Greece’s Personal Data Protection Authority (PDPA) on Monday imposed a 400,000-euro fine on the Ministry of Interior and a 40,000-euro fine on New Democracy MEP Anna-Michelle Asimakopoulou for their respective roles in violating data protection regulations.
PDPA said a file of about 25,000 voters registered for the June 2023 elections was leaked between 8 and 23 June 2023. The list, which included voter emails, was sent to New Democracy’s then Secretary for Diaspora Affairs, Nikos Theodoropoulos, by an unknown individual. Theodoropoulos forwarded the file to Asimakopoulou on January 20, 2024, who used it to send mass campaign emails.
The authority said it has postponed its verdict on Theodoropoulos and New Democracy to examine new claims submitted by the former on who gave him the list.
Following the revelation of “email gate” in March, the general secretary of the Interior Ministry, Michalis Stavrianoudakis, resigned, Theodoropoulos was dismissed by New Democracy and Asimakopoulou announced that she would not be running in the European Parliament elections.
The Conservative MEP is facing 75 lawsuits by citizens and the Interior Ministry more than 200 lawsuits since the “email gate” scandal broke.
The Ministry of Interior said that it will “thoroughly study” the PDPA’s decision to consider further legal actions.
The French Open has started this week and whilst Greek tennis star Maria Sakkari was knocked out in the first round, Stefanos Tsitsipas survived his sticky start to progress to round two.
No.88 Varvara Gracheva engineered the biggest upset of the French Open on Monday, coming from a set down to defeat No.6 seed Sakkari 3-6, 6-4, 6-3 in the first round.
Sakkari is the first Top 10 seed to fall through the first two days of the tournament.
“I played brilliant tennis towards the end and felt really comfortable with my shots, with any decision I tried to apply, it worked brilliantly,” Tsitsipas said after the match.
Tsitsipas will take on Germany’s Daniel Altmaier in the French Open second round.
Walking down Bay Street in the Sydney suburb of Brighton-Le-Sands on any normal weekday, you would see cars calmly driving past and locals sipping their coffee at nearby cafes. But Sunday, May 26 was not any ordinary day.
The festival marked the end of the 42nd Greek Festival of Sydney supported by the Greek Orthodox Community of New South Wales (GOCNSW) and presented by the Bank of Sydney.
All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Andriana Simos
Long queues of people lined up to nab themselves a sizzling souvlaki, whilst the scent of succulent lamb-on-the-spit or loukoumades drew in others. Young children chased after each other, giggling and with huge smiles on their painted faces. Their parents took in the multitude of stalls with authentic Greek products and services.
90-year-old Yiannis couldn’t contain his excitement about the return of the Greek Fest and everything that was taking place on the day.
90-year-old Yiannis (second from left) with his family at the Greek Fest Brighton-Le-Sands.
“I’ve been to the Greek Fest before, years ago, and it makes me happy to see it here again,” Yiannis said with a smile.
“I came to meet some friends and to have a good time. I’ve had the best day. I’m having fun because I took my wife out today.”
Elsewhere, Greeks of all ages gathered around the main stage to watch as dancers from Sydney’s Greek and Cypriot dance schools performed modern and traditional dances, much to everyone’s delight. Dance groups who took part included the Greek Dance Rhythms, Aristotelian Academy, Sydney Sizmos, Kalymnian Association of NSW, Cyprus Community of NSW, Pontoxeniteas NSW Senior Group, and the GOCNSW.
The Greek Orthodox Community of NSW dancers.
There was also a School Band performance from St Spyridon College featuring students Dionysia Dragonas, Peter Mangafas, Sam Kalamaras, Spyridoula Karagiorgiou, Julian Stathis and John Pascalis.
At 3pm, the official ceremony of the Greek Fest began in the presence of a number of distinguished guests. Emcee Stavros Tsilimos introduced the officials which included the Consul General of Greece in Sydney, Yannis Mallikourtis; Federal Minister for Indigenous Australians, Linda Burney MP; NSW Minister for Multiculturalism and Member for Rockdale, Steve Kamper MP; NSW Minister for Industrial Relations, Sophie Cotsis MP; Leader of the NSW Liberals, Mark Speakman MP; NSW Shadow Minister for Multiculturalism, Mark Coure MP; NSW Shadow Minister for Finance, Eleni Petinos MP; Bayside Council Mayor Bill Saravinovski; President of the GOCNSW, Harry Danalis; Chair of the Greek Festival of Sydney, Nia Karteris; as well as many local councillors and representatives of Greek and Cypriot associations, schools and cultural organisations.
Mr Tsimilos read out a message from the NSW Premier Chris Minns and Bank of Sydney CEO Melos Sulicich before there was a traditional Welcome to Country and Smoke Ceremony, as well as the singing of the National Anthems of Greece and Australia by Anya from the GOCNSW Afternoon and Saturday Greek schools.
Mr Danalis then took to the stage and thanked the NSW Government and Bayside Council for making it possible for the Greek Fest to return to Brighton-Le-Sands after 21 years.
“It’s been a long time and it is worthwhile, as you can see by the support we have from all of you today who turned up on this glorious day to witness the closing event of the 42nd Greek Festival of Sydney,” Mr Danalis said.
Harry Danalis Yannis Mallikourtis
The Consul General commended the Greek Festival of Sydney for their program of events over the past three months and encouraged them to continue going above and beyond to promote Hellenism across the state. Speaking to the grandparents and parents in attendance, Mr Mallikourtis turned to the issue of Greek language in Australia and said it was very important to speak Greek at home to preserve heritage and culture.
Minister Kamper addressed the crowd next and referenced the NSW Government’s commitment of $880,000 over four years to ensure the longevity of the Greek Festival of Sydney. He said he was proud to see the festival return to Brighton-Le-Sands.
“It’s so important that we keep this [the festival] alive,” the Minister said. “I can see four generations here today… maybe five. How good is that? We need to continue to celebrate our Greek heritage and our culture.”
Steve KamperMark Speakman
Mr Speakman spoke briefly about the history of the Greek Fest and said it was a celebration of the contribution the Greek community has made to NSW.
“Today is a celebration of everything Greek, it’s a celebration of Greek culture, Greek heritage, Greek civilisation. It’s a celebration of Greek diaspora – 140,000 people in NSW who claim a Greek heritage,” he said.
The Federal Minister for Indigenous Australians, Ms Burney spoke from experience about the importance of hosting cultural events such as the Greek Fest as a way of giving the local diaspora a voice.
“It really is a sea of humanity out there and it’s so wonderful to see,” Ms Burney said, pointing to the hundreds of thousands of people crowding Bay Street to take in the festival.
“We live in a world where we know there are many, many difficult issues and to see the Greek community led by Harry [Danalis] and Nia [Karteris] here in the thousands really reinforces the importance of sharing culture, the importance of maintaining culture and the importance of strength in culture. And that’s what I see when I look down Bay Street today.”
Linda BurneyMark Coure
In his speech, Mr Coure called on Bayside Council to help fund the Greek Fest and ensure it can be held again at Brighton-Le-Sands next year.
“It’s wonderful that everyone is here celebrating everything about Greece and Greek tradition and Greek food. This [the festival] is bigger than Darling Harbour, I have to say, and I hope we are here every year moving forward because the Greek community deserves it,” he said.
Bayside Council Mayor Saravinovski approached the stage next and welcomed everyone back to Brighton-Le-Sands. He also acknowledged the support of his Council colleagues and Minister Kamper in helping bring the Greek Fest back to the Sydney suburb.
“So when Nia [Karteris] comes and speaks after me, I want to hear these words: ‘We are coming back next year’,” Mayor Saravinovski said.
Bill SaravinovskiNia Karteris
When Ms Karteris did speak, her response to the Mayor and NSW Government drew loud applause from everyone in attendance.
“If the Mayor of Bayside Council and the Councillors want the Greek Fest back, if the ministers want us back, if the federal government wants us back, we know how to run a festival so give us the Grand Parade. We need a promise that next year we will have the Grand Parade and then we will consider it,” she said with a smile, referencing the main street of Brighton-Le-Sands.
The Chair of the Greek Festival of Sydney went on to thank all the volunteers who helped make the event possible, and said she was honoured to hold her position of leadership.
“I started as Chair at the Greek Festival of Sydney in 2003 here in Bay Street… and 21 years down the track I was still bestowed that honour and I thank them [the board of directors of the GOCNSW] for allowing me to bring this festival to new heights,” Ms Karteris concluded.
“It is not just a festival of souvlakia and Greek music. It is a festival of major cultural events. Recognising our young people right through to the ages from eight years old to 50 and 60. This is what the 42nd Greek Festival of Sydney did this year.”
Greek dancing after the official speeches.
With that ending, the GOCNSW Dance Group, under instruction by Paroula Thurban, gave an impromptu dance performance and official guests joined in.
Later in the day, IHO NYX band drew crowds with its unique style and sound, before internationally acclaimed singer Dimitris Basis closed the festival with an impressive repertoire of songs that had everyone on their feet dancing and singing the night away, hoping for an even bigger and better Greek Fest in 2025.
*All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Andriana Simos.
On Friday, May 24, the Federation of Cyprus Communities and Organizations of Australia and NZ officially inaugurated its 51st Annual Conference following a four-year pause due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The conference was held in Sydney at the Cyprus Community Club of NSW in Stanmore. The event also marked the launch of the Annual Conference of the Pan Australian Co-Ordinating Committee of Justice for Cyprus and the NEPOMAK World Organization for Young Overseas Cypriots.
Stephanie Demetriou, President of NEPOMAK, served as the emcee for the evening, ensuring the smooth progression of the event.
Michael Christodoulou
Michael Peters Kyriakou
Stephanie Demetriou
Yannis Mallikourtis
Michael Christodoulides
Amanda Fazio
Justice Melissa Perry
David Clarke
Michael Peters Kyriakou, President of the Cyprus Community of NSW, delivered a compelling speech on the significance of educating the third and fourth generations about the Cyprus issue and the importance of preserving Cypriot culture. His focus on generational continuity resonated deeply with the audience.
Following this, Michael Christodoulou, President of the Federation, welcomed delegates from across Australia and New Zealand. He acknowledged the substantial impact of those present in advocating for Cypriot culture and the ongoing campaign for justice in Cyprus. He also paid tribute to the community leaders who passed away in the past nine months, including members of Justice for Cyprus committees, Christina Charalambous from Adelaide, and Georgia Alexandrou from Canberra.
Michael Christodoulides, President of PASEKA, addressed the Turkish invasion of Cyprus, highlighting Turkey’s violations of UN Security Council resolutions. He emphasised the necessity for a just and peaceful resolution and stressed the importance of collaborating with other communities facing similar threats, such as the Armenian community.
Ms Demetriou echoed these sentiments, elaborating on NEPOMAK’s role in addressing the Cyprus issue while also connecting youth to their heritage and culture. She described NEPOMAK as a vibrant organisation dedicated to preserving Cypriot traditions among the diaspora.
Antonis Sammoutis, High Commissioner of the Republic of Cyprus in Australia, underscored the importance of unity among Cypriot and Greek communities in Australia to promote a strong and unified Hellenic identity. He also suggested that the Cyprus issue should be addressed through diplomatic means.
Yannis Mallikourtis, Consul General of Greece in Sydney, expressed his support for the High Commissioner and the Cypriot community in NSW. He emphasised the broader scope of Hellenism, which includes Cyprus, and the need for collaboration to commemorate historical events such as the illegal invasion of Cyprus.
Delegates from across Australia and NZ gathered to attend the 51st Annual Conference.
The Hon Amanda Fazio, Former President of the NSW Legislative Council, and The Hon David Clarke, Former Parliamentary Secretary for Justice, both reiterated their support for the cause, advocating for continued governmental lobbying for a just resolution in Cyprus.
The final speaker of the evening, Justice Melissa Perry of the Federal Court, reflected on her family history, migration, and Cypriot heritage. She highlighted her father’s legacy of social justice, public service, and education. Justice Perry also discussed the hospitality and generosity inherent in Hellenic culture, drawing on personal experiences and an ancient Greek myth that underscored values of compassion, knowledge, and time, relating these to the Cyprus issue.
After the speeches, attendees enjoyed a dance performance by the Cyprus Community of NSW Dance Group.
Cyprus Community of NSW Dance group.
Special guests in attendance included Stavros Nikolaou, Deputy Head of Mission at the Cyprus High Commission; Major General (Retired) Tim Ford AO, Vice President of the United Nations Association of Australia (NSW Division); Dr Stepan Kerkyasharian AO, Former Chair of the Community Relations Commission; Morris Hanna OAM, Former Mayor of Marrickville Council; Victor Macri, Former Mayor of Marrickville Council; Rosana Tyler, Former Councillor of Inner West Council; Dr Andrew Theophanous, Former Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister & the Minister for Health; Mr Michael Kolokossian, Armenian National Committee of Australia Director; and presidents of various Cyprus communities from Australia and New Zealand, including Professor Andreas Evdokiou, Theo Theophanous, Stathis Zambas, Zak Chrisostomou, Nectaria Volis, Helen Gordon, Fanos Christou, Helen Christodoulou, Andy Economous, Panikos Achilleous, Michael Yiallouros, Dr Miranda Adamou, Chris Koulinos, and Pavlos Andronikos.
Dr Stepan Kerkyasharian and Michael Peters Kyriakou.
Michael Christodoulou (L) and David Clarke (R).
The conference continued over Saturday and Sunday, featuring a range of speakers from across Australia and New Zealand discussing the Cyprus issue. On Saturday, reports were presented by presidents and representatives of PASEKA and SEKA, planning for the 50th anniversary of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus was discussed, along with the current political climate in both Cyprus and Australia and lobbying efforts for Cyprus in Australia. On Sunday, reports from community presidents and representatives were presented, along with the Treasurer’s reports, NEPOMAK’s past and future youth activities, and discussions on elderly and women’s programmes, as well as the promotion of Greek language and culture schools. Proposed amendments to the constitution were also discussed, and plans were made for the next conference.
This year’s conference holds particular significance as it marks 50 years since the invasion of Cyprus.
“The Pontian House is a symbol of our Pontian culture, our roots, our heritage and our identity. We can proudly say that it is our second home,” young Pontian, Eleni Lambousis, said in a speech on Saturday, May 25.
The comment drew loud applause from the crowd – which consisted of three generations of proud Pontian women, men and children – who were all there to support Pontoxeniteas NSW‘s ‘Winter Wonderland Fundraising Gala’ for its 45-year-old Pontian House.
All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Andriana Simos.
Held at The Grand Roxy in Sydney’s Brighton-Le-Sands, the gala saw people enjoy a four course meal and drinks, as well as plenty of live entertainment featuring Greek, English and Pontian music. Spiro Zafiropoulos on the bouzouki drew everyone onto the dancefloor.
Emcee and half-Pontian Bill Kritharas commenced the evening’s formalities by welcoming the official guests in attendance including Pontians from organisations such as the Federation of Pontian Associations of Australia, Pontoxeniteas NSW, Panagia Soumela, Akrites tou Pontou, Canberra Association of Pontos – Trapezounda, and Greek Pontian Society of Wollongong Diogenes. Representatives from the Pan Macedonian Association of NSW, the Hellenic Lyceum and the Cretan Association of Sydney & NSW were also present.
Emcee Bill Kritharas
Referencing a speech he delivered at Macquarie University’s 2023 graduation ceremony, Mr Kritharas then shared his family’s personal story of migration and reflected on his grandfather Avram’s experience as a Pontian Greek refugee, highlighting the trauma and resilience of the community during the genocide. His maternal grandparents were born and raised in Samsun (a major Black Sea port on the north coast of Turkey which was ravaged by the Ottoman Turks during the Greek genocide from 1913–1923), but were forced to move to Greece during the population exchange and later, migrated to Australia.
“The impact and the trauma of that double displacement – leaving their home in Pontos to go to Greece and then again, being relocated from Greece to Australia – I never quite understood how traumatic that is and how that trauma is passed on to the next generation,” Mr Kritharas said.
“These are really our stories. These are our stories of migration. But they were very strong people. They were heroes in many ways because they adapted, they adjusted, they were resilient, they had families, and they built up this fabulous Pontian community in Australia.”
To speak further on this resilient Pontian community, Pontoxeniteas NSW youth members Eleni Lambousis and Zoe Karatasas then shared their connection to their cultural heritage and of course, the Pontian House.
Pontoxeniteas NSW youth members Eleni Lambousis and Zoe Karatasas.
Eleni stressed that the Pontian House was a place for laughter, cultural activities, and a ‘second home’ where ideas are exchanged and friendships are formed.
“The Pontian House is not just a physical structure or a building, but a home where we have the opportunity to grow, learn and flourish as a team and with a community that is so supportive around us,” she said.
Zoe added that it is time for the youth to step up and safeguard the Pontian House for the next generation of Pontians.
“Let us remember the profound impact that the Pontian House has had on countless lives, the young and the old. Let us all work hard to ensure the future of the club maintains its legacy, inclusivity and opportunities for generations to come. Us, as the youth, have a goal to ensure the Pontian House continues to stand as a place of belonging for all who call it home,” Zoe said.
Following a video featuring elderly and young members of Pontoxeniteas NSW sharing what the Pontian House meant to them, the President of the Federation of Pontian Associations of Australia, Esta Paschalidis-Chilas got up to speak.
Esta Paschalidis-Chilas
Ms Pachalidis-Chilas touched on the history of the Federation and stressed that it’s important for members to remain strong and united “to give a voice to the Pontian community nationally.” She said the fundraising gala was a prime example of this strength, given the number of member groups represented on the night alongside a large number of youth.
Last to speak was Pontoxeniteas NSW President Maria Anthony, who asked her all-female committee to stand beside her as she proudly addressed the crowd and thanked them for their support.
Maria Anthony (centre) with her all-female committee.
Ms Anthony gave background on the history of the Pontian House, explaining how it was first purchased on November 29, 1980 for $145,000 under the leadership of former Pontoxeniteas NSW President Vasilios Paridis, who was present on the night. She said she was proud to continue the legacy of past committees.
“The Pontian House is a place where we meet, build relationships and keep the Pontian spirit alive. A place we gather with one another and promote, educate and learn about our rich Pontian rich culture and history. A place where we can speak the Pontian dialect and continue to educate future generations so they are proud of our heritage,” Ms Anthony said.
“Until today, we continue the work of our founders and now it is time to make our Pontian House ready for the future.”
Ms Anthony said Pontoxeniteas NSW had plans to bring the Pontian House “back to its former glory” by improving its aesthetics and functionality, upgrading the bathrooms, the entrance foyer, and flooring, and installing sound proofing, a bar and platform lift.
At the conclusion of official speeches, guests enjoyed a Zeibekiko floor show by Niko from My Zeibekiko Journey.
Throughout the night there was also a silent and main auction, as well as plenty of prizes to win. CEO / Founder of Heartbeat of Football and proud Pontian, Andy Paschalidis conducted the main auction, drawing applause and laughter from the crowd thanks to his great selling skills.
Andy Paschalidis
Bill Kritharas and Dimitra Skalkos.
The whole night raised $33,412 plus a full upgrade of the male and female bathrooms. A great way to end a successful gala filled with Pontian culture and heritage.
*All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Andriana Simos.
On Friday, May 24, the White Pearl Foundation hosted its 6th Annual Breakfast for Brain Cancer at the Royal Motor Yacht Club in Point Piper, Sydney, in support of The Brain Cancer Group (TBCG). The event brought together supporters, medical professionals, and special guests to raise funds and awareness for brain cancer research and treatment.
The morning began with morning tea and refreshments, followed by a series of impactful speeches.
Suzane Peponis-Brisimis, Founder of the White Pearl Foundation, opened the event with a warm welcome. She acknowledged special guests, including Dr James Drummond, Neuroradiology Chief at The Brain Imaging Laboratory, TBCG; Dr. Jackie Yim, Radiation Therapist Supervisor (Neurooncology) at RNSH and Head of Operations and Research at TBCG; Tracey O’Donoghue, Company Secretary and Director of TBCG; Consul General of the United States in Sydney, Christine Elder; and major donors to TBCG, Barbara Cohen and her family, Pamela Roussis and Jenna Brennan, Evan and Margaret Shonk, Jane Recny and Nigel Stoke, Ed Apon and Elaine McCarron, and the Lewis Foundation.
Suzane Peponis-Brisimis.
Ms Peponis-Brisimis paid tribute to the family of Tim Cohen, to the family of Peter Georges and TBCG Ambassador Matthew McCarron, who had secured a significant $450,000 donation to The Brain Cancer Group over three years.
Dr Yim expressed gratitude to the attendees and outlined his role at TBCG. He detailed the group’s focus on 3 pillars brain cancer Research, Education, and Support, and highlighted the establishment of an advanced Imaging Laboratory at the North Shore Medical Campus, funded by generous donations from the Family of Tim Cohen and the White Pearl Foundation.
Dr Jackie Yim.
The keynote address was delivered by Dr Drummond who highlighted the advanced infrastructure at The Brain Imaging Laboratory’s North Shore campus, emphasising its blend of public and private hospital resources. He discussed the Brain Lab’s efforts in clinical trials and the challenges in treating aggressive brain cancers, particularly glioblastoma. Dr Drummond stressed the importance of optimising existing therapies and making incremental improvements rather than relying on breakthroughs like immunotherapy. He outlined the need for a personalised and precise approach to each patient.
Dr Drummond showcased the evolution of medical imaging from basic CT scans to advanced MRI and PET scans, noting that the North Shore campus is a pioneer in PET imaging. He elaborated on innovative imaging techniques that map brain functions and tumour characteristics, aiding in precision surgery and tailored radiotherapy. One notable project involved measuring oxygen levels in tumours to enhance radiotherapy, and he also mentioned a technique called “dose painting” to target resistant tumour areas more effectively. Dr Drummond highlighted the future of quantitative MRI and Artificial Intelligence in planning treatments, emphasising the need for research funding due to limited government support.
Dr James Drummond.
The upcoming Chimera project aims to integrate advanced imaging methods into routine clinical care and share data globally to improve brain cancer care. Dr Drummond concluded by underscoring the value of incremental progress in enhancing patient outcomes and quality of life.
The programme also featured Joanne Hüging, a guest speaker and patient carer, who attended with her husband. Ms Hüging shared her experiences and insights, highlighting the importance of support for brain cancer patients and their families.
Joanne Hüging.
Following the speeches, lunch was served and raffle prizes were drawn, marking yet another successful White Pearl Foundation event in support of brain cancer research and patient care.
$25,000 profit was generated with donations still being received. Funds will be donated to TBCG’s Imaging Laboratory. There is still an opportunity to support this initiative by donating at the following link: www.whitepearlfoundation.org/donate
The 2025 Breakfast for Brain Cancer will align with International Women’s Day and is planned for Sunday, March 9th, 2025.
Melbourne’s Greek community gathered at events over the weekend to commemorate the 83rd anniversary of the Battle of Crete.
The events were attended by a delegation from the Hellenic Ministry of Defence featuring Vice Admiral Christos Sasiakos, Deputy Chief of the Hellenic National Defence General Staff; Captain Pavlos Angelopoulos, Staff Officer of the Bilateral Relations Directorate of the Hellenic National Defence General Staff; Lieutenant Commander Stylianos Mitsiotis, Staff Officer of Public Relations Directorate of the Hellenic National Defence General Staff; and Colonel Ioannis Fasianos, Military Attache of the Hellenic National Defence Force based in Canberra.
All photos supplied by Con Deves.
Commemorations began with an official Battle of Crete Commemorative Reception in honour of ANZAC veterans at the Cretan Brotherhood of Melbourne’s hall at Brunswick East on Friday, May 24.
On Saturday, May 25, there was an official wreath laying ceremony at the forecourt of the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne. This was followed by a ceremony at the Australian Hellenic Memorial in the Domain Gardens of Melbourne hosted by the Australian Hellenic Memorial Foundation.
Later that day, there was a Commemorative Dinner Dance held at the Cretan Village in Wantirna South.
On Sunday, May 26, the Greek community came together at The Transfiguration of Our Lord Greek Orthodox Church in Thomastown, immediately followed by the Opening of the ANZAC Hellenic Memorial in the Northern Suburbs.
The 4th International Conference on the Hellenic Diaspora begins in-person and online on May 31 at Charles Darwin University’s (CDU) Casuarina campus.
The conference, which first began in 2017, is an interdisciplinary collaboration between CDU, the University of the Aegean, and the University of Macedonia in Greece.
It highlights research from individuals around the world on the Greek language, literature, identity and culture, migration, history of the Greek diaspora in Australia, experiences and perspectives of Hellenes and First Nations Australians.
Presentations on day one includes Going English: The Anglicisation of Greek family names in migrant communities by journalist and author Phil Kafcaloudes, Intelligent Synergies: Leveraging Human and Artificial Intelligence for Mastery and Innovation in Modern Greek Language Education by Dr Nicolaos Bogiannidis, and Preserving Modern Greek in Melbourne Through Recordings by Dr Stavroula Nikoloudis and Professor James Walker.
The second day of the conference will be hosted in-person and online by the University of the Aegean in Rhodes on June 29, and the third day hosted by the University of Macedonia in Thessaloniki on July 12.
International conference brings Darwin to Greece and the world
CDU students who participate in the Greek In-Country language program will have the chance to attend the conference at the University of Macedonia during their study trip later this year.
Conference organiser and CDU Associate Professor in Greek and Hellenic Studies George Frazis said the conference was a gathering of likeminded individuals keen to share their knowledge and research in the name of growing together as a society.
“We believe in today’s world, collaboration and synergies is the answer to everything,” Associate Professor Frazis said.
“Revealing the stories of so many migrants around the world makes CDU a university involved in the international arena. We’ve got papers delivered not only for Greeks in Northern Territory, not only for Hellenes in Australia, but also many papers on Hellenes in different parts of the world.”
The conference will be launched at a ceremony on May 30 celebrating the publication of Perspectives on the Hellenic Diaspora Volume 3, which covers the research presented at the 2022 conference as well as other academic papers.
The launch will feature addresses from former Northern Territory Administrator the Honourable John Christopher Anictomatis AO, and His Honour Judge Anastasis (Tass) Liveris.
The research presented in this year’s conference will be published in Perspectives on the Hellenic Diaspora Volume 4 in 2026.
Petrol station giant BP Australia has acquired South Australian fuel and convenience retailer X Convenience from the Kosmidis family.
The deal expands BP’s network, with more than 50 X Convenience sites in South Australia and Western Australia.
According to The Advertiser, brothers Steve and Tom Kosmidis acquired their first petrol station in 2006, and by 2013 had six sites across Adelaide.
Over the past five years, younger brother Steve, 44, has adopted a more aggressive strategy – opening multiple new sites each year, expanding into Perth in 2021, and growing the network to more than 50 sites.
X Convenience service station.
Company records show Tom, 48, stepped down as a director of several of the Andrash group of companies that operated the X Convenience business in 2017, leaving Steve as the sole director and driver of the company’s expansion.
The amount paid by BP to take over X Convenience was undisclosed.
BP Australia president Frédéric Baudry said the deal would enable the company to tap into X Convenience’s local knowledge and convenience expertise.
X Convenience director Steve said he was “excited for this next chapter of the business as BP continues to build the X Convenience network and delivering for our customers.”
Melbourne businessman Demetrios ‘James’ Charisiou has been sentenced to 12 years in prison for an elaborate fraud scheme that took $395 million from Korean investors.
According to Nine News, 63-year-old Charisiou duped two Korean-based firms into giving his company LBA Capital $394,740,000 in credit under the guise of investing the money into properties supported by the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) in Melbourne.
None of the properties were purchased and most of the money sat in an account.
In November 2023, Charisiou pleaded guilty to two counts of using false documents and two counts of obtaining financial advantage by deception.
His legal team argued that his was a “hare-brained scheme” caused by a severe deterioration in his mental health.
Victorian Supreme Court judge John Champion handed down his sentence on Friday, May 24, and found Charisiou guilty of obtaining financial advantage through deception and using fake documents to do so.
Justice Champion said he was unable to accept that Charisiou had found himself out of his depths in negotiating the deals.
Justice Champion said while Charisiou was unlikely to reoffend, there was a risk he remained driven by his ego and “illusions of grandiosity.”
The judge sentenced Charisiou to 12 years’ jail, with a non-parole period of eight years. The 63-year-old has already spent more than 190 days behind bars.
