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Sydney accountant Michael Kypreos set to make history on Australia’s senior tennis team

The Greek Herald
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Sydney accountant Michael Kypreos set to make history on Australia’s senior tennis team

By Takis Triadafillou

From humble beginnings as a five-year-old on Sydney’s tennis courts to an international career in senior sport, 55-year-old Michael Kypreos is proof that passion, perseverance, and discipline have no age limit.

The Sydney-born professional accountant and founder of Sydney Accounting Services is now preparing to represent Australia at the ITF Seniors World Championships in Lisbon this August — making him the first Greek Australian selected for the national veterans team in the 50+ category.

“I was almost in tears,” Kypreos told The Greek Herald of the moment he received the call-up. “It was overwhelming.”

Balancing business and tennis

Kypreos, whose parents Eugenia and Heraklis migrated to Australia from Patras in 1962, has carved out parallel careers in both accounting and competitive sport.

A graduate of UTS and a member of the Institute of Public Accountants, he founded his firm in 2003 and has grown it into a successful enterprise. But behind the desk is also a dedicated athlete who trains daily and manages to fit high-performance tennis around a full professional schedule.

“With very good time management. I wake up very early and sleep late,” he explains. “For the past six years, I’ve devoted my life to training in order to reach a world-class level.”

A champion on and off the court

Kypreos currently holds an ITF seniors world ranking inside the top 200 in singles and top 80 in doubles. His long list of achievements includes reaching the finals in major state and national tournaments and a standout performance at the 2025 Australian Tennis Championships, where he won 20 of 22 matches for New South Wales.

In 2024, he became the only Australian player in his category to win a match at the ITF World Individual Tennis Championship in Mexico, before falling to the UK’s Seb Jackson in the Round of 32.

Now, as he sets his sights on Lisbon, his personal goal is clear: “Yes, I want to become number 1 in the world in my category… I’m working on it every day.”

A message to the community

Despite his elite achievements, Kypreos remains grounded. He credits his Greek roots for instilling a strong work ethic and resilience.

“Health is the most important thing in life. Sports offer health, mental well-being, and build character. Winning or losing doesn’t matter—what matters is participating and trying,” he says.

His life motto? “Health is above all. Sport is victory – even in defeat.”

Career highlights

  • Champion (Division 1) – Hellenic Tennis Association State League (2005)
  • Quarterfinalist – Australian Veterans Singles Championship, 45+ (2015)
  • Multiple-time Semifinalist – ACT, NSW, Queensland and Oceania Veterans Championships
  • Finalist – Melbourne Veterans Doubles, 50+ (2024)
  • Represented NSW – Australian Championships (2024–25), with a 91% win rate in 2025
  • ITF World Championship Participant – Mexico (2024)
  • Set to represent Australia at the ITF Seniors World Championships – Lisbon, August 2025

ITF Masters Rankings

  • Highest Doubles Ranking: No. 84 (January 2025)
  • Highest Singles Ranking: No. 210 (November 2024)

As Kypreos prepares to wear the green and gold in Portugal, he carries with him the pride of two nations, the spirit of sport, and a message that age is no barrier when heart and discipline lead the way.

HACCI NT celebrates five years of community and business connections

The Greek Herald
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HACCI NT celebrates five years of community and business connections

Since its establishment shortly before the COVID-19 pandemic, the Hellenic Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry in the Northern Territory (HACCI NT) has grown into a dynamic and diverse network of businesses and professionals.

Over the past five years, nearly 100 members have joined HACCI NT, representing sectors such as construction, services, manufacturing, professional services, small business, and hospitality.

While all members contribute uniquely to the HACCI NT community, the organisation has chosen to recognise a select group of business owners and individuals for their outstanding contributions to industry, public service, and the broader community. Their dedication reflects the strength and spirit of the Territory’s Hellenic network.

At the forefront of HACCI NT’s honorary members is its Patron, the Honourable John Anictomatis AO. His unwavering support has been instrumental since the organisation’s inception. A long-serving Honorary Consul for Greece in the Northern Territory since 1991, Mr Anictomatis brings decades of service and commitment to the Hellenic community.

HACCI NT also proudly acknowledges several distinguished individuals within the Hellenic community:

  • Judge Tass Liveris, Federal Circuit and Family Court Judge, whose 2024 appointment underscores their leadership in the legal profession and commitment to justice.
  • Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis and Mayor Athina Pascoe-Bell, recognised for their dedication to public service and inclusive community building.
  • HB Group (John & Nikitas Halkitis), a generational family business originally founded by the late Mick and Theo Halkitis in 1960. Their pioneering work in civil construction has helped shape the region’s infrastructure.
  • JH Group (John Halikos), a leader in property development, hospitality, and philanthropy, with lasting contributions both in Australia and Greece.
  • Michael Koulianos, President of the Greek Orthodox Community, recognised for his steadfast advocacy for cultural and business initiatives.

In addition, HACCI NT values the ongoing contributions of Associate Professor George Frazis and Mr Neville Pantazis, who continue to promote the arts, Greek language, and culture throughout the Northern Territory.

Looking ahead: Strengthening cross-border connections

HACCI NT’s five-year milestone comes at a pivotal time. From its foundational role in establishing the HACCI National Federation, to its participation in a Memorandum of Understanding with Chambers in Greece, and more recently, the online National HACCI Forum—featuring both the Australian and Greek Ambassadors—the organisation continues to highlight the importance of the Greek-Australian business relationship.

As noted by Greek Ambassador Stavros Venizelos during his recent visit to Darwin, HACCI NT plays a vital role in converting “relationship capital into real economic opportunity.”

The organisation remains energised by the opportunities ahead: to support local businesses, encourage cultural exchange, and further strengthen ties between the Northern Territory, Australia, and Greece.

HACCI NT expresses its sincere gratitude to all members—past, present, and future—for their continued trust, engagement, and support. As the organisation reflects on its achievements, it also looks ahead with enthusiasm and optimism.

The Hon John Anictomatis AO said, “HACCI NT plays a crucial role in bringing together Hellenic businesses and professionals, fostering a network that strengthens our cultural and economic ties. I am proud to support this organisation and its commitment to excellence.”

Dr Elena Limnios, Chair of HACCI National Federation, said, “The growth of HACCI NT over the past five years is a testament to the dedication and passion of its members. Their efforts have strengthened the Hellenic presence in the Northern Territory and beyond.”

Angela Tomazos, HACCI NT President, said, “Our strength lies in our diverse and dedicated members. From business leaders and bold entrepreneurs, to professionals, students, and public servants, we celebrate everyone who has been part of this journey. We look forward to building on this foundation and welcoming even more members in the years ahead.”

The HACCI NT Committee is made up entirely of dedicated volunteers, who continue to work tirelessly to support and empower the Territory’s Hellenic business community. The current committee members are:

  • Magdaline Coleman, CEO, Colemans Creative + Printing + Signage
  • Michael Kalidonis, Consultant
  • Nomiki Vlahos, General Manager, GENEX Group NT
  • Jimmy Bouhoris, Power & Water Corporation
  • Yiannis Alexopoulos, JGA Concreting
  • Rossi Kourounis, Rossi Architects

Public Officer: Maria Poullas CPA, Principal, Astute Accountants Darwin

For media inquiries, please contact: haccint@hacci.com.au

Chris Christofi’s annual gala raises over $200,000 to support homeless Australians

The Greek Herald
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Chris Christofi’s annual gala raises over $200,000 to support homeless Australians

The fifth Lead With Kindness gala, held last Friday at The Glasshouse in Melbourne, raised almost $214,000 ($213,765) in support of the St Vincent de Paul Society. It was the most successful event in the initiative’s five-year history.

The funds raised will directly provide 23,400 hot meals and almost 1,000 safe places to sleep for Australians doing it tough.

Chris Christofi is the founder of Reventon and is currently the highest fundraiser in the Vinnies CEO Sleepout’s national history. He has already raised over $300,000 for this year’s campaign with a target of raising $350,000. Chris hopes to become the person who raises the most money in a single Sleepout campaign.

“This is not about putting on a fancy event. It is about making sure people doing it tough have what most of us take for granted – a hot meal, a safe place to sleep, and the dignity of being seen and supported,” Christofi said.

“It’s about making a real difference. That’s what these numbers mean. That’s the impact.”

A record breaking night of generosity:

• 324 tickets sold — the largest attendance in Lead With Kindness history
• First ever black tie banquet format
• Guests flew in from across Australia, including Sydney and Perth
• Live performances including two finalists from The Voice
• Powerful keynote from Vinnies leaders reflecting on 50 years of soup vans
• 40 auction items, including:
 - Sydney Harbour luxury yacht cruise: $7,000
 - Lucy Liu private dinner for 16: $6,000
 - Bali resort holiday for six: $4,000

The evening formed a major part of Christofi’s eighth consecutive Vinnies CEO Sleepout campaign, continuing his long-standing commitment to raising funds and awareness for homelessness.

With this year’s total, Christofi has now personally raised more than $1 million, delivering vital resources to frontline support services.

The mission is far from over:

Christofi said now was no time to slow down.

“We are not here to rest on our laurels. We have helped thousands of people, but thousands more still need us. The homelessness crisis is not going away, and neither are we,” he said.

Lead With Kindness 2025 was proudly supported by major sponsor B1 Homes, with additional support from Reventon and Chris Christofi. Special thanks to all donors, bidders, attendees, and performers who made the night unforgettable. Andy Reid was the auctioneer on the evening, and Matt Charles was the MC.

To support Chris in this year’s campaign click here.

Braith Anasta breaks silence on heated restaurant run-in with Rabbitohs’ Latrell Mitchell

The Greek Herald
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Braith Anasta breaks silence on heated restaurant run-in with Rabbitohs’ Latrell Mitchell

Braith Anasta has opened up about a heated confrontation with South Sydney Rabbitohs star Latrell Mitchell outside Sydney’s Chin Chin restaurant last year, admitting he briefly feared the exchange could turn physical.

Speaking on the Off the Record podcast, Anasta recalled how Mitchell, angry over criticism on Fox League’s NRL360, confronted him at the busy venue. He feared Mitchell’s anger might bubble over.

“I’d be lying if I said at some point, I didn’t think it might happen,” Anasta said. “I was thinking in my head, I can’t let him land the first one because I’ll be gone, because he’s a beast.”

Anasta said the Rabbitohs star tapped him on the shoulder, then accused him of “having a crack” on television before asking him to step outside.

Braith Anasta has opened up.

“It’s the middle of Chin Chin’s. It’s a busy night… I thought, I need to de-escalate this,” he explained.

Once outside, Anasta said Mitchell “laid into” him in a fiery exchange, angered over his past criticism of Mitchell’s on-field performance while Souths were struggling.

Despite the intensity of the moment, Anasta insists the pair have since reconciled.

“Let me get something clear here – me and Latrell are fine,” he said.

Mitchell has since bounced back to top form, starring in State of Origin and for Souths in their recent win over the Warriors.

Source: The Daily Telegraph

Sydney man Theodore Penemenos pleads guilty after drugs found in underwear

The Greek Herald
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Sydney man Theodore Penemenos pleads guilty after drugs found in underwear

Sydney real estate agent Theodore Penemenos, 31, has pleaded guilty to drug possession and possessing suspected stolen property, following a late-night arrest in Padstow Heights.

According to The Daily Telegraph, he is seeking to have the charges dismissed on mental health grounds.

Penemenos was found by police outside a home in the early hours of 14 May 2024 and was unable to explain why he had a woman’s passport in his possession. He was taken into custody for breaching bail conditions and held overnight at Bankstown Police Station.

Court documents state that the next morning, Penemenos was observed on CCTV acting suspiciously, eventually attempting to hide a small bag of cocaine — containing 9.4 grams — in his underwear. When questioned, he initially claimed he was “playing with his penis.”

A minor struggle followed as officers attempted to search him, and Penemenos later injured his hand by punching a perspex screen, requiring treatment at Bankstown Hospital.

He remains on bail and is due to return to Bankstown Local Court in July, when his mental health application will also be considered.

Source: The Daily Telegraph

Marina Strougaris’ family home under threat in Inner West Council rezoning plan

The Greek Herald
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Marina Strougaris’ family home under threat in Inner West Council rezoning plan

Marina Strougaris, a lifelong resident of Norton Street in Croydon, Sydney, has expressed shock and distress over Inner West Council’s draft plan to acquire and demolish her home to expand a nearby playground.

“My parents bought this house in February 1969, and I have lived here all my life. I plan to live here until I die and then pass it onto my daughter… I’m not interested in selling,” she told The Daily Telegraph.

“I haven’t really had much sleep… it’s taken a lot out of me.”

Under the council’s “Fairer Future Plan,” up to 60 properties across Marrickville, Ashfield, Croydon and Dulwich Hill could be acquired or rezoned to build new apartment blocks, bike paths and parks as part of a strategy to deliver 35,000 new homes in 15 years.

In Croydon, eight homes near Lion Street and Norton Street, including Marina’s, are flagged for demolition to enlarge Lion Street Playground.

Fellow Croydon resident Margaret Noonan also said she felt “blindsided” by the proposal, which she only learned about after her home was listed for rezoning.

Council said the plan is still in draft form and part of ongoing community consultation. A spokesperson confirmed affected homeowners were doorknocked and sent letters after the draft was made public on May 13.

Source: The Daily Telegraph

Pontic village named after Australian humanitarian welcomes Ambassador Duncan

The Greek Herald
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Pontic village named after Australian humanitarian welcomes Ambassador Duncan

On Tuesday, June 3, the Australian Ambassador to Greece, Alison Duncan, visited the village of Thrilorio in the Rhodope region — named after Australian soldier and humanitarian George Devine Treloar.

In 1922, Treloar founded the village and, as High Commissioner for the League of Nations at the time, played a pivotal role in the survival and resettlement of tens of thousands of refugees from Asia Minor and Pontus.

During her visit, Ms Duncan was warmly welcomed by the local community.

thrilio

In attendance were the village president, Georgios Salpingidis; President of the Pontian Thrilorio Association “Kerasounta and Gars”, Chrysa Mavridou; President of the Pontian Women’s Association, Anastasia Savvidou; the parish priest, Fr Nektarios Papalexiou; and founder of the Basketry Museum, Antonis Liapis.

Ms Duncan was briefed by Ms Mavridou on the village’s history, visited the Church of Saints Constantine and Helen, toured the Basketry Museum and one of the original village homes.

Her visit concluded with a tasting of traditional Pontic dishes, prepared by the women of the “Kerasounta and Gars” Association.

Arsenal close in on Greek wonderkid Konstantinos Karetsas

The Greek Herald
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Arsenal close in on Greek wonderkid Konstantinos Karetsas

Arsenal are reportedly in advanced talks to sign 17-year-old Greek attacking midfielder Konstantinos Karetsas from Belgian side Genk, according to Greek news agency AMNA.

The Gunners, looking to bolster their attacking options, see Karetsas as a long-term asset. Known for his technical ability, vision and versatility, the youngster has drawn comparisons to Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard and Lyon’s Rayan Cherki.

Born in Belgium to Greek parents, Karetsas recently chose to represent Greece internationally, making his debut in March and becoming the nation’s youngest-ever goalscorer in a Nations League match against Scotland.

While Manchester United, Liverpool, PSG, Bayern and others have shown interest, Arsenal are now said to be leading the race, with Genk reportedly valuing the player at €45 million (£38m).

Source: AMNA

Historic Greek orphanage on Prinkipos to be revived as hotel

The Greek Herald
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Historic Greek orphanage on Prinkipos to be revived as hotel

The Ecumenical Patriarchate has approved plans to transform one of Europe’s most significant wooden buildings — the former Greek orphanage on Prinkipos, off the coast of Istanbul — into a hotel, reviving its original intended use.

The orphanage, perched atop a hill on the Princes’ Islands, was originally built 127 years ago to operate as a luxury hotel. However, lacking official authorisation at the time, it was instead converted into an orphanage for Greek Orthodox children, serving the community for decades before falling into abandonment and disrepair.

In recent years, the immense timber structure has become dangerously unstable, with its framework visibly deteriorating and at risk of collapse.

Determined to prevent the loss of this landmark, the Ecumenical Patriarchate has endorsed a redevelopment plan aimed at securing the building’s structural and financial sustainability. The Holy Synod unanimously approved the initiative at a meeting held at the Phanar.

Converting the site into a hotel has emerged as the most viable option, in line with a proposal previously outlined by heritage and hospitality consultancy Sevotel.

The Synod also considered alternative reuse concepts and potential investor partnerships. A long-term lease is now under discussion, with a dedicated committee to be established to finalise the terms.

Collaborations with hotel groups — Turkish, Greek, or international — are still being considered, reflecting growing interest in preserving and reimagining this cultural and architectural treasure.

Source: tovima.com

Greek hospitality meets harbour views at Sydney’s newest spot, Akti

The Greek Herald
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Greek hospitality meets harbour views at Sydney’s newest spot, Akti

Sydney’s iconic Woolloomooloo Finger Wharf has received a vibrant Greek twist with the recent opening of Akti, a contemporary Greek restaurant.

Operated by the Sydney Restaurant Group — known for its waterfront venues — Akti pays tribute to the founders’ Hellenic roots and the area’s historic significance as a landing point for Greek migrants in the 1950s.

Founder Bill Drakopoulos says the venue honours the Greek spirit of filoxenia (wholehearted hospitality), while head chef Robert Judd (ex-Hellenika) and Athens-based consultant Ntinos Fotinakis bring a modern approach to nostalgic Greek flavours.

Expect standout Australian seafood dishes, moussaka croquettes, smoking lamb shoulder, and a theatrical take on galaktoboureko.

The drinks list is equally inventive, featuring Greek Australian wines and playful cocktails like a Greek salad martini and tzatziki-inspired mix, crafted by Nicola Drakopoulos and Fotinakis.

With views, history, and flavour, Akti is set to become a new favourite on the wharf.

Source: delicious.com.au

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