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Feminine resolve reborn in Karen Martin’s ‘Hypsipyle and the Curse of Lemnos’

Christine Filippidis
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Feminine resolve reborn in Karen Martin’s ‘Hypsipyle and the Curse of Lemnos’

It is no secret that loyalty, when divided, can present a punishing tightrope that is impossible to walk. To which side then, do we lean, and ultimately fall, when faced with insurmountable, ill-fated choices? What would it cost?

In this case, what would it cost a woman?

Award-winning Australian playwright and author, Karen Martin guides readers through the “corridors of the underworld” in her latest novella as she retells the “infamous” history of Lemnos from a feminine perspective – the perspective of Lemnian Queen, Hypsipyle.

Martin untangles Arachne’s “exquisite web” to reveal just how royal roots bloom into “weighted” routes as the blessing of power also curses with consequence.

Imprisoned in a labyrinth of torment, Hypsipyle’s moral dilemmas and “patterns of misfortune” appear to ensnare all who enter her sphere of influence, as her journey seeks to “rebirth” the feminine resolve while silently striving to repair the resulting ripples in her own reflection.

Down a revolutionary road paved with survival and reclamation, each sentence navigates the seemingly predestined build of “intimate burden”, anticipatory grief, the blueprint of repercussion, and the” waged wars” between “heart, soul, and mind”.

True to the conventions of Greek myth, with a twist, the author’s style is emblazoned with vivid imagery and artistic prose from the onset.  Aphrodite’s “sadistic spite” towards her husband, Hephaestus leads to a retribution-stained alliance with the chthonic goddesses, “Erinyes” who ignite the “vengeful ruin” and curse of Lemnos left for all “pitiful mortals” to bear – “Let the hearts of Lemnos’ men turn cold to their wives.”

The author focuses on how in retaliation to their abandonment, all women of Lemnos—except for one—emerge from the “silent slaughter” of men as “killers, survivors, sisters” … “not redeemed, but rebirthed” … unified, yet isolated.  At this very moment, audiences will be thrust into suspense and the depths of patriarchal duty as Hypsipyle is reborn in her own right while knowingly exiling herself from the women she governs by saving her father, King Thoas.

Alongside recurring acts of justice and sacrifice, Hypsipyle’s epochal decision and truthful admission steers the novella and shapes the view of the “Lemnian Crimes”.

Haunting and explorative, Martin reveals how the notion of lasting freedom is not merely seized by expectation, but rather, integrates itself as an unattainable right in Hypsipyle’s life while being presented as the price women must pay for their honesty   and defiance.  

Despite the personal cost, Martin skilfully underscores truth as a cathartic ritual, necessary for renewal, reinvention, and rebirth. In addition, vulnerability can be interpreted as inherent to the feminine resolve, emerging as a crucial force that reflects inner fortitude, integrity, and resilience.

Layered lessons, metaphors, and a sense of duality also help to awaken and establish this unique interpretation of Lemnian history. From the very soil in which Hypsipyle “plants the seed of her undoing”, she is shepherded by her “garden turned oracle” imbued with memories of her late mother, Myrina. Nostalgia aids in reflecting Hypsipyle’s compassion and fealty struggles on a broader, deeply human level, as her devotion to both parents touches the “vulnerable child” in all of us. 

Martin ingeniously calls on the inescapable laws of nature and time as themes to illustrate the protagonist’s spiritual strength, accentuating the evolution of her resolve. As Hypsipyle ventures out of the roles imposed on her, inherited societal norms for women further peel away, revealing a deeper, more complex and introspective understanding of femininity and its purpose across the ages.

Through sublime symbolism and irony, it is evident that Hypsipyle’s destiny – as a daughter; a woman, and a queen – would always be met with perplexing expectations: “Rule with fire and restraint” … “If you kill the drones before the queen lays again, there will be no next generation” … “which roots will still feed the soil?”

Jason, his argonauts, and the peace of anonymity for Hypsipyle following exile provides healing intervals to the story and grants glimpses of hope for both characters and readers alike amid enduring shame and crestfallen circumstances.

Upon reflection, reshaping the fabric of identity is not only highlighted as pivotal to the novella, and Hypsipyle, but to the agency of all Lemnian women.

Extracted from “the shadows”, this essential retelling of Lemnian history offers a room between worlds where conscience can converse beyond voice. A woman’s conscience. This version bestows Hypsipyle and her “emotional toll” the spotlight as Martin uses her “creative liberty” to successfully push past the less visceral boundaries of previous iterations, and in doing so, orchestrates a space where “women become seen and heard”, even in their silence.

As Martin notes, “we owe this to our daughters”.

South Melbourne FC cruise to 5–0 win to maintain perfect OFC Pro League record

The Greek Herald
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South Melbourne FC cruise to 5–0 win to maintain perfect OFC Pro League record

South Melbourne FC have continued their strong start to the OFC Pro League, recording a dominant 5–0 victory over PNG Hekari FC to close out the opening round of the competition at North Harbour Stadium in Auckland.

The win marks South Melbourne’s second consecutive victory, leaving the Australian club on the maximum six points from two matches and one of only two teams – alongside Auckland FC – to maintain a perfect record so far in the tournament.

Three goals in the opening half set the tone for the Oceania Club of the Century, who asserted control from the outset after being made to work hard in their opening match against Tahiti United.

South Melbourne struck twice inside the first seven minutes. Tommy Giannakopoulos opened the scoring with a header from a Jack Painter-Andrews cross, before Jordan Swibel marked his first start of the campaign by chesting home a Yuki Uchida delivery to double the lead.

Photo: Joshua Devenie / www.phototek.nz

PNG Hekari FC showed brief resistance, with Rex Naime heading narrowly wide from a set piece and John Orobulu firing a long-range effort off target. However, South Melbourne restored full control just before the break when Max Mikkola converted from close range. While initially ruled offside, the goal was awarded following a VAR review, sending South Melbourne into half-time with a commanding 3–0 advantage.

The second half followed a similar pattern, with South Melbourne continuing to exploit space across the PNG side’s backline. Swibel added his second goal in the 57th minute, chasing down a long ball from Uchida and finishing powerfully past goalkeeper Dave Tomare.

The only setback for South Melbourne came shortly after the hour mark, when Bulgarian goalkeeper Ilia Shalamanov-Trenkova was forced off following a head knock, with Jake Charlston coming on as his replacement.

Swibel was substituted with 20 minutes remaining as a precaution ahead of the next round, while substitute James Lackay went close soon after. PNG Hekari goalkeeper Tomare was again called into action late in the match, conceding a penalty after colliding with Jack Pope. Nahuel Bonada struck the crossbar from the spot, but made amends moments later by scoring South Melbourne’s fifth goal in the 87th minute after winning possession inside the box.

South Melbourne FC now travel to Papua New Guinea for the second round of the OFC Pro League, sitting second on the competition table. PNG Hekari FC return home still searching for their first points of the campaign.

Final score:
PNG Hekari FC 0
South Melbourne FC 5
(Giannakopoulos 3’, Swibel 7’, 57’, Mikkola 45’, Bonada 87’)

Half-time: 0–3

Proud debut for Geladaris as he bows out of Australian Open Juniors

The Greek Herald
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Proud debut for Geladaris as he bows out of Australian Open Juniors

Odysseas Geladaris put up a spirited fight on his Grand Slam debut, but was ultimately eliminated from the Australian Open Junior Championships by world No.47 junior Kai Thompson, going down 6–2, 7–6(3) at Melbourne Park.

The 17-year-old Greek junior, currently ranked No.77 in the world, showed resilience and growing confidence throughout the match, particularly in a tightly contested second set that suggested the margin could have been closer.

Playing his first-ever match at Melbourne Park – on Court 11 – Geladaris took time to settle into the contest. A slow start saw him fall behind 0–4 in the opening set, and while he clawed back a break to reduce the deficit to 2–5 through improved serving, the early damage proved decisive.

The second set told a very different story. Geladaris lifted his intensity and fought for every point, saving a break point in the third game and three more in the fifth to edge ahead 2–1 and then 3–2. He also applied pressure on Thompson’s serve for the first time in the sixth game, creating two chances to extend his lead to 4–2, though he was unable to convert.

Both players held serve as the set progressed, before Thompson gained the upper hand in the tiebreak. The Hong Kong junior raced to a 4–0 lead and maintained his composure to close it out 7–3, sealing victory after 1 hour and 41 minutes of play.

Despite the loss, the match left a sense of promise for Geladaris, who demonstrated that he could compete at this level and was capable of pushing higher-ranked opponents. His Australian Open Junior campaign followed two strong qualifying victories in Traralgon, which secured his place in the main draw of the Australian Open Junior Championships.

The journey to Australia itself was nearly derailed, with the cost of the campaign placing participation in doubt just weeks earlier. Support from the Greek-Australian community proved decisive, with Harry Manaras launching a fundraiser to assist the Geladaris family, while Greek tennis star Stefanos Tsitsipas was also informed and made a separate, generous contribution.

While his debut has come to an end, Geladaris leaves Melbourne having gained invaluable experience – and with many confident that this will not be his last appearance on the Grand Slam stage.

Hall destroyed in fire at St Nectarios Greek Orthodox Church in Adelaide

The Greek Herald
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Hall destroyed in fire at St Nectarios Greek Orthodox Church in Adelaide

A fire on destroyed the community hall adjacent to the Holy Monastery of St Nectarios in Croydon Park, Adelaide, while the main church building and a neighbouring nursing home were saved following the swift response of emergency services.

The blaze broke out on Regency Road shortly after 7pm on Friday night, 24 January, with crews from the Metropolitan Fire Service (MFS) called to the scene as flames engulfed the hall and thick black smoke rose into the sky. Firefighters remained on site into the early hours amid concerns of possible reignition, as investigations into the cause of the fire continue.

The community hall sustained extensive damage, with its roof collapsing, glass doors shattered and debris scattered throughout the interior. Walls were blackened by soot, and the smell of burnt timber lingered across the site.

Parish Council President Vladimir Devrelos praised the efforts of emergency services, saying their actions were critical in protecting the church, which has stood for more than 50 years.

“I do my cross and thank God for the dedication shown by our emergency services,” Mr Devrelos said.
“They did a wonderful job. All of them are heroes, to say the least.
“The blessing for us is that the church itself is untouched and intact, and God willing, services will be able to proceed.”

The destroyed hall, established in 2017, played an important role in parish life, hosting community celebrations, cultural events and after-school Greek language classes. Its loss has been described as significant for the local Greek Orthodox community.

Also spared was St Basil’s Nursing Home, located beside the church and home to approximately 80 residents. No injuries were reported among residents, parishioners or emergency personnel.

MFS Commander Phil Ross said it took around five hours to fully extinguish the blaze, with 16 firefighters deployed at the scene. He said the fire spread rapidly after entering the roof space, making it difficult to contain.

In the aftermath, there was an outpouring of relief and support from the wider community. Many expressed gratitude that the church and nursing home were spared, while others sought clarification after early reports referred to an “administration building.” Parish representatives later confirmed that the structure destroyed was the community hall, not the church.

A public smoke warning was issued on Friday night before being lifted later in the evening. Authorities have confirmed the cause of the fire remains under investigation. Subject to electrical safety checks, regular church services are expected to proceed.

From Greek taverns to cheat meals: Thanasi Kokkinakis’ food favourites

The Greek Herald
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From Greek taverns to cheat meals: Thanasi Kokkinakis’ food favourites

Thanasi Kokkinakis might be better known for his on-court achievements tennis, but off court he’s a serious food lover, according to good food and the Sydney Morning Herald.

Heading into this year’s Australian Open, where he’s slated to play doubles with close friend Nick Kyrgios and, fitness permitting, singles too, Kokkinakis has also been exploring the food and drinks world. He recently filmed a lamb-cooking segment with chef Curtis Stone, and serves as an ambassador for Altos tequila, an official sponsor of the tournament.

While training and rehab have dominated his schedule, Kokkinakis says nothing beats a lively meal with friends. That’s why Jim’s Greek Tavern in Collingwood holds a special place in his heart. “It feels like a chaotic family backyard,” he says speaking to The Sydney Morning Herald. The fish – especially blue-eye trevalla – and the lamb remain firm favourites.

Melbourne’s food scene is rich in his rotation: Marbl Steakhouse in Prahran, where the wagyu rib-eye impresses; Gilson in South Yarra for cotoletta with wood-fired bread and burrata; Marion Wine Bar’s flatbread and vodka pasta; Maison Batard for French steak and salad; and Oushou for quality Japanese.

Photo: Giorgos Psomiadis

For takeaway, he recommends Zeus Street Greek Food – especially the seasoned fried pita chips and, on cheat days, fried chicken or a smash burger.

His café picks include Norman South Yarra (famed for chilli scramble and oat lattes), Operator Diner’s TikTok-famous fried chicken and waffles, Hector’s Deli’s mushroom melt, Urban Provedore coffee and Yugen Dining’s weekend brunch matcha.

Overseas, London tops his list, with Greek favourite Zephyr in Notting Hill, Myrtos, Gold and the vibrant Park Xinhua. At home, it’s fried eggs with avocado, and his ultimate guilty pleasure: a glazed doughnut.

Source: The Sydney Morning Herald

Hellenic Youth Club of Canberra thrives with community support

Christina Savopoulos
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Hellenic Youth Club of Canberra thrives with community support

The Hellenic Youth Club (HYC) of Canberra has provided a dedicated space for Greek youth to connect since it was formally incorporated in 1973. Despite undergoing several name changes over the years, the essence of HYC has remained the same: a place for young people in Canberra to meet others with shared life experiences.

Initially known as the Greek Youth Club of Canberra, the group dissolved before being re-established by The Hellenic Club as the Hellenic Youth Association in 1988. Since then, HYC has been grateful for the continued support of The Hellenic Club and its strong connection with Canberra’s broader community.

Today, HYC aims to be a pillar for Greek youth in Canberra by promoting culture and faith, while providing opportunities for young people to connect through events. Past events have included an RnB night, Don’t Stop The Music, a ski trip in collaboration with The Hellenic Society of UNSW, and its popular Bouzouki Night, which attracted 320 Greek youth this year. HYC also organised an interstate trip to Melbourne, where 30 members spent a weekend bonding at a Greek concert, a SIGMA night, the NUGAS Ball, and a winery day trip with the Lemnian Youth of Victoria.

The Greek Herald spoke with current HYC President Olivia Kambouris about her seven years with the club and the joy and passion she continues to find in being part of the youth community. Olivia joined as a general committee member at the age of 19 and has since served as Secretary, Treasurer, Vice-President and, for the past two years, President. She was introduced to the club by her cousins during a HYC trip to Melbourne. Reflecting on that experience, she recalled, “I was a pretty reserved and shy kid, but the club was just so welcoming, and it was a great weekend.”

Most HYC committee members are students or young professionals, and Olivia says she is fortunate to have met “so many good people on the committee… who have been equally passionate about Greek youth.” Her time as President has been enjoyable, and she has loved “seeing new members come in – and not just Greek members, anyone who is interested. That’s been the biggest reward, seeing the growth and engagement… As long as we’ve got people coming and we’re hosting good events, we’re setting up something good to pass on to the next generation.”

Olivia also acknowledged concerns about the long-term future of Canberra’s Greek community and the possibility that it may one day diminish. “I feel like it’s probably a big driver behind why I’m on the committee,” she said. “But looking at the Canberra community, I can’t see that happening with the senior leadership we have, the initiatives they run, and the passion behind the people I see turning up to events.”

She noted that Canberra’s Greek community remains active and collaborative, despite having a relatively small number of major organisations. “Everyone seems to work harmoniously to create space for the Greek community,” Olivia said. “We all work together and we’re not segregated… so I think we’re sitting on a gold mine of good and active youth.”

HYC will elect a new committee this December and hopes to expand its interstate collaborations in 2026 with youth groups in Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide and Darwin. Olivia emphasised the importance of uniting Greek clubs across Australia.

“We need to have a clear channel between all the states. Being able to connect with different Greek people has always been a positive experience,” she said. “Next year, we’ll keep building on those connections with larger youth groups and see where that takes us.” She added that promoting the Greek language would also be a focus in the year ahead.

HYC expressed its appreciation to everyone who has volunteered and supported the club, with Olivia saying she hopes to see the organisation “grow bigger and better.” The drive and passion behind HYC suggest that young Greek-Australians in Canberra can look forward to an event-filled 2026.

Hektor Giotopoulos Moore to represent Australia at 2026 Winter Olympics

The Greek Herald
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Hektor Giotopoulos Moore to represent Australia at 2026 Winter Olympics

Figure skater Hektor Giotopoulos Moore has been selected to represent Australia at the 2026 Winter Olympic Games, marking a major milestone in his international skating career and a moment of pride for the Greek community in Australia.

Giotopoulos Moore will compete in the Pairs event alongside partner Anastasiia Golubeva, following the official announcement of the first athletes selected to the Australian Olympic Winter Team.

Speaking following his selection, Giotopoulos Moore said he was proud to represent both his heritage and his country.
“I am very proud to be able to represent the Greek community as well as the Australian, and the fact that the Olympics were originally from Greece is a very cool bonus,” he said, in comments published by the Australian Olympic Committee.

The pair secured one of just 19 Mixed Pairs quota places for the Olympics after finishing ninth at the ISU World Figure Skating Championships in Boston in March 2025. Their qualification followed a breakthrough bronze medal at the ISU Grand Prix in Halifax in 2024 – the first medal ever won by Australia at a senior International Skating Union Grand Prix – as well as back-to-back silver medals at the World Junior Championships in 2022 and 2023.

Hektor Giotopoulos Moore and Anastasiia Golubeva have secured their place on the Australian team following strong international performances and the pair’s Olympic qualification.

Giotopoulos Moore, who began skating at the age of eight, has described his Olympic selection as the culmination of more than a decade of dedication and sacrifice.
“Being selected for the Olympic team is a dream come true,” he said. “To me, it shows all the hard work and sacrifices I’ve made over the past 15 years have been worth it.”

His partner Golubeva, who received Australian citizenship in December 2025, said representing Australia at the Olympics was a significant achievement and expressed gratitude for the opportunities she has received since joining the national program.

Australian Olympic Team Chef de Mission Alisa Camplin said the selection of Giotopoulos Moore and Golubeva reflected years of sustained excellence at the highest level of international competition.

The newly selected skaters will next compete at the Four Continents Championships in Beijing before returning to Montreal to complete preparations for the Games.

The Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will commence on 6 February 2026, with figure skating events held at the Milano Ice Skating Arena across 12 days. Australian athletes are expected to compete in figure skating on 9, 11, 15 and 16 February.

Sydney Olympic FC members press for clarity on governance and finances

The Greek Herald
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Sydney Olympic FC members press for clarity on governance and finances

Concerns surrounding governance, transparency and the future direction of Sydney Olympic Football Club have continued to build following a members’ meeting in December 2025, formal requests for information, and a public statement issued by the club’s board.

At the centre of the discussion are member-approved financial deeds, member concerns relating to the club’s constitution, and what members describe as a lack of clarity around decision-making authority and accountability within the organisation.

Members’ meeting and request for information

As previously reported by The Greek Herald, a meeting of members, former players and long-standing supporters was held in Sydney on 17 December 2025, where those present agreed to pursue an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM).

Those in attendance stressed that the move was not intended to undermine the club, but to ensure members were properly informed about its financial position, governance framework and long-term strategy.

Following the meeting, a formal written request was sent to the board on 18 January 2026, seeking access to information including financial records, governance arrangements and documentation relating to deeds approved by members at previous AGMs. Members have asked that the information be provided by 25 January 2026.

Financial deeds approved by members

Central to the concerns raised are two legal instruments approved by members at the club’s Annual General Meeting on 16 June 2022:

  • a Financial Support Deed, dated 23 December 2021, between Damon Hanlin as lender and Sydney Olympic Football Club Ltd as borrower; and
  • a General Security Deed of the same date, securing the club’s obligations under the Financial Support Deed.

According to the signed AGM minutes, both deeds were circulated to members in advance, explained during the meeting, and approved unanimously.

Some members have since questioned the accuracy of the attendance record for the 2022 AGM, which formed the basis for quorum when the deeds were approved. They say that individuals listed in the minutes as present have since stated they were not in attendance, raising concerns about whether quorum was properly constituted. The club has not publicly addressed those claims, and members say they are seeking clarification through formal channels.

The deeds were executed on behalf of Sydney Olympic Football Club Ltd by the club’s directors at the time, Lawrie McKinna and Chris Gardiner, acting in their capacity as directors. Hanlin executed the deeds as the lender and counterparty, not as a signatory for the club.

(L-R): Chris Gardiner and Lawrie McKinna.

The minutes further record that Hanlin, who was president at the time, declared a conflict of interest, stepped aside as chair during discussion of the resolutions, and did not vote on their approval.

While the deeds were approved by members, the AGM minutes do not disclose the total value of funds advanced. Based on subsequent financial reporting, some members estimate the amount exceeds $2 million.

At the AGM, McKinna and Gardiner told members the arrangements were intended to secure and formalise ongoing funding, underwrite operations, and restore confidence with Football NSW, at a time when the club was emerging from significant financial instability.

That period followed the sudden departure of then-president Bill Papas in June 2021, after allegations linked to the widely reported Westpac fraud investigation became public. Papas subsequently left Australia, and Sydney Olympic FC was left facing uncertainty.

The 2022 AGM minutes note that balance-sheet issues from prior years had been corrected and that operational losses were being met through secured funding arrangements, which were presented as necessary to stabilise the club and ensure its ongoing participation in the NPL.

Hanlin comments on funding, stepping back and Championship structure

The nature of the funding arrangements returned to public discussion following public comments made by Hanlin, in which he said that the majority of funds he had provided during his tenure had been treated as non-repayable at the time. He acknowledged, however, that “at the present time” some funding may be treated differently, adding, “I’m considering my options.”

In the same comments, Hanlin said he stepped away from the NPL club due to the personal and financial burden of running it, describing the role as demanding and time-consuming. He stated that he now has “no involvement” in the club’s governance or day-to-day operations, while reiterating that Sydney Olympic remains a member-based club under its constitution.

Former Sydney Olympic President Damon Hanlin. Photo: The Greek Herald.

At the club’s Annual General Meeting on 28 October 2025, Hanlin outlined the structure of Sydney Olympic’s participation in the national second-tier competition, explaining that the Australian Championship entity is separately owned by him and operates independently from the member-based NPL club. As reported by The Greek Herald at that AGM, he said this structure was adopted to protect his personal investment, noting the member-based club had not contributed capital to the Championship licence. Hanlin added that the Championship entity pays heritage and branding fees to Sydney Olympic Football Club as part of that arrangement.

Some members, however, say they remain unconvinced, pointing to the ongoing financial arrangements approved in prior years, the continued public association of key individuals with the club, and what they describe as a lack of clarity around who is exercising effective control and influence over major decisions.

Constitution concerns and board response

Members have also raised concerns about a document presented to them as an updated constitution, which they say materially alters the balance of power within the club. The issues raised include expanded board discretion over membership and access to records, changes to voting thresholds, and uncertainty about when and how the amendments were adopted.

In a statement issued on 22 January 2026, the Sydney Olympic FC board acknowledged the recent commentary and opinions expressed publicly, saying it was important for members and supporters to understand where the club currently stands and what the present administration has been focused on.

(L-R): Damon Hanlin, Matthew Phelps, newly appointed director Rodolf Salem, and Chris Charalambous. Photo: The Greek Herald.

The board said it had deliberately prioritised rebuilding the club’s foundations, describing that work as essential but not always visible or immediately reflected in results on the pitch.

“The club has deliberately prioritised the culture within the Club and key operational matters – stabilising finances, rebuilding football operations, recruiting and developing player talent, and, critically, settling the coaches, volunteers, and staff who keep this club functioning week in and week out,” the statement said.

The board noted that without these fundamentals in place, “no amount of noise, criticism, or structural change” would lead to long-term success, and expressed disappointment that, during this phase, some members had chosen public criticism rather than what it described as constructive engagement.

It emphasised that Sydney Olympic Football Club is “bigger than individuals, factions, or egos,” and said the club’s future depends on unity, effort, and people stepping forward to contribute positively.

The statement added that rebuilding trust, performance and stability takes time, and reiterated the board’s commitment to placing the club on a sustainable footing so that Sydney Olympic can continue to compete “with pride, credibility and ambition across all levels.”

The statement was signed by board members Chris Charalambous, Matt Phelps and Rodolf Salem.

Next steps for members and the board

Discussion among members has continued in private forums, with many encouraging supporters to formally join the club as members, noting that membership provides voting rights and a pathway to participate constructively in the club’s future. Others have stressed that requests for information should not be viewed as disloyalty, but as part of responsible stewardship of a community-owned club.

Members say they are now awaiting confirmation on whether and when an EGM will be convened, as well as the provision of information requested by 25 January 2026. Issues relating to stability, transparency and governance remain central to ongoing discussions between the board and members.

Courtney Houssos announces $200m school maintenance program across NSW

The Greek Herald
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Courtney Houssos announces $200m school maintenance program across NSW

Acting Minister for Education and Early Learning Courtney Houssos has highlighted a $200 million school maintenance and upgrade program being delivered across New South Wales over the summer holidays, with students set to return to improved classrooms and facilities for the start of Term 1, 2026.

The Minns Labor Government’s program will see works completed at almost 850 public schools, ranging from routine maintenance and minor upgrades to larger refurbishment projects led by the NSW Department of Education’s local asset management teams.

More than 1,300 projects are underway across the state, with hundreds of tradespeople working throughout the school holiday period to ensure campuses are clean, safe and ready for the new school year.

The works include painting at more than 300 schools, over 200 flooring replacement projects, close to 50 bathroom upgrades, and a range of critical accessibility improvements, including new ramps and lift upgrades. Schools will also benefit from refreshed outdoor areas, repaired walkways and essential building works.

Courtney Houssos said the summer maintenance blitz reflects the Government’s focus on delivering practical improvements that directly support students, teachers and school communities.

“While students are enjoying their summer break, work is underway at hundreds of schools across NSW to ensure they return to a great learning environment for the start of 2026,” Ms Houssos said.

“The Minns Labor Government is focused on getting the fundamentals right – maintaining our schools, improving facilities, and supporting principals, teachers and school communities with the infrastructure they deserve.”

“Whether it’s new paint and flooring, upgraded bathrooms, vital repairs or accessibility improvements, these works are about ensuring every student can access a world-class public education.”

Across NSW, the summer school maintenance program includes:

  • $36 million for painting works
  • $28 million for upgraded bathrooms and amenities
  • $21 million for flooring projects
  • $14 million for accessibility improvements
  • $12 million for roof repairs or replacements
  • $2.4 million for specialist classroom upgrades

Ms Houssos said the upgrades would ensure classrooms and shared spaces are refreshed and ready for day one of Term 1.

Marita Paparizou reflects on a life in Opera and connecting with the diaspora

The Greek Herald
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Marita Paparizou reflects on a life in Opera and connecting with the diaspora

By Ikaros Kyriakou

Discussions surrounding a possible Australian tour by internationally acclaimed Greek contralto Marita Paparizou have already generated strong interest among music lovers. Paparizou has appeared on some of Europe’s most respected operatic stages, earning recognition for her expressive interpretations, technical precision and the distinctive colour of her voice. With a career spanning demanding roles from the classical repertoire, contemporary works and major international collaborations, she is regarded as one of the most accomplished Greek operatic voices of her generation.

Born and raised in Greece, Paparizou showed a natural affinity for music and lyrical singing from an early age. She went on to study classical singing and advanced music theory before continuing her artistic training in leading European opera centres under renowned vocal instructors. Her career has since become closely associated with Italian, French and German repertoire, with performances in major opera houses and concert halls across Europe, collaborating with respected orchestras and conductors.

Reflecting on her musical identity, Paparizou describes herself as deeply versatile, both vocally and artistically.

“I would describe myself as a true multi-tool, in every sense of the word. I have sung everything from pre-classical and Baroque music to 21st-century composers; from jazz to Mikis Theodorakis and Manos Hadjidakis; from Sougioul to traditional Greek and even Sephardic music. On stage, I have embodied both women’s and men’s roles.”

As a contralto – one of the rarest voice types – Paparizou explains that her vocal range has shaped the trajectory of her career.

“The contralto is characterised by a velvety middle register, a deeply dark lower register, and the ability – briefly – to rise into the soprano tessitura with brilliance. This is why contraltos replaced the castrati, and why many composers originally wrote male roles for female contraltos.”

Looking back on the defining moments of her artistic journey, Paparizou recalls that, like all artists, her debut remains etched in her memory. That first appearance took place in Genoa during the modern-era revival of Nicola Porpora’s Ariadne in Naxos. Another pivotal moment followed with her first collaboration with legendary conductor Claudio Scimone at the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées in Paris.

She also cites major roles that further shaped her international profile, including Tancredi in Rossini’s Tancredi in Monte Carlo, Orpheus in Gluck’s Orpheus and Eurydice at the Hermitage Theatre in St Petersburg, and Circe in Gluck’s Telemachus, performed in both London and at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus.

Scimone, she notes, was not only a mentor but a defining influence.

“Beyond being a student of our own Dimitri Mitropoulos, he became my artistic ‘father’ – a noble figure in music and art, truly unique.”

Despite her extensive international career, Paparizou speaks of opera not merely as a profession but as a lifelong anchor.

“It has been, is, and always will be my great love — my foundation and my harbour. Through opera, I have travelled the world, worn countless costumes, and portrayed heroes and heroines, victims and perpetrators, lovers and beloveds, witches, knights, queens and kings.”

Yet, she admits that the anticipation of stepping onto the stage has never diminished.

“I still long to step onto the stage as if it were the first time — even when performing a concert rather than a full role.”

Among the composers who resonate most deeply with her voice and spirit, Paparizou points to Antonio Vivaldi, George Frideric Handel and Gioachino Rossini.

“Each for different reasons, but above all for the way they elevate the human voice – through psychological depth, dazzling coloratura that feels like fireworks, and legato lines that resemble melted chocolate.”

Even now, there are roles she continues to dream of performing, ranging from Ulrica in Un Ballo in Maschera and Azucena in Il Trovatore, to Dalila in Samson and Delilah and even Julius Caesar in Handel’s Giulio Cesare.

When approaching a new role, Paparizou says her process begins with deep respect for the work itself.

“I immerse myself in the libretto. Often, the words guide the music – and therefore the voice. Each era demands its own approach; you cannot sing Baroque as if it were Verdi, nor Mozart as Wagner.”

Some of her most indelible memories come from moments of complete stillness after a performance – moments that test both vulnerability and confidence.

“Twice, actually, I experienced that silence: once at the final performance of Dido and Aeneas in Corfu, and again at the premiere of Tancredi in Monte Carlo. Those seconds feel endless. Then comes the eruption – applause, cheers, Brava! Those moments make you forget the hardships of this profession.”

On the subject of international productions, Paparizou is careful not to draw distinctions that diminish Greece’s artistic standing.

“It is a mistake to separate Greek from international productions. That diminishes the Greece of Callas, Baltsa and Mitropoulos. Every production deserves the same professionalism. Artists have no schedule – we must always be prepared.”

While discussions are underway regarding a possible Australian tour, Paparizou remains discreet,“In our profession, announcements only come once contracts are signed. Hopefully, we will meet very soon.”

What she hopes to offer Australian audiences, however, is clear, “A symbol. An idea. A woman. Greece.”

Her connection to Greek communities abroad, she believes, transcends geography.

“Greek hospitality is always the same. All of Greece is one embrace – even when we are far from home.”

Looking ahead, Paparizou hints at presenting a program that audiences can easily connect with – one rooted not in traditional classical form, but in a 20th-century period spanning from the early 1900s to the 1970s.

For Paparizou, promoting Greek musical tradition internationally is not simply an artistic choice, but a deeply emotional one.

“Tradition is the most universal value there is. I have seen audiences moved to genuine tears by Greek song – even far from Greece – because migration, memory and heritage speak to everyone.”

She describes opera as a form of elite endurance, requiring constant discipline and emotional resilience.

“Practice never stops. Emotional balance is personal – some need family and companionship, others solitude. There is no formula.”

Ultimately, she says, applause is both sustenance and reward – but knowing when to step away is the profession’s greatest challenge.

“It is painful to see great artists diminish themselves by refusing to accept the end.”

As for what lies ahead, Paparizou recently performed once again with I Solisti Veneti at the Stavros Niarchos Hall and will appear in 2026 with the Athens State Orchestra, alongside further performances in Greece and Italy.

Asked to leave a message for Greek and Greek-Australian audiences, her words are simple and heartfelt, “Stay strong, my Greece.”

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