An Australian woman denied entry to the United States has publicly criticised Homeland Security for what she calls “humiliating” treatment after being detained, strip-searched, and imprisoned during a trip to visit her US Army husband.
According to news.com.au, Nikki Saroukos, a former NSW Police officer from Sydney, was travelling to Hawaii with her mother to spend time with her husband Matt when she was detained at Honolulu airport. Despite having entered the US three times previously on an ESTA visa, she was pulled aside for secondary screening, interrogated, and eventually deported.
In a rare move, the US Department of Homeland Security has since issued a detailed public statement on social media defending its actions. The statement claimed Ms Saroukos had taken “recent long-term trips” to the US, carried “suspicious luggage,” and was unable to remember her wedding date.
Homeland Security also alleged that officers discovered “unusual activity” on Ms Saroukos’ phone, including 1000 deleted messages from her husband, and said her travel plans appeared inconsistent with tourism.
“If you attempt to enter the United States under false pretences, there are consequences,” the statement concluded.
FACT CHECK: Nicolle Saroukos’s recent long-term trips to the United States and suspicious luggage resulted in her being reasonably selected for secondary screening by CBP.
Officers determined that she was traveling for more than just tourism. She was unable to remember her… pic.twitter.com/4oyvQEw4jj
Ms Saroukos has pushed back strongly against the allegations, calling the public statement “ridiculous” and “twisted.” She said her relationship had been mischaracterised, noting she had been speaking to her now-husband for months before meeting him in person.
As for not remembering her wedding date, Ms Saroukos said her mind went blank as she was “under immense stress.”
She also explained the deleted text messages were a coping mechanism for anxiety and insisted they contained nothing illegal or improper.
Ms Saroukos said she was ultimately taken into federal custody, where she was subjected to a cavity search, forced to strip naked, and held in prison overnight before being flown home to Sydney. Her mother and husband were not informed of her detention.
“I’ve never been so terrified in my life,” she said. “I never want to return to the United States.” She now hopes her husband will be able to relocate to Australia instead.
The Federal Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Dr Anne Aly, has today announced that the Department of Home Affairs will create an Office for Multicultural Affairs.
In the 50 years since the release of Australia’s first multiculturalism policy, Australia’s modern multicultural diversity has become a fundamental aspect of its identity.
The Office for Multicultural Affairs will bring together key functions within the Department of Home Affairs, more closely aligning the policies and programs that help to unite and strengthen Australia.
The new Office will drive a national approach to a multicultural Australia, providing leadership across the three tiers of government.
The Office will help strengthen the cohesiveness of Australia’s diverse, multicultural society by engaging across whole-of-government and whole-of society interests to drive a coherent approach to multiculturalism and an inclusive society.
By bringing together multiple functions into one location the Office will ensure Australian Government policies, programs and services are accessible and equitable for all including by modernising community grant programs.
The Office will also take carriage of Australia’s settlement and language services including the long-standing Adult Migrant English Program and Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National).
In addition, the Albanese Government has also elevated to Cabinet the stand-alone position of Minister for Multicultural Affairs – the first time in Australia’s history.
The Office will also take carriage of Australia’s settlement and language services including the long-standing Adult Migrant English Program and Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National).
Minister for Home Affairs, Tony Burke, welcomed the announcement.
“Modern Australia and multicultural Australia are the same thing,” Mr Burke said.
“This Office provides a central hub for government work and makes sure every Australian feels welcomed and at home.”
Multicultural Affairs Minister Dr Aly said, “Multiculturalism is not just about or for a section of our society, each and every one of us belongs to an Australia that has been enriched by our 65,000 years of First Nations culture and the successive stories, traditions and histories of those who have come across the seas.”
“Our success as a modern multicultural nation is underwritten by our mutual respect for individual freedoms and equality of opportunity for Australians in all our diversity,” Dr Aly added.
“The establishment of a federal Office for Multicultural Affairs is a significant step, recognising the importance of not just celebrating multiculturalism but valuing diversity.”
The Fair Work Commission (FWC) has announced a 3.5 per cent increase to the minimum wage and award rates, set to take effect from 1 July.
The decision will benefit millions of Australian workers, particularly the roughly 20% employed under awards.
While inflation currently sits at 2.4% annually, the federal government had pushed for an “economically sustainable real wage increase,” without specifying an exact figure but backing a rise above inflation.
Business groups such as the Australian Retailers Association and the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry had urged for a more modest 2.5% increase, citing concerns about cost pressures. The Australian Industry Group proposed 2.6%, while unions lobbied for up to 4.5%.
Last year, the FWC lifted wages by 3.75% in response to higher inflation.
Struggle has been a constant companion of the migrant experience. Alphington Grammar School, now one of Victoria’s leading educational institutions, stands as a testament to the perseverance, vision, and dedication of its founders. But the journey to this point was far from easy.
As 94-year-old Leonidas Argyropoulos reflected while touring the school, “The difficulties we encountered in starting this school were clearly worth it, given its academic successes, community feel, and infrastructure transformation. I feel proud of what the school has become — and equally proud to have been part of the team that, 36 years ago, saw the need for this school. There was significant opposition at the time, but we persisted with our vision and made it happen.”
Recently, the Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM) honoured some of the key individuals behind the school’s founding with a special presentation acknowledging their initiative and commitment. While not all the key figures could attend — and some are sadly no longer with us — their legacy lived on through their children, who were present to receive commemorative plaques.
Honourees included:
Savvas Papasavas, represented by his son Lazaros Papasavas
Peter Katsimandakos, represented by his son Steve Katsimandakos
Stylianos Koukouvitakis, represented by his son Nick Koukouvitakis
Leon Argyropoulos, present in person
George Fountas, who was unable to attend
In attendance were the current and recent chairs of Alphington Grammar being Bill Papastergiadis OAM, Michael Karamitos, and Nick Koukouvitakis, and Dr Vivianne Nikou, Principal of Alphington Grammar School.
Each founding family received a commemorative plaque — a small but meaningful token acknowledging their years of service and the legacy they helped build.
Reflections from the founders and their families:
Leonidas Argyropoulos shared:
“We began with a modest vision and great determination. Against all odds — financial, political, and internal — we laid the foundations for a school that today stands as a proud testament to our heritage. I personally invested in scholarships to ensure access for all, because education is the cornerstone of community.
“It wasn’t easy. Some people within our own ranks tried to stop us. There was real resistance. But I believed in this school we had a dream to bring to fruition. We pushed forward. And now, look at it. The school is thriving. We’re on our way to 1,000 students. This is more than a school — it’s a living legacy of our culture, language, and religion. That’s what it means to be Greek. And that’s what we’ve built here — together.”
Lazaros Papasavas, speaking on behalf of his father, said:
“For my father, the school was a legacy. Education meant more than learning — it was a link to identity, language, and history. He and the other founders were ahead of their time in recognising that a school could serve as a cultural anchor for our community. I remember how he spoke about the need to preserve the Greek soul through the education of our children. To him, the school was a sanctuary of values, a place where the next generation could learn who we are, where we come from, and what it means to be Greek in Australia.
“Along with the other founders, he was ahead of his time. They understood early on that our community needed more than national celebrations and cultural festivals. It needed a steady beacon — a school — that would serve as a cultural anchor. It wasn’t easy. There were challenges, disagreements, even doubts. But he never saw this as something temporary. He saw it as a lifelong mission, as an institution that would stand the test of time. And today, when I see the children speaking Greek, dancing traditional dances, and singing with pride, I know his vision became reality. This school is living proof that the Greek heart continues to beat strong — right here, in Melbourne.
Steve Katsimandakos recalled:
“It was always a team effort for my parents. They were in this together — with emotion, with passion, and with a sense of duty to the community. I remember the long nights around the kitchen table, the discussions, sometimes heated, always full of purpose. There was frustration, of course — financial challenges, pushback from some quarters, the constant pressure of building something from nothing. But what stands out the most is the unwavering belief. My father never wavered. Not once. He believed, deeply, that what they were doing mattered — that they were building more than just a school. They were building a future for generations to come, a space where Greek language and culture could live on in the hearts of our children.
To him, the school was a promise. A promise that we would not forget who we are. That we would not let go of our heritage. That our children would grow up with pride in their roots. And seeing what it has become today, I know they were right to believe.”
Stylianos Koukouvitakis, added:
“We need to remember that there was considerable backlash from some board members at the time. To increase their chances of success, the founders went so far as to propose buying the school themselves on behalf of the community and acting as guarantors — until such time that the community could take it off their hands.”
Leadership reflections:
Principal Dr Vivianne Nikou spoke about the significance of the occasion:
“Today’s ceremony gave us the opportunity to reflect on and honour the bold vision of our founding forefathers. Since opening our doors, we have educated multiple generations of Greek Australians and Philhellenes. The school has exceeded the expectations of the early years — a remarkable example of what determination and the Hellenic spirit can achieve.”
Michael Karamitos, Current School Chair stated:
“It was a true honour to thank the founding members of AGS. These individuals had the vision and commitment 35 years ago to acquire the school and lay the foundations for future generations to receive a quality education while promoting our culture and language. Their legacy will continue onwards.”
GCM President Bill Papastergiadis OAM offered a wider perspective:
“When starting a school from scratch, having a clear and compelling vision is critical. The GCM Board of the late 1980s understood that Alphington Grammar was more than just an educational institution — it was a means to empower a growing community and nurture global citizens grounded in Hellenic values. These early board members, all volunteers, faced daunting challenges: sourcing land, funding, staffing, and gaining community trust. Despite the odds, they stayed true to their vision and adapted to the evolving educational landscape. Today, Alphington Grammar is a respected, multicultural institution — a result of their tireless efforts and leadership. We must acknowledge this legacy to fully understand our place in Australia.”
The event served not only as a celebration of the past, but as a powerful reminder of Alphington Grammar School’s enduring mission: to nurture excellence in education while preserving and promoting Hellenic values and identity.
The Greek government has postponed a high-stakes basketball match between fierce rivals Olympiacos and Panathinaikos, following an on-court altercation between team owners during a previous game.
Scheduled for Wednesday, June 4, the third fixture in a potential five-game finals series has been called off after tensions flared between Olympiacos owners Panagiotis and George Aggelopoulos, and Panathinaikos owner Dimitris Giannakopoulos. The dispute reportedly stemmed from obscene gestures and abusive chants by fans.
The domestic game has been marred by increasing violence in recent years.
Government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis confirmed that the team owners will be summoned by the deputy sports minister and must commit to preventing such behaviour in the future.
“Otherwise, this year’s championship will be permanently suspended,” Marinakis warned.
The two clubs recently competed for third place in the EuroLeague finals held in Abu Dhabi. However, the domestic game has been marred by increasing violence in recent years.
In 2022 and 2023, two football fans lost their lives in unrelated incidents, and earlier this year, a 20-year-old man was convicted of manslaughter for killing a policeman with a flare during volleyball-related clashes.
Greek authorities have vowed to crack down on hooliganism and improve safety at sporting events.
Snowflakes, song, and heartfelt celebration swept through The Grand Roxy at Brighton-Le-Sands, Sydney on Saturday, May 31, as Pontoxeniteas NSW hosted its spectacular Winter Wonderland Gala 2025 — a shimmering night of nostalgia, unity, and support for the beloved Pontian House at Earlwood.
Now in its second year, the sold-out event brought together over 250 guests, including 50 youth under the age of 25, in a dazzling display of intergenerational pride. From the laughter of children to the emotional reunions of long-time members, the atmosphere was nothing short of magical.
The evening was masterfully emceed by Christina Ioannidou and Marios Anthony. Guests were welcomed with drinks and a slideshow showcasing past community moments, as Mystery Bottles — complete with surprise prizes — were snapped up.
The purpose of the night was clear from the outset: raising funds to install a platform lift in the Pontian House, ensuring access for elderly and mobility-challenged members.
A community of honour
On the night, Pontoxeniteas NSW President Maria Anthony paid tribute to two of the founders of Pontoxeniteas, Basilios Pairidis and John Karamanlidis, who were both present.
“It is such an honour to have with us two of our founders… to witness our young people, our youth supporting our Pontian House, their vision from 45 years ago… and to see we are trying our hardest to maintain the building and leave it in good hands for future generations,” she said.
Basilios Pairidis and John Karamanlidis.
Guests also included Anastasia Christofilopoulou, First Secretary for Public Diplomacy at the Consulate General of Greece in Sydney; Canterbury Bankstown City Councillor Clare Raffan, representing Sophie Cotsis MP; leaders of Pontian associations from Sydney, Wollongong, Canberra, and the broader diaspora; Greek community media representatives and members of the Federation of Pontian Associations of Australia.
Throughout the evening, several heartfelt speeches added depth and reflection to the celebration.
Youth Committee members Theo Moudanidis and Kosta Papoulidis opened with a spirited address, sharing what the Pontian House means to their generation. Ms Christofilopoulou followed with warm words of encouragement on behalf of the Greek Consulate.
Heartfelt speeches were given on the day.
Finally, President Ms Anthony delivered an impassioned message of gratitude and vision, highlighting the importance of making the Pontian House accessible to all.
“There are many of our members, our founders, that have stopped coming… as they are unable to walk the stairs,” Ms Anthony explained. “The platform lift is essential so we can welcome them all back.”
Each speech was met with applause, reinforcing the powerful sense of unity and purpose in the room.
During the formal proceedings, the contributions of sponsors and donors were also honoured with plaque presentations. The Mistridis, Kapoulas and Armenis families were thanked for significant donations which helped with renovations at the Pontian House.
Culture and emotion on display
The evening’s entertainment was led by Diogenis Ainatzis, a special guest from Greece, whose rich Pontian lyra and vocals were accompanied by Christophoros Skenderidis on keyboard and Prodromos Moysiadis on daouli. Their energetic sets filled the dance floor — from toddlers to grandparents — in a euphoric celebration of Pontian culture.
One of the most touching moments of the night came with the unveiling of an original painting by young dance student Leah Plakias. The painting, rich in symbolism and personal meaning, depicted the Pontian House as a “Pontian Youth Village” — a place where children grow up learning their dances, culture, and language.
The artwork sold for $2,000 to Con Mistridis, who later gifted it back to the President — a gesture that left Ms Anthony deeply moved.
Leah Plakias with her painting.
Attendees on the night captured the depth of feeling in the room.
“My favourite moment was dancing with my children and grandchildren with so much passion and joy that was everywhere in the room!” Pontoxeniteas past president, Helen Macris, said.
Assistant Treasurer Nena Lambousis said she loved “reconnecting with past members that I had not seen in years.”
Committee Member Olga Seteridis added, “the night was very special for many of the older members and the new people who have joined in on the celebrations.”
Fundraising with heart
The room buzzed with generosity throughout the evening. There was a main auction, as well as a silent auction with a large number of items up for grabs.
A highlight was a signed glove and photo from world boxing champion George “Ferocious” Kambosos Jr, which fetched $4,000.
“Pontoxeniteas thanks George Kambosos Jr for donating to us for the second year and being the highest bid item on the night,” Ms Anthony said. “And a special mention to the Armenis boys who had their eye on that glove from the start!”
The main auction raised $10,900, and the total for the night surpassed $38,000, with final figures to be confirmed once all donations are tallied.
As dessert was served and raffle prizes drawn, the dance floor came alive once more — a joyful echo of all the laughter, history, and dreams the Pontian House continues to hold.
The meeting will address key governance and financial matters, including the election of a new Board of Management and Electoral Committee, the ratification of minutes from the 2023 AGM, and the presentation of the 2024 financial and president’s reports.
Delays Explained, Transparency Affirmed:
In a message to members dated May 28, GCM’s Honorary Secretary Nick Koukouvitakis addressed the delay in convening the AGM, citing the unexpected illness of the originally appointed auditor from Crowe Australasia. The audit, which began in September 2024 after the transition from PwC, was restarted in early 2025 under a new lead auditor.
“There has been a delay in completing our audited report because of a set of extenuating circumstances,” Koukouvitakis wrote. He reaffirmed that legal advice had been sought to clarify any confusion regarding statutory obligations and confirmed that “our constitution rules apply.”
Members are encouraged to submit any proposals for General Business in writing to the Secretary at least seven days before the meeting. Nomination forms for the upcoming Board elections are available on request and must be submitted by 5:00 pm on Saturday, 14 June via email to info@greekcommunity.com.au or in person at Level 3, 168 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne.
A year of cultural impact and community engagement:
In his annual message, GCM President Bill Papastergiadis OAM reflected on a “productive year” marked by major cultural, educational, and diplomatic initiatives.
The report details dozens of events hosted or facilitated by the GCM between July 2023 and June 2024, including:
Antipodes Festival featuring Melina Aslanidou, which secured Tier 1 event status from the City of Melbourne;
Visits from the Vice President of the European Commission, Greek Ministers, and the President of the Greek Community of Tashkent;
Educational outreach, including the Greek Summer Camp in Thessaloniki, school collaborations, and adult language courses;
A storytelling program, Greek Film Festival, and performances such as Axion Esti with Dimitris Basis and George Ellis.
“These events clearly demonstrate the incredible work of our staff, volunteer committees and Board,” Papastergiadis said, crediting strong partnerships with associations and governments locally and abroad.
Financial overview: Strategic investment in growth
In his detailed financial summary, Honorary Treasurer Associate Professor Marinis Pirpiris outlined a deliberate and strategic expansion of the GCM’s programs — an expansion which resulted in a controlled operating loss of $1.6 million for the financial year ending 30 June 2024, significantly reduced from the previous year’s $2.9 million.
“When removing depreciation and interest, the loss for this year was $938,000 as compared to last year’s $2.3 million,” Pirpiris noted, emphasising that the financial position of the GCM “remains strong, robust and resilient.”
With an estimated asset portfolio value of $120 million, the GCM has continued to invest in key areas such as education, cultural preservation, and infrastructure.
“This substantial asset base reflects prudent governance, strategic investment and a strong commitment to long-term financial sustainability,” Pirpiris wrote.
Key revenue sources included consistent school fees, church collections, targeted grants, sponsorships, and venue hire. Rental income rose from $1.25 million to $1.43 million, but the conclusion of several COVID-era grants affected overall income. Expenditures increased due to expanded staffing and event costs, but also included major capital works, such as the restoration of Evangelismos Church — made possible by “the generous support by Mr Andrianopoulos OAM and the Andrianopoulos family.”
Importantly, the GCM also saw strong returns from its investment in cultural and educational programs.
“The rise in participation and engagement across all age groups is a strong indicator that these investments are already yielding tangible returns in terms of social impact, cultural continuity, and community pride,” Pirpiris added.
Looking ahead: Towards a sustainable and inclusive future
The GCM Board has outlined clear priorities for the years ahead, aiming to balance responsible financial stewardship with bold community investment.
Among the goals listed in the annual report:
Returning to a balanced or surplus operating position by refining cost structures and enhancing revenue streams;
Finalising and launching new educational and cultural projects, including intergenerational initiatives and creative spaces;
Building on our strong reputation and trust within the broader Australian community to secure sustainable funding.
“The decision to operate at a controlled deficit was not taken lightly,” Pirpiris noted. “Rather, it reflects a conscious investment in community cohesion, education, cultural preservation, and infrastructure renewal. These areas have long-term strategic importance and will strengthen [the Community’s] ability to serve future generations.”
He concluded with a message of gratitude: “The Board acknowledges and thanks all members, staff, benefactors, and partners who have contributed to our shared success. Together, we are building a legacy of pride, progress, and purpose.”
For full AGM details and nomination information, visit the official notice here.
Sisters Koula and Mary Raptis have been left “devastated and heartbroken” after learning their Glandore music school, Allegro Music, is set to be compulsorily acquired by the South Australian government for the Torrens to Darlington road upgrade.
The sisters, aged 62 and 60, have operated their music teaching business on Anzac Highway for 18 years after their previous South Road premises was acquired in 2007 for the Gallipoli Underpass.
According to The Advertiser, they were previously reassured that their new property would not be affected by future infrastructure projects.
However, in early March, the Department for Infrastructure and Transport (DIT) informed them their building would be needed for the construction of loop exits that will connect traffic from Anzac Hwy to the North-South Motorway. The works are expected to begin mid-2025.
“If we’re compulsorily acquired … we’ve been told that we (can) be here until the end of next year,” Koula said. “But, of course, we have to find a replacement property.”
The sisters fear they won’t find another suitable venue that meets the needs of their specialised teaching rooms.
“You’ve got to find the right place with the right floorplan… we’ve got to spend extra money to make it soundproof and secure,” Koula explained.
The government said affected owners will receive support, including case managers and buyer or leasing advocates.
“Landowners and tenants are entitled to seek their own independent advice, with reasonable fees reimbursed,” a DIT spokesperson said.
“Allegro Music has had a bold presence in Glandore for 37 years,” Koula said, noting many former students have gone on to prestigious musical careers.
“We wanted to retire from here. That was the whole point of investing in this property.”
Transport Minister Tom Koutsantonis acknowledged on radio that no one living near a major arterial road can be guaranteed protection from future acquisitions due to the evolving nature of urban development.
Former KPMG dealmaker Jon Adgemis has vacated the $20,000-a-week Point Piper mansion dubbed the “Bang & Olufsen house,” ending his stay at the waterfront property owned by Chinese investor Jerry Yafu Qiu.
Once known for extravagant parties—including a lavish 2024 New Year’s Eve dinner—the fallen Sydney financier had been staying at the home in exchange for property maintenance.
Adgemis, now living in a Bondi apartment owned by billionaire Will Vicars, faces significant financial strain. His former firm, Public Hospitality Group (PHG), which amassed more than 20 venues, has seen several assets placed into administration.
The “Bang & Olufsen house” at Point Piper.
He is also battling a personal bankruptcy claim from Monaco-based Richard Gazal for $26 million, and Public Kitchen, and entity within PHG, faces winding-up action by the Australian Taxation Office over a $286,175 tax default.
According to Daily Mail, in a separate legal case, Adgemis also allegedly mortgaged his mother’s $4.5 million Rose Bay home without her knowledge to repay $6.2 million in debts to La Trobe Financial.
Court documents reveal she “does not recall” receiving legal documentation and is now contesting the mortgage.
Justice Stephen Rothman granted a temporary stay on La Trobe’s repossession, noting the home also houses Adgemis’ disabled nephew, who may have a beneficial interest in the property.
The Australian Hellenic Choir captivated a packed Sir John Clancy Auditorium at the University of New South Wales on Sunday, June 1, with a spellbinding performance of A Portrait of Greece — a concert that seamlessly wove together ancient traditions, modern storytelling, and the rich migration history of the Greek Australian community.
Opening the evening, President of the Australian Hellenic Choir, Jim Tsolakis, described the choir’s mission as one of cultural storytelling.
“The Choir delivers… the stories of our history, our culture and our language… it delivers this to the Greek community, to the diaspora. We just do it differently… we sing it,” Mr Tsolakis said.
He commended the dedication of choir members, saying, “Singing is a God-given talent, a skill to do good in this world and to bring happiness to people.”
Choir members outside the Auditorium prior to the concert.
Mr Tsolakis also farewelled the Consul General of Greece in Sydney, Ioannis Mallikourtis, presenting him with a gift on behalf of the Choir.
“We know you love our choir and we want you to remember us wherever you find yourself in the future. We wish you a safe journey and new horizons,” he said.
The concert opened with ‘Seikilos’ Epitaph.’
Music Director Leon Vitogiannis reflected on the significance of the commissioned works in the evening’s program, calling them “the first major step in building a living repertoire that reflects our unique voice as a Greek Australian community.”
He described the performance as “an offering from within the community, for the community and beyond,” and emphasised that Greek music is not something static: “It is alive and evolving. It lives in our homes. It lives in our gatherings… and tonight, it is here on stage.”
The concert opened with Seikilos’ Epitaph, widely regarded as the oldest surviving complete musical composition, performed hauntingly on recorder by Despina Haise. This was followed by a set of Asia Minor songs by Giannis Konstantinidis, reimagined with moving vocal solos by Joanne Mason and Haise. Each piece echoed with the emotional textures of a displaced yet enduring culture.
The concert seamlessly wove together ancient traditions, modern storytelling, and the rich migration history of the Greek Australian community.
The highlight of the first half was a suite of newly commissioned works centred on migration. The Place by Aristea Mellos, Skeptomorfes by Stefanos Maragkakis, and Pearls in the Depths by Klearhos Murphy brought the audience on a journey across memory, sea, and spirit. Rich in lyrical and musical innovation, each work offered a different window into the Greek Australian experience, with all three composers in attendance — including Murphy, who had travelled from Melbourne.
Following intermission, the audience was treated to Nikos Skalkottas’ Five Greek Dances, a vibrant homage to regional folk traditions reimagined through a modern orchestral lens. Young guest soloist Dionysia Dragonas then delivered a heartfelt performance of Songs My Mother Taught Me, stirring a sense of nostalgia among many in the audience.
Dionysia Dragonas was congratulated by her family after the event.
The final act paid tribute to the musical roots of mainland and island Greece. From the patriotic Thourios Tou Riga to the tender notes of Thalassaki Mou and a joyous Nisiotiko medley, the choir closed the evening with a rousing celebration of cultural pride.
Among the distinguished guests in attendance were His Grace Bishop Iakovos of Miletoupolis, representing His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia; His Excellency Mr Stavros Venizelos, Ambassador of Greece; and the Consul General Mr Mallikourtis.
The success of the evening would not have been possible without the vision of the Choir committee, the creativity of its collaborators, and the generous support of sponsors. Their commitment ensured that A Portrait of Greece was not merely a concert, but a living testament to Greek Australian identity — resonant, relevant, and reverberating across generations.
