Stefanos Tsitsipas has kicked off his 2025 Roland-Garros campaign in confident fashion, defeating Argentina’s Tomás Martín Etcheverry in straight sets on Monday, May 26.
The Greek, seeded No. 20, won 7-5, 6-3, 6-4 on Court 6 to secure his place in the second round.
Etcheverry, a former top-30 player, posed an early challenge, particularly in the tight first set, but Tsitsipas gradually asserted control with a composed and consistent performance. The Greek star found his rhythm as the match progressed, dominating the final two sets.
Tsitsipas, a former finalist in Paris in 2021, has arrived at this year’s tournament with “renewed determination” following what some have described as an “erratic” season. However, he recently captured his third Monte-Carlo Masters title and said he has been working “harder than ever” to rediscover top form.
This opening win provides a much-needed boost in confidence as he looks to push past previous quarterfinal hurdles and make another deep run at the French Open.
Liverpool’s Premier League title celebrations were marred by a serious incident on Monday evening when a car collided with a crowd of fans in the city centre, injuring dozens and prompting a major emergency response.
The crash occurred on Water Street, near the Royal Liver Building and town hall, shortly after roads had reopened following the club’s official victory parade. A 53-year-old white British man was arrested at the scene.
Witnesses described scenes of panic and distress as the vehicle ploughed into a densely packed area of supporters.
Les Winsper, who saw the crash unfold, told The Guardian: “People started banging on the [car] windows. Then they smashed the windows and he’s panicked and put his foot down. He then hit someone and that person has gone in the air and he’s ploughed through the rest of them.”
His friend, Craig Steward, added: “It was the worst thing I’ve seen in my life… I’m traumatised.”
A car rams into the Liverpool Premier League victory parade. Photos: X.
Up to 30 people were treated for injuries or shock inside a nearby Italian restaurant. Emergency services said 20 people were treated for minor injuries at the scene and 27 were taken to hospital. Of those, two people – including one child – are believed to have sustained serious injuries. No fatalities have been reported.
Assistant Chief Constable Jenny Simms confirmed in a press conference that the incident is not being treated as terrorism and that police are not currently seeking anyone else in connection with the crash.
Footage and photos from the scene showed a heavy emergency services presence, including armed police and medics. One eyewitness claimed the vehicle reversed before accelerating “deliberately” into the crowd. Another said: “It looked clearly deliberate… people were just fans going to enjoy the parade.”
The motive behind the incident is still unclear. Merseyside Police are leading the investigation, with support from counter-terrorism officers as a precaution.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer labelled the incident “appalling.”
The scenes in Liverpool are appalling — my thoughts are with all those injured or affected.
I want to thank the police and emergency services for their swift and ongoing response to this shocking incident.
I’m being kept updated on developments and ask that we give the police…
“My thoughts are with all those injured or affected. I want to thank the police and emergency services for their swift and ongoing response,” Starmer added.
Liverpool FC expressed solidarity in a statement: “Our thoughts and prayers are with those who have been affected by this serious incident.”
We are in direct contact with Merseyside Police regarding the incident on Water Street which happened towards the end of the trophy parade earlier this evening.
Our thoughts and prayers are with those who have been affected by this serious incident.
In a venue once known for screening R-rated films, a new chapter of cultural pride and political purpose was written on Friday, May 23 at the Cyprus Club’s cocktail reception, launching the 50th Annual Conference of the Federation of Cyprus Communities of Australia and New Zealand.
The evening was marked by two major highlights: the official invitation extended to Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to visit Cyprus, and the presentation of a Medal of Honour to EOKA veteran Andreas Neroupos.
Hosted by Michael Christodoulou AM, President of the Federation, and Theo Theophanous, President of the Cypriot Community of Melbourne and Victoria, the event welcomed a multigenerational delegation of Cypriots and Greeks from across Australia and New Zealand. It marked the beginning of a weekend focused on cultural preservation, political advocacy and youth engagement.
Michael Christodoulou AM, President of the Cyprus Federation.
Mr Christodoulou, who arrived late due to a personal loss, addressed the crowd with heartfelt candour.
“I couldn’t miss this. I really admire politicians when they speak my language – when they understand that Cyprus is not a political issue, but a human one. It’s about invasion, occupation and the pain of being thrown out of your home with nothing but the clothes you are wearing,” Mr Christodoulou said.
He confirmed that Australia’s Prime Minister has been officially invited to visit Cyprus by Cyprus’ President Nikos Christodoulides.
“Like him or not, Anthony Albanese has been one of the biggest supporters of the Cyprus issue we’ve ever had,” Mr Christodoulou said. “If you look at Hansard, you’ll see he’s spoken more about Cyprus than any other politician in the last 52 years.”
He told The Greek Herald that while a date has not been set, the visit is “promising” and that “movement on the Cyprus issue” is expected in the coming months.
(L-R) Victorian Council for Greek National Day Chair Sophia Siachos, Anthony Cianflone MP and Cr Emily Dimitriadis.SEKA Committee.
Anthony Cianflone, State Member for Pascoe Vale, representing Victoria’s Premier Jacinta Allan, spoke of his personal ties to Cyprus through his wife, Anna-Maria, and his visits to the island in 2012 and 2015.
“There’s tremendous opportunity for us as Australia to continue building on the Cypriot relationship,” he said, highlighting shared interests in trade, democracy and regional stability.
Shadow Minister for Multiculturalism, Evan Mulholland MP, representing the Leader of the Opposition Brad Battin, spoke of his Calabrian heritage and reflected on the contributions of post-war migrant communities, like the Hellenic community, in building modern multicultural Australia.
Two Calabrians from different sides of the political fence – Anthony Cianflone and Evan Mulholland.
Honouring Andreas Neroupos, veteran of the EOKA resistance against British colonial rule, High Commissioner of the Republic of Cyprus to Australia, Antonis Sammoutis, presented him with a Medal of Honour. Father Kyprianou outlined the background of the former war hero, arrested in 1955 for carrying grenades, for which he was defended in court by future Cypriot presidents Glafcos Clerides and Tassos Papadopoulos.
High Commissioner Anthony Sammoutis presents a medal to Andreas Neroupos.Christos Violaris gives a kiss on the cheek to Andreas Neroupos.Andreas Neroupos speaks to the High Commissioner.
Mr Sammoutis praised the diaspora’s enduring commitment to justice for Cyprus, saying he felt the “love” of Cypriot, Greek, and Australian communities.
Emcee Stephanie Demetrios also shared a message from Theodora Constantinidou, Ambassador and Director of the Service for Overseas and Repatriated Cypriots at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cyprus.
Stephanie Dimitriadis, master of ceremonies.Theo Theophanous, president of the Cyprus Community of Melbourne and Victoria.
The conference, described by Mr Theophanous as “three conferences in one”, brings together the Federation, the Pan-Australian Justice for Cyprus Committee (PASEKA), and the Cypriot Youth Organisations of Australia and New Zealand (NEPOMAK), the youth arm of the diaspora. He warned against the demographic changes caused by Turkish settlers to the occupied north.
“It is 50 years of occupation where the Turkish-Cypriot culture has been eroded,” he said.
(L-R) Nikolas Varelas, Michael Christodoulou and Chris Koulinos.
Mr Christodoulou echoed this sentiment.
“If I had a magic wand, I’d make sure every person who lost their property should be allowed to go back home to their properties and they should have their properties. We should stop this rubbish that they don’t deserve to be there since Turkey invaded,” he said.
“We are hoping that the Australian government will continue efforts to ensure the reunification of Cyprus. But don’t get me wrong, we are not talking about Turkish Cypriots but settlers.”
Anastasia Karatzia became a refugee at 10 when Kyrenia was bombarded.
Mr Christodoulou pointed to the three pillars for Cyprus to survive as a community: preserving culture, religion and language.
Greek Community of Melbourne President Bill Papastergiadis praised the event’s spirit of unity. “We can’t say enough nor commend you enough for this form of collaboration and connection.”
GCM President Bill Papastergiadis addresses the crowd as Theo Theophanous looks on.
This joint approach brought together members of community groups, including Chris Koulinos, President of PASEKA; and Andrea Nicola, President of NEPOMAK.
*All photos copyright Mary Sinanidis / The Greek Herald.
More than 300 guests gathered at The Grand Roxy in Brighton-Le-Sands, Sydney on Saturday, May 24 for the St Elesa Food Initiative Fundraising Dinner, an evening marked by generosity, spiritual reflection, and unwavering community spirit.
Presiding over the sold-out event was His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia, joined by His Grace Bishop Elpidios of Perth and His Grace Bishop Christodoulos of Magnesia. Their presence brought spiritual warmth and heartfelt encouragement to the evening, which celebrated the work of the Initiative in supporting vulnerable members of the community.
In his address, Archbishop Makarios emphasised the significance of the charitable service run by the Greek Orthodox Community and Parish of Kogarah. He also praised Bishop Christodoulos, Fr Athanasios Giatsios, Fr Socrates Dokos, and the tireless members of the Philoptohos for their “inspirational work” in serving those in need.
Bishop Christodoulos, speaking on behalf of all St Elesa volunteers, thanked His Eminence for his “unwavering and unconditional support,” crediting the Archbishop’s pastoral care as the driving force behind the Initiative’s continued impact.
One of the most moving moments of the night came from Glen, a man currently experiencing homelessness who now serves as a Peer Support Officer at St Vincent’s Hospital. He spoke candidly about the role of the St Elesa Food Initiative in his life and the importance of accessible healthcare and emergency accommodation for the homeless.
Adding a special sporting touch to the evening, South Sydney Rabbitohs player Peter Mamouzelos donated a 2025 team jersey, which was auctioned to raise funds for the cause.
Bishop Christodoulos also extended gratitude to the many donors and sponsors, including Elias Stefadouros of Olympia Marble, who contributed a mosaic of St. Porphyrios as a raffle prize. A standout moment was the announcement that Fr Miltiades Chryssavgis had raised over $13,000 in raffle ticket sales alone — an act described as “a testament to the spirit of giving that defined the evening.”
The total amount raised on the night was a remarkable $178,000.
Special thanks were extended to the hardworking Philoptohos for organising the event, MC Peter Panagiotopoulos for keeping the evening lively, Marianthi Karadoukas for capturing it all through photography, and Bill Mougios and the Grand Roxy team for delivering exceptional hospitality.
*All photos supplied by MK Creative Photography and Designs.
Melbourne’s Greek community gathered over the weekend to mark the 84th anniversary of the Battle of Crete, a key moment in WWII that forged a lasting bond between Greece, Australia and New Zealand.
Events blended festivity with remembrance, highlighting the resilience and cultural pride of the Cretan community.
The highlight of this year’s anniversary was the presence of a Greek military delegation led by Vice Admiral Theodoros Mikropoulos. Their attendance reinforced the strong ties between Greece and Australia.
Cultural celebrations began with traditional Cretan dance performances by youth groups at the Cretan House in Brunswick on Friday night.
On Saturday, there was a wreath-laying ceremony at the Shrine of Remembrance and the Australian Hellenic War Memorial, honouring the bravery of Greek, Australian and New Zealand soldiers, as well as Cretan civilians who resisted the Nazi invasion of 1941.
Dignitaries, military representatives and community leaders attended, with messages from His Grace Bishop Evmenios of Chora and Greek Consul General in Melbourne Dimitra Georgakopoulou urging younger generations to remember the sacrifices made for freedom.
On Sunday, there was a Church Service and Doxology held at St Catherine’s Greek Orthodox Church in Malvern.
The Cretan Brotherhood and Pancretan Association later hosted a dinner dance at the Cretan village in Wantirna South, featuring live music from visiting artists Giorgos Alexantonakis and Nikos Papadogiannis.
In a room filled with generosity, courage and quiet determination, the 7th Annual Breakfast for Brain Cancer unfolded on Friday, May 23, at the Royal Motor Yacht Club in Point Piper.
Overlooking the calm waters of Sydney Harbour, guests gathered for a powerful morning of community, storytelling and fundraising in support of The Brain Cancer Group (TBCG) and its critical research and patient support work.
Hosted by the White Pearl Foundation, the event marked Brain Cancer Awareness Month and raised vital funds for research, education and care. Guests were welcomed with drinks and breakfast, then invited to bid on an array of raffle prizes and handmade goods, with 100% of proceeds going directly to brain cancer research.
Founder Suzane Peponis-Brisimis opened the event with an emotional address that honoured patients, carers and donors past and present. She acknowledged the many organisations in attendance.
“This event is held in honour of all those affected by brain cancer,” she told the crowd. “And every dollar raised today will help advance treatment, support families, and fuel the research we so desperately need.”
Founder Suzane Peponis-Brisimis.
A frontline look at hope: Dr Alexander Yuile’s address
First to speak was Dr Alexander Yuile, Medical Oncologist and Brain Cancer Group Research Fellow, who offered a compelling overview of current breakthroughs taking place at the Bill Walsh Translational Cancer Research Laboratory – Brain Group, housed on the Royal North Shore Hospital campus, in the Kolling Institute of Medical Research.
Using analogies drawn from Sydney’s iconic yacht races, Dr Yuile described his lab team as a “crew” navigating the complexities of glioblastoma. He highlighted the lab’s ability to fast-track scientific discoveries into clinical practice thanks to their location, collaborative strength and access to vast tumour samples, imaging databases and patient records.
Dr Alexander Yuile, Medical Oncologist and Brain Cancer Group Research Fellow.
Among their most promising projects is the repurposing of existing drugs to target cancer-driving gene mutations such as CDKN2A.
“Cancer removes the brakes,” he explained. “It turns a normal train into a runaway bullet train. We’re finding ways to put the brakes back on.”
He also spoke of adapting prostate cancer imaging technology to monitor aggressive brain tumours like gliosarcoma — a technique already influencing clinical decisions. Additionally, Dr Yuile shared insights into cutting-edge immune therapy research, including virus-based treatments and personalised vaccines designed to trigger the body’s defences.
“Every time a trial begins or a result emerges, it brings us closer to better treatments,” he said. “None of this would be possible without the support of the Brain Cancer Group — and all of you in this room.”
Emily Kirk: A voice of vulnerability and strength
The most unforgettable moment of the event came from Emily Kirk, a 30-year-old mother who shared her personal journey as a patient with raw honesty and grace.
Emily Kirk.
Diagnosed with a brain tumour shortly after the birth of her daughter, Emily recalled the shock of her MRI results, the fear of holding a newborn while being told the unthinkable, and the moment she felt the world drop out from beneath her.
“This doesn’t happen to young, healthy women in their 30s,” she said. “But knowing what I know now – it does.”
She credited Dr Michael Back and the Brain Cancer Group with restoring her sense of control. “I had finally landed in the safety net after weeks of falling through air,” she said. “That meeting gave me euphoric relief – it was December 23. What a great Christmas gift.”
Now, Emily approaches life with a renewed sense of clarity, gratitude and realism. “Preparing for my death has become part of my daily life,” she shared. “And I’m okay with that. The perspective this diagnosis has given me is a blessing.”
With quiet strength, she described raising her daughter while preparing them for a future that may or may not include her – and how every scientific advance brings her hope.
“Every time a new study comes out, a trial starts, or a drug is released, I’m so thrilled,” she said. “Even if it doesn’t directly impact me, it gives me confidence to keep going… to live without the dark cloud hanging over me.”
A community that carries hope
From the dedicated researchers in the lab to the patients who embody resilience, the 7th Annual Breakfast for Brain Cancer was a powerful display of solidarity and progress. It reminded attendees that while the fight against brain cancer remains one of Australia’s toughest medical challenges, every effort, no matter how small, is part of a larger movement for change.
With moving speeches, generous donations and a shared resolve to make a difference, this year’s event once again proved that compassion and commitment can light the way forward.
An afternoon of reflection on heritage, identity, and the enduring ties between Greece and Australia took place on Saturday, May 24 at the Hellenic Museum in Melbourne, where author and commentator Dean Kalimniou engaged in a thought-provoking conversation with Shelley Dark, writer of the new historical travel memoir Hydra in Winter.
Organised by the Greek Australian Cultural League, the event attracted a substantial and attentive audience keen to follow Dark’s journey into the past as she traced the life of Ghikas Voulgaris—an ancestor of her husband and one of the first documented Greeks to arrive in Australia.
In Hydra in Winter, Dark reconstructs the elusive path of Voulgaris from the rugged island of Hydra to 19th-century colonial Australia. Her narrative interlaces historical facts, ancestral memory, and the resonant absences that often define the search for personal origins. Kalimniou, widely admired for his lyrical writing and insight into diasporic themes, guided the discussion with depth and sensitivity.
“This is more than just one man’s story,” Kalimniou observed. “It’s a lens through which we can view the broader Greek experience in Australia—the fragments of the past we inherit and the role they play in shaping our modern identities.”
Dark spoke openly about the challenges and revelations of her research, emphasising the emotional complexities that come with historical investigation.
“Research isn’t just about uncovering facts,” she said. “You encounter silence, inconsistencies, and unanswered questions—and often, those unspoken parts tell the deepest stories.”
The audience, which represented a broad cross-section of the Greek Australian community, engaged enthusiastically in the discussion that followed.
Attendees offered personal perspectives on migration, memory, and identity, sparking a wider conversation about how history is remembered and interpreted within the community. Themes included how pioneers are commemorated, the balance between reverence and critical thought, and the ways in which younger generations connect with their roots.
President of the Greek Australian Cultural League Cathy Alexopoulos described the event as “a rare moment of insight—simultaneously illuminating and reflective of the mysteries that shape our cultural identity.” She praised the event as part of the League’s commitment to fostering meaningful dialogue about the Greek diaspora’s layered and evolving story.
As guests remained well after the official close of the event, it became evident that history isn’t merely archived—it lives on through conversation, reinterpretation, and the stories we continue to share.
The Greek Orthodox Diocese of Toliara and Southern Madagascar has announced the establishment of a new school complex — including a primary, middle, and high school — thanks to a generous contribution from the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia (GOAA).
This marks the second school built in the Diocese, with Bishop Prodromos of Toliara and Southern Madagascar describing the support as “a silent but essential support in the daily struggle of our children for education and a life with future perspective.”
In a public statement on social media, Bishop Prodromos extended deep thanks to His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia and acknowledged the “faith and consistency” of Australian bishops, clergy, and faithful who have supported the mission.
“This new school is not just another building. It is another chance at life for hundreds of children who thirst for learning and progress,” he said.
The Diocese expressed gratitude to all who contributed, adding, “Their memory will remain alive through the laughter and joy of the children who will pass through the gates of this school every day.”
The spirit of old Athens shone brightly on Saturday, May 24, as the Athenian Association of NSW hosted its much-anticipated “Athenian Night” at the Greek Orthodox Community of NSW in Lakemba, Sydney.
Themed “The Life of Athens as it was,” the event transported guests to the charming laneways and lively tavernas of Athens’ historic neighbourhoods, with a packed program of live music, traditional cuisine by chef Ari, speeches, and Greek dance.
The evening commenced with a welcome address by emcee Stella Sorotou, followed by a blessing of the food by the Very Reverend Father Irenaeus Triantis, representing His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia.
Athanasios Lambrou, First Counsellor for Public Diplomacy at the Consulate of Greece in Sydney, also gave a speech.
In her official address, President of the Athenian Association, Cathy Valis, welcomed the crowd and reflected on the 72-year legacy of the Association.
Athanasios Lambrou, First Counsellor for Public Diplomacy at the Consulate of Greece in Sydney.President of the Athenian Association, Cathy Valis.
“Tonight’s event is dedicated to our Athens — the city with the longest and most glorious history—and specifically to ‘Athens as it was’,” she said.
Ms Valis painted a vivid picture of the old city’s allure, describing Plaka, Monastiraki and Thiseio as places steeped in memory and heritage.
“Whatever it may be, there is one unifying thread that connects it all: the people who lovingly embrace and preserve the lifestyle of Old Athens and pass it on to future generations,” she said.
She also acknowledged the event’s organisers, supporters, and community members, and paid tribute to the Consul General of Greece in Sydney, Yiannis Mallikourtis, ahead of his departure in July.
“He will be missed not only by us but by the entire community,” she said.
Athanasios Lambrou received a gift from the President Cathy Valis to give to the Consul General.
The evening’s program featured live performances by the Music Lovers orchestra and traditional dancing by the Rallis Vatallidis troupe. Guests were also treated to a talk on the picturesque neighbourhoods of Athens and the musical pieces ‘Meeting in Athens’ and ‘My Athens.’
The committee of the Athenian Association of NSW gave a beautiful art work to Cathy Valis painted by committee member Stella Sorotou.
Among the many in attendance were representatives from the Greek Orthodox Community of NSW, Councillor Fiona Douskou from Bayside Council, and numerous Greek cultural organisations, including historians, educators, and media.
A raffle draw and the cutting of a commemorative cake rounded out the night, with guests expressing joy at the authenticity and community warmth of the celebration.
The event served not only as a cultural celebration but also as a heartfelt tribute to Athens and the efforts of Greek Australians to keep its spirit alive in the Antipodes.
President of the Greek Orthodox Community and Church of Canberra (GOCCC) John Loukadellis met with ACT Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Michael Pettersson MLA, at the Legislative Assembly on Friday, May 23.
During the meeting, Mr Loukadellis and Mr Pettersson discussed ongoing and future multicultural initiatives in the territory.
Both engaged in a wide-ranging discussion covering the 2025 Multicultural Festival and proposed improvements for 2026, the growth of the Greek language over the past five years, and government grant programs.
Mr Loukadellis expressed appreciation for ACT and NCA support, including language grants, flying Greek flags, and lighting public buildings blue for national celebrations. He also offered support for emerging communities in the ACT.
