Former Sydney plastic surgeon Dr Richard Paris Sackelariou has admitted to multiple child exploitation offences and expressed shame in court over the harm he caused to his victims.
According to The Daily Telegraph, the 70-year-old, who worked in Sydney and Melbourne for four decades, pleaded guilty to 10 charges involving six victims aged 13 to 15, between 2021 and 2022. The offences occurred across Sydney, Newcastle and Queensland.
Using platforms such as Snapchat, Instagram, and adult websites, Sackelariou offered money in exchange for explicit content and later arranged to meet some of the girls in person.
In Newcastle District Court, he described hearing the victims’ statements as “horrific,” saying: “I’m ashamed, I’m appalled… I created such harm and damage.”
He also acknowledged betraying his family and said he feared for his safety in custody due to the nature of his crimes. “I have betrayed my wife, broken trust with my sons,” he told the court.
Photo: The Daily Telegraph.
Crown Prosecutor Kristy Mulley pressed Sackelariou on his repeated contact with underage girls despite having access to legal adult interactions online.
“I engaged and pursued these girls, so obviously I was attracted to them,” he admitted.
His lawyer, Philip Strickland SC, said Sackelariou had never offended before and was at low risk of doing so again, calling it an “extraordinary fall from grace.”
Sackelariou was arrested at his Vaucluse home in November 2022, where police seized devices containing explicit content and messages.
Judge Tim Gartelmann has reserved sentencing until Friday.
Following the unanimous decision of the UNESCO Executive Board to propose that February 9 each year be declared World Greek Language Day, the President of the Special Permanent Committee on Greeks Abroad, Philippos Fortomas, convened on Tuesday a joint meeting with the Standing Committee on Cultural Affairs on the topic “World Day of the Greek Language: Significance and Implications”.
The Members of the Committees were informed by Yiannis Loverdos, Greece’s Deputy Foreign Minister for Greeks Abroad, Georgios Koumoutsakos, Permanent Representative of Greece to UNESCO, and Georgios Babiniotis, Professor of Linguistics and former Rector of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens.
During the meeting, reference was made to the diplomatic struggle that took place for the above result, but also to the way in which Mr Babiniotis scientifically supported the importance of the Greek language and its contribution to human civilisation.
After the conclusion of the meeting, Mr Fortomas stated: “We had the pleasure and honour at this very important joint meeting of our Committees to hear from Mr Koumoutsakos, Mr Babiniotis, and Mr Loverdos, regarding how the diplomatic struggle and its scientific documentation were conducted so that our language, although spoken by a few million people worldwide, would be recognised of global importance, thanks to its history and contribution to world culture.”
“The Greek language is a bridge of culture and identity. Its international recognition obliges us to continue the effort to disseminate and support it with even greater consistency and determination,” Mr Fortomas added.
Rising star Sam Konstas has been named in Australia’s squad for the World Test Championship final, earning a spot among elite company at just 19 years old.
The teenage opener joins veteran Usman Khawaja as one of only two specialist openers selected, with Marcus Harris left out despite a prolific English county season featuring three centuries and nearly 750 runs.
Konstas is part of a squad that also covers the upcoming two-Test series against the West Indies in July, as selectors opt for youth and potential over experience in key top-order roles.
Photo: Getty.
The return of Cameron Green from back surgery adds complexity to selection discussions. Green, who scored a century during a recent UK stint, will be available only as a batter. His comeback coincides with the strong debut of all-rounder Beau Webster, who impressed against India and on tour in Sri Lanka.
Chairman of selectors George Bailey noted Green’s inclusion is as much about match readiness as performance. “I think it’s great (Green) is playing… I think his ability to back up innings to innings, match to match,” Bailey said. “We know he’s a quality player… getting some match play under his belt” is key.
Australia will also welcome back captain Pat Cummins and pacer Josh Hazlewood, both returning from injury layoffs. Bailey called their inclusion “fortunate” and said the squad is eager to defend its WTC title against South Africa at Lord’s. “It means a lot to the group to reach the final,” he added.
Australia won the previous WTC final in 2023, defeating India at The Oval.
Australia squad for WTC final and West Indies tour:
Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Beau Webster, Alex Carey, Josh Inglis, Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins (capt), Josh Hazlewood, Scott Boland, Nathan Lyon, Matthew Kuhnemann, Brendan Doggett (travelling reserve).
A powerful earthquake measuring 6.0 on the Richter scale struck at 1.50 am on May 14, between the Greek islands of Kasos and Karpathos, according to revised data from the Geodynamic Institute of Athens. The epicentre was located 20 kilometres south of Kasos, with a focal depth of 64.4 km.
The tremor was strongly felt in Crete, Rhodes, and Kos, prompting authorities to issue a precautionary tsunami warning.
An emergency message from the Ministry of Climate Crisis & Civil Protection was sent via 112 to residents in southern Greece, urging them to move away from the coast due to “risk of a possible tsunami event.”
The alert referred to an earlier estimate of a 4.9-magnitude quake, 48 km southeast of Kasos.
⚠️ Ενεργοποίηση 1️⃣1️⃣2️⃣
🆘 Σεισμός μεγέθους 5.9 σημειώθηκε 48χλμ ΝΝΑ της Κάσου. Κίνδυνος πιθανής εκδήλωσης Τσουνάμι στην περιοχή σας
Seismologist and president of Greece’s Earthquake Planning and Protection Organization (OASP), Efthymios Lekkas, said the earthquake’s main characteristic was its significant depth of 60 km.
“This means that the movement reached Kasos and Karpathos, essentially reduced, and much more so in Crete,” he told ERT, noting no major damage had been reported so far.
He added that such deep earthquakes typically occur without significant pre- or post-seismic activity. “These earthquakes occur alone,” he said, calling it a positive sign.
Addressing public concerns, Lekkas clarified: “There is absolutely no connection with the earthquakes in Santorini and Turkey. The geodynamic framework is completely different. We are right on the Greek arc.”
AEK Athens has officially ended its collaboration with head coach Matias Almeyda, following a string of disappointing results, including a sixth consecutive defeat in the Stoiximan Super League playoffs.
The decision to part ways was made after a meeting between Almeyda and AEK’s administrative leader, Marios Iliopoulos. It brings an end to Almeyda’s three-year tenure at the club, a period that began with high hopes and notable success.
Almeyda’s debut season on the AEK bench was a triumph, as he led the club to a historic domestic double in 2023—the Greek Super League title and the Greek Cup—while also overseeing AEK’s return to its new home, the OPAP Arena. Last season, AEK remained a strong contender for the league title until the final matchday, but the 2024–25 campaign proved far more turbulent.
The first major setback came last summer, when AEK was eliminated from European competition by Armenian side Noah in the third qualifying round of the UEFA Europa Conference League.
The season continued with inconsistent performances, culminating in a crushing 6-0 defeat to Olympiacos in the first leg of the Betsson Greek Cup semi-final. This followed an earlier 4-1 loss to the same side in the league at Faliro, further compounding pressure on the Argentine manager.
In announcing the end of Almeyda’s tenure, AEK FC issued an official statement and thanked Almeyda for everything he achieved.
With Almeyda now departing, AEK Athens will begin the search for a new head coach to guide the club into a new era.
On Monday, May 12, His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia led a group of pilgrims from across Australia on a spiritual visit to the Ecumenical Patriarchate in Constantinople.
The group was warmly received at the Phanar by His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew.
On the same day, the Patriarch also welcomed renowned Greek singer Konstantinos Argiros to the Phanar. Argiros, who is visiting Constantinople ahead of his performance in July marking the 150th anniversary of the Zappeion School, shared his profound admiration for the Patriarch and the encounter.
Present at the meeting with Argiros was Archbishop Makarios, alongside Lakis Vigas, Archon Grand Hartofylax of the Great Church of Christ.
Argiros described the experience as “extraordinary” and said the Patriarch’s words on unity, environmental protection, and love left a lasting impact.
“This meeting was not just a personal experience,” Argiros wrote online, “but also a source of inspiration for all of us to highlight the values of faith and love in our daily lives.”
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis raised concerns over Turkey’s potential participation in European defence policy during a meeting in Berlin with newly appointed German Chancellor Friedrich Merz — the first European leader to be received by the new chancellor.
“We have a responsibility to choose our defence interlocutors carefully,” Mitsotakis said.
“They must be aligned with European foreign policy. Otherwise, security, autonomy, and the credibility of the EU is at stake.”
Merz, while advocating for broader inclusion of non-EU countries like Norway, did not directly address Turkey but said: “This is an opportunity to bring countries […] into European policy.”
On the possible sale of Eurofighter jets to Turkey, Mitsotakis said, “It is not the role of the Greek prime minister to dictate how Germany conducts arms sales,” but added that such decisions must consider a country’s alignment with EU foreign and security policy.
Συναντήθηκα σήμερα στο Βερολίνο με τον Καγκελάριο της Γερμανίας Friedrich Merz. Θέλω να τον ευχαριστήσω για τη θερμή υποδοχή! Η συνάντησή μας αυτή επιβεβαιώνει ότι οι ελληνογερμανικές «γέφυρες» γίνονται τώρα ακόμα πιο δυνατές. https://t.co/XmADTxjup7pic.twitter.com/LysDHI686t
— Prime Minister GR (@PrimeministerGR) May 13, 2025
Mitsotakis also stressed the need for an EU-led peace effort in Ukraine and called for an immediate 30-day ceasefire, alongside cooperation in reconstruction efforts.
Merz warned that Russia would face stronger EU sanctions if it failed to make meaningful progress in peace talks.
On migration, both leaders acknowledged ongoing challenges. Mitsotakis called it “an issue of national security,” and urged Germany to consider Greece’s frontline role.
Merz said migration from Greece to Germany “must be further reduced,” with discussions to continue at the ministerial level.
Mitsotakis also highlighted Greece’s economic progress and appeal to German investors. “Our country will never again go through a crisis like the one that brought us to our knees in 2015,” he said.
Both leaders agreed to continue discussions on EU defence funding and a unified approach to foreign policy and migration.
In a surprise result that has left fans reeling, Cyprus has failed to qualify for the Grand Final of the Eurovision Song Contest 2025, despite delivering one of the most visually and vocally captivating performances of the night in Basel, Switzerland.
Performing last in the first semi-final at the St. Jakobshalle arena, Cypriot artist Theo Evan wowed audiences with a powerful rendition of his song Shh. Complete with dynamic scaffolding, flawless choreography, and striking vocals, the performance had been widely tipped to land Cyprus in the top ten of the evening.
But when the ten qualifying countries were announced — Norway, Albania, Sweden, Iceland, Netherlands, Poland, San Marino, Estonia, Portugal, and Ukraine — Cyprus was notably absent, along with Belgium, Azerbaijan, Slovenia and Croatia.
The result has sparked a wave of disappointment and disbelief on social media. One fan wrote on X: “Cyprus deserves better.” Another added: “Cyprus is officially the most robbed country of Eurovision overall.”
The 69th edition of the contest opened in true Swiss style — with yodelling, Alphorns and national flair — and included appearances from Eurovision legends such as Céline Dion (via video message) and a live performance by Marina Satti, Greece’s Eurovision 2024 representative.
But for Cypriot fans, the night ended on a sour note.
Theo Evan and the Cyprus delegation are yet to release an official statement, but supporters continue to rally behind the artist, praising his professionalism and passion on the Eurovision stage.
The Grand Final will take place later this week with 26 countries vying for the trophy. Cyprus, despite falling short this year, leaves behind a performance that many fans won’t soon forget.
The Synapantema is a long standing and much anticipated annual gathering of Pontian Australians. One of the few such gatherings held by diaspora Greek communities in Australia.
President of the Federation of Pontian Associations of Australia, Esta Paschalidis-Chilas, said: “Synapantema is a platform to foster community bonds between generations, display our ancient Pontian culture, where Recognition Awards are presented and the creative work of dance teachers, dancers and musicians is showcased and this year being in Tasmania, was extra special to us all.”
Why Tasmania?
On 11 May in 2023 the Tasmanian House of Assembly approved a Motion recognising the Genocides of the Armenian, Assyrian and Greek peoples. This Motion, while specific to Tasmania, reverberated across Australia and the Federation felt it was important to say thank you in person to the Members of Parliament who, with brave moral conviction, ensured the successful passage of the Motion.
The adoption of this Motion means the Tasmanian Parliament joined the New South Wales and South Australian Parliaments in recognising the Armenian, Assyrian and Greek Genocides, making it the third state to recognise one of the first genocides of the 20th century.
Noting as well, community leaders played a critical role in gaining support for the Motion by the Liberal, Labor and Greens parliamentary parties. This shows the community that history matters, that the Pontian community is not invisible and this issue is above party-political issues. It gives Pontians great hope in the political process through active civic participation.
Marking Anzac Day
The 2025 Synapantema coincided with Anzac Day and attendees gathered for the very moving Dawn Service held at the Cenotaph in Hobart and took part in the Anzac Day Parade.
That evening, over 170 people gathered at the traditional Parakath at Hellenic House and were welcomed by Reverend Father Dimitrios Katsis of the local Greek Orthodox Church of St George, as well as the President of the Greek Community of Tasmania, Manual Kalimnios. The leadership and members of the Greek Community of Tasmania supported the Synapantema through their presence and wonderful hospitality as well.
Parakath at Hellenic House. Pictured is Father Katsis, President of Greek Community of Tasmania Manuel Kalimnios, President of the Federation of Pontian Associations of Australia Esta Paschalidis-Chilas, Presidents of Federation Member associations, and musician Anastasios Kazantzidis.
Those gathered observed a minute silence and the Federation’s Vice President and President of the Pontian Brotherhoood of South Australia, an ex-Serviceman himself, Harry Tavlaridis recited The Ode.
This was followed by Dr Panayiotis Diamadis of the Australian Institute for Holocaust and Genocide Studies, who spoke about the significant and strong bonds between the Anzacs and Greeks.
“For Australian Hellenes, Anzac Day is about renewing the bonds of comradeship between peoples. Since the South African War 125 years ago we have fought side by side. Pontians especially remember the Anzac prisoners of war who witnessed the Genocide of Hellenes and later donated generously to rescue survivors,” Mr Diamadis said.
Dinner Dance
Over 200 people attended the Dinner Dance held at Wrest Point Casino, with the Emcee being Adam Neou, President of the Federation’s Youth Committee. Guests were welcomed to Hobart and led in Prayer by Reverend Father Andrew Joannou of the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Parish at Hobart.
The Federation’s President Ms Paschalidis-Chilas welcomed special guests, the Presidents and members of member associations and all attendees with words about why coming to Tasmania was important to the Federation.
“We made a specific decision to come to Tasmania this year as our community’s way to say thank you to the Parliament, the Greek Tasmanian community and indeed to all Tasmanians who honoured us by supporting the Genocide motion in 2023. I felt it was incumbent upon us to do so and to do so in strong number and that we did,” she said.
Esta Paschalidis-Chilas with emcee Adam Neou.
The three Parliamentary Awardees of the Ypsilantis Award for developing a strong Esprit de Corps spoke about the honour they felt in being with the Federation that evening, as well as how important the Motion was in bringing truth and healing to this long-standing issue of justice.
Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff was represented by the Honorable Minister Madeleine Ogilvie who accepted the Award on his behalf. The Honourable Lara Alexander, who played a pivotal role in the passing of the Motion, travelled all the way from Toowoomba to attend and accept her Award. The Honourable Minister Eric Abetz, also in attendance, was acknowledged with an Award for his stewardship of the process.
The Honourable Lara Alexander.
Madeleine Ogilvie represented the Tasmanian Premier.The Honourable Minister Eric Abetz.
Community leaders Nick Daglas and Michael Kolokossian played important roles in the Motion’s campaign across the Greek and Armenian communities and as such, were bestowed Recognition Awards in the Ypsilantis category also.
Paraskevas Totonidis was awarded the Euclidis Award for his long-standing leadership of the Pontian community in Tasmania and was thanked for all his work over many years and for being in chamber when the motion was passed.
Also that evening, the Ktenidis Award for significant cultural contribution was presented to Alexandra Papoulidis who is the longest serving Dance Teacher working in a voluntary capacity for a member association of the Federation.
The Mithridatis Award for Lifetime Achievement was bestowed upon Dorothea Papadopoulos who served as Secretary of the Federation when the first Synapantema was held in Mildura. This award is a very significant award for a person who has served the community with honour and commitment, and Mrs Papadopoulos has certainly done that over many years in artistic, linguistic and leadership endeavours. Her Award was accepted by her son Peter Papadopoulos who was in attendance from Sydney.
Pontian performance showcase
The headline entertainer this year was Anastasios Kazantzidis from Greece. His talent and energy lifted all those present and unearthed true Pontian glendi.
Anastasios Kazantzidis from Greece.
He was joined by Australian Pontian musicians from Adelaide, Sydney, Canberra and Melbourne over both evenings, Adam Neou, Zoe Karatasas, Kosta Papoulidis, Jack Xanthopoulos, Mikelina Hourdas, Harry Tsairis, Prodromos Moysiadis and Peter Tsenkas.
After months of preparation between Dance Teachers from Adelaide, Renae Lazaridis and Peter Skourtis, from Melbourne, Eleni Totikidis and Myrto Makridis, and from Sydney, Christina Ioannidis, Kosta Papoulidis, Connie Tsipidis, Sophia Tsipidis and Alexandra Papoulidis, over 60 dancers proudly showcased their Pontian dance talent.
Performers workshop in Tasmania.
“The energy and passion bought to Synapantema 2025 had to be lived to be appreciated. I could not be a prouder President. Our youth are our future and with the massive number of youth attending, I know we are in good hands”, said Federation President Ms Paschalidis-Chilas.
Synapantema 2025 had it all – gratitude and thanks, respect for Anzac Day, celebration and cultural affirmation, youth engagement and above all, lots of memories and friendships created.
Social outing to Richmond Bridge.Youth led social event in Tasmania.
Community Parakath events held in Sydney (May 2) and Melbourne (May 3)
In partnership with three of the Federation’s members organisations, two additional events were held to bring the community together.
In Sydney, with Panagia Soumela and Pontoxeniteas NSW holding a joint event, and in Melbourne with Akrites tou Pontou hosting an event.
Parakath in Melbourne that Akrites tou Pontou hosted.Joint Parakath in Sydney at Soumela Hall.
These were a wonderful opportunity for people of all ages to enjoy Pontian culture and music and to experience the talents of Mr Kazantzidis as well. This was especially important for community members who were not able to travel to Tasmania.
“The Parakath brought to life the start of an unforgettable weekend in Melbourne. We bought together community members from across the country with a shared purpose and renewed spirit for the future”, Harry Tsairis, President of Akrites tou Pontou, said.
Maria Anthony, President of Pontoxeniteas NSW, said, “Our joint Sydney event showed that while we might be two Associations as Panagia Soumela and Pontoxeniteas, we are united as one, all Pontians in Sydney.”
Soumela and Pontoxeniteas committees at joint Sydney Parakath.Parakath at Pontoxeniteas Hall.
The President of Panagia Soumela, Peter Papoulidis, said, “No-one predicted the heights the Federation has reached and the cooperation between members, in particular our two Associations. Yet here we are and it is testament to dedication and the Pontian spirit to survive that’s within us all.”
Ms Paschalidis-Chilas concluded with a heartfelt message, “With these two successful events closed Synapantema 2025. A week filled with inter-generational connection, gratitude, unity and strong cultural pride. Until 2026, when the Federation of Pontian Associations of Australia and its Members look forward to welcoming you to Synapantema – being held in Sydney on April 24, 25, 26.”
John Kostoulias has officially resigned from his role as President of the Federation of Greek Elderly Citizens’ Clubs of Melbourne and Victoria, citing serious health concerns.
The news was confirmed in an official statement sent to The Greek Herald following an emergency board meeting held at Mr Kostoulias’ request — the second such meeting in the space of a week.
“Following medical advice, Mr Kostoulias has been instructed to refrain from all social activities due to significant health issues,” the Federation said in a statement.
“As such, he is stepping down from his duties as President and has asked the Board to respect his decision. However, he will remain on the current Board until the next General Meeting, during which elections will be held to appoint a new Administrative Council.”
In the interim, long-time Federation member Giannis Gaitanis will serve as acting President.
“These incidents have severely impacted my already fragile health,” Mr Kostoulias told The Greek Herald at the time.
PRONIA denied the claims and stated that Mr Kostoulias’ conduct made staff feel unsafe. In a public statement, the organisation reiterated its support for the Federation and its members, while confirming that Mr Kostoulias would no longer enter its premises following a subsequent meeting in March 2025.
Mr Kostoulias’ departure now opens the way for new leadership to emerge within the Federation. The upcoming General Assembly will be closely watched as members prepare to elect a new permanent Administrative Council.
