The United Cup, an international mixed team tennis tournament held annually in Australia, has revealed its United Cup Community Champions Program, a new initiative honouring local businesses across Sydney and Perth that embody the values of community spirit, multiculturalism, and support for sport.
The inaugural program has selected 15 businesses across Sydney and Perth, including two with Hellenic roots – Hellenic Association Club of Western Australia and Yiamas Perth.
Through this program, selected businesses will be recognised and presented with a branded accolade by the tournament. This initiative transforms local businesses into ‘Community Champions’ while championing local culture.
United Cup Tournament Director Stephen Farrow said: “The United Cup is proud to celebrate the businesses that bring our communities together. The Community Champions Program recognises the incredible diversity and spirit of Sydney and Perth, and highlights how sport can unite people across cultures and backgrounds.”
Sydney recipients
Sydney’s recipients reflect the city’s vibrant multicultural identity and commitment to community connection.
- China Cultural Centre in Sydney, an official non-profit cultural organisation with facilities (art gallery, multifunctional hall, library etc.), signature events, courses and a library
- The Chinese Youth League Lion & Dragon Dance Australia showcases its cultural heritage through traditional performances, fostering pride and unity.
- German-Australian Business Women Alliance supports professional women and community leadership.
- Dutch Australian Cultural Centre promotes cultural exchange and inclusivity.
- The Polish Club in Bankstown, contributes to the preservation, diversification, understanding, and teaching of Polish ethnic culture within Sydney.
Together, these organisations highlight Sydney’s diverse spirit and its role as a hub of cultural celebration.
Perth recipients
Perth’s honourees demonstrate how local businesses enrich community life through culture and cuisine, including:
- Alliance Française de Perth champions French language and culture, strengthening multicultural ties.
- The Asado Signature, an Argentinian restaurant, is celebrated for bringing people together through food and hospitality.
- Dante Alighieri Society of Western Australia, a non-profit organisation for all people who share a keen interest in Italian culture and language.
- Gusto Gelato, gelateria (gelato maker and shop) that crafts gelato fresh on the premises using traditional artisan techniques learned in Bologna, Italy.
- Hellenic Association Club of Western Australia, the state’s first Pan-Hellenic organisation, has for over a century fostered Greek culture, community, and social connection in Perth.
- Hifumiya Udon Noodle, a Japanese restaurant, brings authentic flavours and cultural appreciation to the city.
- Lulu La Delizia Restaurant, a renowned Italian eatery, is recognised for its culinary excellence and community warmth.
- Perth Tango Club, a vibrant cultural hub, is celebrated for its artistic passion and welcoming community spirit.
- WA Italian Club, provide the public with delicious food, drinks and social activities directed at strengthening the Italian community and heritage.
- Yiamas Perth, a contemporary Greek restaurant, celebrates shared dining and Mediterranean flavours, bringing authentic Greek culture to the local community.
These businesses embody Perth’s welcoming character and showcase how food, language, and culture can unite communities.
In a statement to The Greek Herald, President of the Hellenic Association Club of WA, Socrates Bakaimis said he was honoured by the recognition.
“We are honoured to stand alongside the WA Italian Club, Alliance Française de Perth, and our fellow Greek nominee Yiamas Perth in Subiaco, as the Hellenic Association Club of Western Australia is named among 15 organisations recognised nationwide for their commitment to community spirit, multiculturalism, and support for sport by the United Cup,” Mr Bakaimis said.
“We sincerely thank the United Cup for acknowledging our efforts this year, along with our strong community push in 2023 when we once again coordinated the Greek Fans section.”
Businesses are selected based on their philanthropic impact, community leadership, multicultural engagement, and alignment with the United Cup values such as inclusivity, teamwork and positivity.
The United Cup, an ATP-WTA event presented in partnership with Tennis Australia, offers a minimum AUD $17.5 million / USD $11.8 million in prize money and 500 PIF ATP and WTA rankings points.
