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Program released for Battle of Crete events across Australia

The Greek Herald
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Program released for Battle of Crete events across Australia

The Cretan Federation of Australia and New Zealand has released the official national program of events for the Battle of Crete that will be held in May and June 2024 around Australia. Events across Australia will commemorate the 83rd Anniversary of the Battle of Crete and the Greek Campaign.

The events will be attended by a delegation from the Hellenic Ministry of Defence including 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.

The delegation will be travelling to Perth, Sydney, Canberra and Melbourne. Below is the national schedule of events:

Outgoing Consul of Greece in Perth Georgia Karasiotou farewelled by community

The Greek Herald
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Outgoing Consul of Greece in Perth Georgia Karasiotou farewelled by community

The Consul of Greece in Perth, Georgia Karasiotou was honoured for her services in a farewell function hosted by Archbishop Makarios of Australia on Friday, May 10.

Approximately 500 guests attended an event at the Archdiocese Conference Centre in Perth, where celebrations of the strong bond between Greece and Australia, particularly in Western Australia, took place.

Present at the event alongside Archbishop Makarios and Ms Karasiotou were Bishop Elpidios of Kyanea, the Consul of Croatia in Perth, Zoran Sangut, the Consul of Estonia in Perth, Anu van Hattem, as well as other clergy and local Greek community leaders.

Ms Karasiotou met with Archbishop Makarios of Australia in back in March.
Ms Karasiotou met with Archbishop Makarios of Australia in Sydney back in March. File photo.

On the night, Archbishop Makarios awarded Ms Karasiatou the medal of the Order of the Christ-loving and wished her good health and strength, highlighting her valuable efforts towards the Greek community of Perth.

Bishop Elpidios of Kyanea then presented Ms Karasiotou with a bouquet of flowers as a small token of appreciation for significant contributions during her time as Consul.

‘Sing and learn with Mr Tasos’: Educational workshop in Melbourne

The Greek Herald
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‘Sing and learn with Mr Tasos’: Educational workshop in Melbourne

The Modern Greek Teachers’ Association of Victoria, in collaboration with the Greek Community of Melbourne’s Language & Culture Schools, has designed an interactive educational workshop titled ‘Sing and Learn with Mr. Tasos,’ featuring Tasos Ioannidis, creator of the songs ‘Lachana and Hachana.’

The workshop is aimed at kindergarten teachers, educators, and theatre educators, with the goal of enriching teaching practices in Greek language instruction through music.

The presenter of the workshop is the well-known composer and songwriter Tasos Ioannidis, whose love for children is the source of his creativity, as much of his work is inspired by his experiences as a father of three children.

Aimed at transforming the learning process into a game, he created the series of children’s educational songs, books, and theatrical works ‘Lachana and Hachana.’

In the seminar, Mr Ioannidis, with his guitar, will select songs that address the needs of Greek schools in the diaspora and can be divided into four thematic units:

  • Letters, shapes, colours, days.
  • Classic songs in new versions.
  • Grammar songs.
  • Songs for emotional education.

He will teach techniques, practices, and games to educators that will help them engage with their students in acquiring vocabulary as well as grammatical forms and structures through song.

Mr Ioannidis, creator and songwriter, said about the upcoming seminar: “If the teacher manages to turn the lesson into a game so that the child learns without realising that they are learning, then learning becomes an experiential process. The emotional intelligence of children is in operation, and the system of brain neurons is in action. The imprint in children’s memory is indelible, full of the colours of experience. Learning becomes a joyful process!”

The interactive educational workshop will take place on Saturday, May 18, from 2:30-4:30 pm, at St. Gregory the Great Primary School (396 Manningham Rd, Doncaster) and is provided free of charge to all Greek language educators.

TO RSVP follow the link http://www.mgtav.asn.au/lets-sing-and-learn-with-mr-tasos—registration-form.html

Vow Foods co-founder George Peppou sees potential in Future Made In Australia plan

The Greek Herald
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Vow Foods co-founder George Peppou sees potential in Future Made In Australia plan

Vow Foods co-founder, George Peppou says building a manufacturing hub in Australia can have its advantages, hoping the budget will show more government investments in advanced manufacturing.

According to AFR, the food-tech startup has begun exporting products from its Sydney factory to Singapore, with plans to launch in several more markets across Asia this year.

Vow Foods cofounder George Peppou says their lab-grown meat is more environmentally friendly
Vow Foods cofounder George Peppou (right) says their lab-grown meat is more environmentally friendly. Photo: File photo.

“We are the third company in the world to sell cultured meat and we achieved this for less than 10 per cent of the capital and in half of the time of the other two,” Peppou said.

“We’ve got so efficient at this; we can build factories 20 to 50 times cheaper than our competitors.”

The Future Made in Australia Act will include billions of dollars in loans, grants, and equity holdings, as well as investment incentives to attract global and local capital to new companies.

With funding flowing through existing and funded policies like the National Reconstruction Fund, Industry Growth Program and the Future Made in Australia policy, there is potential for what Peppou is proposing.

Source: AFR

Dispatch of postal voting envelopes for European elections begins

The Greek Herald
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Dispatch of postal voting envelopes for European elections begins

The dispatch of postal vote envelopes to over 200,000 registered voters for postal ballots in the upcoming European elections, has commenced. This process extends to Greek Australians, with 835 voters registered from the continent of Oceania.

Communication regarding the dispatch of envelopes has been conveyed to voters via email, SMS, or Viber, accompanied by a link enabling them to track the shipment’s progress until delivery. A select few have already received their designated envelopes.

According to directives from Greece’s Ministry of Interior, the receipt of materials is restricted to the registrant or authorised individuals. Distributors from sponsoring companies verify the recipient’s identity during delivery. Failure to authenticate may result in fines of €10,000 per omitted file.

Contained within the envelope dispatched to the 202,556 voters are:

  • Instructions detailing MEP candidates from all parties.
  • A uniform ballot encompassing all participating parties, featuring designated spaces for voter selection.
  • A voting envelope for ballot placement.
  • An application-responsible declaration for postal voting, which can be submitted digitally via the epistoliki.ypes.gov.gr platform.
  • A return envelope for postal voting, to be sent to the designated collection area.
postal voting greek diaspora european elections

For voters within Greece, the return of the envelope with the ballot is free of charge. Options include scheduling a delivery with the company or personally dropping it off at designated stores.

To ensure timely arrival, ballots must reach the collection site by Saturday, June 8, 2024, at 17:00 Greek time. Recommendations for sending vary based on residency, with deadlines ranging from June 3 to May 28. Registered and express mailing methods are advised.

Failure to meet the deadline results in the unopened return of the envelope. In such cases, participation in the elections is limited to attending the polling station.

In the event of lost materials, voters can reprint through the postal voting platform or visit a specially designed website for people with disabilities for assistance in ballot completion and printing.

Source: AMNA.gr

North Macedonia’s Foreign Ministry affirms commitment to Prespa Agreement

The Greek Herald
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North Macedonia’s Foreign Ministry affirms commitment to Prespa Agreement

North Macedonia’s Foreign Ministry on Monday issued a statement affirming the country’s “unwavering commitment to fully respect constitutional provisions and all internationally assumed obligations,” including the Prespa Agreement signed with Greece.

The statement came a day after North Macedonia’s newly-elected president, Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova, sparked a diplomatic spat with Greece by referring to her country as “Macedonia,” rather than the constitutional name “North Macedonia.”

North Macedonia's new President, Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova
North Macedonia’s new President, Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova. Photo: Robert Atanasovskis/AFP via Getty Images.

At the time, Greece’s government pointed out that the new president’s deliberate avoidance of the country’s constitutional name was a “gross violation” of the 2018 Prespa agreement and warned of consequences in bilateral relations and for North Macedonia’s prospects of joining the European Union.

In response, North Macedonia’s Foreign Ministry on Monday urged “all political stakeholders, particularly elected officials, to exercise caution.”

“Upholding the Euro-Atlantic trajectory of the country remains a paramount strategic interest and serves as a guarantee for its long-term security and stability,” it said in a statement.

Melbourne’s Greek Centre glows red for Pontian Genocide

The Greek Herald
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Melbourne’s Greek Centre glows red for Pontian Genocide

The Greek Centre will be lit up in red in solemn remembrance of the Pontian Greek Genocide (1916-1923), one of the darkest chapters in Greece’s history.

This initiative signifies the collective resolve of the Greek community to honour the memory of the fallen and to ensure that their stories are never forgotten. The red illumination of the Greek Centre symbolises the 350,000 lives lost, a solemn tribute to those who perished at the hands of brutality and injustice.

Through this gesture of remembrance, the Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM) underscores the importance of acknowledging past atrocities and educating future generations about the horrors of history.

Bill Papastergiadis OAM, President of the GCM, shared the story of his grandmother, a woman of remarkable resilience, born in Trabzon amidst the upheaval of Minor Asia.

“In her eyes, I saw a strength that defied all odds,” Mr Papastergiadis reminisced. “She faced the darkest of days with unwavering ethics and an indomitable spirit. Even as she rebuilt her life in Kastoria, the shadows of genocide lingered, haunting her every step.

“Her words, ‘Bill, we must forge ahead,’ echo in my heart. She couldn’t bear to speak of the horrors she witnessed, but her message was clear: resilience in the face of adversity.”

As he stood before the Greek Centre, bathed in a solemn red glow, Mr Papastergiadis declared, “Today, we pledge to remember, to honour the memory of those who endured unimaginable suffering and loss. Our gesture, a beacon of remembrance, signifies our commitment to ensure that history never repeats itself.”

Mr Papastergiadis concluded, echoing Edmund Burke’s wisdom: “Those who don’t know history are doomed to repeat it.”

feature pontian genocide greek community of melbourne

Vice President of the GCM, Anthea J. Sidiropoulos, has a deep connection to the Pontian Greek Genocide through her full Pontian bloodlines.

“Both my Paternal and Maternal Great Grandparents settled in Katerini, Northern Greece, after surviving their journey from Pontos, witnessing unspeakable horrors, and losing much of our extended family,” she states.

“I am moved to tears by the red glow over the Greek Community building. I am reminded of our family’s painful history, and overwhelmed with a mix of sadness and relief. The red glow is a fitting tribute to lives lost, and an acknowledgment of our existence as Pontians. A significant reminder of how cultural heritage is so important for future generations.” 

May 19th marks the official Pontian Greek Genocide Remembrance Day, honouring the memory of 350,000 Pontian Greeks who perished at the hands of the New Turks and the Ottoman Empire from 1916 to 1923. Other sources including foreign missionaries mention 500,000 deaths, most through deportation and forced marches into the Anatolian desert.

Recognised by the Greek state in 1994, this genocide stands as one of Greece’s bleakest chapters, marked by a systematic campaign to eradicate the native Greek populace of Anatolia. The atrocities committed during this time included massacres, forced deportations involving perilous marches, expulsions, executions, and the deliberate obliteration of Eastern Orthodox cultural, historical, and religious landmarks.

Greek and Turkish leaders seek to strengthen bilateral relations

The Greek Herald
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Greek and Turkish leaders seek to strengthen bilateral relations

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis stressed on Monday the need for Greece and Turkey to break free from the constraints of historical grievances, urging both nations to elevate their bilateral interactions and collaboration in the coming years.

“Despite our differing perspectives, we have demonstrated a readiness for mutually beneficial cooperation,” Mitsotakis remarked during a press briefing following discussions with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara.

Mitsotakis reiterated Greece’s endorsement of Turkey’s aspirations for EU membership, albeit acknowledging the substantial challenges involved, stipulating that such integration must align with European standards.

Regarding migration, the Greek leader acknowledged Turkey’s efforts in curbing irregular migration across the Aegean Sea.

“Our joint endeavors to combat human trafficking have yielded tangible results, with Turkey making a positive impact in this endeavor,” Mitsotakis affirmed.

Touching upon the conflict in the Middle East, Mitsotakis affirmed Israel’s right to self-defense following the October 7 terrorist attack, while expressing concerns over disproportionate Israeli actions in the Gaza Strip. He acknowledged discrepancies between Athens and Ankara regarding the classification of Hamas as a terrorist entity, yet underscored their shared desire for cessation of violence and a sustainable ceasefire.

“In areas where we may not see eye to eye, let’s respectfully agree to disagree,” Mitsotakis responded to Erdogan’s remarks expressing regret over Greece’s stance on Hamas, while finding common ground on the rejection of a ground incursion in Rafah.

Furthermore, Mitsotakis lamented the decision by Turkish authorities to convert the Byzantine Monastery of Chora into a mosque, deeming it “regrettable.”

“I consider this historic site to be a testament to humanity’s shared heritage,” he remarked.

Erdogan, on his part, asserted that no challenge between Turkey and Greece is insurmountable, emphasising that progress on resolving the Cyprus issue would bolster regional peace and stability.

He emphasised a focus on constructive dialogue despite divergent viewpoints, underscoring efforts to enhance bilateral trade to $10 billion from the current $6 billion.

Addressing the conversion of Chora, Erdogan affirmed his government’s commitment to preserving UNESCO-recognised cultural sites, stating that the Chora Mosque is now accessible to all in its new capacity.

Touching upon the Muslim minority in Greece’s northeastern Thrace region, Erdogan characterised minorities as conduits of friendship between the two nations, urging for a conducive atmosphere to enhance the rights of the Turkish minority in Greece.

In response, Mitsotakis hailed the active involvement of the Muslim minority in Greek political life as a testament to success, expressing hope for similar treatment of the Orthodox Christian minority in Turkey.

Erdogan also highlighted discussions on counterterrorism cooperation, emphasising joint efforts against terrorist organisations like FETO, PKK, and DHKP-C, stressing their mutual commitment to eradicating terrorism from the region.

Source: Ekathimerini.

‘The Sacred Tree’: New collaborative olive tasting event to be held in Sydney

The Greek Herald
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‘The Sacred Tree’: New collaborative olive tasting event to be held in Sydney

The Greek Festival of Sydney, in collaboration with the Chau Chak Wing Museum and the Office of Economic and Commercial Affairs of Greece at the Consulate General of Greece in Sydney, present a special event dedicated to the “Sacred Tree: Olive” followed by tasting and sampling on Thursday, 16 May 2024.

According to mythology, the olive tree is a divine gift. “I will give you a tree,” said the goddess Athena and struck the rock of the Acropolis with her spear from which an olive tree grew. “Its fruit will feed you, its leaves will give you shade, and its trunk will provide fuel.” As a result, the olive tree has been sacrosanct for Greeks since ancient times, it is a symbol of peace, wisdom and triumph.

Taking initiative on the multiple symbolism of the Olive, archaeologist Dr Tamara Lewit from the University of Melbourne will deliver a lecture titled ‘Liquid Gold: Olive oil in the ancient world’ highlighting the historical and archaeological importance of the olive in the Mediterranean region. This will be followed by a speech by the Trade Commissioner of Greece in Australia, Chrysa Prokopaki, on the importance of the olive and its products in the modern Greek economy, culture and identity.

As an interval on the above two speeches, the winner of 1st Greek Youth Creative Arts Competition in the category of Creative Writing aged 19-24, Emily Papagianopoulos, will read her winning written text entitled “Olive Oil and Cloud Watching.”

olive tree

The event will conclude with tasting and sampling of Greek and Australian products with olive as their main ingredient. Among the Greek companies that offered samples for this purpose are the following; “Archetypon Olive Groves”, “Onar Wellness” and “Lymperis Estate Askra.”

“The olive as a symbol but also as a commercial activity is intertwined with both the history and the cultural identity of Greece and this is exactly what we believe the Greek Festival should convey to the general public of Sydney through such an event,” the Chair of Greek Festival of Sydney, Nia Karteris, said.

Head of Public Engagement at the Chau Chak Wing Museum, Dr Craig Barker added how thrilled the museum was to welcome the Greek Festival of Sydney for this event.

“We are especially thrilled as the olive is currently celebrated in our exhibition ‘Impressions of Greece’ and the museum houses a large collection of ancient Greek objects associated with olive oil. This event will showcase the historic connections and the continuing role the olive plays in Greek self-identity,” Dr Barker said.

Do not miss the opportunity to discover the multidimensional use of the olive, from its simple form as a fruit, to its transformation into olive oil, but also its evolution through more modern techniques where the olive is used as a main component of cosmetic products.

Event Info:

  • WHAT: The Sacred Tree: Olive Tasting Event
  • WHEN: Thursday 16 May 2024 | 6:00pm – 8:00pm
  • VENUE: Chau Chak Wing Museum, University Place, Camperdown NSW 2050
  • TICKET: $20+bf via link https://shorturl.at/gqX48

For more information on the programme and to book tickets to selected events, please visit www.greekfestivalofsydney.com.au

Pontoxeniteas NSW to hold fundraising gala in Sydney for the Pontian House

Andriana Simos
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Pontoxeniteas NSW to hold fundraising gala in Sydney for the Pontian House

Pontoxeniteas NSW are hosting a ‘Winter Wonderland Gala Fundraiser’ on Saturday, May 25 in Sydney to raise much-needed funds for the Pontian House.

The fundraiser will be held at The Grand Roxy in Brighton-Le-Sands from 6.30pm.

On the night, attendees will enjoy a four course meal and drinks, as well as plenty of live entertainment featuring Greek, English and Pontian music.

Deejay Dino will be providing cool tunes throughout the night, whilst Spiro Zafiropoulos will be on the bouzouki, George Apostolidis on the lyra and vocals, Arthur Natsikas on the daouli, and Chris Skenderidis on the keyboard.

As Pontoxeniteas NSW is hoping to raise funds on the night to renovate its 45-year-old Pontian House, there will also be a silent and main auction, as well as plenty of prizes to win.

“Our Pontian House is our second home, like we fix and renovate our own houses, our second home needs all of our help. It has been our building since the 1980s, where we all grew up and it was also a place where many Greek Associations held their dances and events,” Pontoxeniteas NSW President Maria Anthony told The Greek Herald.

“The Pontian House carries so many wonderful memories, it’s more than only a building.”

The Greek Herald is a proud supporter of this event. You can purchase your ticket to the event here: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1184124?

Event details:

  • WHAT: Pontoxeniteas NSW Winter Wonderland Gala Fundraiser
  • WHEN: Saturday 25 May 2024, 6.30pm
  • WHERE: The Grand Roxy, 128 The Grand Parade, Brighton-Le-Sands NSW 2216
  • DRESS CODE: Cocktail
  • TICKETS: $140 per person
  • TICKETING LINK: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1184124?
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