A meeting was held last Tuesday, 9 January with the Directorate of Secondary Education of Piraeus to discuss the framework of the educational program of oral history “Kythira: Stories that Build Bridges,”.
The Memorandum of Cooperation with the Municipality of Kythira was also signed off by the Director of Secondary Education of Piraeus, Mr. Dionysios Anastasopoulos, and the Mayor of Kythira, Mr. Efstratios Harhalakis.
This collaboration between the government and the author aims to raise awareness on issues related to Kythera’s local history, particularly focusing on the migration to the island. The program will primarily target educators and students, and aim to shape democratic attitudes and respect to connect various generations.
Mayor of Kythira, Mr. Efstratios Harhalakis and Director of Secondary Education of Piraeus, Mr. Dionysios Anastasopoulos. Photo: Giannis Kanatselis
In attendance was the Secretary-General of Hellenes Abroad and Public Diplomacy, Mr. Giannis Chrysoulakis, and the Ambassador of Australia to Greece, Ms. Alison Duncan.
Mr. Anastasopoulos shared that signing of the Memorandum of Cooperation opens new doors for the educational program “Kythira: Stories that Build Bridges.”
He further emphasized the shaping of cultural identities through oral and local history programs and the development of collaborations, with schools in Australia and schools in Kythira.
Mr. Harhalakis further shared information on the migration of Kythirians and emphasized the significance of establishing the first Migration Museum in Greece on the island, which is supported by the Municipality of Kythira.
He also expressed his gratitude to Ms. Alison Duncan for her presence at the signing of the Memorandum and the ongoing support provided by the Embassy of Australia in Greece to Kythira.
Ms. Alison Duncan expressed enthusiasm for the educational program and the Migration Museum.
The Education Advisors of the Directorates of Primary and Secondary Education in Piraeus, who supported the program, Ms. Archontia Mantzaridou, Ms. Kyriaki Mellou, Ms. Naya Mpoumi, and Mr. Panagiotis Pefanis, spoke upon the importance of the program as an educational tool to share the migration history of Kythira.
The initiative seeks to actively contribute to the development of an extensive collection of spoken testimonies related to people’s migration experiences in Kythira.
It will include interviews with Kytherians who migrated to Australia, the creation of a digital oral history archive, lifelong learning for educators, collaborative projects between Greek students and possibly with students in Australia.
It also seeks to preserve the stories of Kythirians who have experienced migration, add depth and nuances to existing literature, encourage students to explore historical significance, recognise continuities and changes, and adopt a historical perspective on the migration of their region through critical thinking and the diversity of narratives.
Ultimately, the educational program aims to contribute to the broader education of students.
The 2024 Greek Community Cup kicked off on Sunday January 14 at Heatherton FC with a full schedule of games, setting the stage for an exhilarating tournament.
The opening clash between Malvern City and Heidelberg Alexander unfolded as a pulsating football match.
The Greek Community Cup kicked off with a success. Photo: Greek Community Cup.
The game reached a thrilling conclusion with a remarkable goalkeeping save that secured Malvern City’s 3-2 victory.
In the second game, East Kew (Olympiakos) faced off against Altona East Phoenix (Paok), with East Kew emerging as 3-0 winners in a highly entertaining spectacle.
South Melbourne Hellas vs Kingston FC. Photo: Greek Community Cup.
The defending champions, South Melbourne Hellas, showcased their prowess against Kingston FC. The match unfolded at a ferocious pace, with both teams creating opportunities.
South Melbourne secured a 3-0 victory, underlining their status as formidable contenders. Kingston FC demonstrated commendable effort, facing the challenge head-on against the reigning champions.
The day concluded with a dominant performance by Oakleigh Cannons FC against South Springvale FC. Oakleigh emerged victorious with an impressive 5-0 win, treating fans to an entertaining spectacle.
Michael Karamitos said it was an excellent start to the three weeks of football. Photo: Greek Community Cup.
The Vice President of the Greek Community, Michael Karamitos, reflecting on the first round of the tournament, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “What a magnificent start to what promises to be an amazing 3 weeks of football”.
“The Greek Community Cup kicked off spectacularly with all 8 teams passionately competing. The crowds turned up in troves and everyone enjoyed the commencement of the tournament. We look forward to witnessing more thrilling matches in the following weeks.”
Photo: Greek Community Cup.
As the tournament progresses, anticipation builds for the upcoming matches and the crowning of the 2024 Greek Community Cup champions. Football enthusiasts can expect more exhilarating moments and fierce competition in the weeks to come.
The former boss of a Surry Hills brothel has been been busted for possession of legitimate NSW Police and Australian Federal Police (AFP) uniforms.
The Daily Telegraph shared that the Sydney brothel, A Touch of Class’ ex-manager Peter Lazaris, will now face the Downing Centre Local Court next month after authorities claimed the possession of police uniforms were found to have nothing to do with a dress up kink fantasy for his business.
He is also being charged for drug possession, after police found more than 45g of methylamphetamine in his Kingsgrove home in November 2022.
The 55-year-old was also discovered to be in possession of the official police uniforms during this time, which is illegal and can be punishable with a two-year jail sentence.
A Touch of Class brothel in Surry Hills. Photo: The Sydney Morning Herald.
Court documents indicated that police alleged that Mr Lazaris was in possession of “genuine NSW Police and Australian Federal Police uniform without permit”.
He was also charged with two counts of supplying methylamphetamine, possessing 55g of the drug and possessing police uniforms without a permit.
Mr Lazaris is expected to plead not guilty to the charges.
An additional 13 more charges against the ex-brothel-manager from police have also been withdrawn which include directing a criminal group, possession of illegal ammunition and driving a motor vehicle with unlawful police insignia.
Court records showed that Mr Lazaris was released after his arrest on strict bail conditions after a $1 million deposit of a Surry Hills property was used as security.
Mr Lazaris will now not be permitted to go within 7km of the GPO building in Martin Place, not enter the suburb of Campsie in Sydney and not consume alcohol.
He was also ordered to enter a rehabilitation facility. Peter Lazaris is expected for his his hearing on Feburary 12 at the Downing Centre Local Court.
The Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Mr Steve Dimopoulos is facing scrutiny and having to defend the substantial financial support provided to Tennis Australia, which annually hosts the Australian Open.
This comes after recently discovered Freedom of Information (FOI) documents revealed that Victorian taxpayers contributed to more than $100 million to support Tennis Australia.
ABC News reported that in late 2022, Treasurer Tim Pallas approved a $63 million contingency support payment towards the Australian Open.
This was additional to the $40 million loan that Tennis Australia was granted and did not have to repay as the Victorian government had decided to waive the debt due to the impact of COVID-19.
The Minister for Sport and Major Events, Steve Dimopoulos. Photo: Oakleigh.
Minister for Tourism, Sport, and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos defended the financial assistance provided to Tennis Australia.
He said a 10-year extension to Melbourne’s hosting rights was negotiated at the same time the bailout was granted, that would be worth $4 billion to the state of Victoria.
“This is an event that’s been on the calendar for decades and it largely runs with pretty modest support from the Victorian taxpayer for the economic benefits it brings,” Dimopoulos said.
Although the Victorian Premier, Jacinta Allan, has not addressed the issue of the waived COVID-19 loan, she highlighted the major contribution the Australian Open plays into Victoria’s economy.
She said that the Australian Open contributes $357 million each year and supports thousands of jobs.
Mr Dimopoulos also declined to explain why the COVID-19 loan was waived.
On Monday, 15 January, the Hellenic National Defense General Staff announced that last Friday, (12 January), Greece’s naval force held a handover ceremony in Italy, to introduce their new captain.
Taking place at their Naval Base La Spezia in Italy, Greek Captain Fotis Paraskevas took over the command duties of the NATO Mine Countermeasures Maritime Group Two (SNMCMG2).
Ekathimerini shared that Paraskevas replaced Italian Captain Ettore Ronco on Friday, aboard the General Support Ship HERACLES.
In attendance was NATO Rear Admiral Stefan D. Pauly.
The handover ceremony took place at the Naval Base La Spezia in Italy. Photo: Commander SNMCMG2, X.
Greece’s participation in SNMCMG2, one of NATO’s two permanently activated naval forces dedicated to mine countermeasure operations, strengthens its commitment to maritime safety, especially in the Mediterranean region.
SNMCMG2 plays a vital role by providing NATO with immediate response capabilities, especially with its NATO Response Force (NRF) during times of peace, crisis, and heightened tension.
Every six months, in participating states, the command responsibilities are rotated to a new leader.
On Monday, 15 January, Greece’s president, Katerina Sakellaropoulou emphasised the importance of inclusivity in society, in reference to the new proposed same-sex marriage bill.
Amna.gr reported that after the issue was raised by Greece’s main oposition’s bill, Sakellaropoulou shared that “Society evolves, it moves ahead”.
“In an inclusive society, there are no exceptions in rights, especially when it relates to children,” Sakellaropoulou said.
Last week, Kyriakos Mitsotakis revealed details on the same-sex marriage bill,proposing that the Greek Government will extend parental rights to couples, however it will not allow for medically assisted reproduction through a surrogate mother. Photo: Prime Minister.Gr.
The Greek president further elaborated on her statement during the meeting at the Presidential Mantion, stating that she will continue to advocate for an inclusive society.
She further added that as part of her role in Greek Parliament, she will continue to unite the state and help encourage its progress as a society.
Chants of ‘O-LYM-PIC, O-LYM-PIC’ and ‘Let’s go Hellas’ echoed loudly across Netstrata Jubilee Stadium at Kogarah, Sydney on Saturday, January 13 as close to 3,000 football fans packed the stadium for the inaugural The Greek Herald Cup.
The atmosphere was electric with live music, Greek dancing performances, and a football extravaganza as two iconic Greek heritage football clubs, Sydney Olympic FC and South Melbourne FC, came face to face in the historic clash.
*All photos copyright: The Greek Herald / Andriana Simos / Sydney Olympic FC.
The name of the cup was dedicated toThe Greek Herald– a newspaper that has served as a main source of information, updates, and announcements for Sydney Olympic and South Melbourne throughout their illustrious histories. As the tournament’s namesake, The Greek Herald Cup paid homage to the newspaper’s unwavering support of both clubs and its pivotal role in connecting the Greek community.
Sydney Olympic FC.
South Melbourne FC.
On the day, the sun was shining as spectators of all ages – from young children to elderly and long-time supporters of both clubs – filled the stadium seats and settled in for some Greek cultural entertainment and a football match that lasted just over 90 minutes.
Emcee Andy Paschalidis kick started the entertainment, introducing dancers from the Kalymnian Association of NSW and Pontoxeniteas NSW to perform a number of traditional and modern Greek dances. The performances of Zeibekiko, Hasaposerviko, Pendozali and a powerful Pontian medley drew loud applause from those watching from the stands.
DJ Arthur Peios then turned up the Greek music as young football players created a Guard of Honour to welcome South Melbourne and Sydney Olympic’s senior men’s teams to the field for the match.
Despite the match being a ‘friendly,’ it was an intense clash between both teams, with fans waiting on tenterhooks to see which Greek side would come out on top.
South Melbourne’s coach Esteban Quintas and Sydney Olympic’s coach Labinot Haliti also displayed extreme passion and determination, calling out advice and directions from the side lines. They were joined by Sydney Olympic’s Chairman Damon Hanlin and CEO Lawrie McKinna, as well as South Melbourne’s Chairman Bill Papastergiadis and Director Andrew Mesourouni, who watched on proudly and cheered as their teams came face to face.
Sydney Olympic’s coach Labinot Haliti.South Melbourne’s coach Esteban Quintas.
Other official guests on the day included the Consul General of Greece in Sydney, Ioannis Mallikourtis; Member for Canterbury and NSW Minister for Industrial Relations, Sophie Cotsis MP; Georges River Council Mayor Sam Elmir; and Football Australia Director Joseph Carrozzi AM.
(L-R) Sydney Olympic’s Chairman Damon Hanlin, South Melbourne’s Chairman Bill Papastergiadis and Director Andrew Mesourouni.Sydney Olympic’s CEO Lawrie McKinna.George River Mayor Sam Elmir (left).
By half time, neither teams had scored a goal and so it was time for some more entertainment in the form of Sydney Olympic’s youth teams playing a few football matches, whilst Paschalidis held Question and Answer segments with the Sydney club’s “football legends.”
The legends included Peter Raskopoulos, Arthur Svinos, Chris Kalantzis, Elias Augerinos, Gary Meier, Peter Katholos, Norm Tome, Pablo Cardozo, Scott Baillie, Marshall Soper, Spiro Hatzis, Stephen Kamaz, Steve Kara, and Terry Patalis, just to name a few.
Andy Paschalidis conducting a Q&A with one of the legends, Chris Kalantzis.
At the time, The Greek Herald also took the chance to speak with fans in the stands, with many sharing their joy at how the event was bringing the Greek football communities of Sydney and Melbourne together again for the first time in years. Others said it brought them a sense of nostalgia as they remembered “the good old days” when families would come out in full force to support their local Greek football club.
Ms Cotsis brought her husband Arthur and son George along to the match, and she said they had a “beautiful day.”
“The Greek Herald Cup opened up a sense of nostalgia which the next generation wants to be a part of. The atmosphere gave these kids something special that I experienced as a teenager,” Ms Cotsis said.
Their experience would only have intensified when the football match kicked off again and it became a nervous wait as Sydney Olympic and South Melbourne fought tooth-and-nail to score a goal.
Whispers floated across the crowd that a penalty shoot-out was eminent until the 75th minute when Jackson Bandiera from Sydney Olympic caught his rivals by surprise and scored a goal, securing a 1-0 victory for his team and winning the inaugural The Greek Herald Cup.
Cheers of ‘O-LYM-PIC, O-LYM-PIC’ erupted from the stadium and fans jumped up in pride, waving their Greek flags and Sydney Olympic signs as the win sunk in.
The match ended on a friendly note with both teams congratulating each other on a well played game, before Sydney Olympic were presented with The Greek Herald Cup by Ms Cotsis and Publisher of The Greek Herald, Dimitra Skalkos.
(L-R) Sophie Cotsis MP with The Greek Herald’s publisher, Dimitra Skalkos.
Sydney Olympic captain, Ziggy Gordon, told The Greek Herald after the match that he wanted to dedicate the trophy to the club’s supporters.
“It’s a great feeling [to win] but it’s only made possible because of the support. This [the trophy] doesn’t belong to me or to this team. It belongs to every Sydney Olympic supporter who came out today, who support us throughout the years, and I hope there’s a lot more silverware to come,” Ziggy said.
As with any event, official guests and football players had a chance to sit back and unwind at the end of the match during an official cocktail party at the stadium from 8pm.
Amongst plenty of mingling and eating delicious finger food, attendees enjoyed a number of speeches from Mr McKinna, Mr Hanlin and Mr Papastergiadis.
In his speech, Mr McKinna congratulated Sydney Olympic on their win and said The Greek Herald Cup was a warning for “what’s to come” for the NST competition.
“This is a warning to the A-League of what could happen… More than 2,500 people here over Christmas and New Year. Credit to the Sydney Olympic and South Melbourne boys for putting in a great effort, and especially in that first half as well with the sun,” he said.
Mr Hanlin thanked everyone for their support of event and extended his gratitude to the event’s namesake, The Greek Herald, for their continued support and sponsorship over many decades.
“The Greek Herald has long served as a platform to Greek and Cypriot Australians and has been a beacon of inspiration, promoting not only the sport of football but also the vibrant Greek and Cypriot communities that have contributed so much to the fabric of this nation. Their commitment to keeping the community informed and connected for over 95 years is truly commendable,” he said.
Mr Hanlin also stressed how important this match between Sydney Olympic and South Melbourne was for the future of both clubs.
“Today, we witnessed the power of unity, the beauty of the game, and the unbreakable spirit of these two remarkable clubs,” he said.
“Let us carry this inspiration with us as we eagerly anticipate the dawn of the National Second Division in 2025, where Hellas and Olympic will continue to make their mark on Australian football.”
Mr Papastergiadis spoke on behalf of South Melbourne and said despite their loss, The Greek Herald Cup was about something far greater.
“We extend our thank you to Mr Hanlin for building a terrific event for the purposes of uniting football across Australia and as an entry point into the B-League,” Mr Papastergiadis said.
“It may not have been our dream today, but it’s certainly been a significant pleasure on our behalf to participate in today’s event because it’s been an event which evokes a Greek word ‘philoxenia’ which is roughly translated to hospitality, and the hospitality that’s been shown to us at South Melbourne has been extraordinary.
“We felt that and we’re going to reciprocate next year and make sure we extend the same hospitality.”
Mr Papastergiadis then presented official plaques to Mr McKinna, Mr Hanlin and Ms Skalkos, recognising their contributions to the event and the Greek community as a whole.
For her part, Ms Skalkos said she hopes The Greek Herald Cup will inspire generations to come and continue to unite the Greek and Cypriot Australian community through the passion of football.
“The Greek Herald Cup signifies more than just a historic football match celebrating Sydney Olympic and South Melbourne being recently confirmed as foundation clubs for Australia’s NST competition; it epitomises the dedication of our publication towards these dynamic Greek heritage clubs,” Ms Skalkos said.
“The Greek Herald team take immense pride in honouring both clubs and the beautiful game they represent, as they have so for many decades.”
Ms Skalkos said the friendly match exceeded expectations.
“We would like to take the opportunity to formally congratulate both clubs on the new chapter they will embark on in 2025 in the NST and thank all the supporters that were present on the day,” she said.
“We anticipate The Greek Herald Cup will become an annual celebration of Greek football. Stay tuned, football fans.”
*All photos copyright: The Greek Herald / Andriana Simos / Sydney Olympic FC.
The Greek community threw their support behind brothers Yianni and Chrisos Mavromoustakos on Sunday, January 14 as they held their 5th annual Charity Football Match at the Seymour Shaw Stadium in Miranda, Sydney.
All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Andriana Simos.
The charity match saw the brothers and their respective teams battle it out to be crowned football champions, and raise funds to go towards Paradise 4 Kids – a charity set up to support the critical missionary work of Greek Australian Fr Themi Adamopoulos in Africa.
Team Yianni.
Team Chrisos.
Team Chrisos and Team Yianni were evenly matched throughout the soccer match, but Team Yianni came out fighting to ultimately claim victory 3 – 1.
This was the second victory for Team Yianni and was met with loud applause from the crowd.
“The win for Team Yianni was long overdue, but we came together, played together and left victorious,” Yianni told The Greek Herald after the match.
“More importantly though, it was a hugely successful day and a win for the support to Paradise 4 Kids and children living in poverty.”
Chrisos added that the event “was an absolute success” despite the rainy weather, and more than $4,500 was raised on the day for Paradise for Kids.
Throughout the day, attendees could give donations or purchase raffle tickets to win a number of prizes such as hampers. Young footballers also had a chance to play a friendly match or two.
“We are so grateful for the support of our community, sponsors, and those who donated to make the event possible,” Chrisos said.
“We are so excited to help Bishop Themi’s his critical work in Africa and hope we can continue doing our small part in the future with everyone’s support!”
*All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Andriana Simos.
After the second set Bergs lost easily, mainly because he was completely drained, but also because he became too predictable with his insistence on drop shots.
The next opponent for Tsitsipas in the Australian Open second round will be either Jordan Thompson or Aleksandar Vukic.
The Semaphore Greek Festival, held on January 13 and 14 this year in South Australia, celebrated its 43rd year, transforming the Semaphore Foreshore into a bustling agora of Hellenic culture and traditions.
Over the course of two days, the event saw a record-breaking attendance of 45,000 people who came to experience traditional Greek dances, music and cuisine, and to participate in the vibrant festivities.
Photo supplied.All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Peter Tantalos, unless otherwise specified.
Photo supplied.
Organised by the Greek Orthodox Community of the Nativity of Christ, Port Adelaide & Environs (PAGOC), this year’s Semaphore Greek Festival centred around the theme “Semaphore Smiles” (#sema4smiles), symbolising an open invitation to the diverse South Australian community. The festival aimed at welcoming all communities to participate in Hellenic cultural festivities, celebrating the rich tapestry of diverse cultures in South Australia.
The festival officially began on Saturday with an opening ceremony, heralding a weekend of vibrant cultural festivities. The Hon. Peter Malinauskas, Premier of South Australia, initiated the event with an address, expressing his appreciation to the PAGOC and all the volunteers for bringing “this most extraordinary of Greek festivals together.”
Photo supplied.
Photo supplied.
The Premier added, “when we think about the contribution of various cultures to our State, it’s hard to look past that of the Greek community. It is magnificent. It’s not just the aroma’s we are getting at the moment, or the dance, or the culture, it’s that sense of generosity that is routinely showed to everybody throughout the State by the Greek community. This festival is very much an opportunity to celebrate it.”
The Consul General of Greece in Adelaide, George Psiachas, expressed his admiration for the Greek community’s dedication to preserving Hellenic traits, culture, traditions, and language.
He added that “what is very important is that the Greeks of today, of whatever generation, whether they came here 10 years ago, or 20, 30 or 40, keep their ties with their homeland… It is you, in so doing, who are the ambassadors of Greece abroad.”
The President of the PAGOC, John Douvartzidis, President of the Greek Orthodox Community of Port Adelaide, concluded the official ceremony.
“I want to thank everybody that attends the festival… because you support us and encourage us to do more… We have over 300 volunteers and they work very hard… and they are so proud of what they produce and they will keep doing that – because they are doing this for a bigger picture… We are doing this for our next generation, and that’s what’s important. Especially in a country like Australia, in a state like South Australia, multiculturalism is magnificent – it is well supported by everybody,” Mr Douvartzidis said.
Several dance groups showcased their talents over the two days, each bringing their unique style and traditions to their performances. The line-up included performances by the Messinian Dance School of SA, the Port Adelaide Greek School Dance Group, the Pontian Brotherhood of SA Dance Group, the Cretan Association of SA Dance Group, the Greek Orthodox Community of South Australia Dance Group, the Greek Lyceum of SA Dance Group, and the Port Adelaide Greek Dance Academy.
These performances highlighted the rich diversity of Greek dance, ranging from traditional folk dances to contemporary interpretations, while also highlighting the younger generation’s connection to their heritage.
Furthermore, the festival showcased interactive and fun activities such as the “Who Loves Pita” and “Honey I Ate the Loukoumades” contests, complemented by the exciting plate smashing event, “Spasta!” These engaging activities encouraged attendees to actively participate in the celebratory atmosphere.
Each evening, as dusk fell and a warm night breeze swept over the festival, the Enosis Band, featuring the renowned violinist and singer Georgia Rappou, took centre stage. Their performance, rich with authentic Greek melodies, resonated along the Semaphore shores, inspiring festival-goers to dance enthusiastically until the event’s close.
As the festival drew to a close, attendees departed with joy and a deeper appreciation of the significant role that diverse cultural heritage plays in enriching Australian society and, importantly, the beautiful culture that the Hellenic diaspora has brought to South Australia.
Special guests and dignitaries attending included Premier Malinauskas; the Hon. Stephen Mullighan MP, Treasurer of South Australia; the Hon. Joe Szakacs, SA Minister for Police, Emergency Services and Correctional Services; the Hon. Mark Butler MP, SA Minister of Health; the Hon. Jing Lee MLC, Deputy Leader of the SA Opposition; Mr Psiacha; Councillor Peter McGregor, representing the Mayor of the City of Port Adelaide Enfield; Ms Claire Boan; Bishop Silouan of Sinope, Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia (South Australia); and Mr Douvartzidis.
