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Hellenic pride: Greek Independence Day celebrations across Australia

Andriana Simos
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Hellenic pride: Greek Independence Day celebrations across Australia

From wreath laying to flag raising ceremonies, Greek communities across Australia celebrated Greek Independence Day this year in various symbolic ways.

New South Wales:

Celebrations for Greek Independence Day started early in the Inner West of Sydney at Burwood with the local council hosting an event at the Fitzroy Centre on Wednesday, March 20 from 6.30pm.

The event included the national anthems of Australia and Greece, prayers officiated by Father George Liangas, a wreath laying ceremony by Greek School students from St Nectarios Greek Orthodox Parish and Community at Burwood, and the Ode to the Fallen in Greek and English.

The evening also included poem recitals, youth singing patriotic songs accompanied by Tassos Lambrou, and traditional and contemporary dance performances by Greek Dance Rhythms directed by Christina Efthymiades AM.

Speeches were given by Father George; President of the St Nectarios Greek Orthodox Parish and Community at Burwood, Penelopy Kioussis; Burwood Mayor John Faker; and former Burwood Mayor Chris Christogeorge. The event concluded with light refreshments.

On Sunday, March 24, there was a wreath laying ceremony at Sydney’s Martin Place, followed by a parade to the iconic Opera House where there was a proud display of Hellenic culture, music and dance. The event was organised by the Greek Orthodox Community of NSW and the Inter-Communities Council of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia. It was the first time since 2020 that the parade had taken place.

On Monday, March 25, the City of Canterbury Bankstown in Sydney’s south-west also marked Greek Independence Day at Earlwood Senior Citizens Centre from 8.45am – 12 pm. The event featured a flag raising ceremony, a Greek band, bouzouki players, traditional dancers and a delicious variety of Greek foods.

Later on Monday, March 25, the Consul General of Greece in Sydney, Yannis Mallikourtis, held an official reception at New South Wales Parliament to mark Greek Independence Day. The event was held in the presence of a number of official guests including Greece’s Alternate Interior Minister, Theodoros Livanios.

The Consul General of Greece in Sydney, Yannis Mallikourtis, held an official reception on Monday, March 25 at New South Wales Parliament to mark Greek Independence Day. All Photos Copyright The Greek Herald Andriana Simos
The Consul General of Greece in Sydney, Yannis Mallikourtis, held an official reception on Monday, March 25 at New South Wales Parliament to mark Greek Independence Day. Photo copyright: The Greek Herald.

Victoria:

To celebrate Greek Independence Day in Victoria, the Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM) hosted its annual 25thMarch Dinner Dance. Held on Friday, March 22 at 6.30 pm at the Panarcadian Association Hall, attendees – which included prominent Greek and philhellene political figures – enjoyed a sit-down meal before hitting the dance floor. The Greek band ‘Anagennisi’ sang laiko-style Greek songs on the night, and the GCM’s Dance Group performed.

melbourne
Official guests at the GCM annual dance for Greek Independence Day.

On Saturday, March 23, the Pammessinian Brotherhood of Melbourne – “Papaflessas” and Society of Kalamata 23rd March Melbourne also held dinner dances to mark Greek Independence Day. A number of politicians, Philhellenes, and leaders of local Greek and Cypriot organisations attended.

Wreath laying ceremonies were also held at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne, as well as the Australian Hellenic Memorial.

The Hellenic Museum of Melbourne also buzzed with life on Monday, March 25, capping off a weekend bursting with Greek Independence Day events. The air crackled with an energy of cultural pride and appreciation as Greek Australian community leaders, businesspeople, politicians, sports leaders, and clergy joined together. The event was hosted by the Greek Consul General in Melbourne, Emmanuel Kakavelakis.

All photos copyright The Greek Herald Mary Sinanidis.
Greek Consul General Emmanuel Kakavelakis shares a moment with Leonidas Vlahakis, Betty Dimitropoulos, Vicki Kyritsis, Jim Claven and Denise Zapantis. Photo copyright: The Greek Herald / Mary Sinanidis.

South Australia:

In South Australia, the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia (Archdiocesan District of Adelaide) celebrated Greek Independence Day on Sunday, March 24. The celebration included a Divine Liturgy and Doxology service at the Archiepiscopal Church of St Sophia (Holy Wisdom of God)in Bowden, presided by Biship Silouan of Sinope.

A trisagion and wreath laying ceremony was then held at the State War Memorial on North Terrace in the Adelaide CBD. Wreaths were laid by various Federal, State and Local Government MPs including the SA Premier Peter Malinauskas, SA Minister for Transport Tom Koutsantonis, and SA Minister for Small Business Andrea Michaels. The Consul General for Greece in Adelaide, George Psiachas was also present along with many Greek and Cypriot community leaders.

After the wreath laying, attendees walked to the nearby Torrens Parade Ground where the third annual Greek Independence Day festival was held. 

sa greek independence day
sa greek independence day
Photos: Tom Koutsantonis MP / Facebook.

The Greek Orthodox Community of South Australia (GOCSA) commemorated Greek Independence Day with vibrant festivities on Sunday, March 24. The day began with a Divine Liturgy and Doxology at the Cathedral of Archangels Michael & Gabriel. This was followed by a memorial service and wreath laying.

On Monday, March 25, on the riverbank of the Torrens, Peter Malinauskas MP, Premier of South Australia together with George Psiachas, Consul General of Greece in Adelaide and Dean of the Consular Corps of SA, also co-hosted a reception for the Greek community to commemorate the 203rd Greek Independence Day.

SA Premier event. Photo copyright: The Greek Herald / Peter Tantalos.
poems
GOCSA event. Photo copyright: The Greek Herald / Peter Tantalos.

Western Australia:

In Western Australia, the Consulate of Greece in Perth organised a well attended wreath laying ceremony at the War Memorial at Kings Park on March 24 to commemorate the 203rd anniversary of the National Day of Greece.

The ceremony opened with a blessing by the Reverend Fathers, officiated by Bishop Elpidios, followed by poems and songs from students of St Andrew’s Grammar, the Immaculate Heart College and the Greek Language and Culture Institute of Evangelismos.

Australian and Greek dignitaries paid their tribute by laying their wreaths and the ceremony was concluded with speeches by the Consul of Greece in Perth, Georgia Karasiotou, His Excellency the Honourable Chris Dawson AC APM, Governor of WA and the Hon Dr Tony Buti MLA, representing the Premier of WA.

The 75-year legacy of Sydney’s Hellenic Art Theatre

Evelyn Karatzas
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The 75-year legacy of Sydney’s Hellenic Art Theatre

With a rich history spanning more than 75 years, the Hellenic Art Theatre in Marrickville has served as a popular institution for all lovers of Greek theatre.

Every year, the Sydney theatre runs two major plays performed in Greek with English surtitles. Performances range from ancient Greek tragedies to classical dramas and comedies, and all are performed in a traditional theatre in the round style structure (with the audience seated around the stage).

Their cast is made up of anyone from five years old, to people in their 80s and beyond.

ANTIGONE, 2009.
ANTIGONE, 2009.
Evelyn, Trojan Women, 2019.
Evelyn, Trojan Women, 2019.
Radikia Anapoda 2018
Radikia Anapoda, 2018.

The Greek Herald spoke with the team behind the Hellenic Art Theatre to uncover the inspiration behind it, what they love about running it and what sort of things they’re known for putting on.

Evelyn Tsavalas, the Hellenic Art Theatre’s production manager, said the theatre was a continuation of the late Chrysostomos Mantouridis – a prominent Greek-Egyptian figure in Sydney’s Greek theatre community from 1949-1980 who founded ΣΕΚ – Συγκρότημα Ελλήνων Καλλιτεχνών (Hellenic Theatre Incorporated).

“He loved producing ancient Greek tragedies and comedies, and to date, Hellenic Art Theatre has committed to continuing that,” Evelyn said.

“Mantouridis died in 1980, and that’s when Stavros Economidis, our artistic director and founder, took over.

“Stavros was the continuation of Mantouridis’ work, and he wanted to make the group more professional, so he decided to study acting and directing at the Ensemble Theatre. That lead to him founding Hellenic Art Theatre.”

Evelyn, Papaflessas, 2021
Evelyn, Papaflessas, 2021
Melpo Papadopoulou, Pelagia's Ghost, 2019.
Melpo Papadopoulou, Pelagia’s Ghost, 2019.

Evelyn said the Hellenic Art Theatre, also known as ‘The Greek Theatre,’ was not only an institution for people to watch plays, but a place to educate children and adults on Greek theatre.

“We have done numerous children’s productions over the years for free, which is our way of giving back to the community,” she said.

“By having kids come and watch the plays, it’s a great way for them to learn Greek as we only perform in the Greek language.

“We also use surtitles (projections of English subtitles above the stage) and when we first introduced them in 2002, I believe we were the only theatre in Australia using them.”

The production manager reflected on the theatre’s journey, sharing that it has seen people of all ages participate in productions, or be part of the audience.

“We’ve built a reputation for our performances of ancient Greek plays, which we present in a traditional manner. This authenticity, coupled with surtitles for non-Greek speakers, has attracted theatre lovers from all backgrounds,” Evelyn said.

“When we first started, it was the first and second generation Greeks, like me, who were involved in the theatre, and now we’re seeing the fourth generation Greeks come along, which is really great to see.

“It’s all about building community and fostering connections, and by showcasing our cultural heritage on stage, we pass on the legacy of our ancestors to the younger generation which then ensures that their connection to their Greek identity remains strong.”

Ecclesiazouses, 2016.
Ecclesiazouses, 2016.
Fonazi O Kleftis
Fonazi O Kleftis.

Hellenic Art Theatre features a diverse ensemble of about 25 volunteers who participate and contribute to productions.

“We’ve also included new migrants from Greece over the years, to offer them a sense of comfort until they find their feet in Australia,” Evelyn said.

“One person I’d love to mention is Melpo Papadopoulou, she is one of the founders with Stavro, who to date, still performs with Hellenic Art Theatre.

“She is known as ‘H Κuρία του θεάτρου’ (‘The Lady of the Theatre’) in Sydney as she has been performing for more than 65 years and is a very important member of the theatre.”

A cultural hub for Hellenism

The artistic director and founder of Hellenic Art Theatre, Stavros Economidis also spoke with The Greek Herald and said he was thankful for all the support the group has received over the years.

“The Greek community, and the Greek Festival of Sydney, have been supporting us for quite a few years now,” Stavros said.

“Obviously, we get quite a lot of satisfaction from having people come and watch our plays, as it’s our hobby and our pleasure. We don’t just perform for laughs though… there’s always a purpose, and we hope that every time someone watches one of our performances, they not only enjoy it, but take something away from it.”

Trojan Women_Maria Valaris as Hecuba with chorus.
Trojan Women, Maria Valaris as Hecuba with chorus.
patrons_ trojan women 2019
Patrons, trojan women 2019.
Lumbago 2023
Lumbago, 2023.
patrons_ trojan women 2019
Patrons, trojan women 2019.

Mr Economidis said it was very rewarding to see people enjoy their shows and he looks forward to putting on many more in the future.

“When you put on a play, and you see a full house of people happy and clapping, you get excited, and that is your payment,” he said.

“When your audience has fun, they also learn a lot, and we make it easier with the English surtitles too, so people of all ages and levels of Greek can understand and enjoy.

“We just have a strong desire to maintain our Greek cultural heritage and we hope to continue keeping it alive and thriving.”

The Hellenic Art Theatre’s next play ‘Karagiozis’ will take place from April 12 to April 28 as part of the Greek Festival of Sydney.

Evelyn described it as a traditional shadow puppet show, which they will bring Karagiozis to life on stage with actors and masks.

“Karagiozis is a very famous folkloric character, and such an important part of our Greek culture that needs to be passed on,” she said.

“The last Karagiozis play we did was seven years ago – ‘Karagiozis in Australia’ – and it was a great success. We got to see three and four generations come together and it was just great for families to come and watch.

“We are quite positive that this time round will be a crowd pleaser and we’re really looking forward to it.”

If you’re interested in joining the Hellenic Art Theatre, visit their website at www.hellenicarttheatre.com.au to find out more.

‘Karagiozis’ will be performed at the Hellenic Art Theatre – Mantouridion (Building 36, Addison Road Community Centre, 142 Addison Road, Marrickville) from 12 – 28 April. The event is part of the Greek Festival of Sydney. To purchase tickets call 0413 989 007 or visit www.hellenicarttheatre.com.au

New era of relations between Greece and QLD marked with National Day event

The Greek Herald
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New era of relations between Greece and QLD marked with National Day event

More than 300 dignitaries have ushered in a new era of longstanding cordial relations between Queensland and Greece with a special commemoration of Greece’s Independence Day hosted by newly-appointed Honorary Consul General of Greece in Queensland George Mastrocostas in Brisbane on Monday, March 25.

Dignitaries included Bishop Emilianos of Meloa, Surfers Paradise MP John-Paul Langbroek (as a representative for the Leader of the Opposition, David Crisafulli), Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner, and Melissa O’Rourke, the State Director for the Department of Foreign Affairs.

Mr Mastrocostas said Greek Independence Day was a pivotal moment in establishing the principles of democracy, justice and equality that bound Greece with Australia today.

“As we celebrate Greek Independence Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to upholding the principles of democracy, justice, and equality for all,” Mr Mastrocostas told attending guests.

“Let us draw inspiration from the courage and determination of those who came before us, and strive to build a future defined by peace, prosperity, and unity.”

The Greek revolt ignited on March 25, 1821, when Bishop Germanos of Patras boldly hoisted the revolutionary flag over the Monastery of Agia Lavra in the Peloponnese in an act of defiance against the oppressive Ottoman Empire, which ruled Greece for nearly four centuries. 

Since that historic moment, the resounding cry “Freedom or Death” has epitomised the spirit of the revolution.

(L-R) George Mastrocostas, Ying Mastrocostas, Bico Athanasas and Denny Palmos. Photo by Glenn Hunt.
(L-R) George Mastrocostas, Ying Mastrocostas, Bico Athanasas and Denny Palmos. Photo: Glenn Hunt.

Mr Mastrocostas said Greek Independence Day commemorated the courage, resilience, and unwavering spirit of the Greek people as they fought for their freedom and sovereignty.

“The struggle for independence was not merely a battle for territorial liberation, but a fight for the preservation of identity, culture, and the values that define the Greek nation,” Mr Mastrocostas said.

“It was a testament to the enduring legacy of democracy, philosophy, and art that originated in ancient Greece and continue to inspire the world to this day.

“We pay tribute to the heroes of the Greek War of Independence whose sacrifices paved the way for the birth of modern Greece. Their indomitable spirit and commitment to liberty serve as an enduring reminder of the power of resilience in the face of adversity.

“One group of such heroes at the time were The Evzones – an elite Greek combat regiment of mountain soldiers and who today serve as members of the illustrious Presidential Guard.

“On this auspicious occasion, I extend my warmest wishes to the Greek community in Queensland, as well as to all those Philhellenes who share in the spirit of Greek Independence Day.

“May the bonds of friendship between Greece and Queensland continue to flourish, and may the ideals of freedom and democracy continue to shine brightly for generations to come.”

The event also hosted the Evzones Collection by Nick Bourdaniotis, a showcase of the elite unit of the Presidential Guard, the Evzones, as a powerful tribute to Greece’s favourite sons and the values they represent.

Dignitaries (in addition, alongside Mr Mastrocostas) included: Mr George Mastrocostas; Bishop Emilianos of Meloa; Reverend Fathers; Mr John Paul Langbroek MP; Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner; The Honourble Anthe Philippides; His Honour Judge Nicholas Andreatidis Kc; Mr Peter Dowling AM; Mrs Linda Dowling; Colleagues of the Consular Corps of Queensland; Ms Melissa O’Rourke; Mr Charlie Sandil; The Presidents of the Various Greek and Cypriot Communities and Parishes and Associations of Queensland.

Chris Savva on impact of seafood shortage for Catholic Easter feast

The Greek Herald
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Chris Savva on impact of seafood shortage for Catholic Easter feast

Morningside fish market “The Fish Factory” get thousands of customers filing through its doors over the Catholic Easter period, looking to snap up the best buys.

This year, however, shortages of seafood due to a crackdown on net fishing on the reef and months of bad weather, including cyclones, could easily put strain on celebrations this weekend.

The wet weather has allowed prawns to grow and breed faster, meaning more stock is available for consumers.(ABC News: Mark Leonardi)
The wet weather has allowed prawns to grow and breed faster, meaning more stock is available for consumers. Photo: ABC News/Mark Leonardi.

According to ABC News, Co-owner of Morningside’s Fish Factory, Chris Savva says “it is a crazy time” and, because the “wild” varieties in Queensland have dwindled, he has had to reach out to interstate suppliers, as well as from New Zealand.

“So we are lucky from a wild perspective we have got the kilos back up. New Zealand are our only fresh co-partner,” Savva said.

“We missed a couple of loads from the Northern Territory but the locals guys, [those] who can, are still fishing and they will also be air-freighting a lot of the exotic fish to us”.

Source: ABC News

Inquest continues after death of Nick Panagiotopoulos

The Greek Herald
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Inquest continues after death of Nick Panagiotopoulos

The inquest into the death of Nick Panagiotopoulos, 47, who suffered a cardiac arrest in October 2021 after a 16-minute wait for an ambulance operator, continues to examine what action was taken as call-answering performance deteriorated in the preceding weeks.

According to WA Today, Christopher Mercovich, a senior performance monitoring officer who spoke at the inquest on Monday on behalf of the Inspector-General, argued that IGEM [Inspector-General for Emergency Management] should allow Victoria’s triple-zero agency, then known as the Emergency Services Telecommunications Authority, some leniency to improve its performance.

Witness Christopher Mercovich, from the Inspector-General for Emergency Management, leaves the Coroners Court on Monday.CREDIT:JAMES ROSS
Witness Christopher Mercovich, from the Inspector-General for Emergency Management, leaves the Coroners Court on Monday. Photo: James Ross.

“It is not the role of IGEM to come over the top of ESTA, or any other organisation, and interfere in their operations in the middle of a global pandemic,” Mercovich said.

“At this point in October [last year], our priority was to make the minister aware how performance had dropped off.”

IGEM’s review, published in September 2022, found that “ESTA simply did not have sufficient ambulance call-takers to meet incredible demand”, partly because it had not been properly funded by the government.

The inquest, presided over by coroner Catherine Fitzgerald, was informed at an earlier hearing that Nick Panagiotopoulos‘ death was caused by a considerable triple-zero answering delay and that if he had gotten early treatment, his chances of survival would have been good.

Source: WA Today

PRONIA’s CEO Tina Douvos-Stathopoulos steps down

The Greek Herald
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PRONIA’s CEO Tina Douvos-Stathopoulos steps down

Tina Douvos-Stathopoulos is officially stepping down from her role as Chief Executive Officer of PRONIA after 7 years.

Elpis Korosidis, President of the Board, expressed gratitude for Tina’s 34 years of service and unwavering dedication as a leader in community services.

Ms Douvos-Stathopoulos wished PRONIA every success and shared her sentiments about its impact on the Greek community.

“I am proud and honoured to have served the Greek community over three decades and to have been part of an organisation that has made a difference to the lives of many,” Ms Douvos-Stathopoulos said.

Deputy CEO, Nikki Efremidis has been appointed Interim Chief Executive Officer while the Board initiates an executive search process for a new, permanent CEO.

Source: PRONIA

Greek Government faces no confidence vote amid handling of Tempi train crash

The Greek Herald
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Greek Government faces no confidence vote amid handling of Tempi train crash

Socialist PASOK leader, Nikos Androulakis has submitted a no-confidence vote in the Greek government, stating that it tried to cover up its responsibility in the catastrophic tempi train crash last year.

In tabling the motion, Androulakis accused the government of “systematically undermining the rule of law.”

Androulakis submitted the no-confidence motion on Tuesday, following a Sunday newspaper publication alleging that transcripts of talks between the station manager and the train driver given to the media in the aftermath of the incident had been significantly edited.

“In every scandal, in every government failure, you make the political choice to hide the truth, instead of taking the difficult road of responsibility,” Androulakis said in parliament as he submitted the motion.

Nikos Androulakis
Nikos Androulakis on the no confidence vote. Photo: Ekathimerini.

The vote on the motion of no confidence is usually taken immediately after the debate, although it can be postponed for 48 hours at the government’s request.

According to Ekathimerini, the crash in the Tempi area of central Greece occurred on the night of February 28, 2023, when a passenger train smashed into an oncoming cargo train put onto the same track and heading in opposite directions; it was Greece’s deadliest railway disaster. Many of the 57 people killed were university students heading back to class after a public holiday.

Government officials denied on Tuesday that they were responsible for the leaks and branded the parliamentary resolution as a political stunt.

Source: Ekathimerini

Greece fail to qualify for Euro 2024

The Greek Herald
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Greece fail to qualify for Euro 2024

Greece has missed out on a place at the Euro 2024 after losing to Georgia 4-2 on penalties.

Greece’s defeat means the Euro 2004 champions continue to wait to qualify for a major tournament since the 2014 World Cup.

Georgia’s victory is a historic moment for the team as it is the first time they have qualified for Euro 2024.

Mavropanos had a goal in the 102′, fatal for Greece were Bakasetas and Giakoumakis who missed two penalties, with the Georgians showing much more composure than the white bullet.

The National Team had the first good moment in the match, when in the 9th minute Ioannidis tried to leave behind the Georgian defence after a pass from Hatzidiakos, but Dvali literally cut him off at the last moment and conceded a corner.

In the 39th minute, Ioannidis again tried to escape behind the Georgia defence, but then fell under pressure from the opponent. But he managed to pass the ball to Pelkas, who “stepped” in the area, but slipped and could not execute.

The Georgians had the best chance of the half in the 45th minute with Zivzivantze’s direct free kick from a lateral position, which Vlachodimos impressively cleared for a corner.

At the end of the first half there was a lot of tension after a skirmish between Kvaratskhelia and Mandalos. Those in the two stands filed onto the field and for about two minutes there was some heckling and shoving, with referee Marciniak sending off Georgia substitute goalkeeper (and former OFI player) Giorki Loria and George Tzavella.

In the second half, Greece took control of the ball and traffic in the midfield, increased their possession percentages (59%-41%), with the Georgians giving them the floor and looking for a quick counter with Kvaratskhelia or Kakvetatze. However, he didn’t have clear opportunities to score, as something was missing in the final pass and execution.

The two teams went into half-hour extra time, with the “blue-and-white” team missing a very important opportunity in the 100′ with Bakasetas’ long shot, which Mamardashvili took impressively into his corner.

In the 102′ from Tsimikas’ corner, Mavropanos rose higher than everyone and with a nailed “dynamite” header sent the ball to the crossbar of Georgia, while the next minute Rota’s shot from inside the area went over the beams.

In the last minute of the first half of extra time, Vlachodimos made an amazing operation with his foot on Davitashvili’s projection from the small area.

Georgia, although they lost Kvaratskhelia to injury (he was substituted in the 109′), had another very good moment in the 110′ with Tsitaishvili, who passed the entire Greek defence and scored from a wide position with Vlahodemos clearing for a corner.

The match went to the penalty shoot-out, where the composure of the Georgians “spoke”, against the Greek team that missed two executions and was eliminated.

Source: zougla.gr.

Newcastle honours Father Nicolaos Zervas OAM with top award

The Greek Herald
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Newcastle honours Father Nicolaos Zervas OAM with top award

More than 50 years of service to the community has earned Father Nicolaos Zervas OAM the honour of becoming the 17th Freeman of the City of Newcastle.

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes bestowed the award on the 90-year-old on Sunday, March 24 during the Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church’s annual celebration for Greek Independence Day.

Cr Nelmes said Father Nicolaos’ selfless acts have benefitted multiple generations, from teaching scripture to children, through to volunteering with senior citizens.

“Father Nicolaos’ list of achievements spans decades, with a remarkable breadth of service to the community,” Cr Nelmes said.

“He has contributed to initiatives that not only advanced his local Greek community, but also across sectors of health and wellbeing, peace and justice, sport, and aged care, for all Novocastrians.”

Father Nicolaos Zervas OAM
Father Nicolaos Zervas wearing his medal with wife Nina, Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes, Sharon Claydon MP, Tim Crakanthorp MP and CN Councillors. Photo: City of Newcastle.

Born in Greece in 1934, Nicolaos Zervas came to Australia in 1955. He initially opened a restaurant in Victoria, then one in Sydney, but his real dream was to become a priest.

After marrying his beloved wife Christina (Nina) in 1965, he was given an opportunity to move north where he was ordained by the Newcastle Greek community in 1973.

Twenty years later he was awarded the Order of Australia medal for his spirit of giving, volunteering with Meals on Wheels at Hamilton, the Northern Settlement Services, the Ethnic Communities Council and Lifeline.

Father Nicolaos is a founding member of Greek Day Care and a life member of Hippocrates Aged Care, Fronditha Aged Care Nursing Home and Newcastle Olympic Football Club.

Despite retiring from his role with the Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in July 2021 he still regularly visits people in nursing homes and hospitals.

Father Nicolaos said he was proud to receive the honour of being named Newcastle’s 17th Freeman of the City, a place he has called home for over 50 years.

“I was living in Sydney when I was given the option to relocate to Newcastle,” Father Nicolaos said.

“As soon as we arrived, I felt very at home, and I knew it was the place I wanted to work and raise my family in.

“It is emotional to be recognised by the City of Newcastle in this way. The support of my wife Nina, my four children and 10 grandchildren has enabled me to keep giving back to the community of St Demetrios and the people of Newcastle and now, even in retirement, it has been my absolute privilege to do so.”

Father Nicolaos joins an impressive list of fellow Novocastrians to be awarded the Freeman of the City honour including former Lord Mayor Joy Cummings, Surfest co-founder Warren Smith and writer, philanthropist and passionate historian, Vera Deacon.

SA Premier hosts Greek community to celebrate Independence Day

The Greek Herald
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SA Premier hosts Greek community to celebrate Independence Day

By Peter Tantalos.

On the riverbank of the Torrens, the Honourable Peter Malinauskas MP, Premier of South Australia together with George Psiachas, Consul General of Greece in Adelaide and Dean of the Consular Corps of SA, co-hosted a reception for the Greek community to commemorate the 203rd Greek Independence Day.

The event saw participation from a diverse array of attendees from the Greek community, representing their respective local and industry organisations, including members from the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia (GOAA) and the Greek Orthodox Community of South Australia (GOCSA).

In his address, the SA Premier commemorated the pivotal moment in history, stating that “203 years ago, revolution began, when the people of Greece rose up to throw off the chains of the Ottoman Empire, creating the first modern European nation state. Their courage did more than change Greece – it transformed the face of Europe.”

Premier Malinauskas addressing South Australian Greek Communities.
Premier Malinauskas addressing South Australian Greek Communities.

The Premier explained that the triumph of the Greek independence, which started as a small and underfunded revolutionary force, was the first expression of national character in an age when Europe was predominantly under imperial rule.

“For a full decade, the people of Greece fought for their liberty, an expression of the same revolutionary spirit from which the United States was born, and it fuelled the growing nationalist movements that would soon catch fire across Europe – first in Greece, then in Italy, Spain, Belgium, France and later Poland, Bulgaria and beyond,” he said.

The Premier added that Europe today was only made possible because of the bravery of the Greek people, being inspired by the cause of freedom and people being able to chart their own destiny in their own lands.

He concluded by thanking the Greek community for their role in forming the fabric of South Australian society, through their contribution to politics, the judiciary, arts, sports, and universities – but also, through their generosity and warmth in sharing the value systems that accord with South Australians and the Australian people more broadly.

Premier Malinauskas presented Mr Psiachas with a token for his hard work throughout the course of representing Greece in SA.
Premier Malinauskas presented Mr Psiachas with a token for his hard work throughout the course of representing Greece in SA.

Mr Psiachas has been the Consul General for Greece in Adelaide for the past five years, with his term ending in July 2024. As a token of thanks, Premier Malinauskas presented Mr Psiachas with a token for his hard work throughout the course of representing Greece in SA.

Mr Psiachas then addressed the South Australian Greek community at his last South Australian Independence Day address.

“The Greek national perception, when we look into the past, [does] not stop two centuries ago. We delve back millennia, reaching all the way back to our glorious ancient history, as well as out of Byzantium which lasted over 11 centuries. During those times, Greeks contributed a lot to humanity in all fields of human achievement,” Mr Psiachas said.

The Consul General then offered an insightful overview of the modern Greek nation’s status within the global community and its economic landscape. Mr Psiachas detailed Greece’s position as a vital member of the European Union, emphasising its integration with the common Euro currency and its strategic importance in South-eastern Europe and the Mediterranean region.

Members of the Hellenic Consulate- General in South Australia.
Members of the Hellenic Consulate- General in South Australia.
The Hon. Julian Stefani with the Hon. Connie Bonaros MLC.
The Hon. Julian Stefani with the Hon. Connie Bonaros MLC.
Premier Malinauskas addressing gathering of South Australian Greek Communities. 2
Premier Malinauskas addressing gathering of South Australian Greek Communities.
Addressing gathering of South Australian Greek Communities.

Highlighting a significant turnaround, Mr Psiachas proudly announced that Greece has emerged from its financial crisis, witnessing a resurgence in foreign direct investment and an economic upturn. This revival is drawing people back to the country, encouraged by growing opportunities across various sectors.

According to Mr Psiachas, the past five years have been transformative for Greece, with comprehensive reforms undertaken to ensure long-term sustainability and growth. These reforms span environmental sustainability, renewable energy initiatives, the introduction of non-public educational services, and the revitalisation of key industries.

Mr Nick Chapley OAM, The Hon. Chief Justice Chris Kourakis, The Hon. Greg Crafter and the Hon. Julian Stefani.
Mr Nick Chapley OAM, The Hon. Chief Justice Chris Kourakis, The Hon. Greg Crafter and the Hon. Julian Stefani.
Mr Peter Charatisis and Mr George Vlahos.
Mr Peter Charatisis and Mr George Vlahos.
Mr Theodore Dalanas, Councillor Mary Couros, Mr Kosta Koutsonas and Mr Elias Demourtzidis.
Mr Theodore Dalanas, Councillor Mary Couros, Mr Kosta Koutsonas and Mr Elias Demourtzidis.

This event, and the diverse range of Greek community representatives in attendance, emphasises the vibrant spirit and enduring strength of the Greek community in SA and the diaspora’s commitment to preserving and promoting Greek customs, traditions, and culture. As Greece strides toward a period of significant growth and prosperity, overcoming its recent challenges, the community in SA is energised by the progress and reforms in the homeland.

Ms Sue Farina and Ms Chrysoula Heisler.
Ms Sue Farina and Ms Chrysoula Heisler.
Ms Zaharoula Moutzouris, Mr Dion Vithoulkas , Mr Elia Hatzopoulos and Mr Jamieson Noutsatos.
Ms Zaharoula Moutzouris, Mr Dion Vithoulkas , Mr Elia Hatzopoulos and Mr Jamieson Noutsatos.

Dignitaries included Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Energy and Mining The Hon. Tom Koutsantonis MP, The Hon. Zoe Bettison MP, Minister for Multicultural Affairs, The Hon. Andrea Michaels MP, Minister for Arts, Minister for Small and Family Business and Minister for Consumer and Business Affairs, The Hon. Chris Kourakis, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of South Australia, The Hon. Olivia Savvas MP, Member for Newland, The Hon. Jing Lee MLC representing the Leader of the Opposition, The Hon. Connie Bonaros MLC, Mr Lee Dong, Consul General of the Peoples Republic of China, and Mr Enresto Pianelli, Consul General of Italy in South Australia.

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