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Greece and Cyprus at Eurovision 2025: What to expect

The Greek Herald
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Greece and Cyprus at Eurovision 2025: What to expect

As excitement builds for the Eurovision Song Contest 2025, all eyes are on Basel, Switzerland, where 37 countries will compete for the crown.

This year, Greece and Cyprus are sending two standout artists with emotionally rich and culturally rooted performances that promise to leave a mark on the European stage.

Greece: Klavdia and the starry-eyed ballad ‘Asteromáta’

Representing Greece is 22-year-old Klavdia, a rising talent who first gained national attention as a finalist on The Voice of Greece, mentored by Eurovision legend Helena Paparizou.

Her entry, ‘Asteromáta’ (which translates to starry-eyed), is a moving ballad sung in Greek. It fuses traditional melodies with modern electronic production and includes the sound of the klarino (Greek clarinet), adding an unmistakably Hellenic character.

Though inspired by universal themes of loss and displacement, the song resonates particularly with Klavdia’s Pontic Greek heritage, touching on memories of forced migration and cultural resilience. Her staging is expected to deliver a visual surprise that echoes the emotional power of the track.

Cyprus: Theo Evan’s dark pop anthem ‘Shh’

Cyprus will be represented by Theo Evan, a versatile performer from Nicosia known for his singing, songwriting, dancing, and acting.

Selected internally by CyBC, Theo will perform ‘Shh’, a moody, enigmatic pop song written by a team that includes Dimitris Kontopoulos and Elsie Bay.

Theo studied at Berklee College of Music and briefly appeared as an extra in the series Euphoria. His artistic style blends Mediterranean pop with international influences, and his musical inspirations range from Stromae to Michael Jackson.

‘Shh’ is expected to feature bold staging and powerful choreography, reinforcing Cyprus’s reputation for polished pop entries.

Key dates to watch

  • Tuesday 13 May, First Semi-Final: Theo Evan (Cyprus) will perform in the second half of this show.
  • Thursday 15 May, Second Semi-Final: Klavdia (Greece) will compete for a place in the final.
  • Saturday 17 May, Grand Final: The top 26 entries will perform at Basel’s St. Jakobshalle Arena.

All shows will be broadcast live across Europe and Australia, and streamed online.

Iconic Kensington restaurant Grotta Capri faces demolition for new housing

The Greek Herald
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Iconic Kensington restaurant Grotta Capri faces demolition for new housing

A once-iconic Sydney restaurant, co-owned in its later years by a Greek Australian family, is set to disappear as the former Grotta Capri site in Kensington is approved for redevelopment into high-rise apartments.

Opened in 1955 by Rosa and Giovanni Battista and inspired by Italy’s Grotta Azzurra, Grotta Capri was known for its cave-like interior, seafood platters, and role as a community hub for celebrations and milestones.

In the late 1990s, the restaurant was taken over by Greek-born Foti Fotaras and his son George, who remember its romantic atmosphere and Mediterranean charm.

Belly Rumbles.
Inside the Grotta Capri. Photo: Belly Rumbles.

“It was just an amazing place… something we’ll never forget,” George Fotaras told ABC News.

The venue featured hand-crafted cement stalactites, water features running beneath the floor, and a 6,000-litre tank, creating a unique dining experience that became a set for films like Muriel’s Wedding and Underbelly.

Although closed since 2010, the restaurant’s shell-covered façade stood as a nostalgic landmark—until now. Randwick City Council has approved plans for four apartment towers, marking the end of a beloved piece of Sydney’s post-war hospitality history.

Source: ABC News

Oakleigh Grammar’s Head of Marketing awarded Clemenger BBDO Scholarship

The Greek Herald
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Oakleigh Grammar’s Head of Marketing awarded Clemenger BBDO Scholarship

Oakleigh Grammar has announced that Head of Marketing, Daniel Ware has been awarded the Clemenger BBDO Scholarship from Melbourne Business School. This scholarship will support Daniel’s pursuit of a Master of Marketing degree, undertaken part-time alongside his professional commitments.

Established in 1990, the Clemenger BBDO Scholarship is awarded to candidates who demonstrate academic merit, application quality and a passion in marketing. Daniel’s achievement reflects his dedication to advancing his expertise and leadership in marketing.

Principal Mark Robertson expressed his pride in Daniel’s accomplishment.

“In a short period of time, Daniel has impressed as leader of Marketing as he understands that Marketing is evolving to embrace our changing world and hence is focusing on keeping the Oakleigh Grammar community engaged and connected,” Mr Robertson said.

“The reality is that what is being posted on social media is quickly being superseded by the next news announcement, hence communication needs to be fast paced, regular, automated and focused on what Oakleigh Grammar can offer as a whole package and Daniel is leading the charge from this perspective.  We are immensely proud of Daniel’s achievements, and he is well deserving of this Scholarship.”

Oakleigh Grammar congratulates Daniel on this outstanding achievement and his continued professional growth. The Clemenger BBDO Scholarship will provide Daniel with the opportunity to further enhance his expertise and leadership in the Marketing field.

Oakleigh Grammar is committed to supporting exceptional staff, fostering their growth and development to ensure an outstanding learning environment for our students and community.

Jim Parashos sounds alarm over SmartGate chaos at Australian airports

The Greek Herald
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Jim Parashos sounds alarm over SmartGate chaos at Australian airports

Melbourne Airport’s Chief of Aviation, Jim Parashos, has warned that Australia’s passport control system is outdated and struggling to cope, as complaints over long delays and broken SmartGates surge across the country.

Parashos told The Sydney Morning Herald that international passenger numbers have grown by over 50 per cent in the past decade, yet the number of kiosks hasn’t increased, resulting in overcrowding and unacceptable delays at peak times.

He stressed that Border Force staff are doing their best but urgently need more infrastructure to deliver a better experience.

SmartGates
SmartGate passport detection technology at Sydney International Airport. Photo: AAP.

Parashos’ comments follow the release of more than 100 pages of traveller complaints describing chaos at Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane airports — with some calling the situation “a clown show” and “an embarrassment.”

Despite ongoing failures, SmartGate contracts have ballooned by over $120 million since 2015, while usage remains well below government targets. Only 57% of passengers used the system last year, compared to a 90% goal.

Sydney Airport has begun purchasing new kiosks directly, and the federal government is trialling a digital declaration system — but industry leaders warn Australia is falling behind global standards as major events like the Brisbane 2032 Olympics approach.

Source: The Sydney Morning Herald

Saints’ young guns show true spirit despite unfortunate loss

The Greek Herald
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Saints’ young guns show true spirit despite unfortunate loss

By Dion Stergiopoulos

St George Saints Mens White team headed to take on Hornsby Ku-Ring-Gai Spiders last Saturday, May 10, for their last game of their three-game road trip.

The Saints were dealt a major blow before the game with star player and leading scorer Jayden Tanevski unavailable to play in last weekend’s game.

The starting five for the Saints did a fantastic job keeping pace with the vastly experienced Spiders squad which has included players with overseas experience.

With the Spiders clinging to a one-point lead at the end of the first quarter (28-29) cracks started to form and panic started to settle in within Hornsby’s game.

Saints failed to take advantage of this potential opening with the Spiders regaining their composure to take a ten-point lead in the half time break.

The experience of the Hornsby side became even more apparent in the second half, as they went on a massive scoring run to end the third quarter up by 25 points (61-86).

Despite what seemed to be an insurmountable deficit to overcome, the Saints kept fighting up until the final buzzer and continuing to put pressure on Hornsby during every possession, but it wasn’t enough, with the Spiders walking away with the 16-point victory (86-102).

Yianni Trikillis top scored for the Saints finishing with 32 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists.

Jack Tici also contributed with 16 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists, and Ross Aliferis was also a big contributor on the defensive end finishing with 4 points, 9 rebounds and 3 assists.

Saints head coach George Aliferis said that despite the loss he was still pleased with his team’s performance and fight to try and get back into the contest.

“I was very happy with the way we started the game, we finally started a game with a high intensity,” he said.”

“Our lack of experience in the third quarter showed, but the spirit with the team was very much present. I was super proud of Yianni, he was captain for this game and showed amazing leadership.

“We have a must win game this weekend to make sure we stay in touch for the finals.”

The Saints return home this Saturday, May 17 to take on Hills Hornets.

Saints Youth League prevail over rampaging Wildfire

Elsewhere, the St George Saints Youth League Mens red returned home for a top of the table clash against Camden Valley Wildfire on Saturday, May 10, an early contender for match of the season.

Both teams went full steam ahead from the opening tip, eager to push the tempo on offense to establish an early advantage in an extremely physical first quarter.

The Wildfire were able to capitalise on some poor early shooting from the Saints to get out to an early lead, with their full court press suffocating the St George offence forcing rushed shots.

The crowd was very vocal in support of their teams, and both teams were looking to use this as a boost with Camden holding a ten-point lead (20-30) at the end of the first term.

The Saints fought their way back in the second quarter, with star centre Maper Maker coming up with some huge plays on both ends of the floor to spark the team’s fightback.

Down by fifteen points early in the quarter (20-35) the Saints rallied together and went on a 33-13 run for the rest of the quarter to take a five-point lead at the half-time break (53-48).

The message to the Saints team from head coach Luther Shannon out of the halftime huddle was an emphasis on defence to halt any chance of a Wildfire comeback,

The Saints needed to find a spark from somewhere if they were going to extend their already slim lead. That spark came from sharpshooting guard Jaxon Jon Frintzilas, who took it upon himself to try an extend the Saints’ lead.

At the start of the final quarter, both teams slowed the pace right down in-order-to make every possession count.

The Saints blew several golden opportunities to increase their already slim lead from the free throw line.

Camden’s defensive frustrations culminated with putting the Saints in the bonus with 2:45 remaining holding just a two-point lead.

The Saints put their previous struggles from the foul line behind them, nailing six from six since they entered the bonus.

The Saints’ defence held the Wildfire’s two leading scorers (27ppg & 23ppg) to just 14(6/16 FG), and 15 points (6/24FG, 3/18 3FG).

In the end the Saints held on for the 89-82 win to remain undefeated on the season.

Saints assistant coach Angelo Tsitsos was impressed with how the team remained composed to rally their way back into the game.

“Our guys showed a lot of composure and experience to rally back from the deficit,” he said.

“Basketball is a game of runs and they had theirs early on, but we stayed composed and went on a run of our own to take control of the game.”

Star centre Maper Maker finished with a huge double-double (13 points, 21 rebounds, 6 assists, 1 steal and 5 blocks.

Jaxon Jon Frintzilas was the player of the game for the Saints, finishing the game with 29 points (12/23 FG), 9 rebounds, 2 assists and 3 steals.

The Saints will hit the road once again this Saturday, May 17 when the take on Moss Vale Magic.

Pope Leo XIV and Patriarch Bartholomew plan meeting amid hopes of a ‘new era’

The Greek Herald
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Pope Leo XIV and Patriarch Bartholomew plan meeting amid hopes of a ‘new era’

His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew has confirmed he will attend the enthronement of newly elected Pope Leo XIV, expressing hope that the new pontiff’s leadership will open “a new era” in relations between the Eastern Orthodox and Roman Catholic Churches.

“We look at the new pontiff with Christian hope. I intend to come to his enthronement and propose developing dialogue between the East and the West,” the Patriarch announced during an event in Athens on May 8, just hours after Leo XIV’s election.

He also extended an invitation for Pope Leo to visit the Ecumenical Patriarchate in Istanbul, suggesting it coincide with the Feast of Saint Andrew on November 30.

Robert Prevost becomes Pope Leo XIV
Robert Prevost becomes Pope Leo XIV.

In response, Pope Leo XIV confirmed preparations were underway for a meeting, stating: “The meeting with Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew will take place, we are preparing it,” though a date has not yet been set.

Bartholomew voiced hopes that the new papacy would bring “answers to the existential questions that continue to trouble humanity” and contribute to global peace, particularly regarding conflicts in Ukraine, the Middle East, and rising tensions in South Asia.

This move continues a long-standing effort to heal the schism between the two churches, which has persisted since 1054. Past milestones include joint peace prayers and visits between Popes and Patriarchs, most recently Pope Francis and Bartholomew walking in the footsteps of their predecessors’ historic 1964 meeting in Jerusalem.

Source: tovima.com

Greece to repay bailout loans a decade early amid strong economic rebound

The Greek Herald
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Greece to repay bailout loans a decade early amid strong economic rebound

Greece plans to repay its first bailout loans by 2031 — ten years ahead of schedule — Finance Minister Kyriakos Pierrakakis has confirmed, citing strong economic performance and sustained budget surpluses.

“[Our debt burden] should be completely behind us by 2031,” Pierrakakis told Bloomberg, adding that fiscal discipline is now “a regime.”

The country still owes €31.6 billion from the €52.9 billion Greek Loan Facility received in 2010. Early repayment is expected to ease debt pressures before major repayments begin in 2033.

Public debt dropped to 153.6% of GDP in 2024 and is set to fall below 150% this year. Greece was also one of only six EU countries to post a budget surplus in 2024, largely due to anti-tax evasion efforts.

“We don’t plan to pass the bill to the next generation,” Pierrakakis said, projecting a 3.2% primary surplus for 2025.

Source: Bloomberg

Sussan Ley elected first female leader of Australia’s Liberal Party

The Greek Herald
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Sussan Ley elected first female leader of Australia’s Liberal Party

Sussan Ley has made history by becoming the first woman to lead the Liberal Party in its 80-year history, defeating conservative rival Angus Taylor in a closely contested leadership ballot.

The 63-year-old former deputy leader, backed by the party’s moderate faction, won 29 votes to Taylor’s 25 in the party room on Tuesday, following the Coalition’s heavy loss in the federal election.

Liberal whip Melissa Price confirmed the result to reporters outside the party room, and urged journalists to direct further questions to the new leadership team, who will front the media later today.

In a separate ballot, Queensland MP Ted O’Brien was elected deputy leader of the party, comfortably defeating Phil Thompson 38 votes to 16.

Ley now faces the significant task of uniting a fractured party and rebuilding its standing after a bruising campaign that saw former leader Peter Dutton lose his own seat.

Source: ABC News

Spectacular drone display dazzles Sydney for Pavlos Giannakopoulos Tournament

Andriana Simos
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Spectacular drone display dazzles Sydney for Pavlos Giannakopoulos Tournament

Sydney’s night sky dazzled with a spectacular display of Greek, Australian and Serbian flags on Monday night, thanks to a choreographed fleet of 600 drones announcing that the prestigious Pavlos Giannakopoulos Tournament is coming to Australia for the first time.

The light show was a breathtaking tribute to the tournament’s global debut outside Europe, celebrating the strong sporting ties between Australia, Greece and Serbia.

The three flags shimmered across the skyline with the iconic Sydney Opera House as a backdrop, captivating onlookers and sending a powerful message of unity through sport.

@thegreekherald

The Greek and Australian flags were projected across Sydney’s skyline tonight to celebrate the news that Australia will be hosting the Pavlos Giannakopoulos Tournament for the first time. In September, Panathinaikos BC and KK Partizan will come Down Under to face NBL clubs Sydney Kings and Adelaide 36ers. 📽️: The Greek Herald . . . . #greek #tgh #greekaustralians #thegreekherald #australian #panathinaikos #panathinaikosbc #basketball

♬ original sound – thegreekherald

The tournament, named in honour of legendary Panathinaikos BC president Pavlos Giannakopoulos, will feature EuroLeague powerhouses Panathinaikos BC AKTOR and KK Partizan Belgrade, alongside NBL giants Sydney Kings and Adelaide 36ers.

“This is an extraordinary moment for the NBL and basketball fans in Australia,” NBL Director, Nikola Milivojevic, said.

“To have two of Europe’s biggest teams competing… is not only a reflection of the NBL’s growing global reputation, but underlines the increasing level of passion and interest Australians have for the game.”

The clash begins on Thursday 18 September at John Cain Arena in Melbourne, followed by a two-day tournament at Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney on 21 and 22 September.

Panathinaikos President Vassilis Parthenopoulos said the event holds “cultural importance,” as it brings the legacy of the club and the memory of Giannakopoulos to the Greek diaspora in Australia.

BC Partizan President Ostoja Mijailović added: “We look forward to reconnecting with our expatriates and those with Serbian heritage who we hope will come out in strong support.”

Pre-registration for tickets is now open here, with those who sign up early given priority access on Monday, 19 May. General public tickets will go on-sale on Thursday 22 May.

Greek and Italian leaders pledge deeper ties on defence, energy and migration

The Greek Herald
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Greek and Italian leaders pledge deeper ties on defence, energy and migration

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni met in Rome for the latest session of the Greece–Italy High Cooperation Council, where they reaffirmed their commitment to closer bilateral ties across a wide range of issues, from migration and defence to energy and economic cooperation.

Speaking after the meeting, Mitsotakis described it as “not a formal diplomatic meeting but an essential opportunity to coordinate our steps with passion on all issues from regional developments to migration.”

Mitsotakis underlined the deep political, historical, and economic bonds between the two countries and called for more frequent gatherings of the Council.

A key outcome of the meeting was a joint statement committing both countries to enhanced strategic collaboration.

“We want to triple the cooperation between our two countries in the electric interconnection,” Mitsotakis said, highlighting energy security as a shared priority.

Another major development was the signing of a new agreement with Italy’s state railway company, marking a restart of a relationship that had been tested in the wake of the Tempi tragedy. Under the deal, Greece will invest over €400 million in rail network upgrades and safety systems, while Italy will provide €360 million for new trains and maintenance facilities.

The two leaders also discussed broader economic ties and bilateral trade, as well as regional developments in Libya and Syria.

On migration, Mitsotakis stressed a shift in focus: “We are no longer focusing on the internal redistribution of refugees; instead, we are prioritising the protection of our borders, combating smuggling rings, enhancing return policies, and reorganising our approach to receiving legal migrants.”

On Ukraine, Mitsotakis reiterated Greece’s support for peace, stating: “We support an unconditional 30-day ceasefire.”

He also spoke of the need to bolster European defence and deepen defence cooperation between Greece and Italy.

“We share the view that our cooperation with the US is necessary and essential to reach a mutually beneficial trade agreement. We must avoid a trade war; we must make every effort to keep the West united against the challenges we face,” he added.

Source: amna.gr

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