply helping out where they can,” he said.
“It’s about making it easy for people to get involved and make a difference.”
Honorary Secretary Kyriakos Panayi said the new platform will also make it easier for people to participate in charitable activities.
“Members and anyone keen to help can go online, see where help is needed and register to volunteer. They can also suggest charities they would like the Community to support,” he said.
The Cyprus Community currently supports more than a dozen charitable initiatives in Australia and overseas, reflecting its commitment to service, culture and social support.
One such initiative is A Touch of Kindness, founded by community member Con Theocharides. Each Wednesday at Martin Place in Sydney, volunteers provide food, clothing and support to more than 500 people experiencing hardship.
Con Theocharides with his wife, Cathy.
The Community also supports Greek language education and traditional dance programmes for young people, welfare activities for elderly members and charitable organisations such as the Steve Waugh Foundation, which assists families living with rare diseases.
Other volunteer opportunities being developed include participation in archaeological excavations and cultural heritage projects in Cyprus, reflecting the Community’s growing engagement with cultural and academic institutions.
Interest in volunteering has already begun to grow among younger members, with students from the Cyprus Community dancing school stepping forward to assist in upcoming charitable activities.
Mr Kyriacou said the initiative reflects a broader shift in how the Community sees its role.
“Community is about helping each other, but it is also about helping the broader Australian society,” he said.
“In the past, community organisations often focused mainly on social gatherings, dancing and cultural events. Those things are important, but they cannot be the only purpose of a community organisation.”
Mr Kyriacou said the Community is evolving to reflect the expectations of a new generation.
“Our new, more dynamic community is far more engaging, inclusive and innovative. We are listening to our stakeholders — they want different facilities, different services and new opportunities,” he said.
“People don’t simply want to join an organisation to eat, drink and listen to music. They want to be engaged. They want to contribute, learn, travel, network and connect with opportunities both in Australia and overseas.
“Families also want their children to learn about life in Australia — about empathy, caring for others, being less self-centred and more community-minded.
“It’s about building connections and creating opportunities for people to contribute, help others, learn and be part of a living, growing community.
“We are not stale and we are not living in the past. We honour our pioneers and preserve our heritage, but we must also remain relevant and inclusive.”
Community representatives said the Volunteer Hub also reflects the organisation’s broader role in strengthening connections between Australia and Cyprus through cultural, educational and charitable initiatives.
They added that the initiative forms part of a broader renewal within the organisation, focused on engagement, openness and creating meaningful opportunities for members and the wider community to participate.
Former Nationals leader and current Riverina MP Michael McCormack, has returned to the frontbench as Shadow Minister for Water and Veterans’ Affairs, playing a key role in the Farrer by-election.
McCormack, of Hellenic descent, brings expertise on major agricultural water issues in the electorate.
He previously held multiple portfolios in the Coalition government and served as deputy prime minister from 2018 to 2021, until Barnaby Joyce replaced him in a leadership spill orchestrated by Matt Canavan.
Current Nationals leader Mr Canavan described the Nationals’ shadow ministerial team as one of the most experienced, with 18 years of combined ministerial experience.
Commenting on McCormack’s return, Canavan said, “Michael knows the Murray Darling Basin having travelled the length and breadth of it in previous ministerial capacities and representing irrigation areas as a local member. Labor has ignored the benefits of dams and Michael will put them back on the agenda.”
