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Polytechnic Memorial Committee to hold commemoration events in Melbourne 

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Polytechnic Memorial Committee to hold commemoration events in Melbourne 

These days we remember and honour the supreme act of resistance against the Junta. The 17th of November 1973 Polytechnic uprising marked the modern history of Greece and laid the foundations for the democratic consciousness of the post-Junta period known as metapolitefsi. 

The Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM) expresses its gratitude to all those who fought for democracy and freedom during the 7-year period, both within and outside Greece. Their legacy will always remind us that democracy is not won without struggle.

Greece may be experiencing the longest period of democratic governance, pluralism and peace since the foundation of the state, but we must not forget that hotbeds of war, religious fanaticism and ethnic cleansing have existed and continue to exist today. 

Photo: The “Greece 2021” Committee.

The placards of the Polytechnic students ‘Bread, Education and Freedom’ remain very relevant today as freedom and social justice eludes many parts of the world. The GCM said its thoughts are with the victims of these abuses and strongly encourage greater dialogue and an end to hostilities wherever there are conflict zones.

The GCM invite people to events that will take place to honour the students and citizens who stood with courage and unity against the oppressive regime of the dictatorship.

The Polytechnic Memorial Committee is organising the following events on Sunday, November 17, 2024:

  • At 11:00 am, a wreath-laying ceremony at the Australian Hellenic Memorial
  • At 2:00 pm, at the Alphington Grammar School – Lyceum Centre, with speeches and songs from that era.

Councillor Paul Klisaris elected as Monash Mayor

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Councillor Paul Klisaris elected as Monash Mayor

Councillor Paul Klisaris from Wellington Ward has been elected Mayor of Monash Council for 2024-25, the first year of a new council term after local government elections across Victoria.

Councillor Brian Little from Mayfield Ward will serve as Deputy Mayor.

Cr Klisaris is excited about working with both new and returning councillors.

“The first year of a new council term is an exciting time, and I look forward to working alongside Deputy Mayor Cr Little and returning colleagues, as well as getting to know new councillors Cr Elisha Lee and Cr Cameron Little.

“Voters in Monash have entrusted us with the important job of guiding their local council and, as the level of government closest to its people, we take this very seriously.

“We have several significant projects underway, and my colleagues and I are keen to get to work on finalising a new Council Plan following extensive community consultation last year.

“There are exciting Council projects in construction that will be open to the public in the next 12 months. These include the extension of Bogong Car Park in Glen Waverley to create more than 500 new parking spots and a new pavilion and facilities at Jack Edwards Reserve in Oakleigh to provide Monash’s first National Premier League standard venue for soccer, a project I have championed and am delighted to see its progress.

“We also need to continue to advocate for the best community outcomes in Monash from the Victorian Government’s Suburban Rail Loop project and their proposed housing and planning reforms. It is crucial that local voices and local government has input on these.

“As Mayor I will also continue Council’s advocacy to have stronger protections for Monash’s tree canopy and progress work on a new library and civic precinct in Glen Waverley.

“I thank the residents of Wellington Ward for choosing me as their councillor and my fellow councillors for electing me as Mayor.

“My thanks also go to everyone who ran for local government across Victoria and the Victorian Electoral Commission for coordinating the election, we are lucky to live in a country where everyone can have their say via the ballot box or put themselves forward for public office.

More about Cr Klisaris

Cr Klisaris is a long-term Monash Councillor, and this will be his fourth term as Mayor. With 24 years of experience in local government, he brings proven leadership, strong community connections, and deep understanding of local issues. His expertise in managing budgets, infrastructure development, and social services ensures he is well placed to advocate for Monash residents and drive positive change for the community.

Full list of Monash Councillors

The new Council includes two new councillors and nine councillors returning for another term.

Elected councillors are (in alphabetical order by ward):

  • Banksia Ward – Cr Cameron Little (new councillor)
  • Blackburn Ward – Cr Rebecca Paterson (returning councillor)
  • Gallaghers Ward – Cr Geoff Lake (returning councillor)
  • Gardiners Creek Ward – Cr Anjalee de Silva (returning councillor)
  • Jells Ward – Cr Elisha Lee (new councillor)
  • Mayfield Ward – Cr Brian Little (returning councillor)
  • Scotchmans Creek Ward – Cr Nicky Luo (returning councillor)
  • University Ward – Cr Josh Fergeus (returning councillor)
  • Warrigal Ward – Cr Stuart James (returning councillor)
  • Waverley Park Ward – Cr Shane McCluskey (returning councillor)
  • Wellington Ward – Cr Paul Klisaris (returning councillor)

Tottenham Hotspurs coach Ange Postecoglou wins Global Australian Award

The Greek Herald
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Tottenham Hotspurs coach Ange Postecoglou wins Global Australian Award

Tottenham Hotspur head coach Ange Postecoglou has been honoured with a 2024 Global Australian Award for ‘Sport and Sports Administration,’ recognising his impact on the international stage alongside other distinguished Australians. The awards, organised by Advance Global Australians (AGA), celebrate Australians who have excelled globally across diverse fields.

Joining Postecoglou among the recipients are actress Margot Robbie, chef Skye Gyngell, Macquarie Group CEO Shemara Wikramanayake, Airtasker co-founder Jonathan Lui, and academic Professor Mimi Zou from UNSW and Oxford University.

Highlighting the significance of Australian talent worldwide, AGA CEO Kate McQuestin remarked, “Australia is punching well above its weight on the global stage, and our biggest asset is our people.” McQuestin noted that many Australians are humble about their achievements, and these awards help to raise awareness of the country’s capability and expertise.

Photo: AFP.

Coinciding with the awards, the 2024 Advancing Australia Global Report has been released, providing insights into global perceptions of Australians. The report highlights that Australians are well-regarded, particularly in North America, the UK, and Europe, with friendliness often cited as a key attribute. It also found that 80% of Australians abroad feel there should be greater recognition of their achievements, though only 32% are comfortable promoting themselves internationally.

The awards and report underscore Australia’s strengths in sectors like agriculture, sport, and education, celebrating the influence of Australians like Postecoglou on the world stage.

Source: The Daily Telegraph.

Nick Kyrgios set for a thrilling comeback at Brisbane International after hiatus

The Greek Herald
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Nick Kyrgios set for a thrilling comeback at Brisbane International after hiatus

Nick Kyrgios gears up for his long-awaited return to professional tennis after 18 months sidelined by injuries. He will make his comeback at the Brisbane International, which starts on 29 December.

Known for his electric talent and unpredictable personality, the Greek Australian remains one of the tennis’ most captivating figures. His return is set to draw big crowds, with Brisbane’s tournament director, Cam Pearson, expressing fans’ anticipation: “Nick, who has had success here in the past, will kick off his 2025 comeback in Brisbane… to entertain the crowds in a way that only Nick can.”

Nick Kyrgios has battled injuries for the past two years. Photo: The Australian.

At 29, Kyrgios still has time to pursue his dream of winning a grand slam singles title. Since his impressive run to the Wimbledon final in 2022, injuries have kept him off the court, with only a brief appearance in Stuttgart in June 2023. After knee and wrist surgeries, however, Kyrgios is back in training and eager to compete. “I’m far from done, to be honest… I’m feeling extremely well,” he said in a recent interview, adding that he’s now hitting for three hours daily and is highly motivated.

Before Brisbane, Kyrgios will join the World Tennis League event in Abu Dhabi in December, following a cameo appearance in an exhibition match in New York in August. Although Australian hard courts may not suit his serve-and-volley style as well as Wimbledon’s grass, Kyrgios has a strong record at home, winning the Brisbane International in 2018 and teaming up with Thanasi Kokkinakis to clinch the Australian Open doubles title in 2022.

Source: The Australian.

One of Greece’s last war veterans Antonis Alexandris dies aged 102

The Greek Herald
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One of Greece’s last war veterans Antonis Alexandris dies aged 102

War veteran Antonis Alexandris, a World War II prisoner of war and one of Greece’s last remaining veterans from the conflict, passed away on Thursday at the age of 102 in his hometown of Lesvos.

Born in 1922 in the northern village of Skoutaro, Lesvos, Alexandris was captured and held as a prisoner during the Nazi German occupation of Greece. He endured time at the Pavlos Melas concentration camp in Thessaloniki before being transferred to the Krems-Stein and Bernau camps.

Until the recent pandemic, Alexandris was a prominent figure in Lesvos, leading memorial parades along Mytilene’s waterfront while proudly bearing the banner of the island’s Association of War Victims and Disabled War Veterans.

Reflecting on his experiences and the passing of his fellow soldiers, Alexandris once told the Athens-Macedonian News Agency, “There were many of us once… Now, I am alone. We’re all gone.” When asked about his remarkable longevity, he remarked, “Death is my companion now. Do you know how many times we’ve met, and he passed me by?”

Source: Ekathimerini.

Charity founder Fr Antonios Papanikolaou faces financial penalty for child abuse

The Greek Herald
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Charity founder Fr Antonios Papanikolaou faces financial penalty for child abuse

Father Antonios Papanikolaou, founder of the widely recognised Greek charity Ark of the World (Kivotos tou Kosmou), has been sentenced to four years and three months in prison. However, this sentence has been converted into a financial penalty of €10 per day.

The Athens court’s ruling came after it found Papanikolaou guilty of multiple counts of physical abuse against children under his care.

The verdict concludes an eight-month trial during which Papanikolaou, along with several former staff members, faced allegations of abuse and mistreatment. The 54-year-old priest was convicted on charges including serious bodily harm and inciting violence against minors.

In addition to Papanikolaou’s sentence, four former employees received sentences ranging from 17 to 40 months, though most of these sentences have been suspended, pending appeals. Once highly regarded for its charitable efforts, Ark of the World fell into disrepute following multiple allegations of abuse, leading to state investigations and the suspension of government funding.

Source: Ekathimerini.

Greece unveils defence shakeup, drone plans

The Greek Herald
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Greece unveils defence shakeup, drone plans

Greece is currently in discussions with Israel to develop a €2 billion (AUD 3.3 billion) anti-aircraft and missile defence system, aiming to bolster its armed forces amid renewed regional tensions and a drive for military modernisation. This potential defence project, which Greek officials have likened to Israel’s Iron Dome, is designed to intercept both short- and long-range missiles and enhance Greece’s aerial defences.

The proposed anti-aircraft and anti-drone defence system marks a pivotal element of Greece’s broader ten-year military modernisation plan. Following a prolonged economic crisis, Greece is prioritising an upgrade of its defence capabilities, with a particular focus on technology that can effectively counter modern aerial threats. “The plan is to create a multi-layer anti-aircraft and anti-drone system,” a source close to the matter told Reuters, following a closed-door meeting with Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias. Talks with Israel indicate that Greece is willing to invest heavily in innovative, tested technologies that could effectively protect its airspace, especially given ongoing regional challenges.

As Greece pursues its €12.8 billion (AUD 21.1 billion) armed forces modernisation agenda through to 2035, it has set its sights on a range of high-tech acquisitions. These include up to 40 F-35 fighter jets and advanced drones from the United States, as well as French Belharra frigates and Rafale jets. Defence Minister Dendias underscored the urgency of Greece’s strategic pivot to the future, stating: “Our effort is for a quick transition of our armed forces to the 21st century.”

Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias. Photo: InTimeNews.

This multi-faceted modernisation extends beyond equipment. Dendias recently announced significant restructuring plans for the Greek military, including the closure of dozens of outdated military bases to enhance operational efficiency and reduce unnecessary expenditure. Speaking before Parliament’s Standing Committee for National Defence and Foreign Affairs, he confirmed that Greece plans to shut down 137 bases by 2025.

“We’re doing it because we don’t have the money to close an additional 250,” Dendias noted, pointing out that Greece, surprisingly, operates more military bases than the United States. He acknowledged the challenge, saying, “It doesn’t make sense to have 800 camps, even more than the US. But I know what it means to close military bases, and I need support.”

Dendias highlighted the economic and political hurdles that may accompany these closures, particularly in regions reliant on military installations for local employment. His ministry’s plan involves transitioning to what he called “flexible, high-occupancy units.” Some units, he revealed, are currently operating at vastly different capacities, with some in Evros below 30% while others in the Peloponnese are overextended at 130%.

In total, Greece’s ambitious military upgrade is positioned as both a strategic and economic priority. It aims to streamline forces, implement cutting-edge defence technologies, and rebalance its infrastructure. The partnership with Israel on a state-of-the-art missile defence system represents just one piece of this evolving defence strategy, as Greece seeks to strengthen its regional standing and remain competitive with NATO allies, including Turkey.

Source: Ekathimerini.

England hands Greece their first UEFA Nations League defeat

The Greek Herald
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England hands Greece their first UEFA Nations League defeat

Greece did not manage to complete the “miracle,” 36 days after the Wembley triumph in the UEFA Nations League. Ivan Jovanovic’s team suffered a heavy 3-0 defeat in the OAKA against England’s too many absentees, with Watkins (7′), Vlachodimos (78′-own goal), Jones scoring.

After tonight’s defeat, the national representative team, which with a win or a draw sealed the first place in the packed Olympic Stadium, saw the “three lions” catch them at the top of the group (12b.), with the English even now superior in the draw.

Thus, our opponent gained a clear lead for occupying the first place, in view of the last matchday (17/11) where they welcome Ireland, while our team will be tested at home in Finland.

How did the two teams line up?

Ivan Jovanovic chose Zafeiris instead of the suspended Kourbelis, while at the top of the attack he started Pavlidis, leaving Ioannidis on the bench.

More specifically, in a 4-2-3-1 system, Vlachodimos was in goal, Koulierakis and Mavropanos were the duo of stoppers, with Rota and Tsimika taking positions at the two ends of the blue and white rear guard.

Siopis and Zafeiris started in the midfield, Masouras and Tzolis were on the “wings,” while Bakasetas moved behind Pavlidis.

On the other hand, England, with a total of eight absences, lined up with a 4-2-3-1 arrangement, with Harry Kane not in the initial formation of the “three lions.”

Pickford was under the goalposts, while the back four consisted of (from right to left) Walker, Gwehi, Konsa and Lewis.

Gallagher and Jones took up positions in midfield, with Watkins at the top of the attack (Kane on the bench) supported by Bellingham, in a free role behind him, and Madueke and Gordon on the wings.

Greece-England 0-3

Goal: 7′ Watkins (England), 78′ aut. Vlahodemos (England), 83′ Jones (England)

Yellows: Gallagher (England), Gallagher (England), Zafeiris (Greece)

Reds :

Crossbars: 54′ Bellingham (England), 78′ Bellingham (England)

Greece: Vlachodimos, Rota, Mavropanos, Koulierakis, Tsimikas (56′ Giannoulis), Siopis (83′ Mandalos), Zafeiris, Bakasetas (56′ Pelkas), Masouras (70′ Konstantelias), Tzolis, Pavlidis (56′ Ioannidis).

England: Pickford, Walker, Lewis, Gallagher (78′ Gibbs-White), Konsa (46′ Hall), Gwehi, Bellingham, Gordon (67′ Rogers), Jones, Watkins (67′ Kane), Madueke (67′ Bowen)

Mixed reactions emerge in Greek Australian community over Prime Minister’s cultural remarks

The Greek Herald
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Mixed reactions emerge in Greek Australian community over Prime Minister’s cultural remarks

Members of Australia’s Greek community have reached out to The Greek Herald expressing mixed responses to comments made by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese during the recent visit of His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew.

The reactions relate to the Prime Minister’s public statement that, “For a century, the Church has preserved the culture and language of Australia’s Greek community, connecting generations to their heritage.”

A protest statement was first issued in late October 2024 by Kostas Karamarkos and Theo Markos. Signed by 109 Greek Australians, they called out the PM for his “historically inaccurate” public statement.

Later, on Tuesday, November 5, the Greek Orthodox Community of New South Wales (GOCNSW) also sent a protest letter to the Prime Minister. The letter was signed by GOCNSW President Harry Danalis and Treasurer Chris Belerhas.

GOCNSW said the comments were “historically incorrect but also an affront to the Greek Orthodox Communities of New South Wales, the Greek Orthodox Community of Melbourne, the Greek Orthodox Community of South Australia and other Greek Associations numbering in the hundreds throughout Australia which were created by lay persons and which have contributed to the teaching of the Greek language, provided cultural activities, taught Greek culture, celebrated the various National days of Greece, and represented the voice of the Greek people in our community.”

Whilst some members are supportive of the statement and protest letter, others are not.

welcome doxology ecumenical patriarch bartholomew albanese
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese speaking at an event for His All Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew. Photo: The Greek Herald / Andriana Simos.

In an opinion piece sent to The Greek Herald, Yiannis Constantinou asked, “What part of the Prime Minister’s statement is historically inaccurate? What part is misrepresenting history?”

“If the Prime Minister stated that Hellenism in Australia only started in 1924, I’m sure everyone would agree in protesting. But, he did not!” Yiannis wrote.

“How can anyone reasonably argue that it is historically inaccurate to say that, for a century, the Archdiocese has preserved the culture and language of Australia’s Greek community, while also connected Greek Australians to their heritage? It is undeniable that the church by its functions is inextricable from our culture, language, and heritage.”

Yiannis added that the Prime Minister’s statements “do not diminish the valuable contributions of other organisations to the Greek Australian and wider community, secular or otherwise.”

“Acknowledging one organisation is not an attack on others,” he said.

“In my opinion, the protest serves absolutely no benefit and has the potential to send us backwards. It risks portraying the Greek Australian community as divided and focused only on our self-image.

“If a simple comment about the valuable work of the Archdiocese leads to animosity, disputes, resolutions at a general meeting and a letter of protest, won’t that make the Prime Minister at least think twice about supporting Greek Australians in the future? Wouldn’t it make others hesitant to offer their support, for fear of backlash?

“The Greek Australian community already faces enough challenges in today’s day and age. We must remember that there are no sides—we are all Greek-Australians.”

Final countdown to the Greek Community of Melbourne Schools’ Olympic spirit

The Greek Herald
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Final countdown to the Greek Community of Melbourne Schools’ Olympic spirit

Excitement is building as the Greek Community of Melbourne Schools prepares for its first-ever Olympic Games event, set to take place on Saturday, November 23.

Students from all campuses will gather at the Box Hill Athletic Club for an unforgettable day of sports, unity, and Greek cultural celebration, joined by parents, teachers, and the broader school community.

This year, the Greek Community of Melbourne Schools is launching a new initiative: a joint end-of-year celebration that unites campuses to honour the rich heritage of the Olympic Games.

The event will feature opening and closing ceremonies, along with a variety of dynamic sports and games, promising a day filled with pride and excitement as students showcase their athletic talents and uphold the timeless values of the Olympics.

“We are thrilled to enter the final countdown for our school Olympiad,” Maria Bakalidou, Principal of the Greek Community of Melbourne Schools, said.

“This celebration unites our entire school community for a day dedicated to the Olympic spirit and Greek culture. It is a wonderful opportunity for students, parents, and teachers to honour our shared heritage and be inspired by the Olympic values. We look forward to welcoming everyone to cheer on our children as they bring messages of unity and peace to the heart of Melbourne!”

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