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Medical charity raises alarm over malnourished children in Greek migrant camp

The Greek Herald
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Medical charity raises alarm over malnourished children in Greek migrant camp

Doctors Without Borders (MSF) has reported the first cases of acute child malnutrition in the Zervos migrant camp on the Greek island of Samos, prompting fresh concerns over conditions at the facility.

According to Al Jazeera, MSF doctors diagnosed six children from Syria and Afghanistan — aged between six months and six years — with acute malnutrition requiring immediate medical attention.

Though MSF could not conclusively link the children’s condition to life in the camp, it warned that poor nutrition and limited healthcare posed serious risks to vulnerable residents.

“No child should suffer from malnutrition due to systemic neglect,” Christina Psarra, director general of MSF Greece, said. She stressed that children account for roughly a quarter of the camp’s population.

Greece’s Ministry of Migration and Asylum rejected the suggestion of a wider issue, claiming the cases were isolated.

“Under no circumstances is there generalised malnutrition due to living conditions,” the ministry stated, noting that asylum seekers are provided with three meals a day.

The Samos facility, which opened in 2021 with EU funding, was intended to replace the overcrowded and unsanitary Vathy camp. Surrounded by barbed wire and operating as a high-security centre, it has been heavily criticised in the past.

Amnesty International previously described conditions there as “inhumane and degrading”, citing issues such as water shortages and lack of essential services during peak overcrowding.

MSF has urged both Greek authorities and the European Union to take swift action, including restoring financial support for asylum seekers — which was cut off in June — and providing appropriate paediatric care and nutrition services.

Greece remains a key entry point for migrants arriving in Europe. In 2024, nearly one-third of those travelling from the Middle East and Africa to southern Europe landed in the country, according to the United Nations.

Source: Al Jazeera

Former PASOK MP Dimitris Vounatsos dies at 82

The Greek Herald
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Former PASOK MP Dimitris Vounatsos dies at 82

Dimitris Vounatsos, the former PASOK MP and a well-known figure in Lesvos and national politics, has died at the age of 82.

He passed away on Monday, April 7 at the Vostaneio Hospital in Mytilene, where he had been receiving treatment for a month following a stroke. Neurosurgery had been performed on him about a month prior.

Recognised across Greece for his distinctive personality and public presence, Vounatsos became widely known beyond the island of Lesvos, which he loved deeply and served passionately. He was a committed supporter of PASOK and its founder, Andreas Papandreou, whom he “adored.”

Born in Plomari, southern Lesvos, he was the son of the respected lawyer and politician Fokion Vounatsos, a participant in the National Resistance and former MP for the Centre Union. The elder Vounatsos also served as mayor of Plomari.

vounatsos-thanatos
Dimitris Vounatsos, the former PASOK MP and a well-known figure in Lesvos.

Vounatsos followed in his father’s footsteps, becoming a lawyer himself. He was married to Myrsini Kountouri.

He studied law in Thessaloniki, where he became involved in student unionism. He held prominent roles, including president of the Law School’s Student Association and chair of the local branch of the National Union of Students of Greece (EFEE).

Vounatsos was first elected as MP for Lesvos in 1981 and was re-elected until 1993. He later returned to his legal practice but remained active in public life. In 1998, he was elected Prefect of Lesvos with the support of PASOK and DIKKI. In 2010, he was elected mayor of the newly unified Municipality of Lesvos, winning 57.80% of the vote.

His death was announced by Lesvos-based journalist Varvara Gigilini.

Source: tovima.gr

1821 Scholarships take centre stage at UNSW Hellenic Studies fundraiser

The Greek Herald
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1821 Scholarships take centre stage at UNSW Hellenic Studies fundraiser

The Foundation for Hellenic Studies at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) held a fundraising dinner dance at the Hermes Lounge in Kogarah, Sydney on 5 April 2025.

The formalities included the presentation of seven “1821 Scholarships” (the brainchild of Harry Mavrolefteros). The purpose of the scholarships is to encourage students to take up Greek.

The scholarships were presented by Louise Alfieris in memory of the late Emmanuel Alfieris, Maria and Keira Alexandrou on behalf of the Alexandrou family, Louisa Melas on behalf of the Daughters of Penelope, Mary Nagle on behalf of O’Connell Solicitors, Fiona Douskou, Dr. Ivan Valiozis and Virginia Valiozis, and Harry Mavrolefteros on behalf of First Education.

The scholarship recipients were Andoni Papadokokolakis, Carolyn Makridopolus, Harry Mavrolefteros, Katherine Mavrolefteros, Peter John Papanikolaou, Socrates Sioulas and Vicki Synesios. The selection committee was composed of Dimitris Kametopoulos, Stella Sorotou and Katerina Vetsikas.

The Foundation’s President, Costa Vertzayias spoke about the difficulties confronting the teaching of Greek and languages in general due to changes in government and university policies and that the maintenance and support for Greek involves all of us and should be the Community’s highest priority.

Dr Vasilis Adrahtas, the Greek Studies Convenor at UNSW, explained the difficulties faced by the course but also highlighted the positives such as smashing the university’s summer course record with 320 students taking the Greek mythology subject.

Elle Tamvakolos, Hellsoc UNSW President, spoke from the heart admitting how thrilled she was to discover Hellsoc and Greek at UNSW and this led to a re-awakening of interest in her roots.

During the night, a fabulous work of art (Sun offering / Gulf of Patraikos) by renowned artist Christina Tsaou (Tsaousoglou) was donated by the artist for auction with all the proceeds going to the Foundation. The successful bidder was Katerina Vetsikas, President of the Pan-Achaian Association of NSW, who also announced that the Bi-Lingual Bookshop will be opening up at Kogarah.

Amongst the guests were the presidents or office bearers of many associations including AHEPA NSW, Hellenic Lyceum of Sydney, Pan-Thessalian, Pan-Arcadian, Pan-Achaian, Hassion, Elasona and Hellsoc NSW.

Attendees at the event.

Donations were received from Angelo Hatsatouris (a longstanding trustee of the Foundation) worth $1,000 and $500 from each of the Hassion and Elasona Associations.

After the drawing of the raffle (with some wonderful prizes donated by Sam and Christina Tsatsoulis, Bowerhaus Jewellery, First Education, NAPF Electronics, Thai by the Beach Restaurant, Bi-Lingual Bookshop and others) guests danced the night away to the sounds of DJ Philippe. 

Paul Nicolaou, tireless community worker and business leader, handled the difficult task of being the evening’s MC with considerable ease.

Pan-Macedonian Association of NSW holds Battle of Vevi commemoration at Hyde Park

The Greek Herald
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Pan-Macedonian Association of NSW holds Battle of Vevi commemoration at Hyde Park

The Pan-Macedonian Association of NSW held a moving commemoration at the ANZAC Memorial in Hyde Park on Sunday, April 6, honouring the Battle of Vevi (April 1941) and the joint sacrifices of Greek and ANZAC forces during WWII.

Emceed by Themis Kallos, the ceremony brought together community leaders, dignitaries, and descendants of veterans to pay tribute to a pivotal yet often overlooked chapter of wartime history.

pan macedonian association battle of vevi

pan macedonian association battle of vevi

pan macedonian association battle of vevi

The formal proceedings began with the recital of The Ode and the Last Post, followed by renditions of the Australian and Greek national anthems.

Anastasia Karakominakis, President of the Pan-Macedonian Association of NSW, welcomed guests and reflected on the enduring friendship between Australia and Greece.

Renowned historian and author Jim Claven OAM

Anastasia Karakominakis, President of the Pan-Macedonian Association of NSW

The recital of The Ode and the Last Post.

pan macedonian association battle of vevi
Anastasia Karakominakis, President of the Pan-Macedonian Association of NSW.

“The courage and sacrifice displayed by both Greek and Australian troops forced a bond that continues to be honoured and remembered to this day. We commemorate the Battle of Vevi not only as a moment of national resilience and sacrifice for Greece, but also as a powerful symbol of Hellenic Australian friendship, a bond born in battle and carried forth in peace,” Mrs Karakominakis said.

Ioannis Mallikourtis, Consul General of Greece in Sydney, reflected on the deep-rooted military history linking the two nations.

“This battle was not the first time Australians found themselves in Macedonia fighting alongside their Greek allies… but it was the first major engagement on Greek soil in WWII where Anzacs, British and Greek soldiers stood together in defiance of overwhelming odds,” Mr Mallikourtis said.

pan macedonian association battle of vevi

pan macedonian association battle of vevi

He also acknowledged the ongoing work of community organisations like the Pan-Macedonian Association in preserving and promoting these stories for future generations.

Renowned historian and author Jim Claven OAM delivered the keynote address, shedding light on the Battle of Vevi as a moment of exceptional courage and cooperation between Australian and Greek troops. Drawing on archival material and personal fieldwork in the region, Claven described the harsh conditions, fierce resistance, and historical significance of the battle, noting it was “a story of courage and defiance that should be better known… a critical moment of Anzac and Greek unity in the face of overwhelming odds.”

Anastasia Karakominakis, President of the Pan-Macedonian Association of NSW
Renowned historian and author Jim Claven OAM.

Mr Claven’s speech built on the themes explored in the documentary ANZAC: The Greek Chapter, which was screened the evening before in Leichhardt.

At the conclusion of the lecture, Mrs Karakominakis presented both Mr Claven and Mr Kallos with gifts as a token of appreciation for their ongoing support and dedication to preserving this shared wartime history.

the ceremony brought together community leaders, dignitaries, and descendants of veterans

the ceremony brought together community leaders, dignitaries, and descendants of veterans

the ceremony brought together community leaders, dignitaries, and descendants of veterans

The ceremony brought together community leaders, dignitaries, and descendants of veterans. All photos copyright The Greek Herald.

The ceremony then continued upstairs with prayers led by His Grace Bishop Iakovos of Miletoupolis and a symbolic Star Ceremony conducted by James Grey, followed by a solemn Wreath Laying Ceremony. It was during this final portion of the commemoration that His Grace offered his official address, representing the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia with a spiritual reflection on sacrifice and legacy.

The day concluded with refreshments, offering guests a chance to reflect, connect, and continue discussions about this shared chapter in Hellenic and Australian history.

Consul General of Greece in Adelaide visits Darwin delivering annual Aristotle Oration

The Greek Herald
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Consul General of Greece in Adelaide visits Darwin delivering annual Aristotle Oration

Dr Alexandra Theodoropoulou, the Consul General of Greece in Adelaide, visited Darwin last week, where she was warmly welcomed at Charles Darwin University (CDU) by university and community leaders, including Vice-Chancellor Professor Scott Bowman, Pro Vice-Chancellor Professor Ruth Wallace, and Associate Professor George Frazis, Coordinator of Greek and Hellenic Studies at CDU.

During her visit, Dr Theodoropoulou delivered the Annual Aristotle Oration, titled “First Greeks, First Nations: A Sacred Bond with Nature.”

In her speech, she discussed the universal principles of Hellenic civilisation, drawing insightful parallels between the philosophies of Ancient Greece and the Indigenous Australian spiritual connection to nature.

Additionally, Dr Theodoropoulou presented Certificates of Attainment in Greek Language to four students for their achievements in Hellenic Studies:

  • Irene Koulianos (Level A1)
  • Artemios Skandaliaris (Level B1)
  • Evdokia Louloudia (Level B1)
  • Matthew Giakoumatos (Level B1)

While in Darwin, Dr Theodoropoulou also met with representatives from local Greek associations, clubs, and churches, including St Nicholas and St Savvas of Kalymnos.

She engaged with students, teachers, and the broader Greek community to learn more about their character, needs, and contributions.

Labor pledges $4.5 million for Greek cultural hub in Oakleigh

The Greek Herald
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Labor pledges $4.5 million for Greek cultural hub in Oakleigh

A re-elected Albanese Labor Government will commit $4.5 million to construct a Greek cultural hub in the heart of Greek Australia – Oakleigh.

The election commitment comprises $4 million towards the construction of a state-of-the-art Cultural and Language Enrichment Centre, next to St Anargiri Greek Orthodox Church, and $500,000 towards additional works on the site.

The centre will become a vital community and cultural hub, helping to preserve Greek heritage and bring people together.

oakleigh cultural hub
(L-R) Clare O’Neil MP, Federal Member for Hotham, Rev Fr. Stavros Kakavas, and Julian Hill MP, Federal Member for Bruce.

The Federal Electorate of Hotham, especially the Oakleigh area, is renowned as the cultural heart of Melbourne’s Greek community and home to over 14,000 Greek Australians.

This vibrant, multi-generational community regularly hosts the city’s cultural events, including Easter services and the Oakleigh Glendi outdoor festival. However, it lacks a dedicated space for community gatherings, socialising and celebrating traditions.

There is a need for a community cultural hub, as seniors seek social support in their Greek language and youth groups, dancers and language school classes lack a consistent, sheltered, central space for their activities. Additionally, domestic and international visitors and exhibitions are often turned away due to the lack of available space.

oakleigh cultural hub

This investment from the Albanese Labor Government will bring long-term benefits to the wider community, reflecting its dedication to, and appreciation of, Australia’s multicultural heritage and the people who enrich Australia.

Consistent with past practice, election commitments will be delivered in line with Commonwealth Grants Rules and Principles.

Clare O’Neil MP, Federal Member for Hotham, said, “The Culture and Language Enrichment Centre will reflect the rich Greek heritage that thrives in our south-east Melbourne community – and beyond – creating a vibrant, multi-purpose hub in Hotham.”

oakleigh cultural hub
Clare O’Neil MP, Federal Member for Hotham, and Julian Hill MP, Federal Member for Bruce, visited St Anargiri church today.

“It will celebrate Greek Australian culture which enriches this country so much, strengthen community bonds across generations and serve as a cultural centrepiece for both Hotham and the broader city,” O’Neil added.

“Oakleigh is the heart of Melbourne’s Greek community, where I consistently see both young and older generations coming together to celebrate culture and traditions. However, there’s a real need for a dedicated space to support these activities.

“This election commitment from the Albanese Labor Government will provide a central hub that serves everyone and helps tackle isolation.

“I couldn’t be prouder to be in a position to deliver this critical cultural facility, creating a home for this wonderful community that has always been so hospitable and welcoming to others.”

oakleigh cultural hub

Julian Hill MP, Federal Member for Bruce, said, “Growing up in Melbourne it was just a fact of life that you couldn’t play with your Greek friends some weekends because they were at Greek school. So many young Australian Greek kids have spent weeknights, weekend mornings or afternoons at language school, learning their family’s language and culture and making Australia a better, richer country in the process.”

“South-east Melbourne wouldn’t be the same without the contribution of Melbourne’s Greek community,” Mr Hill added.

Celebrating excellence in Modern Greek Studies at the University of Sydney

Andriana Simos
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Celebrating excellence in Modern Greek Studies at the University of Sydney

The University of Sydney’s (USYD) School of Languages and Cultures held its annual Awards Ceremony on Thursday, April 3 at the Holme Building, in a proud celebration of academic achievement across language disciplines.

Among the standout moments of the event was the recognition of outstanding students in Modern Greek and Byzantine Studies, a program that continues to enrich Greek language and culture education in Australia.

The ceremony was honoured by the presence of Ioannis Mallikourtis, Consul General of Greece in Sydney, who warmly congratulated the recipients of this year’s awards and commended the ongoing efforts to preserve and promote Hellenic heritage through academic excellence.

Award highlights in Modern Greek and Byzantine Studies

On the night, a range of prestigious prizes were presented to students excelling in Greek studies:

  • Maria Kakali was a standout recipient, taking home two major honours: Order of the Australian Hellenic Education Progressive Association (AHEPA) Scholarship in Modern Greek; and The Politis Family Scholarship in Modern Greek and/or Byzantine Studies.
  • Gabriella Michalopoulos was awarded the Modern Greek Studies Foundation Prize in Modern Greek Studies 1.
  • Zijun Tang received both the Robert William Henderson Memorial Prize and the Modern Greek Studies Foundation Prize in Modern Greek Studies 2.
  • Stavroula Nterzoti received the Modern Greek Studies Foundation Prize in Modern Greek Studies 3.
  • Anargyros Kallos earned the Sydney University Greek Society (SUGS) Prize for Modern Greek and Byzantine Studies.
  • Savvina-Elisavet Turner was awarded the Zarax Prize, recognising the best senior essay in Modern Greek and Byzantine Studies.

Each award represents not only academic merit but also a commitment to preserving Hellenic language, identity, and inquiry.

These prizes are made possible through generous donations from benefactors and associations such as AHEPA NSW, the Modern Greek Studies Foundation, and the Politis family—along with active support from the Sydney University Greek Society (SUGS).

The enduring success of the Modern Greek and Byzantine Studies program at the University of Sydney is largely credited to its devoted academic leaders, Professors Vrasidas Karalis and Anthony Dracopoulos, whose guidance and mentorship continue to inspire generations of students to engage deeply with Greek culture, history, and language.

Angela Antartis awaits sentencing for violent hostage attack in Adelaide

The Greek Herald
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Angela Antartis awaits sentencing for violent hostage attack in Adelaide

Angela Antartis, 26, is awaiting sentencing after pleading guilty to her role in a brutal hostage attack in January 2023.

Along with Zoran Aligrudic, 44, Antartis forcibly detained a man at a carport in Kilkenny, subjecting him to a violent and dehumanising assault while both were under the influence of methamphetamine.

In his victim impact statement, the victim described the ordeal as the “worst events of his 25 years of life,” leaving him with nightmares and severe anxiety.

“I am scarred from their actions both physically and mentally,” he said.

The District Court was told the attack involved prolonged physical abuse, including forcing the victim to strip naked and cutting off parts of his hair and beard.

The incident was driven by the duo’s belief that the victim had been charged with and pleaded guilty to indecent assault.

During the attack, they also made phone calls to the victim’s accuser, forcing him to apologise.

Antartis, from Woodville North, pleaded guilty to false imprisonment and multiple counts of assault.

Her co-defendant, Aligrudic, also pleaded guilty to drug trafficking and firearm possession. His lawyer explained that the offending was impulsive, driven by methamphetamine use following the breakdown of his marriage.

Antartis’ counsel highlighted her history of childhood trauma, which contributed to her methamphetamine addiction and criminal behaviour.

While in custody, Antartis is seeking drug rehabilitation programs and hopes to start anew upon release.

Judge Rauf Soulio will deliver sentencing for the two defendants next month.

Source: The Advertiser.

Zionist Federation of Australia takes legal action against journalist Mary Kostakidis

The Greek Herald
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Zionist Federation of Australia takes legal action against journalist Mary Kostakidis

The Zionist Federation of Australia has filed a legal complaint with the Federal Court of Australia against renowned Australian journalist Mary Kostakidis, accusing her of antisemitism over posts she made on social media platform X.

The complaint, initially lodged with the Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) in July 2024, follows Kostakidis’ social media sharing of footage related to the late Lebanese Hezbollah leader, Hassan Nasrallah, alongside commentary critical of Israel’s actions.

The Federation’s chief executive, Alon Cassuto, submitted the AHRC complaint under Section 18C of the Racial Discrimination Act, arguing that Kostakidis’ post, which referenced Israeli government actions and suggested they were “getting some of their own medicine,” was offensive and insulting to Jewish people.

This was in the context of ongoing violence in Gaza, which the International Court of Justice had suggested may constitute genocide.

The AHRC’s conciliation process ended without resolution, prompting the Zionist Federation to take the matter to the Federal Court, marking the final step in their legal pursuit.

Kostakidis, a former SBS presenter, is now set to defend her right to speak freely on political issues, particularly regarding Israel’s controversial policies.

She has expressed regret if her social media post was misconstrued, but maintains that reporting on controversial statements should not be censored.

Legal experts suggest the case could have broader implications for freedom of speech in Australia, particularly regarding criticism of Israel and the conflation of anti-Zionism with antisemitism.

Kostakidis is not alone in facing legal action over her stance, as other prominent figures, including academic Dr Randa Abdel-Fattah and university professors Dr Nick Riemer and John Keane, have also been subjected to similar scrutiny for their criticisms of Israel.

Kytherian youth honoured at prestigious Aroney Awards Dinner Dance

The Greek Herald
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Kytherian youth honoured at prestigious Aroney Awards Dinner Dance

Kytherian youth were celebrated at the Kytherian Association of Australia’s (KAA) annual Aroney Awards Dinner Dance held on Saturday, April 5 at The Concord Club in the Sydney suburb of Concord.

Thanks to a trust established by the late Kytherian benefactor, Nicholas Anthony Aroney, the KAA has been hosting the Aroney Awards for over 35 years.

On the night, the senior high school students performed various dances in traditional costume.

kytherian youth aroney awards
kytherian youth aroney awards
kytherian youth aroney awards

This was followed by the award ceremony where Higher School Certificate (HSC) students were acknowledged for their achievements and received awards from Aroney Trustee, Angelo Crones.

The HSC students were: Ellie Marmara (highest ATAR of 97.40), Stephanie Avgoustou, Tina Cassimatis, Sofia Castrisos, Vasiliki Dimitra Cominos, Catherine Coutts, Christopher Drakakis, Bianca Feros, Eliza Feros, Michael Hatzis, Lily Henderson, Jordana Lilly Hughes, Angelo Magoulas, Kiki Margetis, Magdalene Miltiades, Alexandra Notaras, Elizabeth Notaras, Tiana Roins, Zachary Simos, Chrissie Sioulas, Mia Andrianna Sofios, Politimi Tzannes, Tiana Tzoukas and Paris Venetoulis.

kytherian youth aroney awards
Ellie Marmara who had the highest ATAR.
kytherian youth aroney awards
Ellie Marmara who had the highest ATAR
Ellie Marmara who had the highest ATAR

The winner of the fifth KAA Youth Scholarship ($2000), an incentive of esteemed past president, the late Emmanuel Alfieris, was presented by Vice President Spiro Coolentianos and the President of the Kytherian Youth Association (KYA) and last year’s winner Anne-Marie Aroney to joint winners, Tiana Tzoukas and Christine Karabalis.

Finalists were Tina Cassimatis, Kiki Margetis, Magdalene Miltiadies, Tiana Roins, Sia Stratikopoulos and Paris Venetoulis.

kytherian youth aroney awards
Youth Scholarship Finalists.
kytherian youth aroney awards
Anne-Marie Aroney and Spiro Coolentianos with scholarship winner, Tiana Tzoukas.
kytherian youth aroney awards

In her speech, President of the KAA, Barbara Zantiotis, congratulated the students and stressed the importance of the Aroney Awards as they recognise the effort, perseverance and diligence the students place into their final year of school, which is a stepping stone for their future endeavours. 

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