The final commemorations for the 84th anniversary of the Battle of Crete were held on Sunday, May 25 at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Annunciation of the Theotokos in Redfern, Sydney with a moving Divine Liturgy, Doxology, and memorial service.
Presiding over the service was His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia, joined by His Grace Bishop Elpidios of Perth.
In attendance were key representatives of the Greek and Cretan communities, including Ioannis Mallikourtis, Consul General of Greece in Sydney; James Jordan, Chairman of the Joint Committee for the Commemoration of the Battle of Crete and the Greek Campaign; and Emmanuel Vitetzakis, President of the Cretan Association of Sydney and NSW.
Other notable guests included Councillor Vicky Poulos of Bayside Council, Peter Tsigounis, President of the Greek Returned Services League of NSW, and John Cominos, Vice President of the Hellenic Club of Sydney. Members of the Cretan Association and the Joint Committee were also present.
During the service, a message from His Eminence was read aloud, honouring the courage of the Greek people and the support offered by the ANZACs during the pivotal WWII battle. He reflected on the bravery of the Greek people and the support of the ANZAC forces, as well as the enduring bond between Greece and Australia.
Following the liturgical observances, attendees gathered for a morning tea, where a commemorative cake was ceremonially cut by Mr Vitetzakis and Bishop Elpidios.
The meeting was held to discuss potential investment opportunities and the local investment environment.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Nevin Hussein — President of the Chamber of Australian Turkish Cypriot Professionals — expressed interest in investing in the occupied territories to “revitalise the economy and strengthen cooperation.”
Berova noted that the “government” is working to support investment initiatives.
The Prefect of the Regional Unit of Kalymnos, Emmanuel G. Moussellis, has congratulated the Kalymnian community in Darwin, Northern Territory following the foundation of the new Greek Orthodox Church of Saint Savvas the New of Kalymnos.
Describing the new church as a “shining example of unity, faith and love for our roots, place and tradition,” Mr Mousellis emphasised the church’s significance as a spiritual beacon for future generations of Kalymnians in Australia.
Plans for the new church in Darwin.
He praised the collective efforts that brought the vision to life, stating, “Through the construction of this sacred space, you keep the soul of Kalymnos alive in the hearts of the Greek community.”
Concluding his letter, Mr Mousellis offered blessings to the expatriate Kalymnian community, expressing hope that Saint Savvas would continue to strengthen their ties to the homeland.
The Member for Heffron and NSW Minister for Local Government, Ron Hoenig MP, has thrown his support behind calls to protect the full integrity of the Discobolus Monument at Sydney Olympic Park, warning that its relocation must respect both the artist’s vision and the Greek community’s cultural legacy.
The Discobolus Monument, created by renowned Australian artist Robert Owen, was installed in Stockroute Park in the lead-up to the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games. It was part of a larger cultural initiative known as the “Hellenic Tribute Trilogy,” which honoured the Atlanta 1996, Sydney 2000 and Athens 2004 Olympic Games.
The project was funded entirely by Greek Australians, supported by the Greek Government and coordinated through the Olympic Coordination Authority (OCA).
The park and its installations were further enhanced between 2009 and 2010 for the 10th anniversary of the Sydney Olympics. Stockroute Park, which features mature olive trees donated by the Greek Australian community, was officially recognised by the NSW Geographic Names Board in 2010.
Designed as a lasting acknowledgment of Greece’s foundational role in the Olympic movement, the monument has since become a treasured cultural and historical landmark. Yet under the NSW Government’s Sydney Olympic Park Draft Masterplan 2050, the park and its iconic Hellenic features face removal to accommodate mixed-use development.
The future of Stockroute Park and its iconic Discobolus sculpture has sparked widespread concern among Sydney’s Greek Australian community, in particular former Randwick City Mayor, John Procopiades.
In a letter addressed to community leader and former Randwick City Mayor, John Procopiades, Mr Hoenig said he had personally raised the issue with Planning Minister Paul Scully MP and urged the Sydney Olympic Park Authority (SOPA) to exercise “great care” in any relocation process.
“I recognise that for Sydney’s Greeks, the Discobolus stands as a symbol of the deep affection they have for their city, and the immense pride they have for their cultural heritage,” Mr Hoenig wrote.
“This is why any relocation of the Discobolus must be executed with great care and a thorough regard for Robert Owen’s original vision.”
Mr Hoenig emphasised that the monument was not simply a standalone sculpture, but part of a larger, thoughtfully designed art landscape.
“To respect the original intent of the artist, all of these elements must be considered prior to determining a new home for the Discobolus,” he wrote, referencing key features such as the stone steps, olive and eucalyptus trees, dry-stone walls, and column drums.
His comments come after a sustained campaign by Greek Australians, sparked by The Greek Herald’s exclusive November 2024 report revealing the Discobolus Monument and Stockroute Park faced demolition under the Draft Masterplan.
Minister Hoenig acknowledged this gap, stating it “understandably left many unconvinced by SOPA’s relocation plans.” He raised concerns over SOPA’s capability to assess the cultural and artistic significance of such heritage, and suggested a more appropriate new site could be the public space adjacent to the new Metro station at the “Urban Centre” within the park precinct.
Minister Scully, in a separate letter enclosed with Mr Hoenig’s response, confirmed there is “no intent to remove the Discobolus Monument from Sydney Olympic Park,” and said SOPA will continue community consultation. He reiterated that technical studies had identified Stockroute Park as suitable for development, but acknowledged the value of the Greek community’s contribution and the importance of respecting the monument’s artistic legacy.
Mr Hoenig concluded his letter by promising to provide updates on further developments and reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring the monument’s cultural and historical importance is safeguarded for future generations.
A total of 125 candidates from NSW and the ACT sat for the Certificate of Attainment in Greek Language exams, held at Macquarie University on 20 – 22 May.
This record level of participation has established the School of International Studies as the largest examination centre in the Southern Hemisphere.
The School of International Studies of Macquarie University is the only certified Examination Centre for the Greek language certificate in NSW by the Centre for Greek Language (CGL) in Thessaloniki since 2022.
The Certificate of Attainment in Greek is the only official state certification by the Greek Ministry for Education, Religious Affairs and Sports confirming the knowledge of Greek as a foreign/second language at six levels, corresponding to the Common European Framework (CEFR) levels. It is recognised by all member states of the European Union, and by NESA (New South Wales Education Standards Authority).
The first day of examinations was dedicated to levels A1 and A2, while levels B1 to C2 were conducted over the following two days. Statistical information from this year’s exams:
Dr Patricia Koromvokis, Lecturer in Global Cultures and Languages in the School of International Studies at Macquarie University and Head of the Examination Centre, stated, “For the fourth consecutive year, Macquarie University has been the largest examination centre for the Certificate of Attainment in Greek in Australia.”
“This year’s record participation, particularly at the higher language levels, was remarkable. A total of 28 students sat for the B1 level, a significant increase compared to just six candidates last year. This achievement reflects the ongoing dedication and effective partnerships between Macquarie University and key Greek government bodies, schools, community organisations, and educational institutions, all working together to advance the reach and recognition of the Certificate of Attainment in Greek,” Dr Koromvokis added.
“For the transparent organisation of the annual exams at Macquarie University, we have cooperated smoothly with the Centre for the Greek Language in Thessaloniki, the Consulate General in Sydney, the Greek language schools in NSW, the Education Office in Melbourne, and the SICLE (Sydney Institute of Community Languages Education), with which we co-organised a professional development workshop in April.”
Dr Koromvokis added, “Profound gratitude is owed to the Macquarie University Greek Association for the help on the days of the exams. I extend my heartfelt thanks to all the Greek language educators who contributed their time and expertise as invigilators and examiners during this year’s exams. Their commitment plays a vital role in sustaining Greek education across the diaspora. A well-deserved acknowledgment also goes to every candidate who dedicated months of preparation to take part in the exams; their effort is commendable regardless of the outcome. Wishing them all the very best as you await your results!”
Samedh Chirravuri, a 15-year-old candidate, took the A2 exams in May 2025 and shares his experience.
What inspired you to learn Greek and take the exams for the Greek Language Certificate?
My Greek language journey began when I was seven years old, and I had many Greek friends. I decided to begin attending language classes offered by St Nectarios Church Burwood at my school, Trinity Grammar School. After several years of community Greek school, my teacher suggested that I consider taking the exam. While neither I nor anyone in my family is Greek, I was deeply inspired by the Greek community. I sat the A1 exam in 2024 and A2 in 2025.
What did you find most challenging and most rewarding during your preparation for the exam?
In my preparation for the exam, the most challenging facet was the fact that I am not Greek, and have had learn Greek as a foreign language, instead of a community language. The most rewarding part of this journey was that the Greek community also took pride in my studies and encouraged me and celebrated with me along the way.
How will you use the Greek language in the future?
I look forward to visiting Greece again and being able to communicate with other Greek people both in Greece and in Australia. I will also use my Greek studies during university in studying international relations.
What would you say to someone who is thinking of starting to learn Greek?
Have confidence in your ability to learn a new language and go for it. You are capable of more than you may realise. You’re building a new body of knowledge and it’s a goal worth pursuing.
For more information, visit the Macquarie University’s Greek Language Examination Centre website.
Tennis legend Rafael Nadal was honoured in an emotional farewell ceremony at Roland-Garros, with fellow champions Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray joining the tribute.
The event marked the symbolic end of an era in men’s tennis dominated by the four icons.
Nadal, who holds a record 14 French Open titles and a 112-4 win-loss record at the event, addressed a packed Court Philippe-Chatrier in French, English, and Spanish.
“This final farewell from, without a doubt, the most important tennis court of my career,” he said.
“I’ve had incredible rivals, like Andy, Novak and of course Roger… nothing would have been as thrilling without these long-lasting rivalries,” Nadal reflected. He also praised the tournament staff, calling Roland-Garros “unique.”
The tribute included a video montage and a surprise appearance by Federer, Djokovic, and Murray. Nadal embraced each, calling their presence “a great message for the world” about sportsmanship and mutual respect.
“You don’t need to hate the opponent to try to beat him… that’s our legacy,” he said.
Nadal’s family, including wife Mery Xisca Perelló and son Rafael Jr, were in attendance, along with sports figures such as Yannick Noah, Pau Gasol, and Tennis Australia CEO Craig Tiley. Fellow Spaniard David Ferrer, whom Nadal beat in the 2013 final, was also present.
Addressing Djokovic, Nadal said: “All the nerves, pressure… it’s completely different when you finish your career. At the end, all of us achieved our dreams.”
Nadal’s legendary run was marked with a commemorative clay footprint plate on centre court. While Federer and Murray have retired, Djokovic — who turns 38 this week — remains active, holding a record 24 Grand Slam titles. Nadal has 22, Federer 20, and Murray three.
Their historic rivalries include Nadal-Djokovic’s 60 encounters — the most in the Open era — with Djokovic leading 31-29. Nadal led Federer 24-16 and Murray 17-7.
“They represent a very important part of my tennis career… one of that four was always winning the tournament,” Nadal said.
In a symbolic handover, rising star Carlos Alcaraz greeted the quartet following the ceremony.
NSW SES drone pilot Gabe Mihalas played a key role in a life-saving operation to deliver urgent medical supplies to cancer patients stranded by floodwaters on the NSW mid-north coast.
With Harrington cut off and river conditions too dangerous for boats, and helicopters unavailable, Mihalas used a drone to fly the critical supplies across the Manning River on Wednesday night.
“The option to use a drone kept volunteers out of floodwater and out of danger,” Mihalas told 9News.
“It’s a great feeling to be a part of this… it was definitely a nice feeling to be out there on the frontline doing the actual delivery.”
Mihalas also captured footage of the nighttime delivery, part of an SES innovation trial using drones for emergency response.
Local palliative care nurse Tiffany Willis coordinated the on-ground handover and ensured the medication reached patients within hours.
“Those two patients were just so relieved and so thankful to receive medical treatment and some reassurance that even though we are still cut off, we’re not completely isolated from help,” she said.
The SES continues to explore drone technology as a tool for safe and efficient disaster response.
The Greek Australian manager, who joined Spurs in June 2023, led the club to a 1-0 Europa League final win over Manchester United in Bilbao last week, earning a $4.13 million bonus and delivering Tottenham its first European silverware in 41 years.
Fans, many of whom skipped work or school, packed Tottenham’s High Road to celebrate the victory.
“I told them and they laughed. I told them and they didn’t believe – and here they are,” Postecoglou told the crowd, beaming as supporters sang his name and waved navy blue and white flags.
“All good things come from hard work, toil, perseverance and belief – and the team’s had it in spades.”
Despite sitting 17th in the EPL and facing their worst league finish since 1976–77, the victory has reignited hope.
Photo: Peter Nicholls / Getty Images.
Supporters, including families and fans who climbed rooftops to catch a glimpse, praised Postecoglou’s leadership.
“He’s bringing success no one else has in 17 years,” said Andy Hannon, who celebrated with his 13-year-old daughter.
Fellow fan Simon Greenway added: “He’s the most successful manager we’ve had in 17 years.”
Former Tottenham player Graham Roberts said, “This will give them belief now. All that pressure is gone. We’ll get more now – the rest will come.”
Postecoglou hinted at more success ahead: “All the best television series, season three is better than season two.”
Club icon Robbie Keane urged the club to back the coach amid speculation about his future: “How can you get rid of a manager who just won a European Cup? You need stability.”
For now, Tottenham fans are soaking up a long-awaited triumph.
Business Sydney executive director Paul Nicolaou has criticised the NSW government’s decision to offer fare-free travel today, arguing it falls short of compensating commuters and businesses for last week’s major train delays.
The disruption, caused by a live cable falling across a train during high winds, brought Sydney’s rail network to a halt, stranding thousands of commuters.
In response, Premier Chris Minns announced fare-free travel for today, a move Nicolaou says misses the mark.
“Current data, supported by business feedback, indicates that office occupancy on Mondays and Fridays averages between 50 and 60 per cent, in contrast to 80 to 90 per cent on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays,” Nicolaou said.
Photo: Steven Markham / AAP Photos.
“A fare-free Monday is a nice gesture but it’s not enough on its own. What we need is targeted, long-term investment and incentives to encourage public transport use.”
He warned that last week’s chaos damaged confidence in the city’s transport system.
“We can’t afford more meltdowns like last week’s – it was a big setback to the recovery of the city because it has shaken confidence so badly,” he said.
Nicolaou’s concerns were echoed by others, including former transport minister David Elliott, who suggested the fare-free day be held on the weekend to benefit families and boost local businesses.
Melbourne father Michael Pavlou has described scenes of “panic” and “confusion” during a violent incident at Northland Shopping Centre on Sunday, May 25, which left one man hospitalised and triggered a lockdown.
Pavlou was shopping with his three-year-old son when chaos erupted.
“As I walked out of Coles, I saw a group of people running,” he told The Guardian.
“At first, I thought they may have stolen something. But then I noticed more people running and then everyone running. Someone said, ‘Someone has got a machete.’ I had my son in the trolley with our groceries.”
Victoria Police said the incident involved “two rival groups” armed with knives, who allegedly clashed in the food court in a targeted attack.
A man in his 20s suffered upper body injuries and was taken to hospital in serious but stable condition. Two teenagers, aged 15 and 16, were arrested and charged with multiple offences, including affray and possessing a controlled weapon.
Pavlou, who witnessed people fleeing through Myer and the food court, said the scene quickly turned to chaos. “There was definitely panic. Everyone was trying to get out. The car park became gridlock. After getting out, we started hearing sirens and a helicopter.”
Police recovered a machete and are searching for up to eight more individuals believed to be involved. Investigators believe the clash may have been retaliation for a previous incident.
Supt Kelly Lawson called the event a “pre-organised gang meet-up” and “disgraceful,” while reassuring the public that it was not a random attack.
