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An invitation to all: The Antipodean Palette Art Exhibition 2024 and Poetry Afternoon

The Greek Herald
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An invitation to all: The Antipodean Palette Art Exhibition 2024 and Poetry Afternoon

The Greek Australian Cultural League (GACL) will again proudly present one of its most successful annual events, the Antipodean Palette Group Art Exhibition 2024 and extends a warm welcome to all to view the work of 17 practising artists at Steps Gallery, 62 Lygon Street Carlton. 

The exhibition will run from the 11th to 21st July and the official launch will be held on Saturday, July 13th at 2.30pm.  Viewing times are Weekdays (except Monday), from 10am – 4pm and Weekends from 11am – 3pm. For further enquiries, contact the AP2024 Co-ordinator Frixos Ioannides E: frixos.i@gmail.com

Constantinos Emmanuelle, Homesick

Artists– Masonik Arts, Marie Petrides, Rosemary Lugg, Michael Christofas, Tracey Yannopoulos, Agi Argyropoulos, Michael Winters, Constantine Emmanuelle, Paul Laspagis, Ivy Cafaci, Olga Antioniadis, Emily Karanikolopoulos, George Athanasiou, Stephanie Dellaportas, Sophia Xeros-Constantinides, Stella Dimadis, and James Pasakos.

Agi Argyropoulos, The Bee
Agi Argyropoulos, The Bee.

To coincide with the exhibition, the GACL will also present its annual Poetry Afternoon 2024. This free event will be held at the same venue on Saturday 20th July at 1.30pm, featuring 11 poets who will recite their poems in Greek and English with the theme ‘Memory Speaks.’ For more details, contact George & Monika Athanasiou M: 0402079178

Poets– Pavlos Andronikos, Angela Costi, Koraly Dimitriadis, Andrea Demetriou, Andrea Garivaldis, Iakovos Garivaldis, Kaiti Georgiou, Jim Ioannou, Marco Nicolaou, Fivos Panagiotou, and Erma Vassiliou.

Since its establishment, the GACL has amassed a valuable archive of information from all its past literary and art events, thus creating a historical record and a valuable archive of the names and works of numerous talented Greek Australian artists.

Michael Winters, Sailing into the depth of time

Building on the success of past exhibitions, the GACL identified the need for a Greek Australian Artist Directory (GAAD) to raise awareness of the artists who have been part of the Australian community, some since early migration. It is important to continue developing this directory and improve access to these artists and their works. Ten of the artists who will be participating in this year’s Antipodean Palette are currently registered with the GAAD.

Marie Petridis, Abstract Formation

The GAAD welcomes both visual and performing artists as well as artists from diverse backgrounds whose work has been inspired by Greek culture, thereby fostering connections and encouraging collaborative relationships within and beyond our community. Its aim is to enhance the visibility, accessibility, and preservation of the cultural identity, value, and history of Greek Australian art. 

Antipodean Palette 2024 Invitation

Interested artists can register their profiles by visiting www.gacl.com.au and clicking on the dedicated GAAD section. For any inquiries related to the GAAD, individuals can email GACL President Cathy Alexopoulos infogaclm@gmail.com or contact GAAD Co-ordinator Vasy Petros 0412 242 557.

*GAAD is a Greek Australian Cultural League Initiative, supported by The Greek Herald

Tsipras and Zaev present inaugural Prespa Peace Award

The Greek Herald
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Tsipras and Zaev present inaugural Prespa Peace Award

Former Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras and former North Macedonian Prime Minister Zoran Zaev presented the inaugural ‘Prespa Peace Award’ to Matthew Nimetz, the former UN Special Representative for the naming dispute between Greece and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, during a conference in Athens.

According to amna.gr, Nimetz, who served as the UN Special Representative from 1994 to 2019, received the award at the first International Conference for Peace and Sustainable Growth. The event, hosted by the Alexis Tsipras Institute and the Zoran Zaev Institute, took place at the Athens Conservatory on Monday and Tuesday.

Former Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras and former North Macedonian Prime Minister Zoran Zaev

At a special ceremony exactly six years after the signing of the Prespa Agreement (2018), Nimetz appealed to all sides to “follow and respect the Prespa Agreement and work hard for its implementation,” adding that if there are points in the Agreement that need work, then they need to “sit down together and resolve them.”

Nimetz also thanked the former and current UN Secretaries General who supported the Agreement, and particularly the peoples of the two countries. He noted that his greatest contribution was that he persisted and worked on the issue for 20 years, with 18 of these being listening to the two sides and perhaps contributing something in the last two years.

All important agreements, he said, tend to involve compromises, and he cited as examples the US Constitution, the Versailles Treaty, and the UN Charter.

Prior to the awarding, a videotaped message by UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres was screened, while the ceremony was also attended by SYRIZA-Progressive Alliance leader Stefanos Kasselakis.

Source: amna.gr

Actor Theo James named UNHCR Global Goodwill Ambassador

The Greek Herald
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Actor Theo James named UNHCR Global Goodwill Ambassador

The United Nations refugee agency announced on Monday that British actor Theo James has been appointed as a global goodwill ambassador. James, known for his roles in the television series “The Gentlemen” and “The White Lotus,” has been supporting UNHCR since 2016. He has traveled to Greece, France, and Jordan to meet with asylum seekers and refugees, according to the agency.

According to Reuters.com, James shared that his family’s history has given him insight into the challenges refugees face. “During the Second World War, my grandfather was forced to flee on a small boat from Greece to Syria, and his courage and resilience have inspired me to help make a difference in the lives of displaced people,” he said in a statement.

Theo James
Theo James. Photo: The Hollywood reporter.

“My grandfather was welcomed and offered shelter by the people of Syria, allowing him to rebuild his life as a doctor and give back to the community. This experience underscores the importance of standing in solidarity with refugees who are fleeing conflicts today and helping to share their stories. They need our support now more than ever.”

“No one chooses to become a refugee. But we can all choose how to respond to people in need of sanctuary, whose lives depend on it,” James added.

Source: Reuters.com

Swiss support boosts revival plan for historic ‘Peloponnese railway’ in Greece

The Greek Herald
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Swiss support boosts revival plan for historic ‘Peloponnese railway’ in Greece

A plan to revive an abandoned meter gauge railway line in the Peloponnese, aiming to serve both as a historic attraction and for passenger transport, has gained significant momentum with Switzerland’s offer of assistance and expertise, the Athens-Macedonian News Agency has reported.

According to the state-run news agency, the initiative to reactivate Europe’s longest meter gauge railway network was discussed in a meeting between Giannos Grammatidis, president of the Hellenic Railways Organization (OSE), and Stefan Estermann, the Swiss Ambassador in Athens. Estermann expressed his enthusiasm for supporting the project.

To this end, Estermann reportedly assured Swiss support for a feasibility study that is currently under way and whose findings will be discussed at a meeting of all the involved parties in the northwestern Peloponnesian town of Nafplio in December. He also pledged to engage Swiss experts with experience in operating metric mountain railway systems and creating attractive programs to promote the ‘Peloponnese Railway.’

Grammatidis, for his part, welcomed the offered assistance and underlined the importance of reviving the railway for passenger, cultural and tourist purposes, with the ultimate goal of connecting places of natural beauty and historical interest such as Corinth, Nafplio, Kalamata, Mycenae and Ancient Olympia, among many others.

Source: ekathimerini.com

Greece’s most peaceful islands to visit this summer

The Greek Herald
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Greece’s most peaceful islands to visit this summer

Greece’s iconic islands are famous for their beauty and culture, but popular destinations like Santorini and Mykonos can be overwhelming. For those seeking tranquility, there are lesser-known gems that offer serene beauty and authentic experiences without the crowds.

According to ekathimerini.com, a recent travel article by The Times highlights 16 relaxing Greek islands that promise a peaceful and unforgettable summer:

  • Aegina: Just a 30-minute hydrofoil ride from Athens, Aegina is often overlooked by overseas tourists, making it an ideal escape.
  • Astypalea: Butterfly-shaped Astypalea, located between Santorini and Kos, is a hidden treasure boasting crystal-clear waters. 
  • Lipsi: Legend has it that Odysseus was enchanted by Calypso on the Dodecanese isle of Lipsi. Today, visitors are more likely to be captivated by its pristine beaches.
  • Andros: the second-largest Cycladic island, offers lush greenery and scenic hiking trails. 
Milos island
  • Folegandros: Located between Santorini and Milos, Folegandros is known for its breathtaking sunsets. 
  • Nisyros: Just a short ferry ride from Kos, Nisyros boasts a volcanic landscape with dark sands and hot springs. 
  • Syros: Once a major commercial hub, Syros now charms visitors with elegant architecture and cultural institutions in Ermoupoli. 
  • Meganisi: Overlooked in favor of Kefalonia and Lefkada, Meganisi remains a tranquil spot.
  • Alonissos: is part of Greece’s first national marine park, home to rare monk seals and diverse marine life, a haven for nature lovers. 
  • Agistri: Just an hour from Athens, Agistri offers pine-covered beaches and a relaxed vibe.
  • Milos: famous for the Venus de Milo sculpture, features dramatic volcanic landscapes like Sarakiniko’s moon-like shores. 
  • Patmos: Less crowded due to limited ferry connections, Patmos boasts stunning beaches like Psili Ammos.
  • Kythira: the birthplace of Aphrodite, offers golden beaches and ancient ruins. 
  • Kastellorizo: Near Turkey’s coast, Kastellorizo is a hidden treasure with colorful houses and a rich history. 
  • Serifos: Close to Milos and Mykonos, offers quiet beaches (Livadakia is a highlight) and charming towns.
  • Sifnos: The island is renowned for its culinary heritage and hosts a food festival every September.

Source: ekathimerini.com

First woman in Greece gives birth after ovarian tissue transplant

The Greek Herald
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First woman in Greece gives birth after ovarian tissue transplant

A 39-year-old woman in Greece, Irini Koka, made history by giving birth to a baby boy following an ovarian tissue transplant.

According to ekathimerini.com, the baby, weighing 3 kilograms and 20 grams, was delivered via caesarean section.

Irini Koka was diagnosed with Hodgkins lymphoma 16 years ago, and underwent chemotherapy and radiation therapy. In 2013, the specific hematological cancer reappeared, only this time she resorted to cryopreservation of ovarian tissue to protect her fertility, before proceeding with the prescribed treatment.

“For the first time in Greek history, a pregnancy and birth of a healthy child were achieved after ovarian tissue transplantation,” said Konstantinos Pantos, her doctor and general secretary of the Hellenic Society of Reproductive Medicine.

“Science now enables us to overcome more and more obstacles. With this method, 210 children have been born internationally, since the first child in the world in 2004, with a birth rate of 21%, with similar pregnancy rates, both from natural conception and after IVF,” he added.

“My biggest dream came true. I fought and managed, with the help of the medical team, to win the greatest gift of my life, my baby boy. I would like to say to all women who are going through something similar to me that it is worth trying,” Koka said.

Source: ekathimerini

Dean Kalymnios unveils new children’s book about rich cultural heritage of Cappadocia

Evelyn Karatzas
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Dean Kalymnios unveils new children’s book about rich cultural heritage of Cappadocia

Renowned Greek lawyer and author Dean Kalymnios has unveiled his latest work The Librarian of Cappadocia, marking the second children’s book in his writing collection.

Mr Kalymnios revealed that The Librarian of Cappadocia tells the story of a monk’s quest for knowledge, while fulfilling his destiny. He said it was inspired by the rich cultural and religious heritage of Cappadocia in central Turkey, and explores the monk’s journey of seeking knowledge through books and wisdom left behind by those of his past.

“The greatest theologians of the Orthodox Church called it home,” Mr Kalymnios told The Greek Herald about Cappadocia.

“During the Ottoman times, our people held steadfastly onto their identity and their faith even though they lost their language and wrote Turkish… In many ways, the land serves as a metaphor for diasporan communities around the world including our own.

“Also, the existence of layers upon layers of caves and underground cities in the lunar-like landscape of the region suggests that there are layers and sub-layers to everything, a tantalising mix that begs sensitive treatment.”

The author said he has been drawn to writing for as long as he can remember, with his works being published since the age of 23.

Dean Kalimniou writing collection
Dean Kalimniou’s writing collection.

“I have published seven books of poetry in Greek, a collection of Greek short stories, which was published in Athens, Greece last year, and two children’s books,” Mr Kalymnios said.

“The first of the children’s books, Soumela and the Magic Kemenche, is bilingual and was published by the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia. The Librarian of Cappadocia has been written in English.

“I also regularly write and perform Karagiozis plays in Greek, for the younger members of our community in Melbourne, and recently, I wrote a play in Greek, which premiered in Greece and then was performed in Sydney and Melbourne this year.”

As Mr Kalymnios strives to pursue both law and writing, he said arguing and storytelling is an “inextricable part” of his existence.

“My three story-loving children were the main reason,” Mr Kalymnios said when asked what inspired him to write children’s books.

“My first children’s book was written during lockdown at their request.”

Soumela children's book cover
The first of Dean Kalimniou’s children’s books, ‘Soumela and the Magic Kemenche.’

Mr Kalymnios added that “finding the right voice to convey our stories to our children is a task fraught with difficulty.”

“Greek Australian children’s writers who write in English often fall into the trap of presenting their narrative in a manner acceptable to or predetermined by the dominant culture and by consequence, of treating the “Greek” elements in their story as exotic and foreign instead of organic and thus, over-explaining,” he said.

“The Librarian of Cappadocia seeks to articulate a Greek Australian approach to aspects of our heritage, making it relevant to our everyday lives in this country and beyond.

“It also argues that literature of an ethical and religious nature have a relevant place for children, in an increasingly secularised society.”

Mr Kalymnios said the book is aimed at people aged 10 and over, however he hopes it will be enjoyed by people of all ages.

“As a parable/ fable, I am hoping that children will identify the symbolism, pick up the nuances and affirm that their own unity of purpose and perspective should not be compromised by those older or more powerful than they, and that true insight and understanding lies in humility and empathy,” he said.

“Along the way, I hope the children become as enthralled as I am with the land of Cappadocia.”

The Librarian of Cappadocia will officially launch with the support of Bishop and Missionary of Sierra Leone, Bishop Themistocles of Nicopolis on 21 July at Saint Dimitrios Parish Hall in Victoria.

“The release of the book, and most importantly its acceptance for publication by an Australian mainstream publishing company, Bonfire Books, affirms my conviction that in a multicultural society our traditions and beliefs can be not only portrayed, but interpreted in an organic manner and used to inspire the production of literature in all genres,” Mr Kalymnios added.

Mr Kalimniou is also currently developing a publishing company that focuses on providing young Greek Australian children with the opportunity to have their voices heard.

Estudiantina of Melbourne release new self-titled EP

The Greek Herald
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Estudiantina of Melbourne release new self-titled EP

Estudiantina of Melbourne has released a new self-titled Extended Play (EP). The EP was recorded in May 2024 at Abbotsford in Victoria, with the help of sound engineer Kieran McCoey.

Estudiantina of Melbourne is made up of Con Kalamaras, Maria Antaras-Dalamagas (Accordion/Vocals), Vangelis Ginis (Vocals), Jenny Dixon (Violin), Alex Petropoulos (Guitar), and Paul Karalis (Bouzouki).

Estudiantina of Melbourne is more than just a musical ensemble; it’s a passionate torchbearer of traditional Greek music, particularly Smyrneika, deeply entrenched in the cultural fabric of Greece.

Estudiantina of Melbourne

With a profound appreciation for the diverse influences that shape Smyrneika, ranging from Greek and Turkish to Jewish and Armenian, the ensemble creates a mesmerising fusion that breathes new life into this age-old genre. Their music, adorned with instruments like the oud, bouzouki, violin, kanun, and guitar, resonates with an authenticity that captivates audiences.

Beyond Smyrneika, the ensemble also delves into the realm of Rebetiko, another poignant expression of Greek folk music. Originating from the struggles and triumphs of Greece’s urban working class, Rebetiko’s soul-stirring melodies and evocative lyrics serve as a poignant reminder of the human experience, touching upon themes of adversity, displacement, and resilience.

Estudiantina of Melbourne
Estudiantina of Melbourne

Through the harmonious interplay of instruments such as the bouzouki, baglama, and accordion, Estudiantina of Melbourne crafts a soundscape that pays homage to the rich cultural heritage of Greece.

Track listing for new EP

  • Ballos – Instrumental
  • Eisai Poli Ziliara (you are a very jealous person)
  • Mangkiko (female Mungas)
  • Otan Pinis Stin Taverna (when you drink at the tavern)
  • Tis Martitsas to Haremi (At Maritsas Harem)
  • Varka Yialo (Boat ahead)
  • Yiati na me gelasis (why do you laugh at me)

The Greek Herald journalist wins Walkley Foundation award for exposé on Orthodox funeral certificate

The Greek Herald
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The Greek Herald journalist wins Walkley Foundation award for exposé on Orthodox funeral certificate

The Greek Herald journalist and University of Technology Sydney student, Pamela Rontziokos, won ‘Student Journalist of the Year’ at the Walkley Foundation’s 2024 Mid-Year Celebration of Journalism awards ceremony on Thursday, June 20.

Miss Rontziokos was recognised for an article published in The Greek Herald which investigated the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia’s (GOAA) ‘Certificate of death and funeral service.’

The investigation found families were expected to pay $250 for a funeral certificate that was not officially recognised in Australia nor Greece. The cost of the certificate was also found to be five times the amount compared to a government-issued death certificate in Australia and Greece. 

Miss Rontziokos was unable to attend the Walkley Foundation awards ceremony due to being overseas, but was represented on the night by her parents. She gave a statement to The Greek Herald after her win and said she was unable to express how “amazed and thankful” she was to be recognised as ‘Student Journalist of the Year.’

Pamela was a finalist and later won ‘Student Journalist of the Year.’
Pamela’s parents accepted the award on her behalf on Thursday night.

“I could not have done it without The Greek Herald and thank them deeply for giving me the opportunity to write this piece. The Greek Herald is a clear representation of ethical journalism and prioritising important stories necessary for our community,” the student journalist said.

Miss Rontziokos thanked the Walkley Foundation for its recognition and congratulated the other nominees for “their stories with solid reporting.”

“I share the award with The Greek Herald and I really implore Greek Orthodox Australians to question the death certificate and raise it to the community members,” she said.

The exposé has previously received recognition in the Democracy Watchdog Awards 2023 and the Ossie Awards. Miss Rontziokos won ‘The Crikey Award for Investigative journalism by an Undergraduate or Postgraduate Student’ in the Ossie Awards.

The Greek Herald journalist and University of Technology Sydney student, Pamela Rontziokos, won 'Student Journalist of the Year' at the Walkley Foundation’s 2024 Mid-Year Celebration of Journalism awards.
The Greek Herald journalist and University of Technology Sydney student, Pamela Rontziokos, won ‘Student Journalist of the Year’ at the Walkley Foundation’s 2024 Mid-Year Celebration of Journalism awards.

The Walkley Foundation’s 2024 Mid-Year Celebration of Journalism awards are a standalone series of awards, held separately from the Walkley Awards which are announced in November. Winners are chosen on the basis of overall merit and journalistic excellence.

On Thursday night, Miss Rontziokos was among other winners in categories such as ‘Visual Storytelling’ and ‘Media Diversity Australia Award.’ Bill Ormonde was named overall 2024 John B Fairfax Family Young Australian Journalist of the Year after winning the Visual Storytelling category for ‘Out of the Darkness’. 

Walkley Foundation Chief Executive Shona Martyn congratulated all the winners and recipients. 

“The quality of the entries was extremely high this year. The Mid-Year Celebration of Journalism recognises both the rising stars of journalism and more senior specialist reporters committed to crucial concerns of our times. In every instance, the judges had a tough job selecting the winners and finalists. My congratulations to them all,” Ms Martyn said.

Vinnies CEO Sleepout: Greek Australians brave cold for homelessness awareness

Andriana Simos
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Vinnies CEO Sleepout: Greek Australians brave cold for homelessness awareness

The annual Vinnies CEO Sleepout saw 1,500 CEOs and community leaders across Australia brave the freezing cold on Thursday night to raise awareness and funds in support of homelessness.

St Vincent de Paul Society NSW CEO Yolanda Saiz told Sky News Australia there were about 300 leaders in Sydney who swapped out their beds for cardboard boxes last night, with NSW raising $2.5 million and Australia as a whole raising $7.7 million for homelessness.

“It got pretty cold out there, particularly on the waterfront, I think at about 3am, you could hear a few people starting to rustle as it just starts to get really uncomfortable, really cold,” Ms Saiz said.

“But it’s really important to remember, as I told the audience last night, all of us, including myself, will get to go home tonight to a really warm bed, but for those 122,0000 people who are homeless across this country, they will be tonight wondering where they are going to sleep.”

Greek Australian business leaders who braved the cold last night included Paul Nicolaou, Executive Director at Business Sydney, Chris Christofi, CEO at Reventon, John Livanas, CEO at State Super SAS Trustee Corporation, and Maria Lykouras, CEO at JBWere Australia, among many others.

Mr Nicolaou spoke to The Greek Herald after the sleepout and said he was proud to raise in excess of $112,000 to support the many Sydneysiders who are experiencing homelessness and people at risk of homelessness. 

“Nobody chooses to be homeless, but it could happen to anyone. As a community, we need to break the cycle of homelessness and this is why I participated in the Vinnies CEO Sleepout,” Mr Nicolaou said.

“The need is all that much greater as families and individuals deal with the current cost-of-living crisis.

“With all our support we can help break the devastating cycle of homelessness. Donating to Vinnies can make a huge difference to people who need it most.”

According to the latest census, more than 122,000 people are reported to be homeless, with NSW accounting the most of any state or territory. Recent data from the Australian Institute for Health and Welfare shows there has been a significant increase in unassisted requests for assistance over the last three years in NSW.

This is the 19th year the Vinnies CEO Sleepout has taken place, with more than $91 million raised nationally to support the vital work performed by the St Vincent de Paul Society’s homelessness services.

As well as spending the longest and coldest night of the year sleeping outdoors, each CEO Sleepout participant commits to raising funds to help Vinnies provide essential services to the people who need them.

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