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Despina Papamichail advances to second round of Australian Open qualifying

The Greek Herald
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Despina Papamichail advances to second round of Australian Open qualifying

By Bill Roumeliotis

Greek tennis player Despina Papamichail (world No. 157) produced an impressive performance today in the opening round of the Australian Open qualifying draw, defeating Sachia Vickery (No. 560) 6–3, 7–5 in Melbourne.

The 32-year-old Greek was in control from the outset, breaking early to move ahead 2–0 and later 4–2 in the first set before sealing it with another break in the ninth game. Her consistency and composure set the tone for the match.

The second set proved more competitive, with the 30-year-old American – a former world No. 73 – mounting a strong resistance. Vickery saved a double match point on her serve in the 10th game and fought back from 4–5, 15–40 to level the set at 5–5.

Papamichail, however, responded decisively, winning the next eight points to earn three match points at 0–40 in the following game. After Vickery saved one, the Greek player closed out the match with a clean down-the-line winner to secure a valuable straight-sets victory.

The win sees Papamichail advance to the second qualifying round of the Australian Open for the second time in her career, following her previous appearance at that stage in 2023. It is her fourth overall participation in Melbourne qualifying and her first in two years.

She will next face Yuliia Starodubtseva, the sixth seed in qualifying and world No. 111. Papamichail requires three wins to reach the main draw and is chasing her first-ever Grand Slam main draw appearance.

Melbourne business empire linked to Harry Hatgikyriazis faces $55 million tax debt

The Greek Herald
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Melbourne business empire linked to Harry Hatgikyriazis faces $55 million tax debt

A Melbourne-based, Greek-owned business empire including Gasmere, Arden Medical and Biotempus has entered voluntary administration, leaving the Australian Taxation Office pursuing $55.2 million in outstanding taxes and penalties.

According to The Herald Sun, the companies are linked to former ASX director Harry Hatgikyriazis, who declared bankruptcy in May 2025 and was disqualified from managing corporations for five years after pleading guilty to failing to disclose shareholdings in Equus Energy (formerly Copper Strike).

Hatgikyriazis was sentenced to six months in jail, although he did not ultimately serve any time.

Hatgikyriazis’ sister, Rania, has been the director of Gasmere, Arden Medical and Biotempus, since he was sentenced in November 2024. There is no suggestion of wrongdoing by Rania.

His mother, Theodora Hatgikyriazis, held a 95 per cent stake in Gasmere before her death in 2022.

Administrators Shaun Matthews and Daniel Juratowitch reported that Gasmere still holds at least $8.3 million in assets, mainly publicly listed shares, while Arden Medical and Biotempus have minimal debts but were unable to operate due to a Federal Court freezing order.

Gasmere had failed to lodge income tax returns from 2000 to 2017, prompting ongoing Federal Court proceedings and appeals.

The companies are now under administration, with creditors likely to consider liquidation next week.

Source: Herald Sun.

Alleged AN0M drug trafficker Michael Theoharis denied smartphone access

The Greek Herald
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Alleged AN0M drug trafficker Michael Theoharis denied smartphone access

Michael Theoharis, the 29-year-old software developer facing 21 drug trafficking charges linked to the AN0M app, has been denied access to his smartphone by the Adelaide Magistrates Court.

On Wednesday, Theoharis sought to have his bail conditions amended to allow him to use a smartphone, arguing his work as “head of site operations” was severely restricted by the non-internet Nokia phone he was limited to.

He also requested the return of several phones seized by police during October’s Operation Ironside raids.

Photo: NewsWire / Emma Brasier.

Prosecutor Peter Longson accused Theoharis of “magistrate shopping,” noting his application had already been refused in December.

Magistrate Justin Wickens rejected the request, citing the seriousness of the charges and that the devices remained evidence. He advised Theoharis to use an iPad or laptop instead.

Theoharis, representing himself, was granted bail at Rostrevor to care for his children and manage a shoulder injury. He will return to court in three weeks.

White Fox owners Georgia and Daniel Contos face scrutiny for missing financial reports

The Greek Herald
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White Fox owners Georgia and Daniel Contos face scrutiny for missing financial reports

White Fox founders Georgia and Daniel Contos, the couple behind Australia’s teen fashion sensation and Baddest Bod self-tanning brand, are under regulatory scrutiny for failing to lodge mandatory financial statements with ASIC.

Despite the company’s estimated $500 million-plus revenue and rapid global expansion across Australia, the UK, and the US, the fashion powerhouse has allegedly skirted obligations under the Modern Slavery Act 2018 and avoided key compliance reporting.

ASIC is reportedly in discussions with White Fox over potential penalties.

The Contos’ built White Fox from a 2013 garage startup into a global digital-first brand, leveraging influencer marketing and social media to reach millions of followers.

The company recently opened warehouses in the US and UK and is constructing a $70 million Sydney headquarters.

While their empire continues to grow, the couple’s regulatory lapses highlight ongoing concerns about transparency in Australia’s fast-growing private fashion sector.

Source: The Australian.

Giannis Chatzopoulos’ moving visit to elderly residents at St Basil’s NSW & ACT

Andriana Simos
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Giannis Chatzopoulos’ moving visit to elderly residents at St Basil’s NSW & ACT

International Greek singer Giannis Chatzopoulos brought music and joy to residents at St Basil’s NSW & ACT in Lakemba, Sydney during a special visit last week.

Chatzopoulos performed well-known Greek songs and spent time speaking with residents individually, listening to their stories. Staff and residents described the visit as deeply moving and uplifting.

In a statement on social media, Chatzopoulos said it was a great honour to be in Australia at the invitation of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia and to visit its aged care homes. He praised the staff for their care, respect and love, describing the facilities and overall approach as exemplary.

The singer was originally scheduled to perform at the Epiphany Greek Festival at Carss Park over the weekend, which was cancelled due to strong winds.

Instead, his visit to St Basil’s became a meaningful moment of connection, highlighting the power of music and human dignity.

Cricketer Sam Konstas dropped by Sydney Thunder

The Greek Herald
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Cricketer Sam Konstas dropped by Sydney Thunder

Less than a year after cementing his place in the Australian Test side, Sam Konstas has been dropped from the Sydney Thunder for their Big Bash clash against the Brisbane Heat.

Thunder coach Trevor Baylis made the selection decision following a run of poor form, with Konstas failing to pass 50 in his last four T20 innings and struggling in Shield cricket.

This slump also saw him lose his spot to Jake Weatherald for the Ashes series and drop out of the Australian squad picture.

Ex-Australian cricketer Mike Hussey said he was “a little bit surprised” by the axing.

“Yes, he has been battling a little bit with form in the last few innings and is probably a little bit low on confidence… maybe this is just a circuit breaker for him to get back in the nets, do some good work. Hopefully, we can see him back in the last few games.”

While the Thunder posted 180, their bowling attack faltered and the Heat chased down the total with ease, led by Usman Khawaja’s 78 off 48 balls.

Source: News.com.au.

Cyprus Community of NSW launches Cyprus EU Presidency Essay Award

The Greek Herald
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Cyprus Community of NSW launches Cyprus EU Presidency Essay Award

The Cyprus Community of NSW has recently launched the Cyprus EU Presidency Essay Award as part of a broader Cyprus EU Presidency Program commemorating Cyprus’ Presidency of the Council of the European Union.

The Community has been celebrating Cyprus’ leadership through a comprehensive program of events highlighting European values and human rights.

The Community’s Honorary President, Michael Kyriacou, said the Community, like the EU, has long been a champion of fundamental human rights – the cornerstone of the EU’s foundation and an essential part of Australian society.

“We often take our freedoms and liberties for granted – the freedom to buy, sell, move around Australia and express opinions with very few limits. These rights are always under scrutiny and in recent times, they are increasingly being questioned and, in some instances, attacked,” Mr Kyriacou said.

He noted that the Cyprus Community has been a staunch advocate for human rights, including the right to safety, life, and freedom of movement. Unfortunately, many Cypriots living in the occupied territories of Cyprus do not enjoy these same rights.

Australia is a tolerant, pluralist society that does not discriminate. Minorities are free to practice their religion, preserve their language, and contribute to the rich fabric of the nation, Mr Kyriacou said.

Honorary Secretary Kyriakos Panayi added that these are values shared with Europe, and they are the values the Community seeks to instil in young people so they may become future leaders who continue the Community’s tradition of advocating for human rights.

“We looked at the most accessible way to reach our younger members while also engaging the wider Australian community, and at the same time highlighting the plight of Cyprus, which remains home to the last divided capital city in the world,” Mr Panayi said.

In recent times, the Cyprus EU Presidency has highlighted the security challenges faced by the EU as it grapples with complex issues on multiple fronts.

The Cyprus EU Presidency Essay Award was launched specifically to engage junior students and encourage greater involvement with the Community.

Honorary Assistant Secretary Andrew Paschali said: “The essay competition is a very accessible way to motivate students to think about the freedoms we all enjoy, while encouraging young people to promote the values of equality, fairness, progress, tolerance, respect, and the protection of human dignity.”

Mr Panayi added that following extensive consultation with educators, stakeholders, and Community members, the Community carefully considered how best to engage young people and mark the Cyprus EU Presidency in a meaningful way.

“We decided on an essay competition because it is something most students can relate to. With the vast amount of information available online, this initiative encourages independent thinking, analysis, and the expression of personal opinions. It is a valuable exercise in civic responsibility and in recognising Cyprus’ work in the field of human rights,” Mr Panayi said.

Mr Kyriacou described the essay competition as a world-first initiative.

“What better way to motivate critical thinking about the freedoms we enjoy, while also raising awareness of the plight of Cyprus and its people, as well as many others around the world who have had these freedoms taken away,” he said.

The Essay Competition is open to NSW-based students aged 10 to 18, whether enrolled in primary school, high school, university, or TAFE. Essays may be submitted in either English or Greek.

First place winner will receive a $2,000 prize, a commemorative medal, and a certificate of achievement. The top five shortlisted essays will received $200 each.

“We have engaged with many educational institutions and encouraged them to invite their students to submit essays describing, in their own words, the importance of these values and the consequences when they are not respected,” Mr Kyriacou said.

Eligibility criteria, application details, and terms and conditions are available online at:
https://thecyprusclub.org.au/scholarships/ 

Kyrgios skips Australian Open singles to focus on doubles

The Greek Herald
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Kyrgios skips Australian Open singles to focus on doubles

Nick Kyrgios has ruled himself out of playing singles at the Australian Open, conceding his body is not ready for five-set tennis and ending speculation he would receive a wildcard.

The 30-year-old, whose ranking has fallen to 670 after multiple wrist and knee surgeries limited him to seven singles matches in the past three years, confirmed he will instead play doubles alongside Thanasi Kokkinakis when the tournament begins on January 18.

“After some good conversations with TA, I’ve made the call to focus on doubles for this year’s AO,” Kyrgios wrote on Instagram.

“I’m fit and back on court, but five-setters are a different beast, and I’m not quite ready to go the distance yet.”

Kyrgios, who reached the Wimbledon final in 2022, said he wanted any wildcard to go to someone ready to “make their moment count”, adding: “It’s all building blocks, and I’ll be back next year and pumped to compete.”

His most recent singles outing was a 66-minute loss to American Aleksandar Kovacevic at the Brisbane International earlier this week.

Source: ABC.

Tributes pour in for Melbourne musician Achilles Yiangoulli following his death

Andriana Simos
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Tributes pour in for Melbourne musician Achilles Yiangoulli following his death

The Greek Australian community is today mourning the passing of Achilles Yiangoulli, a highly respected composer, arranger, producer and multi-instrumentalist whose influence extended well beyond the stage and studio.

Based in Melbourne, Victoria, Yiangoulli built a distinguished career as a recording engineer and producer, guitarist, vocalist, bouzouki and tzoura player, and choral conductor.

Renowned for his breadth of musical knowledge and quiet dedication, he was a central figure in Australia’s community and Greek Australian music scenes, where he played a vital role in nurturing collaboration, creativity and cultural continuity.

Tributes have flowed from musicians, colleagues and friends, many describing Yiangoulli as a mentor whose impact was often felt more deeply than it was publicly acknowledged.

In a post on social media, the Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM) wrote: “Achilles was an incredible musician with a deep love for his community. Everything he did, he did with a smile. Always humble, always supportive, always present.”

Lawyer and close friend Konstantinos Kalymnios said he was “gutted” by the news, describing Yiangoulli as “a dear friend and teacher in ways he may never have realised.”

“We shared a birthday, a fondness for the obscure and the absurd, and the deep privilege of making music together many times,” he said. “Achilles was a quiet force for good in the world… instrumental in sustaining the life of our community music scene.”

Prominent community figure Peter Mousaferiadis also paid tribute, recalling their shared time at university in the mid-1980s.

“When I heard the news my heart sank,” Mousaferiadis said on social media. “We were at university together and I have such fond memories of Achilles — so many fun times and great music making. His contribution and his generosity will be missed by so many. May his memory be eternal.”

Known for downplaying his own achievements, Yiangoulli’s legacy lies not only in the music he created and produced, but in the generosity, humour and integrity with which he supported others.

Kokkinakis pins comeback on rare tendon transplant surgery

The Greek Herald
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Kokkinakis pins comeback on rare tendon transplant surgery

Thanasi Kokkinakis is weighing up his return to singles at the Australian Open after undergoing what is believed to be a tennis-first surgery to address the right pectoral injury that has plagued his career for seven years.

The 29-year-old traced the issue back to his breakthrough Open in 2019, when he retired injured against Taro Daniel after qualifying for his first grand slam.

“I hit a forehand against Polansky, and something didn’t feel right,” Kokkinakis said, adding he later realised he had followed “bad doctor’s advice.”

According to Sydney Morning Herald, after extensive research, Melbourne surgeon Greg Hoy reattached Kokkinakis’ pectoral muscle to his shoulder using an Achilles tendon graft.

“If someone recommended me not to do it, I just blacklisted them,” Kokkinakis said. “I was fine with retiring rather than keeping on doing what I was doing.”

Kokkinakis made an emotional doubles return alongside Nick Kyrgios in Brisbane last week and says while his shoulder remains stiff, he has so far felt no pectoral pain.

He will use the Adelaide International to decide whether he is physically ready to contest the Australian Open, which he can enter using a protected ranking.

“I want to be able to play a match, and know that I can play the next one healthy,” he said, adding he does not expect to be near his best until at least mid-year.

Source: Sydney Morning Herald.

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