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Fundraiser BBQ to be held at Saint Sophia Cathedral in Paddington

Andriana Simos
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Fundraiser BBQ to be held at Saint Sophia Cathedral in Paddington

A fundraiser barbeque will be held at Saint Sophia (Wisdom of God) Cathedral in Paddington, Sydney on Sunday, June 23 at 11.30am.

The barbeque is being held to raise funds for the Church of the Holy Trinity (Aghia Triada) in Surry Hills, Sydney, which recently reopened in June 2024 after being closed for months of extensive restoration and renovation.

The Church of the Holy Trinity is the oldest Greek Orthodox church in Australia and the Southern Hemisphere. It has been given State Heritage Status by the New South Wales Government, and is managed by the Greek Orthodox Community of NSW (GOCNSW).

The Board of the GOCNSW in conjunction with the Holy Trinity Restoration Committee, launched the 125th Anniversary Restoration Appeal in June 2023 with the aim of restoring the church to its former glory.

australia's oldest greek orthodox church
The Church of the Holy Trinity is the oldest Greek Orthodox church in Australia. Photo: The Greek Herald.

The fourth and final stage is set to be completed in 2024/2025 at a cost of $304,537.00 to be fundraised through cash, in-kind Donations and the fundraising barbeque on Sunday.

Stage four will include: concrete repairs to Bell Tower side returns, replacement of eight elevation side windows and coating works, the provision of a disabled entry ramp off Bourke Street, the replacement of side and main entry doors off Bourke Street, the restoration and cleaning of eroded windows and surrounds, the preparation and affixing of the Honour and Donors Boards, and the preparation and affixing of a marble plaque.

The fundraiser barbeque will be held at Saint Sophia (Wisdom of God) Cathedral at 302 South Dowling Street, Paddington, Sydney on Sunday, June 23 at 11.30am.

Stunning new mural completed in Oakleigh by Danielle Weber

The Greek Herald
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Stunning new mural completed in Oakleigh by Danielle Weber

Dig if U will and Mig Collection have announced the completion of a stunning new mural at their shared premises at 22A Atherton Road, Oakleigh.

This vibrant artwork, commissioned from one of Australia’s most talented artists, Danielle Weber, has already received glowing feedback from the local community.

The mural, depicting Eos, the Greek goddess of a new dawn, symbolises a fresh start and the bright future envisioned by the business owners, Vaya Giagtzis and Fay Anagnostopoulos, as they settle into their new location.

Danielle Weber’s impressive portfolio includes the Matildas mural at Bondi, artwork for The Rock’s global premiere of the Black Adam movie, and a commissioned portrait by Arnold Schwarzenegger. Her extensive experience includes works for high-net-worth dwellings and businesses.

“We are thrilled with the completion of this beautiful mural by Danielle Weber,” Ms Giagtzis, owner of Dig if U will, said.

“The positive feedback from our community has been overwhelming. Nektaria from ByNektaria, who has been traveling to Greece for her business, remarked that driving past this new landmark reminded her children of Athens. They absolutely love it.”

The mural not only enhances the visual appeal of the premises, but also serves as a testament to the businesses’ commitment to celebrating local talent and the Oakleigh community. The depiction of Eos is particularly meaningful, representing the dawn of a new chapter for Dig if U will and Mig Collection.

“We love our Oakleigh community and are so pleased to see their enthusiastic response to the mural,” Ms Anagnostopoulos, owner of Mig Collection, said.

“Eos symbolises hope and new beginnings, which perfectly aligns with our move to this new location. We hope this mural inspires further improvements and fosters a strong sense of community in Oakleigh.”

Customers and community members are encouraged to visit and experience the vibrant new look at Dig if U will and Mig Collection. The businesses express their gratitude for the community’s support and invite everyone to enjoy this new addition to Oakleigh.

Ambassador Venizelos formally meets with Governor-General of New Zealand

The Greek Herald
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Ambassador Venizelos formally meets with Governor-General of New Zealand

The Ambassador of Greece to Australia, Stavros Venizelos, formally presented his credentials as non-resident ambassador to the Governor-General of New Zealand, Dame Cindy Kiro, on Wednesday, June 12. The ceremony emphasised the enduring and cordial relations between Greece and New Zealand.

Stavros Venizelos and Dame Cindy Kiro.

During the presentation, Ambassador Venizelos referenced a poignant excerpt from the Greek poet Angelos Sikelianos’s “March of the Spirit,” expressing gratitude for the warm reception and hospitality extended by the Governor-General. He also acknowledged the support provided by George Neonakis, Honorary Consul of Greece in Wellington, to the Greek community in New Zealand.

The meeting highlighted shared values and the commitment to strengthening bilateral ties across various sectors including culture, education, and trade. Ambassador Venizelos reiterated Greece’s eagerness to deepen collaboration with New Zealand on mutual interests and global challenges.

As both nations look forward to future collaborations, the ceremony marked a significant step in furthering the longstanding friendship and partnership between Greece and New Zealand.

Two Greek youths to play tennis at Australian Teams Championships

The Greek Herald
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Two Greek youths to play tennis at Australian Teams Championships

Two Australian tennis players of Greek heritage have been selected to represent Victoria at the upcoming Australian Teams Championships on the Gold Coast.

According to tennis.com.au, William Kallos will play for the Boys Under 11’s and Eleni Makantasis for the Girls Under 13’s.

The Championships are the most prestigious event that 11/u, 13/u and 15/u Victorian athletes can be selected for.

The event will see teams from all States and Territories represented, as well as an international team from New Zealand.

The events will commence on Friday, 21 June. Follow the results of Team Vic on Tournaments.tennis.com.au.

Source: tennis.com.au

Stefanos Tsitsipas advances at Halle Open after tough match with Squire

The Greek Herald
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Stefanos Tsitsipas advances at Halle Open after tough match with Squire

In his grass court season debut of the year at the Halle Open in Germany on Wednesday, June 19, Greek tennis star Stefanos Tsitsipas faced a formidable challenge against unseeded German player Henry Squire, who currently ranks 181st in the world.

Tsitsipas, renowned for his versatile game on different surfaces, found himself unable to break Squire’s serve throughout the match. Instead, he relied heavily on his experience in tie-breaks, narrowly clinching both sets with scores of 7-6.

The first set was particularly intense, with Tsitsipas prevailing 9-7 in the tie-break after a closely contested battle. In the second set, Tsitsipas found his rhythm more comfortably, securing a 7-2 victory in the tie-break to seal the match.

Looking ahead, Tsitsipas advances to the round of 16 at the Halle Open. His next opponent will be determined from the match between Jan-Leonard Struff of Germany and Luciano Darderi from Italy, setting the stage for another challenging encounter in his grass court campaign.

Chrysoulakis and Kourakis meet to discuss strengthening Greek diaspora ties

The Greek Herald
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Chrysoulakis and Kourakis meet to discuss strengthening Greek diaspora ties

John Chrysoulakis, the Secretary General for Greeks Abroad and Public Diplomacy, recently met with Chris Kourakis, Chief Justice of South Australia and National Patron of the Hellenic Australian Lawyers Association. The meeting highlighted the strong ties and shared interests between Greece and the Greek diaspora in Australia.

Describing Mr Kourakis as a “creative and honoured Greek of the diaspora,” Chrysoulakis noted the Chief Justice’s significant contributions and deep-rooted connection to Greece, despite being born in Australia with origins from the island of Ikaria. Their discussion covered a range of topics, with a particular focus on the Greek community in Australia and the potential for further networking and collaboration among Greeks worldwide.

John Chrysoulakis and Chris Kourakis.

The two leaders explored ways to strengthen the bonds within the Greek diaspora, emphasising the importance of maintaining cultural and professional connections. The conversation also touched on broader topics of mutual interest, underscoring the ongoing commitment to cultivating a sense of unity and shared purpose among Greeks living abroad.

This meeting reflects a continued effort to support and engage with the Greek diaspora, recognising their valuable contributions and the role they play in promoting Greek culture and interests globally.

Greek swimmer Stergios Bilas wins gold at European championship

The Greek Herald
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Greek swimmer Stergios Bilas wins gold at European championship

Stergios Bilas celebrated a gold medal in the 50m butterfly at the European Men’s Championship in Belgrade on Tuesday, June 18.

The 23-year-old swimmer, after the triumph of Apostolos Papastamos in the 400m medley, made history by winning his first individual gold at the men’s level.

stegios bitas
Stergios Bilas (centre) wins gold.

With an amazing performance of 23.15 (he had 23.06 in the qualifiers), he left his rivals behind, giving Greece its third medal in the championship.

Simon Bucher (Austria) finished 2nd in 23.19, while Daniel Grakic (Czech Republic) took the bronze in 23.26.

Bilas, celebrating his rise from European U23 champion to European men’s champion, seals a golden page in his career.

Michael Christofas named finalist in prestigious Percival Photographic Portrait Prize

Andriana Simos
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Michael Christofas named finalist in prestigious Percival Photographic Portrait Prize

Michael Christofas has been named finalist in North Queensland’s prestigious Percival Photographic Portrait Prize for his work, Portrait of Voula (2022).

Also named finalist in the category is fellow Australian of Greek heritage, Sam Scoufos for his 2024 work Self-Portrait in Water.

Having begun in 2007, The Percivals (which include the Photographic Portrait Prize, the Portrait Painting Prize, and the Animal Portrait Prize), is an open competition for artists.

While showcasing the outstanding and innovative work currently being produced by Australian artists, the competitions have also allowed many emerging artists to engage with portraiture and share their expressions of themselves and those close to them.

Michael Christofas
Michael Christofas.

The Greek Herald spoke with Mr Christofas after finalists for The Percivals were announced and he expressed his joy at the honour.

“I’ve been involved in solo and group exhibitions, however this is the first time I’ll be a finalist in such an important portrait prize. It’s a privilege to see my work being exhibited alongside other artists from across the country,” Mr Christofas said.

His selected photographic entry Portrait of Voula (2022) features artist Voula Manousaki from Heraklion, Crete. Voula is one of the most acclaimed hagiographers throughout Greece and globally.

“She is in her late seventies and still a practising artist. Her icons hang in galleries, churches and private collections throughout the world,” Mr Christofas explained.

Voula Manousaki of Heraklion, Crete.
Voula Manousaki of Heraklion, Crete.

“I met Voula by chance in mid 2022 when I walked past her studio. At the time, I didn’t know who she was. She invited me in to spend time with her. I visited her in her studio over the coming days spending several hours with her on each occasion.

“I felt a deep connection with Voula as a fellow artist, her artistic passion and her creativity. I knew I had to capture her image, and having gained her trust, she was open to me photographing her.”

The artist, who has Greek heritage from the island of Kastellorizo, said he has always had a passion for people-based photography.

“My portraits fit into the genre of environmental portraiture, that is – portraits of people in the place they know, feel comfortable and safe. My images have often been described as raw and emotive that shows a true connection between artist and subject,” Mr Christofas concluded.

The Percival Portrait Painting Prize, Percival Photographic Portrait Prize, and the Percival Animal Portrait Prize will be exhibited at Perc Tucker Regional Gallery from 22 June until 1 September 2024.

Federation of Greek Elderly Citizens Clubs of Victoria elect new executive

The Greek Herald
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Federation of Greek Elderly Citizens Clubs of Victoria elect new executive

The Board of Directors of the Federation of Greek Elderly Citizen Clubs of Melbourne & Victoria (FGECCMV) met on Friday, June 14 and voted on the composition of the new seven-member board.

John Kostoulias was re-appointed President of the Federation, despite announcing his resignation from the position in March 2024 due to health reasons.

The other elected positions were Angelos Koutouleas as Vice President, Soula Kolokytha as Secretary, Martha Antoniadis as Treasurer, Kalliopi Shirp as Assistant Secretary, Eugenia Toulopa as Assistant Treasurer, and Dimitra Sardelis as Committee Member.

This comes after the Federation held an Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Friday, April 5 and elected a new Executive Committee led by Dimitra Sardelis. At a member meeting on Friday, April 19, these election results were deemed illegitimate due to issues around transparency and voting procedures, and a new election was called for Friday, June 7 where Mr Kostoulias was re-elected.

SEKA Victoria objects to formation of Parliamentary Friends of Azerbaijan group

Andriana Simos
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SEKA Victoria (the Justice for Cyprus Co-ordinating Committee) have today expressed the Greek and Cypriot Australian community’s concerns that some members of the Victorian Parliament are considering the establishment of a Parliamentary Friends of Azerbaijan group.

In a letter sent to Victorian MPs on Tuesday, June 18, SEKA Victoria President Pavlos Andronikos called on Natalie Suleyman MP and David Southwick MP to rescind their plans to hold an inaugural Parliamentary Friends of Azerbaijan meeting on Wednesday, June 19.

“Should they fail to do so, we call on every single Member of the Victorian Parliament to take a principled stance and ignore their invitation,” Mr Andronikos wrote.

The SEKA Victoria President also expressed solidarity with Armenian-Australians and other civil society bodies who have condemned the parliamentary initiative.

“Such an initiative can only serve to whitewash the Azerbaijani dictatorships crimes against indigenous Armenians, human-rights activists, journalists and political dissidents,” Mr Andronikos said.

Armenia and Azerbaijan have already fought two wars over Karabakh in the three decades
Armenia and Azerbaijan have already fought two wars over Karabakh in the three decades.

“As Cypriot-Australians, we understand the agony and trauma faced by our Armenian brethren. The military attack launched by Azerbaijan in September 2023 and the subsequent complete ethnic cleansing of the Republic of Artsakh’s (Nagorno-Karabakh’s) 150,000 Armenians brings back the similar pain and trauma of the occupation of Cyprus, which was imposed by force 50 years ago.”

Mr Andronikos said Azerbaijan’s unprovoked attack eight months ago, which forced all Armenians in Artsakh to flee, compounded by crimes like occupying 215 square kilometers of territory within the sovereign borders of Armenia, desecrating religious and cultural heritage, and mistreating prisoners of war, makes “any attempt to establish such a forum reprehensible.”

“Attendance and participation in such a forum would send an inappropriate message, legitimising the crimes of Azerbaijan,” Mr Andronikos stressed.

“Each of you, as elected members, must take a principled stand and send a message to Azerbaijan that you will not allow the crimes of Azerbaijanis against indigenous Armenians and your own citizens to go unanswered.

“We, as Victorians and citizens of a free and democratic state, must stand with the people of Armenia as they endure one of the darkest chapters in their modern history. We can do better. We must do better.”

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