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Dimitris Basis to perform in ‘Axion Esti’: An unforgettable music collaboration in Sydney

The Greek Herald
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Dimitris Basis to perform in ‘Axion Esti’: An unforgettable music collaboration in Sydney

The works of composer, Mikis Theodorakis and Nobel Prize-winning poet, Odysseas Elytis will be celebrated in Axion Esti on Saturday May 11, 2024 at the City Recital Hall as part of the 42nd Greek Festival of Sydney.

This extraordinary collaboration will showcase the immense talent of international vocalist Dimitris Basis, renowned Greek Australian conductor George Ellis, Chanter Basilios Psilacos, a 30-piece Choir, and narration by Greek Australian actor Tony Nikolakopoulos.

Greek Australian conductor George Ellis. Photo: Supplied.

The focal point of the event is Odysseas Elytis’ landmark work, Axion Esti. Published in 1959, this poem was set to music by Mikis Theodorakis and quickly became a celebrated anthem. Combining suffering, passion, spiritual lessons, and poetic power, Axion Esti is widely regarded as Elytis’ masterpiece and won the National Book Award for Poetry in 1960.

Mikis Theodorakis, the acclaimed composer of the famous Zorba’s Dance, is Greece’s most celebrated composer. With more than 1,000 songs and song-cycles to his name, Theodorakis has become synonymous with the rich musical heritage of Greece. This event pays tribute to his legacy and showcases the timeless beauty of his masterful compositions.

Greek Australian actor Tony Nikolakopoulos.

As part of the Axion Esti concert, the audience will be treated to Theodorakis’ most famous melodies, including Ena To Helidoni (A Solitary Swallow) and Tis Dikeosinis Ilie (Sun of Justice). These captivating performances will be the Australian premiere of this special collaboration between the Sydney-based 30-piece Choir, a symphony orchestra, and an array of musicians performing on traditional Greek instruments.

This magnificent concert is an integral part of the 42nd Greek Festival of Sydney in 2024, which celebrates the enduring presence of Greek culture in Australia.

Event details:

What: Axion Esti (‘It is Worthy’) Presented by the Greek Orthodox Community of NSW and the City Recital Hall

When: Saturday, May 11, 2024, at 8pm

Where: City Recital Hall, 2 Angel Pl, Sydney NSW 2000

Bookings: Call 02 8256 2222 or visit cityrecitalhall.com​

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

Head-to-head clashes continue in the 2024 Greek Community Cup in Melbourne

The Greek Herald
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Head-to-head clashes continue in the 2024 Greek Community Cup in Melbourne

The excitement in the 2024 Greek Community Cup continued over the weekend with two games from Group A. The athletes on the field were not just competing for victory; they embodied the spirit of fair play, and respect—a testament to the essence of true sportsmanship.

The first match of the day between Malvern City FC and East Kew FC proved to be a tightly contested affair, ending in a 1-1 draw. The clash turned out to be a rollercoaster of emotions for players and spectators alike. From the opening whistle, both teams exhibited remarkable determination and skill, creating an atmosphere of suspense and excitement throughout the match.

The second clash of the day between Heidelberg United FC and Altona East Phoenix SC, was a spectacular display of prowess with Heidelberg United FC securing a commanding 8-0 victory over Altona East Phoenix SC. The scoreboard started ticking early in the match, as Heidelberg’s forward line showcased their skills.

Photo: 2024 Greek Community Cup.

Michael Karamitos, the GCM Vice President, shared his thoughts following the conclusion of this week’s matches, stating, “We are now entering the crucial phase of what has been an amazing event for our community. The crowds have been fantastic, and the football has consistently displayed a very high standard. Congratulations to all the participating teams, and I extend my best wishes to those heading into the semi-finals. We eagerly anticipate the upcoming weeks and encourage as many people as possible to attend what we believe will be a spectacular conclusion to this wonderful tournament.”

Leonidas Vlahakis, the GCM Cultural Committee Chair, said, “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Heatherton United Soccer Club and our newfound friends from the Bosnian community of Melbourne for hosting the Greek Community Cup. The soccer matches were thrilling, and the atmosphere was truly tremendous! We eagerly anticipate many more events like these, where we can continue to share enjoyable moments with such wonderful people.”

Malvern City FC secured the top position in Group A after the completion of the round-robin games, earning them a spot in the semi-finals. They are set to face the second-placed team from Group B.

Heidelberg finished as the runner-up in Group A, closely behind Malvern City, and has also advanced to the semi-finals. They are scheduled to compete against the top team from Group B.

As the group stage progresses, the tensions rise, and teams are gearing up for the upcoming battles that will determine their fate in the tournament.

Upcoming Group B matches will take place on Wednesday, January 24, as Kingston City FC faces Oakleigh Cannons FC at 07:00pm, followed by South Springvale FC taking on South Melbourne FC at 08:30pm.

For those that missed the action, matches can be viewed on the 2024 Greek Community Cup YouTube channel here.

All other tournament information and team fixtures can be found on www.greekcup.com.au

Chalkidiki Brotherhood in NSW elects new Committee at Annual General Meeting

The Greek Herald
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Chalkidiki Brotherhood in NSW elects new Committee at Annual General Meeting

The Brotherhood of Chalkidiki “Aristotelis” of NSW Incorporated held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Sunday, January 21 at The Pontian House ‘Pontoxeniteas’ in Earlwood, Sydney.

The AGM was attended by members of the association and was a significant event to discuss the accomplishments of the past two years and elect a new committee.

During the meeting, the committee provided a comprehensive summary of the numerous events that took place from 2022 to the present. These events were described in terms of their nature, attendance, dates, and locations. The committee expressed their gratitude to the outgoing 11 committee members for their dedication and hard work in organizing nine major events during this period.

Photo: Supplied.

In a show of appreciation, some members were able to take home Greek-English bilingual 2024 calendars donated by the Pan-Macdonian Association of NSW. The AGM also included a moment of silence to honor and remember all individuals connected to the association or from the Brotherhood of Chalkidiki NSW who had recently passed away.

The Secretary and Treasury reports were presented, providing attendees with an update on the financial matters of the association. The minutes from the 2023 AGM were read out, and all members agreed to the items discussed. Following this, the floor was opened to individuals to show their interest in joining the new committee.

Eleven members nominated themselves, eliminating the need for an election.

The newly elected committee members are:

President – Costa Dantos

Vice President – Jenny Kaporis

Secretary – Alexandra Poulos

Treasurer – John Tratselas

General Committee – Artemis Kelezis

General Committee – Bill Dantos

General Committee – Carol Stavropoulos

General Committee – George Tratselas

General Committee – Joanna Arnis

General Committee – Vicky Stamatiou

General Committee – Vicky Tsakirou

The outgoing committee members, Arthur Plakidis and Effie (Efthymia) Georgalas, were acknowledged for their hard work and dedication, while the two new members, Carol (Kalliopi) Stavropoulos and Vicky (Evridiki) Tsakirou, were introduced to attendees.

To add an element of excitement, a vasilopita was cut during the meeting. The winner of the cake-cutting ceremony received a $50 gift voucher. In a remarkable turn of events, the child of Costa Dantos, the association’s President, won the prize.

To conclude the AGM on a joyful note, Greek New Year’s music was played, creating a lively atmosphere. The meeting marked an important moment for the Brotherhood of Chalkidiki “Aristotelis” of NSW Incorporated as they celebrated their achievements, welcomed new committee members, and strengthened their bonds as a community.

The child of Costa Dantos, the association’s President, won the prize for the cutting of the vasilopita.

Steve Georganas MP discusses Adelaide the “Athens of the South” during visit to Greece

The Greek Herald
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Steve Georganas MP discusses Adelaide the “Athens of the South” during visit to Greece

Steve Georganas MP has spoken in support of making South Australia’s capital city, Adelaide a sister city to Athens in Greece.

This follows the sister city proposal instigated in May 2023, which was designed to strengthen the shared cultural bonds between Athens and Adelaide. It also aimed to  strengthen economic, business, and cultural ties between Adelaide and Athens.

Mayor Kostas Bakoyannis.
Kostas Bakoyannis was one of many supporters of the sister city proposal. Photo: Municipality of Athens.

This proposal was backed by the Mayor of Athens, Kostas Bakoyannis, Greece’s Deputy Minister of Development and Investment, Dr Christos Dimas, and the Director General of the Acropolis Museum, Professor Nikolaos Stampolidis. It would also be supported by the Hellenic Australia Chamber of Commerce of Industry (HACCI), as well as SA-Best MLCs Connie Bonaros and Frank Pangallo.

During an interview with Dimitris Kontogiannis and Petros Diplas on Ert News’s radio show, Mr Georganas discussed the similarities between the city of Adelaide and of Athens.

He emphasised the importance of why a sister-city relationship with Adelaide and Athens would be beneficial.

Mr Georganas added that approximately 70,000 Greek immigrated from Greece to Adelaide due to the nice climate, and big Greek communies. He said and that today in Adelaide, many first generation Greeks can be found, as well as third and fourth generation Greeks. He also added that some of the largest Greek communities can be found in Melbourne, Sydney and Adelaide.

As Chair of Joint Standing Committee on Trade and Investment Growth, Mr Georganas also discussed the production and name of Greek feta being one of the obstacles to the conclusion of a free trade agreement between the European Union and Australia.

When asked about inflation, Mr. Georganas emphasized that Australia, like Greece, faces a serious cost of living issue. To alleviate the problem of high property prices and expensive rents, the Labor Party has tabled a bill to build more housing, especially for low income earners.

Source: Ert News.

Stavros Venizelos announced as new Ambassador of Greece to Australia

The Greek Herald
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Stavros Venizelos announced as new Ambassador of Greece to Australia

Stavros Venizelos, who formerly served as the Consul General of Greece in Libya, has been named the new Ambassador of Greece to Australia.

On Thursday January 18, Mr Venizelos visited the embassy of Australia in Athens, where he met with Australia’s Ambassador to Greece, Alison Duncan.

Ms Duncan congratulated Mr Venizelos and wished him a successful term in Australia. 

“I am sure he will receive a warm welcome, and we all look forward to working closely to deepen the bilateral relations between the two sides,” Ms. Duncan said.

Mr Venizelos played a crucial role in the first critical hours of the tragic accident in Derna, Libya, where five Greeks lost their lives in September 2023 during a mission of the Armed Forces in Libya to provide assistance to flood-stricken residents.

The new Ambassador was essentially the sole link between Libya and Athens. Under his responsibility, contact was made with the hospitals where the injured were treated, and communication with the Libyan authorities was established.

Mr Venizelos was also responsible for the challenging task of communicating with the families of the victims. He also oversaw the transportation of their remains, which was carried out by a C-27 transport aircraft of the Hellenic Air Force. 

The transported individuals included three members of the Armed Forces (two medical personnel and a lieutenant colonel of the Special Forces) and the two interpreters who participated in the mission on behalf of the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Greek Returned Service League of NSW hosts cutting of the vasilopita event

The Greek Herald
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Greek Returned Service League of NSW hosts cutting of the vasilopita event

Greek Returned Servicemen League of NSW (GRSL) hosted a cutting of the vasilopita event on Sunday, January 21 at the Greek Orthodox Community Club in Lakemba, Sydney.

The event was attended by members of the GRSL along with relatives, friends and members of the Greek community. The atmosphere was friendly with songs sung and delicious food served.

President of the GRSL, Panagiotis Tsigounis, emphasized the important role of the Association and thanked everyone for their continued support.

Members of GRSL were honored for their valuable services with commemorative plaques offered to them. Photo: Supplied.

The Consul General of Greece in Sydney was represented by Deputy Chief of Staff, Spyros Georgiou, who left an excellent impression on attendees, confessing that he felt very welcomed and offered his best wishes to the Association.

Five members of the Association, Vasilis Iliopoulos, Panagiotis Georgelos, Ioannis Theodoropoulos, Andreas Kitsos and George Ligakis, were honored for their valuable services with commemorative plaques offered to them. There were also many lucky winners of raffle prizes on the day.

The event concluded with live entertainment by Dimitris Emmanuelides and George Chiotis, who was also the emcee of the function.

Photo: Supplied.
Photo: Supplied.

Melbourne serial stabber Christopher Raftopoulos refuses to give DNA to police

The Greek Herald
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Melbourne serial stabber Christopher Raftopoulos refuses to give DNA to police

After failure to allow police to swab his mouth, the Greek man from Melbourne Victoria who was accused of stabbing five people earlier this month will now be forced to hand over his DNA to police.

The Greek man, Christopher Raftopoulos is currently spending time in the prison psychiatric ward, after facing 15 different charges, which include recklessly causing injury. 

The Age shared that Mr Raftopoulos made an appearance in Melbourne’s Magistrates Court on Friday via video link with his new lawyer. 

Raftopoulos
The Greek man, Christopher Raftopoulos. Photo: News.com.au.

Prosecutors in the court then ordered him to undergo compulsory forensic procedures to obtain his DNA as he refused a swab to be taken.

“The type of compulsory procedure sought is a buccal swab of the mouth, for the purposes of obtaining a DNA sample to compare with the DNA profile from a knife that was seized,” a prosecutor told the court.

The 31-year-old’s new lawyer Daniel Thompson said although he did not oppose the application, Raftopoulos told him he would not provide his consent to the procedure.

Magistrate Kieran Gilligan made orders for police to take Raftopoulos’ DNA swab, and if need be,  force may be used for the procedure to be conducted.

“The respondent has refused to give consent to the request or is incapable of giving reasonable consent by way of mental impairment,” Mr Gilligan said.

Mr Raftopoulos will return to court on February 12.

Source: The Age.

Mytilineos group makes new investment to fund northeastern solar project

The Greek Herald
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Mytilineos group makes new investment to fund northeastern solar project

The Queensland-based Greek industrial group Mytilineos SA has announced it’s investment for the 120-MW Munna Creek solar project to be constructed in north-eastern Australia.

Renewablesnow.com shared that a statement released last Thursday revealed Mytilineos SA secured 160 million AUD towards the project from Deutsche Bank AG, in the form of senior debt financing.

Munna Creek
The Munna Creek solar farm. Photo: Altenergy.com.au.

The 150-MWp project will span across 40 kilometres north-west of Gympie in Queensland.

Once it is operational, the new solar plant will produce 300,000 MWh of clean electricity annually and cover the needs of about 40,000 homes.

The project’s construction work is set to commence this year, and the commissioning, in 2025.

Source: Renewablesnow.com.

Stefanos Tsitsipas knocked out of Australian Open 

The Greek Herald
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Stefanos Tsitsipas knocked out of Australian Open 

Greek tennis star Stefanos Tsitsipas has been knocked out of the Australian Open following a loss against Taylor Fritz.

Last night, after an intense match of just over three hours, the world number 7 and 2023 Australian Open finalist Stefanos Tsitsipas was defeated by his American opponent Taylor Fritz, 7-6 5-7 6-3 6-3.

He commented on his performance, following his third-round defeat.

“It’s painful, and the moments of glory are not that many,” he said.

“There’s just way more moments in your career that are painful and tough to deal with, suffering and all that stuff, than moments of glory and success and opening champagne bottles.

“These are a very small percentage of what a tennis player lives on a yearly basis.” 

EuroSport.com reported that the now winner of the quarter-finals match, will go head-to-head in a match against Novak Djokovic who recently won his last three games against Adrian Mannarino, including two double-bagel wins.

Taylor Fritz
The 26-year-old American tennis playerTaylor Fritz. Photo: ATP Tour.

The 26-year-old American said he felt that he “served well” throughout the match.

“I trusted my shots a lot,” Fritz said.

“It kept me in it as there were some games he was in that I could get out of with my serve. 

“At the end when I really needed it, I turned it up a level and played some of my best tennis to finish it.”

Source: EuroSport.com.

Kerameus announces intention of extending postal voting to national elections in Greece

The Greek Herald
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Kerameus announces intention of extending postal voting to national elections in Greece

In a move set to “deepen democracy,” Interior Minister Niki Kerameus expressed optimism ahead of Monday’s submission of a bill to Parliament, introducing postal voting for Greeks living abroad. 

The specific legislative initiative concerns the European elections and referendums, with national elections to be discussed at a later date.

Minister Kerameus announced the government’s intention to extend postal voting to national elections in the future, underscoring the commitment to enhancing democratic participation. 

The major opposition parties, including New Democracy, SYRIZA, PASOK, and Course for Freedom, have signaled their acceptance of the measure in principle, providing a promising outlook for the country’s political landscape.

Minister Kerameus addressed concerns raised by some opposition members who view the initiative as an electoral maneuver that might compromise the integrity of elections due to the involvement of private postal companies.

postal voting ballot paper
The 2024 postal voting ballot paper. Photo: Neakriti.gr.

“The broad consensus among major political parties on the acceptance of the bill is a promising signal for our political system and its capacity to reach agreements on matters of democracy. This isn’t a mere electoral ploy but a significant democratic reform supported by a large majority of the national parliament. It facilitates the exercise of the right to vote and ultimately deepens our democratic processes,” Kerameus stated in ‘Kathimerini’.

Highlighting that postal voting is a common practice in numerous countries, the minister emphasized that the government has incorporated best practices and additional safeguards to ensure the secrecy and transparency of the voting process.

Addressing concerns about the involvement of private postal service providers, Kerameus reassured the public that stringent standards would be enforced. She asserted that there is no way these companies could interfere with a voter’s choices.

The legislative initiative specifically pertains to European elections and referendums, with discussions about its application to national elections slated for a later date. 

Source: Ekathimerini.

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