OPA! Magazine Issue 7

FLAVOURS OF GREECE CONCLUDES FOR 2011

BENEFACTOR SERIES BEIRUT HELLENIC BANK

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TENT OBILE CON TAGGED M

Presenting partner

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771838

772001 An initiative of the Greek Orthodox Communities of Australia Adelaide Melbourne Sydney Brisbane

6 - 9 October 2011 12 - 30 October 2011 13 - 30 October 2011 27 - 30 October 2011

At selected Palace Cinemas

www.greekfilmfestival.com.au

W W W. B A R D O T. C O M . A U

> A SELECTION OF THIS ISSUE’S CONTRIBUTORS PUBLISHER & MANAGING EDITOR

Steve Agi

editor@opamagazine.com.au

CHRIS BINOS Chris is a valued member of the OPA! DREAM TEAM with his editorial input crucial in determining the direction and content of this publication. He is

CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER

Chris Binos

chris@opamagazine.com.au

the newly appointed CIO, whose role is to maintain a high level of quality articles and content on the OPA! Magazine website and across all the developing online and mobile platforms. His analytical skills and continued pursuit of excellence ensure that the final product will be second to none.

SUB EDITOR

Charles Meyer FASHION EDITOR

Dean Georgio

dean@opamagazine.com.au

RANIA MARGARI Rania Margari is a freelance travel and lifestyle writer currently living in Greece.

Her work is published in newspapers, magazines and online sites. What she loves most in this life is travelling and sharing her experiences with others through writing. We warmly welcome her to OPA! Magazine as a valued contributor.

DESIGN + PRODUCTION

Seed Creative

www.seedcreative.com.au

MULTIMEDIA / TAGGED CONTENT

Mediacode

www.mediacode.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHY

DEAN GEORGIO With a strong background in marketing and sales and a passion for fashion, Dean knows what it takes to create those special relationships with clients. “I

Alexander Brunacci Nick Ghionis Raymond Korn Rania Margari Vicky Papas Woodrow Wilson Paul Zarogiannis Ephrem Zarris

am an individual who is driven by passion, I like to inspire and to be inspired, I joined OPA! to be part of something that is rewarding where I can re-connect with my heritage and to re-indentify myself. I believe OPA! magazine offers us the chance to document the past and influence the future.

NICOLE CONDOS

CONTRIBUTORS Billy Billiris, Chris Binos, Nasia Bossinakis, Nicole Condos, Judy Fetter, Areti Fronis, Dean Georgio, Nick Ghionis, Nik Halik, Mr. Joshua, Dean Kalymniou, Martha Karatsioris, Ange Kenos, DJ Krazy Kon, Theo Kostoglou, Father Kyril, John Lazarou, Pette Liacopoulos, Chris Macheras, Rania Margari, Niko Mavro, Mary McQueen, Malchus Nevets, Marinis Pirpiris, Jaqui Preketes, Dean Psaros, James Razos, Lenita Vangellis, John Sakellaris, Pee Wee Sharkopoulos, Jorge Sotirios, Penelope Tsaldari, Tony Tsourdalakis, Phil Vassiliadis

A Melbourne born singer, Nicole also runs her own consultancy, Material Girl

MAILING ADDRESS

PR. From Lisa Marie Presley to Paris Hilton, Nicole Condos has been a part of

PO BOX 406 ALBERT PARK VIC 3206

PR campaigns that most professionals can only dream about. Whether she’s onstage performing or online working, she still has the time to say OPA! contributing with lifestyle, opinion and feature pieces.

SUBSCRIPTIONS

www.opamagazine.com.au subscriptions@opamagazine.com.au

ADVERTISING For all advertising enquiries please contact the publisher direct at: editor@opamagazine.com.au or +61 432210963

MARINIS PIRPIRIS Marinis Pirpiris is one of the nation’s most respected and qualified Orthopaedic

PRINTPOST APPROVED: PP320135/00072

Surgeons whom we welcome as a contributor to OPA! Magazine.

As the Director of The Active Orthopaedic Centre at Epworth and Cabrini Hospitals, a Consultant in Orthopaedic Surgery at The Royal Melbourne

ARTICLES

All articles submitted for publication become the property of the publisher. The Editor reserves the right to adjust any article to conform with the magazine format.

Hospital, a Senior Fellow at The University of Melbourne and a Senior Lecturer at Monash University he is the perfect person to discuss a number of issues, which will be relevant to our readers.

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This publication has been printed on FSC mixed source certified fibre using vegetable based inks. Manufactured under ISO14001 Environmental Certification.

Opa! Magazine is owned and published by Caffiend Enterprises. All material in OPA! Magazine is copyright and no part may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any means (graphic, electronic or mechanical including information and retrieval systems) without written permission of the publisher. The Editor welcomes contributions but reserves the right to accept or reject any material. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information, Caffiend Enterprises will not accept any responsibility for errors or omissions or for any consequences arising from reliance on information published. The opinions expressed in OPA! Magazine are not necessarily the opinions of, or endorsed by the publisher unless otherwise stated.

At bwired, At bwired, we use we use our our expertise expertise to protect to protect andand grow grow our our customer’s customer’s business business in the in the in the in the rapidly rapidly changing changing on line on line environment. environment.

If you If you would would like like to learn to learn more more subscribe subscribe to our to our newsletter, newsletter, download download a a white white paper paper or visit or visit us at usStand at Stand 18 at 18the at the Internet Internet Show.

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bwired.com.au bwired.com.au | info@bwired.com.au | info@bwired.com.au | 1300 | 1300 780 780 566 566

SMART PHONE! Pireaus Blues – OPA!

INTRODUCING THE OPA! CHARITABLE TRUST

Point it here:

http://gettag.mobi The FREE Microsoft Tag application gives you the ability to use your mobile phone’s on-board camera to take a picture of a tag, and be directed to information in any form, such as text, vCard, URL, Online Photos, Online Video or contact details for the publisher.

Two-dimensional tags can be used to transform traditional marketing media (for example, print advertising, billboards, packaging and merchandising in stores or on LCDs) into gateways for accessing information online. Tags can be applied as gateways from any type of media to an internet site or online media.

The Microsoft Tag reader application is a FREE download for any Internet-capable mobile device with a camera. The Microsoft Tag reader is compatible for Internet-capable mobile devices, including Iphones, Windows Phone 7, Windows Mobile, BlackBerry, Java, Android, Symbian S60, and Java ME platforms.

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NOW MORE THAN EVER, EVERYBODY IS SAYING OPA! AND WE HAVE ONLY JUST BEGUN! For me it’s never been about the money, OPA! Magazine is my own personal way of trying to not only connect with, but also give back to, a community that is so rich, passionate and beautiful. Now, with the creation of the OPA! Charitable Trust under the auspices of the Lord Mayors Charitable Foundation,we are one step closer to realising this dream.

I thank you all and congratulate every single one of you for not only making this possible but for being a part of it.

As Greeks you can be proud and hold your head up high; this is your Charitable Trust and we are here to listen to your needs and wants, so let us know who we need to support, who we need to work with and how we can really make a difference.

I hope you all enjoy our wrap up of the eclectic Bank of Cyprus Australia ‘Flavours of Greece Festival, ‘which has run its course for 2011. For those of you who attended, I hope you enjoyed it; for those who missed out, fear not - 2012 is right around the corner. Get in quick to book your tickets as it is sure to be a sellout.

October also marks the beginning of the 18th National Greek Film Festival, which once again we are proud to support and be a part of. This year is another step forward for this already huge event that I urge you all to make time for and support. It is truly a unique opportunity to connect with our culture and enjoy some of the finest films Greece has to offer. Check out www.greekfilmfestival.com.au for more information and the program near you.

Please enjoy our WORLD EXCLUSIVE COVER STORY FEATURE on Pop Princess KALOMIRA as well as our jaunt through the Cretan city of Chania – what an eye opener that was!

Once again we hope you enjoy this issue. We welcome your feedback and suggestions and hope you continue the OPA! experience online at www.opamagazine. com.au or by scanning the MEDIACODE tags within these pages for an enhanced multimedia experience.

Everybody say OPA! 10

w w w. m e d i a c o d e . c o m . a u

STEVE AGI - PUBLISHER

®

MEDIACODE

Thanks to every single one of you, OPA! Magazine has defied the odds and people’s pessimistic predictions and we are now six months young. Together we have achieved much, grown, developed and now finally a dream of mine has come to fruition-the dream to give back and do more.

OPA! Magazine in print has gone from strength to strength and seems to be a magnet for a great team of people who want to work together to create a vibrant and dynamic product that will be our legacy, while the online global community is growing daily, with registered users and contributors from across the globe proving that the Hellenic spirit is well and truly alive in the Diaspora.

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Get the free mobile app at

Feeling the love with the boys from

10 EDITOR’S LETTER

88 PROFILE Aaron Zerefos

12 OPA! Charitable Trust

90 ODIGOS Mercedes SLS AMG

14 RAKIS male hair types

PHOTO FEATURE 94 Greeks Gone Wild

17 OPA! FASHION Robert Coppa 96 IN THE CLUB Spicemarket 22 FLAVOURS OF GREECE 2011 98 ALL GREEK TO ME The Final Word 26 EVERYDAY CHEF! Are you the Everyday Chef?

28 PROFILE Kalomira

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34 PROFILE Krazy Kon 38 MUSIC NEWS Krazy Kon presents the latest music 40 MATERIAL GIRL To tan or not to tan?

44 ISTORIA Greek cafes: California Dreaming 50 ISTORIA Colussus of Liberty 54 BULLYING: Persiphone Part 2 56 KHEIRON’S CORNER Depression 60 BENEFACTOR SERIES Beirut Hellenic Bank

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64

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Presenting partner

64 18th GREEK FILM FESTIVAL 70 FEDERATION SQUARE

GLENDI FESTIVAL 2011 72 PROFILE: Patrick Karnezis 75 DOLLARS & SENSE: B.O.C.A 77 THRILLIONAIRE: The Thrillionaires 78 MONEY MATTERS Pette Liacopoulos 80 FEATURE A Byzantine Down Under 82 TAXIDI Chania

An initiative of the Greek Orthodox Communities of Australia Adelaide Melbourne Sydney Brisbane

6 - 9 October 2011 12 - 30 October 2011 13 - 30 October 2011 27 - 30 October 2011

At selected Palace Cinemas

www.greekfilmfestival.com.au

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Our Mission To enhance the quality of life of members of the community, particularly the disadvantaged, through the effective raising, stewardship and granting of funds to charities

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THE LORD MAYOR’S CHARITABLE FOUNDATION IS AUSTRALIA’S LARGEST COMMUNITY FOUNDATION AND ONE OF MELBOURNE’S LONGEST SERVING CHARITABLE ORGANISATIONS. THE FOUNDATION WAS ESTABLISHED BY LORD MAYOR OF THE DAY, SIR JOHN SWANSON, IN 1923.

T

he Foundation’s special focus is Homelessness, Youth and Ageing, but they also grant in the areas of Family, Life Care, Health, Environment, and Arts, Sports and Education. In 2010, they distributed $8 million to over 450 health and welfare agencies across Melbourne and Victoria, making a significant difference to improving the health and welfare of our community. The Foundation has a robust granting process and all grant applications are rigorously assessed by expert grant advisory panels.

The Foundation has a highly experienced social policy team that works closely with the charitable, philanthropic research and government sectors to identify the areas of greatest need. From this collaboration, programs and initiatives are created that will address long term social disadvantage. This is critical to ensure that funds are granted where they will

achieve positive and far-reaching societal, economic, environmental and cultural outcomes in efforts to reduce social disadvantage.

Income is generated from trusts and bequests, annual appeals and campaigns, and special events. Donations from individuals and the business sector are also an important part of their fundraising.

an annual 1% administration fee. Charitable trust holders can nominate their preferred charities or the Lord Mayors Charitable Foundation can distribute the income on their behalf .

As the publisher of OPA! Magazine I personally feel that the creation of this charitable trust account will allow us not only to support the community better, but will also allow us to

After finding out about the orgnanisation and being approached by them, it was decided to establish the OPA! Charitable Trust.

engage, communicate and educate those who need it most. It is a way of saying thank you and of being able to represent this vibrant and dynamic community group as a mainstream organization that is both credible and reputable.

A Charitable Trust Account is a perpetual form of giving, administered by the Foundation. It’s a tax-deductible special way to remember a loved one or create an environment of philanthropic giving within a family. There is

I urge you to embrace and support the OPA! Charitable Trust and work with us to connect with and in turn support those organisations that need it most, so they in turn can administer to the needs of the community.

The OPA! Charitable Trust

Charitable Trust Name: Address: Email: Tel:

Mobile:

All donations over $2 are tax deductable and a receipt will be forwarded to address supplied.

Card Number

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Signature

Name on Card Amount $ 13

MALE HAIR GUIDE THE SPORTY MAN This man is the physically active man, the taught-bodied protein shaker, forever at the gym or on his bike. His hair embodies his lust for activity, it is easy to style, whether long or short. It is wash and wear hair designed for quick post-workout grooming, with a simple application of a wax, cream or wet look gel.

Products:

American Crew Forming Cream

Kevin.Murphy Easy.Rider

American Crew Curl Construct

MAN OF SUCCESS AND POWER

HELLO AGAIN FROM RAKIS ON COLLINS! In previous issues, we have discussed different aspects of our women, the black-clad Yia-yias and those suffering from Liberace syndrome. But what about the men? Let’s have a look at the men of the 21st century, and more specifically their hair.

Men tend to fit into one of five image categories: The Sporty Man, the Man of Success and Power, the Family Man, the Forever Single Man, and the Ferrari Man.

He is somewhat high maintenance, as his high stress lifestyle dictates, and this is reflected in his high level of grooming. The perfect suit is only the beginning for this man, who also uses cleansers, moisturisers and maybe even the odd brow waxing to maintain his look. He tends to wear his hair in a shorter, manufactured style, each hair is exactly as it should be, and yes he might even use a little bit of hair-spray borrowed on the sly from his wife or partner.

Products:

American Crew Fibre

American Crew Defining Paste

Kevin.Murphy Night.Rider.

FAMILY MAN The Family Man tends to be a bit more of an easy going, carefree man when it comes to styling. After all, he has to share bathroom time with the rest of the clan. Of course, he can still be conscious and totally aware of his appearance but his days of being super fussy over an out-of-place hair are gone, and this is reflected by a looser, more relaxed style.

Products:

American Crew Classic Wax

American Crew Pomade

American Crew Defining Paste

FOREVER SINGLE He finds it hard to commit to any particular look, whether in clothes, hair or women. For this guy, change is just part and parcel of daily life, and his ever-evolving look reflects it. He is guilty of a somewhat disposable lifestyle, to him keeping abreast of current trends is vital. Depending on what day of the week it is, his hair can be any length, or colour, but it is generally highly styled. He owns a fully stocked cupboard of hair products, even though he’s only using one or two at the moment.

Products:

American Crew Molding Clay

American Crew Fibre

American Crew Pomade

FERRARI MAN This sort of man is rather narcissistic, a true flash in the pants sort of guy.

Mirrors everywhere, lots of friends, dance parties, buffed bodies, manicure, pedicure, eyebrow re-shaping, constantly tanned, and regularly has his body hair removed. High maintenance doesn’t even begin to cover it with this guy.

Products:

American Crew Light Hold Texture Cream

American Crew Boost Cream

American Crew Super Glue

Spring Racing Carnival Fashion 2011 by Robert Coppa. www.robertcoppa.com www.facebook.com/robert.coppa

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S A PRELUDE TO THIS YEAR’S SPRING RACING CARNIVAL, EXCLUSIVE ART DIRECTOR & PHOTOGRAPHER, ROBERT COPPA, UNVEILS AND ENGAGES US WITH HIS SUBLIME AND INNER ARTISTIC FLAIR. We hope you enjoy this edition of Spring Fashion 2011!

Photography & Editing: Robert Coppa. Copyright © 2011.

All rights reserved Make up & Hair: Viktoria Novak Design, Jolina O’Hair, Lisa Simons, Sheryn O’Connor Models: Katie Van den Bos, Cailin McDonald, Deirdre Crossan, Jane Waller Wardrobe & Jewellery: Rockstars & Royalty, Alice Be Curious, Tristen Cassar

Bardot designers bring you the hottest looks and nth trends every mo

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2

THE INSPIRATION

TREND UPDATE

HOT SUMMER BRIGHTS CALIFORNIA GIRLS have never been afraid of a little colour, and this Summer 2011/2012, Bardot loves COLOUR. PINK and ORANGE are a match made in social heaven. While COBALT and JADE GREEN make an outfit unforgettable. This season it’s all about whats BRIGHT, FUN & FRESH. ‘If you want these kind of dreams, then LOVE THE LA SCENE.’

Stitch Detail Wedge 22382AB $89.95

Aztec Brights Playsuit 22285PB $79.95

Arizona Kimono 22336TB $59.95

Techno Visor 25585AB $16.95

Crochet Tassle Bag 2558AB $59.95

Bahia Crochet Bikini 22132AB $69.95

Vera Cruz One Piece 21972AB $59.95

SHOP ONLINE AT WWW.BARDOT.COM.AU opamagazine.com.au

ALPHA OUZERI

SALONA

PIREAUS BLUES

FLAVOURS OF GREECE

FESTIVAL ‘11

S R U O V A FL GREECE OF L ‘11 A V I T FES

Date, walnut and yoghurt cream dessert (serves 12) You will need: • 12 latte glasses 200-250 ml • 1 kg plain yogurt • 1 lt thickened cream • 24 fresh dates • 20 walnuts • 250 ml ”Tentoura “Greek cinnamon liqueur • 1ts vanilla sugar • 1tb caster sugar • 1tb finely chopped dried paw paw • Candied spaghetti zucchini for garnish* Day before Prep: • Place yogurt in clean towel or muslin over a colander and strain overnight in refrigerator.

• Stuff each date with a walnut and soak in the liquor overnight and lightly crush leftover walnuts for garnish and reserves Prep: • Strain the dates and place the liquid into a small pot over stove and heat to reduce liquid to thicken a little. Cool in refrigerator • Whip fresh cream with vanilla and caster sugar till soft peaks form • Gradually fold the strained yogurt into the cream bit by bit till just combined – do not over beat.

www.pireausblues.com.au

A Date at Pireaus Blues

To assemble: Pipe or spoon 1 tablespoon of cream into each glass, top with 2 dates and top roughly with more yogurt cream 1-2 tablespoons. drizzle a little of reduced liquor onto each dessert, sprinkle with a few crushed walnuts , some dried paw paw and top with some candied zucchini spaghetti….enjoy! *spaghetti zucchini is supplied by George’s mum. She grows this fruit in her garden. It resembles a baby watermelon that has been crossed with a zucchini which grows off a tree.

She candies the inner flesh, which looks like really fine spaghetti. It’s actually quite amazing!

www.flavoursofgreece.com

BRIKI BARISTA BATTLE HOSTED AT OAKLEIGH’S CENTRO SHOPPING CENTRE SEPT 24, 2011.

LOOK OUT FOR THE NEXT ONE, COMING SOON!

A NEW and EXCITING concept which gives YOU the opportunity to share your recipe, or someone else’s, with all of our OPA! Magazine readers.

Have you always thought your Mum makes the best stiffado, your Aunty makes the best avgolemmono, or you make the best hortopittes?

Well, now is the time to share your favorite recipe with us and with all those in Australia who think the same about their recipes - non professional cooks, everyday people who have the same love of food and cooking just like you We’re all called “EVERYDAY CHEFS.”

My name is John Lazarou. Many of you may know me from THE COFFEE CLUB and I’m fortunate enough to be coordinating this new and very exciting platform, where we share your favourite Greek recipes.

Are you an Everyday Chef? Enter to win!

What can you win?

WHEN YOU AND YOUR RECIPE ARE FEATURED IN OPA! MAGAZINE AS THE EVERYDAY CHEF WE WILL REWARD YOU WITH THE FOLLOWING: * Breakfast, lunch or dinner for you and five guests at any of The Coffee Club stores in Australia, hosted by me, where we can discuss more Greek recipes and all things Greek. * 12 months FREE subscription to OPA! Magazine

How t o enter!

It’s very easy to share your recipes with all of our OPA! readers by simply following these easy steps. 1-2-3 OPA! 1.

Write out your recipe in full and supply a good clear photo of yourself, the everyday chef, and the finished meal. (as hi-resolution as possible)

2.

Upload a 60 second movie file of you, the everyday chef, telling us about yourself and your recipe.

3.

Email your photo(s) and video to me at: everydaychef@opamagazine.com.au

Good luck!

John Lazarou, EVERYDAY CHEF

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“As a child, Kalomira was always singing and dancing around the house. She loved music and loved performing on stage.�

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K

alomira was born on January 31, 1985 to Greek parents, Nick & Eleni Sarantis at Mercy Hospital in New York. She was given the name Maria Kalomira Sarantis. Maria after Panagia, the Virgin Mary, and Kalomira after her grandmother. She has an older sister named Georgia.

As a child, Kalomira was always singing and dancing around the house.

She loved music and loved performing on stage.

In high school, Kalomira was class president for two years, president of peer mediation, and even crowned, “Miss West Hempstead” in her senior year. She couldn’t get involved in after school sports in high school because she worked full time at her parents’ restaurant, “Eleni’s”. This didn’t stop her from getting a full scholarship to Adelphi University, where she would major in music.

In her first semester at Adelphi University, Kalomira went on an audition for the popular Greek show, Fame Story 2. Fame Story is often compared to American Idol. She was the only one chosen from hundreds of Americans who auditioned and left school to pursue her singing career!

While in Fame Story, Kalomira was given songs like Stand by Me, Dancing Queen, Woman in Love, and Oops!... I Did It Again among other Greek songs that she had to prepare and perform for the audience and judges.

After three months, Kalomira recieved the majority of the votes from the audience and was announced the winner of Fame Story 2. She not only won 200,000€, but she signed a record deal with Heaven Music!

Kalomira went on to make four personal albums, including Kalomoira, Paizeis? (You Playin’ Me?), H Kalomoira Paei Cinema (Kalomira Goes to the Cinema), and Secret Combination: The Album; three singles: Gine Mazi Mou Paidi (Become a Child with Me); Secret Combination, and Please Don’t Break My Heart; plus a karaoke CD. After debuting her first album, Kalomira was invited by Dionysis Savvopoulos to appear at the Irodeio at a two night only concert to celebrate his birthday. Kalomira, who entered the stage by coming out of the top of a life-size cake, sang Marilyn Monroe’s Happy Birthday Mr. President. Kalomira continued touring Greece and performing in many theatres in Athens and Thessaloniki. In February of 2008, Kalomira was voted by the people of Greece to represent their country in the song contest, Eurovision, with the song Secret Combination. At the semi-final, Kalomira was first to be called to make it to the

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SE S EC CR RE ET TC CO OM MB BIN INA AT TIO ION N

“Once it’s in your head, it’s just a matter of time. You will make it! Never give up!”

- Chris Sarantis

final. She ended up winning 3rd place! When she returned to Greece, the people supported her and were so proud of her! People and tabloids all over Greece said Kalomira got, “First place in our hearts!” It was a defining moment in her career.

Throughout her 6 years in Greece, Kalomira has been a TV show host (Big in Japan); co-host (Pio Poly Tin Kyriaki and Proinos Kafes); soap opera actress (Lampsi), and radio show host (Rythmos 94,9). She has appeared on Good Morning America, where she was interviewed by Katie Couric herself, Access Hollywood, FOX, and a quick video moment on Oprah. She has worked with Tony Coturra, FatMan Scoop, Despina Vandi, Nikos Makropoulos, and Elli Kokkinou to name just a few; has been a representative for JLO and Domino’s Pizza in Greece; has won numerous awards (Best New Artist 2004 - Best Performing Artist 2009) and has written songs included on her albums. She has toured the world, had her own kid’s accessories and toy line, and most importantly, has gotten involved with many charities around Greece and Cyprus! She is forever grateful to Greece for making all of her dreams come true and is one of the few 30

artists who really devotes herself to each one of her fans!

One of Kalomira’s biggest inspirations and believers was her uncle, Chris Sarantis. He gave her the will power to fight for her dreams and to never give up! One of his quotes to her was “Once it’s in your head, it’s just a matter of time. You will make it! Never give up!”

OPA: Why did you enter the game? How did it change your family life?

I entered the game because it’s been my child hood dream to be a professional singer and have concerts all over the world since I was a baby!!!!

I was 18 and extremely driven! I saw an opportunity and went after it!

My goal in the game was always to try and stay in the game as long as I could so people would get to know me and then the label would help me make a CD!” My life before Fame Story was about school - work and working on being a singer. I had just gotten a full scholarship to Adelphi University for music

SCAN TO SEE MORE KALOMIRA

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SECRET COMBINATION COMBINATION SECRET

and was working full time at my parents’ restaurant. At the same time, I was working on becoming a professional singer. I would go on all these auditions, write and record songs, go to labels, do contests....basically anything I could do to get my foot in the door.

I am extremely close to my parents and sister. They are my best friends! My relationships through the years, especially being in the business, have gotten even stronger with them.

OPA: What are the contrasts between living in USA and then in Greece?

Greece is definitely a more relaxed place to live. I mean, on Mondays and Wednesdays the stores close for a break...you get to sleep and then everyone is off on Sunday! It’s great in the sense that you have more family time, but in the States....even though everyone is busy busy busy...I love that there is more organization. I mean, when you go the bank...you get service and you are in and out of there within the hour!

How did it feel becoming a household name, thrust into the limelight all of a sudden?

I absolutely love what I do! I’m in love with it! I never really looked at it as being “in the limelight”...I just always looked at it as a “restaurant” and these are my customers! I am in love with every single customer!

I think it was important to set my priorities straight from the beginning in this business because you don’t want your mind or ego to get too big!! Once that was in place everything else was just getting used to it. For example, I know when I go out, there may be paparazzi or fans so I am sure to try and look my best at all times just in case they take a picture or something. Little stuff like that has changed, but I know it’s part of the job so I just try to take it all in gracefully!

OPA: You got engaged recently, right? Tell us a bit about that!

Well I got married Sept. 26 and am about to celebrate my 1st year anniversary with my husband George. It’s great being married. It’s great to always have someone to back you up! He’s my best friend!

Whats in store for Kalomira in the not too distant future? Any exciting plans?

Well I’m currently doing some tours in America and am promoting my new song, “This is the Time.” The video clip came out a few weeks ago and we were so excited for the fans to see it.

I’m also working on my website: kalomira.com We are working on adding more things to it for girls and women to be able to get advice/help/tips on things that every girl wants to know!!! I can’t wait till it’s done!

OPA: Can you offer any advice to your fans and/or up and coming/aspiring performers?

First....be yourself! This is so important! Don’t try to be someone you are not! In this business people love artists who are unique. So when you are totally yourself...well, then you are totally unique! Go with it!

Also go to music events and try to meet managers backstage....read books on the entertainment business and see what others have done. Get out there and hustle!

Remember it’s all about the music so get your music out there... either through a website, Facebook, Twitter, etc.. do it!

OPA: If you had to choose one favourite memory from all of this, what would it be?

Eurovision! The best time of my life! It was an honor to represent Greece in the 2008 Eurovision Song Contest and I feel so blessed to have been voted to do it! It was one of the best moments of my life!

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GO

By Steve Agi

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THE KRAZY ONE IN ACTION

Krazy Kon is a living legend in the world of Greek music and entertainment. As a

at all the Greek Uni parties with Cuga, Muga, Sugs, Hellsoc & Nugas. By then I had

DJ, producer, promoter, radio presenter, TV personality and all-round

started building my name and in 1995 I landed regular club gigs all over Sydney. I

entertainer, his work is known around Australia and the world, having

saw in the early days an opportunity in being a specialty Greek DJ only playng Greek

headlined Greek festivals, club events and shows both nationally and

music. I wanted everyone to know me for that, so I took that direction. From that DJ

internationally.

KRAZY KON was born.

His name is synonymous with playing, producing and promoting Greek music and

In 1998, I knew there was more out there than just being a great DJ so I switched

events and has been at the forefront of the Greek entertainment industry in this

my focus to producing. I joined forces with local Greek artists Maria Stavropoulos,

country for over 15 years. He is recognized by many today as the most successful and

Nikita Ellinis, Makis Benetatos & James Spy and from 1998-2000 brought out,

influential Greek-Australian music artist of our time and his career achievements

distributed and promoted my own brand of locally produced upbeat Greek dance

in the industry are truly remarkable. He has become a global name through his

music, which had never been done before. After producing tracks such as ‘Pos Kanis

vision and talent and has revolutionized the art-form of Greek DJ-ing, producing &

Etsi’, ‘Kounato’, ‘Ano Kato’, ‘Ime Anevasmenos’ & ‘Play Bouzouki remix”, I got the

promoting.

opportunity to collaborate with one of Greece’s biggest pop stars, Mariada Pieridi, and together we co-wrote and produced our hit club track ‘FANTASIA THELI MONO.’

He has performed as official support act to touring Greek artists

The track was on the airwaves all over Australia, the USA and

such as Anna Vissi, Despina Vandi, Nikos Vertis, Thanos Petrelis,

Greece..

Christos Dantis, Elli Kokkinou, Sarbel, Natasha Theodoridou, Giorgos Alkeos, Stelios Rokkos, Nikos Kourkoulis, Kelly

In 1998, I established my own company called Krazy Productions.

Kelekidou, Kaiti Garbi, Dionisis Shinas & Mariada Pieridi to name

This has become my fulltime music production, distribution,

a few - and through his CD releases he has become a recognized

touring and promotions company, for the Krazy Kon brand. Also

talent, with over a dozen record labels in Greece who see Krazy

in ‘98 I got involved in media, hosting my own Greek radio show

Kon as a powerful instrument to promote Greek music and their

on 89.7fm in Sydney called “Radio Greko”. This weekly Monday night show ran for 7 years. In 2003, I was honoured to become

artists in this country.

the first ethnic artist in this country to be awarded a 2 year sponsorship by brand Krazy Kon has been chosen as the closing act at the Greek Festival of Sydney for

giants Pioneer Pro DJ.

the past 12 years as well as other festivals around Australia, including the Brisbane Paniyiri, Adelaide Glendi and Darwin Glendi.

In the same year, I became the first Greek artist in Australia to be signed to a mainstream record label, Rajon Music, and from my creation and idea, the GREECE

After being signed by music giant Sony Music in 2009, he has released nine albums,

CD series was born.

sold over 80,000 Greek CDs in his CD series, his music is now sold overseas in the USA & NZ, and is available on ITunes. He remains the only Greek DJ/producer in the

Since 2003 touring across the country and internationally has become a major focus

world outside of Greece to have his own Greek CD series.

and part of my career. I have made over 125 national appearances in this time, with constant shows across Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, Darwin, Brisbane, Townsville,

OPA! How did it all begin? Can you give us a background of your bio megale ? KK:

Gold Coast, Hobart and Canberra, as well as international shows in New Zealand

It all began in 1992, when I started DJ-ing mobile parties for part-time work and a

and the USA.

hobby on weekends during my Uni days where I completed a Bachelor of Business Degree (Major in Marketing). This then lead to me playing for a few years in a row

In 2005 I continued to pursue my interest in media, but this time as host of the 35

popular national Greek TV Show ‘It’s My Meraki’ which ran for a 13 episode season

time, That opened the doors for other labels to come on board and we got the deal

on Aurora TV with Foxtel & Optus.

done. Rajon was happy to sell 5000 units for this first album; we sold over 10,000 with Greece 2004 Volume 1 and the CD made the ARIA compilations charts as a

My Krazy Promotions event company has hosted over 300 events in Sydney’s elite venues over the past 15 years and has led the Sydney Greek scene with innovative concepts, artists, venues and events.

mainstream entry, which blew us away. Since then I have signed with Sony Music, have released nine albums, sold over 80,000 Greek CDs collectively in the CD series and now my music is sold overseas in the USA and NZ and is available on Itunes. The CD series now has an identity of its own and I am proud to say most people have a Krazy Kon Greece CD lying around somewhere in their house or car .

In 2009, I was signed by music giants, Sony Music. I am very proud to say that my music and CD releases are paving the way for the next generation of Greeks and my

OPA! Tell us how the American Tour started and what’s in store for the Yanks this

CDs are being bought by one and all, from 10 year olds to 70 yr olds. That’s a wide

year KK: Last year I was approached to work in New York for a while. One thing

demographic. It’s very satisfying to be recognised that way.

led to another and I was introduced to the main people promoting Greek events all across the USA. After working on it for a few months, I was booked in for a four city,

In 2010, my work was recognised internationally with a four city tour of America and

all- expenses- paid tour of America. I performed at sold out shows in Boston, New

shows in New York, Boston, Chicago and Los Angeles.

York, Chicago and Hollywood. It was one of the greatest experiences of my career and life. I am now looking at making this American Tour an annual event, especially

OPA! What makes you KRAZY? I mean what’s different about you compared with

with my CDs now being distributed there. They love Aussies over there and being

other DJ’s? KK: LOL. Krazy Kon is just my stage name. I got it in my early days when

from ‘down under’ and playing Greek music was a spin-out to them. I can’t wait to

I stared DJ-ing, and it just stuck. What makes me ‘krazy’ or different from others is

go back this year and rock the decks with my ‘bangin’ Greek beats show,’ as they

that I do this fulltime. Performing, producing and promoting is my career, it’s how

labelled it over there.

I live.

OPA! Where to now, what’s next? KK: Mate, to tell you the truth, life is good right I do it for the right reasons, not the wrong ones, like many out there. I am passionate

now. I am content with a lot of things. The CD series is doing well. We are distributing

about my Greek heritage, my Greek upbringing and I am proud of my career and what

my music overseas, my music is now on Itunes, so we have been continuing to

I have done for the Greek community. I have accomplished things and experienced

grow the series. I still enjoy performing so, I will continue to tour nationally and

things that others can only dream of. I have worked hard for the last 17 years in

internationally. Overseas is a big focus right now, and I am looking at some new

this industry to get to where I am. I didn’t become famous through Facebook. It

projects there, so let’s just wait and see.

wasn’t handed to me on a platter and there was no precedent to the directions and decisions I made. As a DJ, producer, promoter, radio presenter, TV personality; my

OPA! Tell us a bit about your family life, where you’re from in Greece, wife and kids

name and work is known around Australia and across the globe, having released a

etc KK: My parents were both born on the island of Lemnos. I’ve been there many

Greek CD series, headlined Greek festivals, club events and shows both nationally

times and love the place. I am married and my wife’s name is Angela,, who is my

and internationally. I am very proud of that.

biggest supporter, and I am blessed to have two beautiful girls - Katerina who is 13 1/2 years old going onto 14, and Andreana who just turned 2. They are my biggest

OPA! How did the GREECE series of CD’s begin and where do you hope to go with

achievements, my biggest accomplishments in life and all 3 of them have made me

this? KK: After locally producing, distributing and promoting my own original Greek

a better person today.

dance tracks, I always had a dream of producing my own Greek CD compilation, like the ones we used to get from Greece like ‘Kolasi’ and ‘Minos’ and the like. But I

OPA! Any advice for those who wanna follow in your KRAZY footsteps? KK: I would

wanted to do it properly through a record label and licensing from overseas. I pitched

say, be passionate about what you’re doing, do it for the right reasons, set yourself a

my idea to some mainstream record labels with no luck, but finally was given a go

goal and be prepared to work hard to get it.

by Rajon Music. It had never been attempted before so the label and I had a lot of problems with getting the project off the ground with the Greek labels overseas; this

Editor’s note: A MASSIVE personal thank you to KRAZY KON for his support, input and

was unchartered territory for them too. Finally, after pushing for months, I got a

promotion of OPA! Magazine. He has been on board since day 1, believing in the vision

break with one of the labels that had all the biggest artists at the

and doing all he can to help spread the word. Bravo levendi mou, you are a true STAR!

36

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W W W. O P A M A G A Z I N E . C O M . A U 37

S W E N C I S MU N

O DJ KRAZY K

NIKOS VERTIS

AGGELIKI ILIADI

One of the big guns in Greece launches his 7th studio album with title “Ime mazi sou” It features 11 new tracks mostly modern laika with most of the music signed to Kyriakos Papadopoulos, Andonis Vardis and Vertis himself. Another Vertis gem, the new album has been rocking up the charts and the airwaves of Greece since its release and will again no doubt provide more Gold album success for this mega star. My favourite tracks are ‘poso s’agapo’ and ‘oso the anapneo’.

One of the most talented female singers in Greece right now Aggeliki has overcome recent dramas in her life to come back with a bigger & better album. Her new work called “me tin agapi ta eho vali” features 14 fresh new modern laika tracks signed off to music from Kostas Militakis. The CD is out through Heaven Music Greece with “esena mono” being one the big hits around the Greece airwaves and dancefloors this summer

ime mazi sou

DJ KRAZY KON

1.

TO PIO TRELO KALOKAIRI MOU Kristina S

2.

OLOKERNOURGOS Panos Kiamos

3.

THEN ISE EROTAS MONO GIA SIMERA Giorgos Giannias feat. Theodora

4.

MONO ESI Dionisis Makris

5.

BREAK ME Nikos Ganos

6.

APO DEFTERA Panos Kiamos

7.

PEXE MAZI MOU Elena Fouriera

8.

ANANTIKATASTATOS Paulina Hristodoulou

9.

KAFTO KALOKAIRI Ominus

10. POS

Petros Imvrios

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me tin agapi ta eho vali

NEWSFLASH Greece’s hottest rap group STAVENTO is touring Australia for the very first time this October.

Shows will be in Sydney 28/10 @ Mykonos Bar Sydney, Adelaide 30/10 @ Heaven & Melbourne 31/10 @ Kinisi (Cup Eve).

The group consists of Mihalis, Giorgos & Kleopatra on vocals, guitar player Maria-Eleni & DJ Sparky T. There CDs & music have gone Gold all over Greece and after a recent tour of America, they bring their unique style of rap/reagaton hits down under.

www.djkrazykon.com

189 LONSDALE STREET MELBOURNE PH: +61 (03) 9662 3133 39

A! YS OP A S L GIR AL PR I R E T MA , THE E N I L ON GE OR A T S ’S ON R SHE E H T WHE

TO TAN OR NOT TO TAN Australian culture celebrates fun in the sun... backyard BBQs, beach sports and outdoor activities. At Christmas, Santa Claus favours sunscreen and a refreshing beer, as opposed to his Northern Hemisphere attire of fur to keep him warm. As Greek-Australians, many of us are accustomed to “slipping” into our swimsuits in summer, “slopping” tzatziki onto our dinners and well, being on the receiving end of a “slap” for disobeying our parents. The wiser faction, however, will recognize the importance of sun protection and the lethal damage inflicted by irresponsible pursuits to be a “golden Greek.” While we are flooded with messages of warning and precaution to shift our attitudes about protecting our skin from the sun, many of us love to glow like a sun-kissed god or goddess all year round.

I have had the luxury of enjoying summer in one of the ways it should be enjoyed- in Greece. A carefree Grecian paradise of stunning, sandy beaches, crystal blue waters, mouthwatering cuisine, afternoon siestas and crack of dawn crepe- eating sessions. This year, the colder months in Melbourne dragged on much longer as I was not escaping the winter blues. Hosing the morning frost off my windscreen really doesn’t work for me- basking in the blazing Greek sun does. How was I to achieve my bronzed “just got back from Paranga beach” tan? I’d rather eat mayiritsa soup for breakfast, lunch and dinner for the rest of my life than use a solarium.

Solarium? No. Fake tanning? Yes. According to the Cancer Council of Australia, two in three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the time they are 70 years of age.

Skin cancer occurs when skin cells are damaged, for example, by over40

exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Between 95 and 98 per cent of skin cancers in Australia are caused by exposure to the sun. Although we need Vitamin D from the sun to keep our bones and muscles strong and healthy, a balanced and responsible approach to sunlight exposure will help prevent the health effects of Vitamin D deficiency and prevent osteoporosis. Few foods naturally contain significant amounts of Vitamin D; however, fish and some yogurts are on the Vitamin D rich-list and common in Greek cuisine. During Australian summer, most people can achieve adequate Vitamin D levels through frequent daily exposure to the sun, with just a few minutes on their face, arms and hands. With skin cancers accounting for 80per cent of all newlydiagnosed cancers in Australia, it’s no wonder that Carroten Tan Express products, one of the most popular Greek consumer brands, isn’t for sale in Australian retail outlets. Carroten Tan Express products contain Carrot oil and golden palm oil, accelerating the intensity of sun tanning.

Solariums artificially induce tans by emitting high concentrations of UV radiation and the desire to be tanned for cosmetic purposes, has seen the industry boom. Whether you lie down on a sun bed, or stand up in a booth, your skin is exposed to intense UV radiation in a solarium, causing your skin cells to make pigment or ‘melanin,’ so you look tanned. “Research shows that people who use a solarium before the age of 35 have a 75per cent greater risk of melanoma than those who do not use solariums. The levels of UV radiation emitted can be up to six times stronger than the midday sun,” says Sue Heward, SunSmart Manager at Cancer Council Victoria. “There is no such thing as a safe tan

MATERIAL GIRL

SUNSMART

Whatever your skin type, St. Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Range is easy to use for a natural looking result. The Self Tan Bronzing Mousse is a super lightweight, easy-to-apply, velvety mousse. $43.95 120ml; $65.95 240ml The Armoguard™ and St Tropez range is available at David Jones and Priceline.

Cancer Council Australia sunscreens are SPF 30+ (the highest rating available in Australia) Prices start at $9.95 www.cancervic.org.au

– whether from the sun or a solarium. Tanning is a sign of your skin cells in trauma and the more your skin is exposed to UV radiation, the greater your risk of skin cancer” says Sue, clarifying the common misconception that a solarium tan is safe. Yet in a society with a wealth of accessible resources about solariums and irresponsible exposure to the sun inducing skin damage, premature ageing, eye damage and skin cancer, suntans are still pursued and are just as sought after as the “right” handbag.

Like the solarium industry, the demand for a tan has seen a surge in sunless tanning products. From creams to gels, lotions to sprays- even a tan in a can is just as accessible as a loaf of bread from a supermarket and when applied properly, can achieve a great tan without sizzling in the sun. As with every beauty routine, there is a fine line between right and wrong. With sunless tanning products there is a fine line between a summer glow and looking like one of Willy Wonka’s oompa loompas.

There is no need to visit “The Situation” from MTV’s Jersey Shore for a fake tan application. Affordable, luxurious tanning products are available online, in salons, spa centres and retail stores. For over 10 years, Material Girl PR favourite St Tropez has been developing safe, natural looking sunless tanning products. Working with A List fashionistas around the world, they know a thing or two about achieving a rich, natural golden glow, quickly and inexpensively.

The unmistakable aroma of all self tans caused by the action of dihydroxyacetone (DHA) on the skin is very difficult to hide. DHA is the active ingredient that interacts with the amino acids in dead skin cells to produce a brown color change. For years St.Tropez has tried to find

a way to effectively disguise the smell and recently launched the Aromaguard™ range, a patented technology that actually sees off that distinctive aroma. The smell is reduced by a minimum of 70% and replaces it with a subtle fragrance that works in harmony with the skin.

Some Australian states are already enjoying warmer weather but for the most part, we are about to embark on Australia’s glorious, intense summer months. As some of us prepare to exchange winter coats and scarves for kaftans and maxi dresses, it is a timely opportunity to check that any sunscreen you may have purchased last summer hasn’t expired.

Pay attention to the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) label- it is only a guide to the strength of the product and not how much time you can safely spend in the sun. If it is labeled “broad spectrum” the sunscreen will filter both UVB and UVA radiation and it is recommended to be applied every 2 hours when outdoors. Hats, sunglasses, umbrellas, protective clothing and keeping hydrated will also alleviate the hazards of the scorching summer sun.

The beauty of our society is that we have options and plenty of them. We can choose what to eat, where to live, what to wear and of course, even how to enjoy the sun. Irrespective of our choices and their consequences, there is a dark side to tanning.

Follow Nicole Condos w w w . t w i t t e r. c o m / materialgirlpr www.facebook.com/ materialgirlpr

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melbourne

sydney

brisbane

darwin

usa

w w w. x s i g h t . c o m . a u | p h 1 3 0 0 9 7 4 4 4 8 | i n f o @ x s i g h t . c o m . a u

uk

AUSTRALIA’S GREEK CAFÉS: CALIFORNIA DREAMING

44

“Greek cafés in Australia were a “Trojan Horse” for the Americanisation of this nation’s eating and socialcultural habits from the very start of the twentieth century.”

7

A

ccording to historian Leonard Janiszewski and photographer Effy Alexakis, every time you drink a Coke, enjoy an ice cream or sweet chocolate treat, go to the cinema, or listen to the latest popular music hit, you can thank Australia’s Greek cafés. They should know.

The pair, both from Macquarie University in Sydney, have been researching the history of Australia’s Greek cafés for over a quarter of a century as part of their In Their Own Image: Greek-Australians National Project.

Greek cafés in Australia were a “Trojan Horse” for the Americanisation of this nation’s eating and social-cultural habits from the very start of the twentieth century. They initially introduced American food catering ideas, technology and products and later influenced the development of cinema and popular music and even architectural style. The Greek café helped transform Australian popular culture.

Broadly regarded as a quintessentially Australian phenomenon and particularly synonymous with rural life in the eastern states of New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland, the Greek café enjoyed a lengthy “golden age” from the mid-1930s to the late 1960s. The enterprise reflected its Hellenic legacy, not in the food it served, but in terms of owner and principal kitchen staff (Greek men who were traditionally familiar with the social and catering milieu of the Greek kafeneion), and sometimes in its name (such as Marathon, Parthenon, Paragon, and Ellisos). Like the Greek kafeneion, Australia’s Greek café became pre-eminent amongst the social focal points for eating, meeting and conversing within townships. The food that Greek cafés served expressed their British and American heritage.

Greek cafés provided British-Australians with their familiar meal of steak and eggs, chops and eggs, mixed grill, fish and chips, and meat pies, but more importantly, they cemented the growing popularisation of American food-catering ideas which had been instigated through Australia’s earlier Greek-run food catering enterprises – the oyster saloon or “parlor” (American rather than British spelling was usually used) of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries; the “American-style” soda bar/sundae parlor which had appeared by the mid-1910s, and the “American-style” milk bar which had emerged by the early 1930s. The introduction of American food-catering ideas to Australia through the nation’s early Greek food caterers should not be surprising, given that quite a number of these Greeks had relatives and friends living and working in the United States, or had been there briefly themselves working for Greek-American food caterers – the United States remained as a major drawer of Greek immigrants until the early 1920s.

The Greek café was essentially an evolutionary amalgam of its three predecessors. In names such as the Niagara, Monterey, Californian, Astoria, New York and Golden Gate, the American component of the Greek café’s creation is well suggested, but more so in its provision of customers with American sundaes, milkshakes, sodas and freezes or crushes (iced drinks), American confectionery (hard sugar candies and milk chocolate bars), and another popular product, American ice cream. Although the Greek café did not introduce traditional Greek dishes, as catering to the established tastes of their overwhelmingly British-Australian clientele was paramount, steak and eggs could be purchased with an “American Beauty” fancy sundae for dessert, and

9 a “Spider” soda drink or flavoured milkshake to wash it all down. The union proved commercially successful, and to a degree the Greek café became a “Trojan Horse” for the Americanisation of Australian eating habits well before the second-half of the twentieth century. Greek-run oyster parlors/saloons, soda bars/sundae parlors and milk bars had pointed the way towards the successful merger between BritishAustralian preferred tastes, and American-food catering ideas, technology and products.

G

reek-run oyster saloons or parlors were pioneered by the Comino (Kominos) family (originally from the island of Kythera) in Sydney, New South Wales. Initially these were fish-andchip outlets, and although they maintained a focus on oysters (bottled and fresh), they soon acquired a wide diversity of foods (cooked meat and sea food, fruit and vegetables, chocolates and ice cream) which could be purchased at reasonable prices. As well as the provision of sit-down meals, some food items were also directed towards a take-away trade. These enterprises had men’s and women’s lounges and welcomed families. In contrast, oyster saloons run by British-Australians traditionally limited their food selection (almost exclusively oysters), as well as their range of customers (working-class males). Whilst the diversification of food items and a broad range of clientele are suspected as possible American influences 46

reflected by Greek-run oyster saloons, the introduction of the American soda fountain as well as American candy, ice cream and ice drinks through these enterprises, is beyond doubt.

Although the leading protagonists of the Comino family seem not to have had food-catering experience in the United States, some members of the extended clan who arrived in Australia most certainly did, as well as a selection of other Greek proprietors of oyster parlors. In 1912, three Greek migrant/settlers from the United States, Peter and Constantine Soulos and Anthony Louison (Iliopoulos), formed the AngloAmerican Company in Sydney. Based upon the American drugstore soda bar, the company’s shops (five by the mid-1910s) exposed Sydneysiders to the soda fountain – which created effervescent water through impregnation with a gas under pressure, to which flavours (essentially essences) were added, and if desired, ice cream. George Sklavos’ American Bar Café in Brisbane, Queensland’s capital, is said to have also been operating a soda fountain in 1912.

Like the Soulos’ and Louison, Sklavos too had spent some time in America before migrating to Australia.

Interestingly, there are suggestions that Sydney’s Anglo-American Company and George Sklavos’ enterprise may have been preceded as the originators of the American soda fountain in

Greek-run establishments in Australia. Angelos Tarifas (also referred to as Bouzos or Bourtzos, and later, Burgess), yet another Greek who had been to the United States, is said to have installed a soda fountain in his Niagara Café in Newcastle, New South Wales, just before 1910.

Arguably, James Sigalas’ Anglo-American Cafés in both Melbourne and Adelaide, had also acquired sodas fountains before the 1910s.

Despite this muddying of the waters as to which Greek-run enterprise had it first, the public appeal of the fountain was such that Greek oyster parlor proprietors quickly incorporated the new food-catering technology (compressors and pumps were imported from the United States – principally Chicago) and commenced producing a wide range of “exotically” flavoured soda drinks within their establishments. Soda flavours included: pineapple, strawberry, ginger beer, banana, passion-fruit, raspberry, kola, lime juice, orange, sarsaparilla, ginger ale, lemon and hop ale. American ice-cream sundaes also seem to have appeared around this time, with the titles of some unquestionably declaring their origin as being from across the Pacific: “American Beauty,” “Monterey Special,” “Yankee Doodle Dandy” and “Mexican Banana Split.” Moreover, Greek-run oyster parlors now began to evolve into soda bars/sundae parlors, whilst retaining the sit-down meals and diversity of foods of the oyster saloons.

10

E

arly in November 1932, Joachim Tavlarides, known as Mick Adams, opened what many consider to be Australia’s first modern “American-style” milk bar, the “Black and White Milk Bar” at 24 Martin Place, Sydney; the name Black and White was allegedly a sarcastic reference to a brand of whisky. Adams had previously been running a confectionery and soda fountain business in Sydney and while on a trip to the United States, “he...got the idea about the milk bar.” The “milk bar” was created by Adams based upon his observations of early 1930s American drugstore soda bars. In Australia, the Greek-run oyster saloon and soda bar/sundae parlor had placed prime importance on sit-down trade for meals, drinks and desserts. American drugstore soda bars emphasised quick stand-up and barstool bar trade (soda drinks, milkshakes and sundaes) over sit-down meal trade. Adams firmly took up the American soda bar catering emphasis and highlighted the milkshake.

A rapid stand-up trade in milkshakes became the successful commercial foundation of Adams’ original Black and White Milk Bar. Seating capacity in the premises was restricted to just six small two-seater cubicles along one wall, the main feature being a long hotel-style bar with soda fountain pumps and numerous milkshake makers (manufactured by the Hamilton Beach Company, in Racine, Wisconsin, USA). No cooked meals were provided, only flavoured

milkshakes, pure fruit juices and soda drinks.

On the first day of opening 5,000 customers frequented the milk bar, and as many as 27,000 per week then began to patronise the establishment. Other food caterers were quick to adopt the idea and within five years of the opening of Adams’ original Black and White Milk Bar there were allegedly 4,000 milk bars in Australia; most were Greek-run.

There is also evidence that Adams influenced the establishment of milk bars in Great Britain and New Zealand. In 1935, Hugh Donald McIntosh – one of Australia’s most audacious entrepreneurs – opened a Black and White Milk Bar in Fleet Street, London. McIntosh had observed the commercial success of Adams’ original milk bar in Sydney. Similarly, two Greek brothers who had migrated to New Zealand, Anastasios and Dimitrios Pagonis, had also seen Adams’ milk bar while in Sydney. They took the concept back with them to Wellington – New Zealand’s capital – and in 1936, opened a Black and White Milk Bar. These establishments, the first of their type in their respective countries, proved exceptionally popular. Milk bars then rapidly grew in number across Great Britain and New Zealand.

While soda fountains were retained in the milk bars (soda fountains did not disappear until the late 1960s and early 1970s), by the mid-to-late 1930s, the diversity of sit-down meals, take-away items and broad customer range of the earlier

Greek-run oyster saloons, had combined with the popularity of soda drinks, sundaes and milkshakes, into the classic Greek café. In the Greek café, the melding of British-Australian tastes and American food-catering ideas was firmly cemented, and found its clearest and most popular long-term expression. Of course, new American food-catering ideas continued to impact on the Australian Greek café throughout its “golden age” of existence, most notably the hamburger – a meat patty initially embraced

by German-Jewish migrants to America, then popularised in the United States before being introduced to Australia around the 1940s and cooked by Hellenes in Greek cafés. From World War II onwards, Greek cafés, stimulated by the presence of American servicemen, featured instant coffee on their refreshments menu, and although Australians had previously expressed an overwhelming preference for tea, coffee drinking was soon on the rise.

In their heyday, country Greek cafés were an eating and social focal point for rural communities. Recalling her time as a waitress in Greek cafés in rural New South Wales during the 1960s, Mary McDermott emphasises: “it [the Greek café] was a meeting place. It was the only place to eat. If there were cattle sales it was where you met to discuss prices and sales.” For Joan Margaritis (nee Farquharson) who frequented Greek cafés in south-eastern Queensland during the 47

5 3 1950s and 1960s, “the Greek café was the focal point of the town where people use to meet – the only place to meet and eat. ‘I’ll meet you at the Greeks’ was the saying in most country towns.”

T

he social and food catering importance of the Greek café was reinforced by its association with the local picture theatre. This situation duplicated the working relationship between popular food-catering establishments and cinemas in the United States. As John Voterakis whose father ran the Royal Café in Daylesford in central Victoria during the 1930s points out: “You couldn’t move in the café during [film] interval – the shop was packed!” Greeks have had a long association with film presentation in Australia — initially as travelling picture showmen and then as picture theatre proprietors. It has been claimed that “during the heyday of the country picture theatre circuit in New South Wales, more than half of the theatres were owned by Greek migrants.” Quite a respectable number of Greek picture theatre operators within Australia had been, or simultaneously continued to be, café proprietors.

Some Greek cafés also acted as food caterers for American motion picture studios that shot films locally. Con Zervos, whose father ran the Kosciusko Milk Bar in the southern New South Wales town of Cooma, recalls: “we had a contract with Warner Brothers to provide a certain amount of food…lots of shooting done at Nimmitabel…[the film was] The Sundowners [released 1960, Australian premiere 1961]. My dad became friends with Peter Ustinov..(and)..

Robert Mitchum.”

Many picture theatres and Greek cafés in Australia expressed yet another shared association: their architectural style. The international aesthetic style known as Art Deco that developed in the 1920s, originating in Europe, flourished between the wars. In Australia, even until the 1960s, “neo deco” designs were still evident.

The style’s modernist aesthetic was “machine, travel, speed.” Art Deco utilised in Australian Greek cafés appears to have been influenced directly from the United States rather than Europe. Greek café proprietors and customers would refer to the style as the “Hollywood style”, the “American style”, or the “Ship style”, and at least one major Greek-Australian shop-fitter of the 1930s — Stephen C. Varvaressos — seems to have based his Art Deco designs on American Art Deco cafés. Stylistically, American Art Deco architecture — or more specifically, California’s 48

“Streamline Moderne” — favoured the curvilinear in contrast to the general angular interest of European Art Deco.

6

The Americanisation of Australia by the Greek café also affected popular music. By the late 1940s jukeboxes had appeared in a number of Greek cafés as part of their entertainment component. American and British popular music were heard in these establishments well before their broad acceptance on Australian radio.

Consequently, “in the late 1950s, the rock’n’roll generation embraced the Top Forty.” American and British popular music attracted a youth clientele and culture to these cafés, many young Australians mimicking the clothing, attitude and language of their overseas singing idols.

Unfortunately, the Australian Greek café’s link to America also assisted, in part, with its demise in the final decades of the twentieth century – American led fast-food corporations began to replace family-based food-catering concerns, take-away rather than sit-down meals burgeoned. Combined with the impact of rural economic rationalisation, the by-passing of country townships by arterial inter-urban highways upon which road houses (supplying both fuel and food) developed, the advent of supermarkets and convenience stores providing packaged ice creams and chocolates, bottled flavored milk and aerated drinks, and counter lunches at pubs and clubs, most Greek cafés were forced to transform into “take-aways” or be relegated into memory or oblivion. A greater diversity of employment choices for the welleducated younger generation of Australianborn Greek, further compounded the demise.

Generally, only those Greek cafés in major recreational regions are likely to survive.

In a sense, for most of the twentieth century, Greek cafés in Australia were selling a dream — essentially an American dream. During World War II, United States service personnel on leave in Australia’s urban and rural centres, found a little piece of home in the nation’s Greek cafés.

This food-catering icon may be rapidly fading from Australia’s social culinary landscape, but its legacy and influence remain as an often, almost inescapable, part of the daily lives of many Australians — when drinking a Coke or a flavoured milkshake, frequenting a fast-food outlet, munching on a milk-chocolate treat or ice cream at the movies, or singing along to the latest popular music hit.

THE PHOTOS 03

Black & White 4d. Milk Bar Martin Place, Sydney, NSW, 1934 Mick Adams is standing at the back of the group of children.

Photo courtesy L. Keldoulis, from the In Their Own Image: Greek-Australians National Project Archives

05

Star Milk Bar Smith Street, Darwin, NT, 1948 Marion (left) and Julie Canaris.

Photo courtesy Papadonakis family, from the In Their Own Image: Greek-Australians National Project Archives

06

Astoria Café Hunter Street, Newcastle, NSW, late 1940s Photo courtesy N. Raftos, from the In Their Own Image: Greek-Australians National Project Archives

07

California Café Nyngan, NSW, mid-late 1930s Photo by Frank Hurley, courtesy J. Varvaressos, from the In Their Own Image: Greek-Australians National Project Archives

09

Paragon Café – Take-Away Hay, NSW, 1986 Effy Haldezos with her children Vicki and Peter.

Photo by Effy Alexakis, from the In Their Own Image: Greek-Australians National Project Archives

10

Jim’s Café & Take-Away Warracknabeal, Vic., 2006 Jim Dertilis and his wife and Efrosini (nee Tantanis).

Photo by Effy Alexakis, from the In Their Own Image: Greek-Australians National Project Archives

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49

COLOSSUS OF LIBERTY

Travellers to the New York City harbour see a marvellous sight. Standing on a small island in the harbor is an immense statue of a robed woman, holding a book and lifting a torch to the sky. The statue measures almost 120 feet from foot to crown. It is sometimes referred to as the “Modern Colossus,� but more often called the Statue of Liberty.

The Statue of Liberty & The Colossus of Rhodes by Lee Krystek Permission to use article via The Museum of Unnatural Mystery www.unmuseum.org

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his awe-inspiring statue was a gift from France to America and is easily recognized by people around the world. What many visitors to this shrine to freedom don’t know is that the statue, the “Modern Colossus,” is the echo of another statue, the original colossus that stood over two thousand years ago at the entrance to another busy harbor on the Island of Rhodes, Greece. Like the Statue of Liberty, this colossus was also built as a celebration of freedom. This amazing statue, standing the same height from toe to head as the modern colossus, was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

century helped to establish the inaccurate harbor spanning pose in people’s minds.

The city was protected by a strong, tall wall and the attackers were forced to use siege towers to try and climb over it. Siege towers were wooden structures that could be moved up to a defender’s walls to allow the attackers to climb over them.

While some were designed to be rolled up on land, Demetrius used a giant tower mounted on top of six ships lashed together to make his attack. This tower, though, was turned over and smashed when a storm suddenly approached, causing the battle to be won by the Rhodians.

The Island of Rhodes Historians believe the Colossus of Rhodes stood at the harbor entrance of the ancient port city.

The island of Rhodes was an important economic centre in the ancient world. It is located off the south-western tip of Asia Minor where the Aegean Sea meets the Mediterranean. The capital city, also named Rhodes, was built in 408 B.C. and was designed to take advantage of the island’s best natural harbor on the northern coast. (MAP)

Demetrius had a second super tower built and called it the Helepolis, which translates to “Taker of Cities.” This massive structure stood almost 150 feet high and some 75 feet square at the base

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In 357 B.C. the island was conquered by Mausolus of Halicarnassus (whose tomb is one of the other Seven Wonders of the Ancient World) but fell into Persian hands in 340 BC and was finally captured

by Alexander the Great in 332 BC. When Alexander died of a fever at an early age, his generals fought bitterly among themselves for control of Alexander’s vast kingdom. Three of them: Ptolemy, Seleucus, and Antigous- succeeded in dividing the kingdom amongst themselves. The Rhodians supported Ptolemy (who wound up ruling Egypt) in this struggle. This angered Antigous, who in 305 BC sent his son Demetrius to capture and punish the city of Rhodes.

The War with Demetrius The war was long and painful. Demetrius brought an army of 40,000 men. This was more than the entire population of Rhodes. He also augmented his force by using Aegean pirates.

An engraving by Martin Heemskerck in 16th-

The statue was 110feet high and stood upon a 50 -foot pedestal near the harbor entrance, perhaps on a breakwater. Although the statue has sometimes been popularly depicted with its legs spanning the harbor entrance so that ships could pass beneath, it was actually posed in a more traditional Greek manner. Historians believe the figure was nude or semi-nude, with a cloak over its left arm or shoulder. Some think it was wearing a spiked crown, shading its eyes from the rising sun with its right hand, or possibly using that hand to hold a torch aloft in a pose similar to one later given to the Statue of Liberty.

No ancient account mentions the harbor-spanning pose and it seems unlikely the Greeks would have depicted one of their gods in such an awkward manner. In addition, such a pose would mean shutting down the harbor during the construction, something not economically feasible.

Seven Quick Facts Location: Island of Rhodes (Modern Greece) Built: Between 292 - 280 BC Function: Commemorate War Victory Destroyed: 226 BC by an earthquake Size: Height without 50 foot pedestal was 110 ft. (30m) 6. Made of: Bronze plates attached to iron framework 7. Other: Made in the shape of the island’s patron god Helios

for the project. Although some reportedly place the start of construction as early as 304 BC it is more likely the work started in 292 BC. According to Pliny, a historian who lived several centuries after the Colossus was built, construction took 12 years.

Colossus To Be Rebuilt?

and weighed 160 tons. It was equipped with many catapults and skinned with wood and leather to protect the troops inside from archers. It even carried water tanks that could be used to fight fires started by flaming arrows. This tower was mounted on iron wheels and it could be rolled up to the walls under the power of 200 soldiers turning a large capstan.

When Demetrius attacked the city, the defenders stopped the war machine by flooding a ditch outside the walls and miring the heavy monster in the mud. By then almost a year had gone by and a fleet of ships from Egypt arrived to assist Rhodes.

Demetrius withdrew quickly, leaving the great siege tower where it was. He signed a peace treaty and called his siege a victory as Rhodes agreed to remain neutral in his war against Ptolemy.

The people of Rhodes saw the end of conflict differently, however. To celebrate their victory and freedom, the people of Rhodes decided to build a giant statue of their patron god Helios. They melted down bronze from the many war machines Demetrius left behind for the exterior of the figure, and the super siege tower became the scaffolding

Plans to rebuild the Colossus of Rhodes has been discussed a number of times in the last fifty years.

The most recent proposal came in 2008. East German artist Gert Hof hopes to construct a new version of the statue to Helios. However, he does not wish to make it an exact replica. Instead it will stand up to three times as tall as the original and allow people to enter it. At night it will tell “stories” using an innovative light show.

When the statue was finished it was dedicated with a poem: To you, o Sun, the people of Dorian Rhodes set up this bronze statue reaching to Olympus, when they had pacified the waves of war and crowned their city with the spoils taken from the enemy. Not only over the seas but also on land did they kindle the lovely torch of freedom and independence. For to the descendants of Herakles belongs dominion over sea and land.

Engineering the Statue The statue was constructed of bronze plates over an iron framework (very similar to the Statue of Liberty which is copper over a steel frame).

According to the book of Pilon of Byzantium, fifteen tons of bronze were used and nine tons of iron, though these numbers seem low to modern architects. The Statue of Liberty, roughly of the same size, weighs 225 tons.

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ncient accounts tell us that inside the statue were several stone columns which acted as the main support. Iron beams were driven into the stone and connected with the bronze outer skin. Each bronze plate had to be carefully cast, then hammered into the right shape for its location in the figure, then hoisted into position and riveted to the surrounding plates and the iron frame.

project finished. There are several legends that he committed suicide. In one tale he had almost finished the statue when someone pointed out a small flaw in the construction. The sculptor was so ashamed, he killed himself.

Some stories say that a massive earthen ramp was used to access the statue during construction. Modern engineers, however, calculate that such a ramp running all the way to the top of the statue would have been too massive to be practical. This lends credence to stories that the wood from the Heliopolis siege engine was reused to build scaffolding around the statue while it was being assembled.

In another version the city fathers decide to double the height of the statue. Chares only doubles his fee, forgetting that doubling the height will mean an eightfold increase in the amount of materials needed. This drives him into bankruptcy and suicide. There is no evidence that either of these tales is true.

The architect of this great construction was Chares of Lindos, a Rhodian sculptor who was a patriot and fought in defence of the city. Chares had been involved with large scale statues before. His teacher, Lysippus, had constructed a sixty-foot high likeness of Zeus. Chares probably started by making smaller versions of the statue, maybe three feet high, then used these as a guide to shaping each of the bronze plates of the skin.

It is believed Chares did not live to see his

Comparing the Statue of Liberty with the Colossus: Though the bodies are the same size, Liberty stands higher because of the taller pedestal.

Collapse of the Colossus The Colossus stood proudly at the harbor entrance for some fifty six years. Each morning the sun must have caught its polished bronze surface and made the god’s figure shine. Then an earthquake hit Rhodes in 226 BC and the statue collapsed. Huge pieces of the figure lay along the harbor for centuries.

A computer simulation suggests that the shaking of the earthquake made the rivets holding the bronze plates together break. At first only a few weak ones gave way, but when

they failed the remaining stress was transferred to the surviving rivets, which then also failed, with a cascading effect. Though some accounts relate that the statue fell over and broke apart when it hit the ground, it is more likely pieces, starting with the arms, dropped away. The legs and ankles might have even remained in position following the quake.

“Even as it lies,” wrote Pliny, “it excites our wonder and admiration. Few men can clasp the thumb in their arms, and its fingers are larger than most statues. Where the limbs are broken asunder, vast caverns are seen yawning in the interior. Within it, too, are to be seen large masses of rock, by the weight of which the artist steadied it while erecting it.”

It is said that the Egyptian king, Ptolemy III, offered to pay for its reconstruction, but the people of Rhodes refused his help. They had consulted the oracle of Delphi and feared that somehow the statue had offended the god Helios, who used the earthquake to throw it down.

In the seventh century A.D., the Arabs conquered Rhodes and broke the remains of the Colossus up into smaller pieces and sold it as scrap metal. Legend says it took 900 camels to carry away the pieces. A sad end for what must have been a majestic work of art.

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www.greekfilmfestival.com.au 53

NE PERSIPHO and LIES N BEE BUL THE QUEE

PERSIPHONE:PART TWO

by Anastasia Bossinakis Psychologist and Clinical Hypnotherapist

P

ersiphone was about to board the bus. She hated going on school camps. She

help either and the boys at school made offensive, provocative gay jokes about it.

had already been on one camp and didn’t like it one bit. She had a gut feeling that this camp promised to be just as bad, if not worse. The butterflies in her

The meanest “Popular Boy” was Blade Thornton. At age fourteen he was considered

stomach gave her a sick feeling. She was short of breath and her chest muscles felt

to be an admirable rebel. He had tried marijuana, drank alcohol, partied hard and

tight. She hoped she would not have a panic attack like the one she had last week.

was good at football. Most girls in the same year level had a crush on him, including

That would be totally humiliating and everyone would laugh at her…again.

Queen Bee, Alana Jones. Persiphone had a small crush on him too, but he didn’t even know she was alive. Besides, she was an endorsed “Greek Skankie Wog Loser”

She could hear the other girls in her year level chatting and squealing excitedly

and he wouldn’t be into that at all. She recalled an incident that had happened last

about the camp. Most girls had chosen a partner to sit next to on the bus. Persiphone

week. This time it involved Lachlan.

did not have a partner because no one wanted to sit next to her. She felt embarrassed about this. This morning though it came to her attention that Meagan Scott didn’t

‘Hey Poofter!’ Blade shouted. ‘You couldn’t kick a ball of crap even if you tried! You’re

have a bus partner either. So, Persiphone mustered all her courage to ask Meagan

a waste of space…you miserable little chirping faggot!’

if she would partner her.

Lachlan blushed and looked away.

‘I’m no faggot! ’ he murmured.

‘Hey..M.. Meagan…’ she stammered. ‘Wanna be my bus partner?’

‘What was that dickhead? Speak louder!’ bellowed Blade.

Meagan stared at Persiphone then rudely screwed up her nose.

‘I said…I’m no faggot…’

‘Ew…I mean no. Sorreeee…I …I already have a partner,’ she lied.

‘Pappoulis! Stop day dreaming and get in the bus! What are you waiting for?’ shouted

‘That’s okay!‘replied Persiphone, trying to sound cheerful.

Mr Deafears.

When Rosie Pikes arrived, Persiphone heard Meagan offer her to be her bus part-

‘O...okay…’ whispered Persiphone, her voice trembling. She quickly boarded the

ner. Rosie squealed with delight, nodded, and hugged Meagan. The two girls then

bus and found and empty double seat. Everyone was staring at her and Persiphone

boarded the bus giggling and sharing a joke. Persiphone’s face went as white as

pretended not to care about sitting alone. She would try to think about something

marble. She was horrified and stood frozen to the ground, wondering what she was

else. She would look forward to morning tea and enjoy her Pringles and Freddo

going to do next. She felt like crying.

Frog. Thank God mum had had the good sense not to pack Yia Yia’s Koulouria and Kourabiethes! That would be the end of her. Besides, Koulouria and Kourabiethes

Persiphone looked around discreetly. She saw the other classified ‘loser’ without

were so gay!

a partner. His name was Lachlan Bender. Persiphone didn’t mind Lachlan. He was clever, good at Maths and an amazing singer. Lachlan had a very high singing and

Two days into the excursion proved to be a disaster. The “Popular Girls” threw Per-

speaking voice which Persiphone found captivating. The problem was that he was

siphone’s large green duffle bag into the river. She lost all her belongings, including

small in stature, gentle, polite, shy and couldn’t kick a football to save his life. The

a precious silver locket that mum and dad had given her for her birthday. To make

kids at school bullied him and called him names. His surname, being Bender, didn’t

matters worse, the other girls ignored her during group activities. If she sat next to

54

Bullying is an extremely vast, sensitive and complex issue. This story seeks to offer a realistic snapshot of what can happen in schools. It also provides some examples of personal characteristics that can expose potential victims as vulnerable targets.

These characteristics may vary according to religious and racial prejudices, shyness, low self esteem and confidence, limited sporting ability, learning difficulties, boys perceived as being sensitive and /or gentle, boys who have a small stature, boys who

them they would move away. If she asked them a question, they wouldn’t answer. If

Young people also need to know that their parents will not judge them and that they

she greeted them with a simple ‘hey’, they looked the other way. She felt ostracized,

can talk to them about anything. Casual, non- threatening conversations about bul-

lonely and unwanted.

lying with your child can slowly break the ice. Acting shocked, horrified or being

Persiphone desperately wanted to call home but mobile phones weren’t allowed.

extremely angry can often upset young people and cause them to shrink back and

She had no money or clothing and she was stuck at this camp for the next three days.

withhold information about themselves.

She knew then that she had to confide in someone about her unbearable problem.

But who?

School counselors can also help and information about your child remains confidential.

Bullying can also occur if the school is new and the victim has very few or no friends to act as an anchor. Moreover young people can walk into an es-

There are a number of services that children and parents may find useful.

tablished group and be rejected on the basis of their appearance alone.

It can often take a long time to discover that something is wrong and sometimes teachers and parents can be in denial or even oblivious to what is happening to the young one. Advising a young person to simply ignore their bullies, “block their ears” and walk away, may not always be helpful. Victims still have to put up with the taunts, ridicule, physical abuse and cyber bullying. They need to feel that they are being heard and that they can be genuinely supported in a positive and compassionate way.

It is sometimes helpful if the young person is withdrawn from the school. A fresh start in a new school can work wonders and victims have a chance to re-establish themselves in an environment to which they are better suited. Having said that, other young people may find it useful to learn coping strategies in their more familiar school environment. Some others find that if they express a well planned, repetitive ‘no reaction/ don’t care’ approach towards the bully, they will eventually be left alone. Many bullies thrive on eliciting a reaction from their victims.

It is important that a gift, skill or talent be celebrated and encouraged openly, be it in Maths , Drama, Art, Music, Dance, Writing or Sport. If openly rewarded, this then enables potential victims to gain the respect they deserve from their peers at school.

They can feel good about themselves because they know they are admired and seen in a positive light.

No one can stress how important it is to know what is going on in your child’s life.

As parents it is important to be aware of any sudden changes in your child. Some changes include rapid weight loss, sleep disturbances, prolonged sadness, a sense of feeling lost, hopeless and helpless, moodiness, irritability, withdrawal, poor moti-

SUPPORT SERVICES There are a number of agencies and support networks that can be accessed for help.

However no one can adequately stress just how important it is for parents to be in tune with teenagers and to keep the communication lines open. Know where your teen is at. Ask them what is bothering them and tell them that they can always come to you for help. In time they can learn to trust you even if it doesn’t happen straight away.

There are school counsellors who can also help.

Some other support networks include: HEADSPACE: WWW.HEADSPACE.ORG.AU KIDS HELPLINE:1800 551800 REACH: 9416 2230 WWW.REACH.ORG.AU BEYOND BLUE:1300 224636 LIFELINE:131114 BLACK DOG: (02) 93822991 NATIONAL SUICIDE HELPLINE:1300659467 TEEN CHALLENGE (SA):1800771 777

vation and suicidal thoughts, to name a few.

Often victims don’t want to go to school and can feign illness. Their grades can suddenly drop as well. Parents can also become frustrated because their bullied child often does not want anyone else to know about their problem. Parents are therefore caught between their child’s demand for discretion and secrecy, and their immediate impulse to run and complain to the school principal about what is happening to their child. This is a difficult position for parents and needs to be handled discreetly, sensitively and keeping in mind that each child is different.

What young people need to know is that they can trust you as a parent and that you will support them no matter what. They need to be given this information repeatedly even if they initially appear disinterested in what parents have to say.

55

KHEIRON’S CORNER

HEALTH

Trouble sleeping?

Are you depressed?

One of my friends came to me last week feeling “depressed”. The recent corrections in the stock market had “killed” him. It had been the straw that broke the camel’s back. He had been having trouble sleeping, often getting to sleep at three in the morning, to wake again at six am. He was feeling tired. Easy enough to solve: less exercise towards the end of the day; a cup of hot Milo; no reading in bed; less caffeine throughout the day; a set of relaxation exercises, and a warm evening shower before retiring to bed. However as we continued to talk I felt he was despondent and having difficulty concentrating. He had been losing weight. I looked at him and could not help feeling worried. This had been a “beast” of a man in his prime…not that long ago –a top student, scholarship winner, numerous offers for articles, working his way up to partnership level at a rate of knots. And what remained? He was a shell of a man with little interest in any pleasurable activity.

I started to pity him, but as I came to terms with his condition it struck me … he was probably depressed!

“Have you heard of Beyond Blue?” I asked. He looked at me as if I were mocking him. “Blokes don’t get depressed!” he asserted. Perhaps he was right. He was a clear and concise thinker. I was now beginning to feel uncomfortable. Perhaps I should end the conversation and get back to work. I was sure I could find a reason to excuse myself. However, I pondered on the situation a little further. No… I was pretty sure he was at least very sad, if not depressed.

He was ill and could not see it. The depression had pervaded every aspect of his life. I was concerned, as depression is a serious condition. It is an illness. It can lead to suicide. It is the most common of all mental health 56

problems. It is not a vague collection of feelings that “blokes” and “normal people” do not talk about. It is a specific diagnosis with definite diagnostic criteria in the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-IV).

Depression is also common. It accounts for more than twelve million days of reduced productivity per year. It is estimated that undiagnosed depression can cost the workplace $ 4.3 billion dollars in lost productivity per year. Furthermore, around 50 per cent of people with depression do not get help for it. Workplace stress is thought to be a major contributor to the development of depression.

So I ventured forth into uncharted territory. “I didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable. Tell me how you are feeling.” It was going to be all about listening. I sat back in as relaxed a manner as I could manage, sent a text to my secretary that I would be an hour late and tried to maintain eye contact. I was there to let him know I cared. In truth I was as stressed as I had ever been.

There were beads of sweat on my brow.

As he continued I thought about depression being an insidious disorder. I knew that there was a family history of “sadness” in his family. I also knew that he had been in a rather abusive relationship in his previous marriage. He had some sad previous experiences that had probably contributed to the current situation.

As we talked he described symptoms that were classically associated with depression. He found it difficult to laugh, sleep, eat, and to enjoy normal

conversation. He certainly did not seem to be in any laughing mood today.

He was also stressed, as his sex-life no longer existed. In fact his wife had become increasingly suspicious and angry. He was a good-looking man and he had gone from being rather active to being completely disinterested. He was finding it hard to talk to anyone at home. His kids were too young. He had no siblings. His parents were “too old” and he did not want to worry them. His condition was like a cancer that was overwhelming all his senses.

This was no short-lived response to a rather unpredictable stock market. It was not the perfectly normal, short-lived response of distress or unhappiness that occurs after an unpleasant life event. He had been like this for at least six weeks that he could remember. He was in pain. It was disabling.

He was becoming desperate. “Blokes” did not talk about these things at work. His work was on the slide, his boss was on the offensive, his colleagues could taste blood. The workplace was competitive and none of his work colleagues were privy to his most personal feelings. He had always been a rather private person. He saw this as a sign of his professionalism.

It was going to be difficult for anyone to help him as his coping mechanisms had cut everyone off in mid-stride.

He knew he was sinking. This explained the call in the early hours of the morning asking me to meet him. He felt it was all quite helpless. However, he did not, and could not know, that when recognised, depression has a high cure rate!

It is important to be on the lookout for depression. While in some cases there is a blood test that may detect the presence of depression - the

Dexamethasone Suppression Test – for the most part it is a clinical diagnosis based on a series of signs and symptoms. Kessler and Mroczek described a scale in 1994 which could be used to detect the presence of depression. This is known as the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale.

While the finer points of the scale are not important, the message can be quite useful. It asks the individual how often they have felt tired or nervous with no reason over the previous four weeks. In fact it also asks whether they had felt so nervous that nothing could calm them down. It asks how often they have felt hopeless, restless or fidgety, and how often they have been so restless that they could not sleep. It asks how often they have felt depressed, so that everything has been an effort, and have felt so sad that nothing could cheer them up. It finishes by asking how often they have felt worthless. If you would like to try filling out the scale and rating yourself please visit Beyond Blue at www.beyondblue.org.au and take the test. If you are unable to access the web please call them on 1300 224 636.

Other than formal tests, of which there are many, there are a number of behaviours that suggest depression may be present. Now be careful, as you will find that many of these behaviours are not dissimilar to those of a successful CEO or legal partner. I am sure that they would not appreciate a series of probing questions bringing into question various aspects of their personality! Moodiness, irritability and frustration that are out of character are indicators of depressive behaviour. Difficulty with taking personal criticism is also high on the list. Social isolation i.e. spending less time with friends or family and drinking more heavily are also “at risk” behaviours. Lastly, a loss of interest in food, sex, and exercise, along with absenteeism from work, may also ring alarm bells. I was fascinated how my friend was displaying the full hand of symptoms and behaviours as I sat quietly and listened. He did not need me to do anything other than sit there and listen quietly. I knew now he would need treatment.

57

KHEIRON’S CORNER

HEALTH

Depression is an important condition to treat. An Australian Institute of Health and Welfare report looked at the chronic diseases that caused people to die at an age less than 75 and depression was in eighth place.

This is a truly concerning fact given that depression is both manageable and treatable in most cases.

The treatment of this condition depends on its severity. It mostly involves a psychologist teaching you a series of activities that help you think and act positively with every aspect of life. This is known as cognitive behavioural therapy. It may also involve an analysis of your personal relationships, which is sometimes known as interpersonal therapy. Meditation is also a commonly used modality. I can assure you that Ken Kesey’s “One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest,” which is probably firmly imprinted on your brain, has no relevance to the treatment of depression. There is no place for nurse Mildred Ratched’s unpleasant medical treatments.

Medication is however sometimes required. There is an increased awareness that depression is associated with an imbalance in the brain’s chemical transmitters, leading to an alteration in the normal functioning of the brain. It may take some months of treatment for the chemical imbalance to be restored. However, these medications are not addictive. They are substances that have been extensively tested and faced a rigorous process of approval such that the chances of a beneficial response are high.

There are also conditions that mask themselves as depression and that is why it is important to visit your general practitioner (GP). The GP may run a series of tests assessing the functioning of many of your internal organs. This is usually a series of blood tests. The GP may also check your memory, as it is not unusual for someone with depression to have an issue with poor short-term memory. The GP will then decide whether the treatment that you require involves counselling, medication, a psychiatrist – a specialist trained to deal with depression and other mental health issues, - or a combination of the three. It was becoming obvious to me that I would have to take my friend to the general practitioner (GP). I sent a text to my secretary to cancel the rest of the day’s work, as this was something I needed to attend to today.

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For most people depression is not severe. When treated appropriately, it usually settles down within a few weeks or months. However when not recognised it can lead to more serious consequences. Whilst suicide is not common it is suggested that 10-15per cent of people who suffer from repeated attacks of depression may suicide. For those who are feeling depressed or have taken alcohol or drugs, it is not the time to be making major decisions about their lives. There are many services such as Lifeline (ph: 13 1114), which are there to help. Always be alert if a friend or colleague begins talking or joking about death, talking about people who have died from suicide, starts giving away personal possessions or begins making arrangements for their death, particularly in the setting of depression. If you would like to read further please surf to www.suicideprevention.com.au and www.livingisforeveryone.com.au . If you are in the midst of a crisis, make sure that you tell your friends and family, for just as they would help you with a serious event such as an accident, they will help you if you tell them your life is in danger from suicide. The government is also serious as it has committed $134.4 million from 2007-8 to 2012-13 to the National Suicide Prevention Strategy. If you would like to read further please surf to www.health.gov.au/internet/mentalhealth/ publishing.nsf/Content/home-1 It was now lunch-time – we had not had anything to eat or drink. I had quietly settled the account as the waiter had realised that “heart-to-heart” conversations such as this should not be interrupted. I called a friend, as he could not even face the family GP, and made an urgent appointment. We hopped into my car, and I began driving. He was crying. I am not sure if it was the worried look on my face, the length of his monologue, or something completely spiritual, but by the end of our conversation he too had realised that he had been depressed. He had now become an active member of his own recovery.

Be aware of the insidious onset of depression. Always be available for friends and colleagues who may be displaying some of the symptoms described in this article. Depression is treatable. Seek help from trained professionals.

KHEIRON’S CORNER

Q A

I am a 45 year-old executive in the city and would very much like to find time to run. However every time I run I have shin splints. Do you have any suggestions regarding management of the pain? Do I need to change my footwear?

Thank-you for your question. “Shin splints” is often a term given to pain that is experienced on the front part of the shin. Medically it is known as Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (MTSS). It is thought to result from a chronic traction injury on the covering of the tibia (the periosteum). This results in inflammation and hence the pain and tenderness. If you have true MTSS then you should have tenderness over the back of your shin bone (tibia) on the inside of your leg. The tenderness should be at the junction of the middle and lower thirds of your tibia. It is, in essence an overuse injury.

You should rest the leg if there is pain. Ice and cold therapy may help to control the discomfort. You should see a sports trainer or physiotherapist

and begin a series of specific stretches for the muscles of your leg. The physiotherapist may also look at your running style. Small adjustments such as avoiding overstriding may help. Shock-absorbing insoles may also help. Try and build up your fitness with some relatively less weight-bearing exercises, including swimming and cycling. A heat-retaining splint on the shin may help once the inflammation has settled. Fresh shoes may also help as the cushioning on shoes is often exhausted every 7-800 kilometres. Running on softer surfaces may also help in the first instance. If there are no contra-indications then anti-inflammatory medications may also help with the management of the pain – discuss this with your doctor.

It may also be a good time to have your weight checked and begin a weight management program, as a healthy weight may also help manage the condition. It would be a good idea to visit an orthopaedic surgeon, a sports clinician or sports injury clinic to confirm the diagnosis in the first instance.

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The OPA! Benefactor Series

BEIRUT HELLENIC BANK OPA! Magazine pays homage to the individuals, families and organisations that have been instrumental in their support of the community, becoming an inspiration for future generations.

“The Beirut Hellenic Bank is very proud to support the Greek Community Cultural Centre and hopes all Australians can visit and appreciate the beautiful and long history of Hellenic cultures.�

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The OPA! Benefactor Series

BEIRUT HELLENIC BANK

The Beirut Hellenic Bank was created to focus on providing Australians with market leading banking products and service.

With many Greek staff and customers, we hope the Cultural Centre can be a proud and lasting testament to the community-a Centre that can be enjoyed by our staff, children, our community and greater Australia.

As our name reflects, we are a proud Greek Bank in every sense of the word. We service the Hellenic community, have Hellenic history and staff. This contribution is to aid in preserving Greek Australian culture for Australia and the world. This is of the utmost importance to us.

We see ourselves as intrinsically linked to the success and prosperity of the Greek community in Australia and this Centre represents a fantastic achievement that the Australian Greek community can be proud of,” explains James.

The core customer base is both the Greek and Lebanese communities in Australia and as such, they are aiming not to simply service those communities , but to be ingrained in them at every level.

While other banks make multi-million dollar donations to sport and the like, the Beirut Hellenic is a bank with a proud history. “ We couldn’t think of any better way to support the community that supports us than investing into the preservation of its history,” explains James.

The strategy isn’t simply to promote their market leading services and products to the community- it’s very much about proving this is the case to the community.

“While it’s a sizeable investment, preserving Greek history will pay dividends to the community and the world over centuries to come. In our eyes, it is more of an investment in the community than a donation.

With this in mind they are rapidly opening new branches in areas such as Brunswick, Melbourne where there is a high concentration of Hellenic and Lebanese Australians.

When a customer walks into one of their branches they will be greeted by the bank manager – this level of service and respect for the customer is part of their ongoing strategy moving forward. With that in mind, Beirut Hellenic Bank aims to open several new branches in the next 12 months.

We are the Greek community, and the Greek community is us; how could we not get behind this project, since the Beirut Hellenic Bank always does its best to support the community that supports us?”

While demonstrating their level of service is important, they have also developed a product suite that offers their customers ultimate value.

“All and all, our strategy is to focus on the customer and deliver the ultimate banking experience.”

As one of the key benefactors of the proposed Cultural Centre that the Greek Orthodox Community of Melbourne and Victoria is planning-contributing a staggering $250,000 in order to help get this project off the ground- Bank Managing Director and CEO, James Wakim, explains why he felt it was so important to get involved, “Our donation to the Cultural Centre is more than symbolic.The Greek community needs to work together to preserve and promote its proud history and our donation aims to work towards that goal.

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James continues. “First and foremost, we are on the ground within the community. We have branches in key areas and wherever possible attend and support community events and gatherings. We encourage our staff to celebrate their community and be a part of it. It is simply who we are.”

The customer base comes from cultures that are world renowned for their generosity and friendliness. They aim to be a corporate representation of their customer base by providing ‘world’s best’ service to their customers.

Their level of service and community involvement allows their market leading banking products to shine and connect with grassroots Greek Australians.

Sample Text

Sample Text Get the free mobile app at

http:/ / gettag.mobi Empower print ads with M E D I A C O D E

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‘MASTER OF GREEK CINEMA’ MICHAEL CACOYANNIS 64

Presenting partner

An initiative of the Greek Orthodox Communities of Australia Adelaide Melbourne Sydney Brisbane

6 - 9 October 2011 12 - 30 October 2011 13 - 30 October 2011 27 - 30 October 2011

At selected Palace Cinemas

www.greekfilmfestival.com.au

T

he 18th Greek Film Festival kicks off in Adelaide on October 6 before continuing its national run to Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane with one of the strongest programs to date, including internationally awarded and acclaimed films, comedies, dramas, documentaries and classics by the late Michael Cacoyannis.

In a comedic look at the reality reflecting the current political situation in Greece, no film has ever been more fitting to launch the Greek Film Festival. Need for Lies (Dir. Ieroklis Michaelidis) is an adaptation of one of Greece’s best-loved stage comedies. Dimitris Psathas’ satire on Greek political machinations comes to life on the silver screen and stars the film’s director Ieroklis Michaelidis alongside Zeta Makrypoulia and Odysseas Papaspiliopoulos.

The side - splitting laughs continue with

Greece’s box office hits Once Upon a Time there was a Baby (dir. Nikos Zapatinas), Vangelis Seitanidis’ Other Half and Filippos Tsitos’ award winning Plato’s Academy (Orpheus Award for Best Feature at the 2009 Los Angeles Greek Film Festival), just to name a few.

Recently selected as the Greek Film Academy’s nominee for the Foreign Language Oscar, one of the Greek film festival’s highlights is Athina Rachel Tsangari’s Attenberg, focusing on a girl forced to embrace life, including her latent sexuality and other people on the impending death of her father. Add to that The Signature (dir. Stelios Haralampopoulos) - an enigmatic thriller about true love and sacrifice; Without Borders (Nick Gaitatjis) - a dramatic adventure that crosses continents and international borders and the erotic drama; and Red Sky (dir. Layia Yiourgou), which sees the friendship of two men

tested by the intrusion of a beautiful woman into their perfect world, and this year’s Greek Film Festival program is a stand out!

Specific to Melbourne and Sydney’s program will be a tribute to film legend and multi award winning Michael Cacoyiannis. From a documentary of his life in My Life and Times: Michael Cacoyiannis (dir. Lydia Karras) to some of his greatest works, including Stella (1955) and A Girl in Black (1956), this legendary Greek-Cypriot director’s contribution was the first to give Greek film an international reputation and it is only fitting that he is celebrated as the great director that he was.

For updates, program details, purchasing tickets or to sign up to receive updates and special offers for this year’s Festival visit the website at www.greekfilmfestival.com.au.

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πατέρα της σε μια παραθαλάσσια πόλη. Το ανθρώπινο είδος την απωθεί. Το παρατηρεί εξ’ αποστάσεως, μέσα από τα ντοκιμαντέρ πάνω στη ζωή των θηλαστικών του Sir David Attenborough και τα μαθήματα σεξουαλικής αγωγής που της παραδίδει η μοναδική της φίλη, Μπέλλα, ενώ ο πατέρας της προετοιμάζει τελετουργικά την αναχώρησή του.

Warnings: Sex scenes and sexual references, nudity and mild coarse language

ATTENBERG Dir. Athina Rachel Tsangari

Attenborough, to whose name, in a common mispronunciation, the film owes its title.

Through the eyes of Marina (award-winning newcomer Ariane Labed), Attenberg takes an arresting swipe at coping in a post-post-modern age.

Attenberg shares its creative team and its offbeat style with Dogtooth (Greek Film Festival 2009), with Tsangari and Giorgos Lanthimos swapping director and producer roles. Lanthimos also stars in some of the film’s most purposefully awkward scenes.

Recently selected as the Greek Film Academy’s nominee for the Foreign Language Oscar.

At 23, Marina is repressed and late maturing, but the approaching death of her father (Vangelis Mourikis) forces her to embrace life, including her latent sexuality, and other people.

She feels more in common with the animals she imitates from the documentaries of David

THE SIGNATURE (Η Υπογραφή) Dir. Stelios Haralambopoulos An enigmatic thriller about true love and sacrifice, set within the art world.

Famous painter Maria Demou (Maria Protopappa) died mysteriously 15 years ago. In preparing a retrospective exhibition of her work, young researcher Anna (Alexia Kaltsiki) calls on Maria’s lover, Angel (Georges Corraface),

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ATTENBERG Η Μαρίνα μεγαλώνει με τον αρχιτέκτονα

Greek language with English subtitles Greece/2010/95mins/e-cinema Written by Athina Rachel Tsangari Produced by Maria Hatzakou, Giorgos Lanthimos, Athina Rachel Tsangari, Iraklis Mavroidis & Angelos Venetis Cast: Ariane Labed, Giorgos Lanthimos, Vangelis Mourikis, Evangelia Randou About the Director: Athina Rachel Tsangari has a BA in Literature from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki in Greece, an MA in Performance from New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts, and an MFA in Film Directing from the University of Texas in Austin. Attenberg is her second feature, her first being The Slow Business of Going (2001), which was acquired by MoMA for its permanent film collection.

who uncovers some paintings Anna did not re- Warnings: alise existed. This awakens her curiosity about Nudity and sex scenes the past and even Angel’s possible involvement Greek language with English subtitles in Maria’s sudden death.

Greece/2011/130mins/e-cinema When Anna threatens to cancel the ex- Written by Stelios Haralambopoulos hibition, Angel feels compelled to open Produced by Thanos Lambropoulos his heart to her, revealing the truth of his Cast: Georges Corraface, Maria Protopappa, life – the enigmatic existence of an alter Alexia Kaltsiki, Nikos Kouris ego and the transcendent beauty of his art.

About the Director: Born in Athens in 1956, Stavros HaralamboΗ ΥΠΟΓΡΑΦΗ Η Άννα, μια νεαρή ιστορικός τέχνης, ετοιμάζει poulos studied at the Stavrakos Film School ένα τιμητικό αφιέρωμα στα έργα της διάσημης and the School of Economic and Commercial ζωγράφου Μαρίας Δήμου. Στο πλευρό της για Sciences. He is a co-founder of the independent να την βοηθήσει, είναι ο σύντροφος της Δήμου production company Periplus. His films inκαι στενός συνεργάτης της, Άγγελος. Μαζί θα clude Hades (1996) and the documentaries The ξετυλίξουν το κουβάρι της ζωής της Μαρίας, Moment Time Was Suspended (1993), Patmos (1995) and Mediterranean Stories (1999-2000). και το μυστήριο που τυλίγει τον θάνατό της.

Palace Cinemas WITHOUT BORDERS (Χωρίς σύνορα) Dir. Nick Gaitatjis

αναζητήσει την τύχη της στην Αμερική. Όλα θα ανατραπούν στη ζωή τους, όταν η Μίλλα επιστρέφει στην Ελλάδα με τον άνδρα της, για A dramatic adventure that crosses continents να πάρει την κόρη της. and international borders.

Greek and English with English subtitles The simple and carefree life of Thanasis (Gior- Greece/USA/2010/97mins/35mm gos Voyatzis) is shattered when his adopted six- Written by Nick Gaitatjis year-old daughter Melissa (Veronika Vassilako- Produced by Nick Gaitatjis & Sandra Staggs poulou) is taken away without warning to the Cast: Giorgos Voyagis, Georges Corraface, SeyUnited States by her biological mother. With the mour Cassel help of his cousin, the eccentric Plato (Georges Corraface, who also appears in The Signature), About the Director: Thanasis sets out on a search to retrieve Melissa Nick Gaitatjis was born in Veria, Greece. He moved to the USA to study cinema, where he at any cost. also directed many live theatre productions before returning to Greece to work on a number ΧΩΡΙΣ ΣΥΝΟΡΑ Ο Θανάσης, ένας καλοκάγαθος πωλητής, έχει of prime time television shows. With much of υπό την προστασία του την μικρή Μελίσα, που his career spent as a producer Without Borders η μητέρα της Μίλλα, μετανάστρια από την is Gaitatjis’ second feature as director, following Ρωσία, του την εμπιστεύτηκε, προκειμένου να on from Gettin’ It (2006).

NEED FOR LIES (Ζητείται Ψεύτης) Dir. Ieroklis Michaelidis

Θεόδωρο Πάρλα, ή Ψευτοθόδωρος, “ταλέντο” στις ψεύτικες υποσχέσεις.

One of Greece’s best-loved stage comedies, Dim- Greek language with English subtitles itris Psathas’ satire on Greek political machina- Greece/2010/91mins/ e-cinema Written by Panayotis Mantziafos and Konstantions comes to life on the silver screen. dina Yiahali, based on the play of the same title Theofilos Ferekis (played by the film’s director by Dimitris Psathas Ieroklis Michaelidis) has been appointed Min- Produced by Manos Krezias, Kostas Lambroister of Health and Welfare. It’s time for him poulos and Dionysis Samiotis to deliver on the promises, pork-barrelling and Cast: Ieroklis Michaelidis, Zeta Makrypoulia, wheeling and dealing he orchestrated during his Odysseas Papaspiliopoulos election campaign.

ΖΗΤΕΙΤΑΙ ΨΕΥΤΗΣ Όταν ο Θεόφιλος Φερέκης αναλαμβάνει το Υπουργείο Υγείας & Κοινωνικής Αλληλεγγύης, έρχεται αντιμέτωπος με όλες τις “χάρες” που είχε τάξει προεκλογικά στους ψηφοφόρους του. Μόλις καταλάβει ότι δεν πρόκειται να τα βγάλει εύκολα πέρα, χρειάζεται επειγόντως να προσλάβει έναν… επαγγελματία ψεύτη, τον

Alliance Française French Film Festival 9-27 March 2011

Audi Festival of German Films 7-17 April 2011

Spanish Film Festival 12-22 May 2011

Hopelessly unable to meet his mark, Theofilos hires the shady Theodoras Parlas (Odysseas Papaspiliopoulos) – a professional liar – as his senior advisor.

Can Theofilos and Theodoras squirm their way out of the mess? Will the new Minister be held to account? Find out in this ‘Spin City meets The West Wing’ look at politics in Greece.

Proudly presenting the highest quality films from around the world.

Israeli Film Festival

30 August – 4 September 2011

Russian Resurrection Film Festival 18-28 August 2011

About the Director: Ieroklis Michaelidis is no stranger to Greek audiences, with over twenty years’ experience in front of the camera in countless television roles.

Need forLies is his directorial debut. As an actor he starred most recently in The Flight of the Swan, alongside James D’Arcy, Alicia Witt and Colm Meaney.

Lavazza Italian Film Festival 14 September – 5 October 2011

Greek Film Festival 13 – 30 October 2011

www.palacecinemas.com.au 67

ONCE UPON A TIME THERE WAS A BABY (Μια φορά και ένα... μωρό) Dir. Nikos Zapatinas Two very different men and one abandoned baby are thrown together in this comedy of opposites and unfortunate situations.

Middle-aged Nondas is a shady character who has been involuntarily shackled with his lover’s baby. He’s on a mission to find the runaway mother when he stops his car by the side of the

ΜΙΑ ΦΟΡΑ ΚΑΙ ΕΝΑ ΜΩΡΟ O Νώντας, ένας 50άρης, άνθρωπος της νύχταςκοινώς «λαμόγιο», γνωρίζει τον Αλκιβιάδη, ένα συμπαθή νοικοκύρη που χρωστάει παντού, που τον απατά η γυναίκα του, που δεν απέκτησε ποτέ παιδιά. Ο Νώντας, που ταξιδεύει με σκοπό να βρει τη μητέρα της Περσεφόνης, του μωρού που του έχει «φορτώσει» κάποια από τις πρώην του, θα ελευθερώσει τον Αλκιβιάδη και θα τον πάρει μαζί του - θέλει δε θέλει.

Greek language with English subtitles Greece/2011/86 mins/35mm Written by Nikos Zapatinas Produced by Village Films Greece road to relieve himself. That’s when he notices Cast: Petros Filippidis, Sakis Boulas, Angeliki Alkiviadis, who is lying on the train tracks in Pavlopoulou, Markela Giannatou, Joyce Evidi a suicide attempt, overwhelmed by debt, childAbout the Director: lessness and an unfaithful wife.

Born in Athens, Nikos Zapatinas studied maths In the end Alkiviadis does not kill himself, (Aristoteleion University of Thessaloniki), cinbut mayhem and surprises abound in the ema (Paris III) and music in various academies. finest of road movie traditions – with linge- He has directed television series, documentarie, a cheating partner and a guilty best man ries and films, including Feedback (1974), Nanjust a few of the issues Nondas has to negoti- nies (1979), Bonus (2001) and Elias of the 16th ate in his quest to reunite baby and mother. Precinct (which screened at the Greek Film Festival in 2009).

RED SKY (Κόκκινος Ουρανός) Dir. Layia Yiourgou Against the idyllic backdrop of Southern Crete and the Libyan Sea unfolds this smouldering, erotic drama that sees the friendship of two men tested by the intrusion of a beautiful woman into their perfect world.

In an attempt to make a new start far from the city’s maddening crowds, friends Aris (Orfeas Avgoustidis) and Stelios (Apostolis Totsikas) begin a banana greenhouse business on the island of Crete, where they live a simple life focused on work and the nearby tavern. Foreign tourists come and go, but Cordoba (Pihla Viitala) – a friend of Aris’ sister – has a more κάνουν ένα καινούργιο ξεκίνημα στη ζωή τους. insidious affect. Μετακομίζουν σε ένα άγονο κι απομακρυσμένο Cordoba arouses interest in both men, who vie από τον κόσμο σημείο της Κρήτης και στήνουν for her affection despite their initial reticence ένα θερμοκήπιο. Η άφιξη μιας Γερμανίδας, της at bringing her into their fold. But she cannot Κόρντοβα, φέρνει αναστάτωση και θα βρεθούν decide who she wants, identifying elements of αντιμέτωποι με έναν πειρασμό. her ideal man in both their personalities, which Greek language with English subtitles leads to an explosive situation.

Greece/2011/105mins/e-cinema www.redsky-film.com Written by Layia Yiourgou Produced by Layia Yiourgou ΚΟΚΚΙΝΟΣ ΟΥΡΑΝΟΣ Ο Άρης κι ο Στέλιος, δυο νέοι με στενή φιλία, Cast: Apostolis Totsikas, Orfeas Avgoustidis, 68

Pihla Viitala, Efstathia Tsapareli, Laertis Vasiliou About the Director: Layia Yiourgou was born in Heraklion, Crete, in 1949. She studied at the Vakalo School of Interior Design and Graphic Arts, the Athens School of Fine Arts and the London International Film School. Her films include Country House (1994), Tomorrow Will Be Too Late (2001) and Lyubi (which screened at the Greek Film Festival in 2006).

work – if not to be saved, then to be ended. www.toeteronimisi.gr ΤΟ ΕΤΕΡΟΝ ΗΜΙΣΥ Μια κωμωδία που ταξιδεύει από τον καναπέ του ψυχαναλυτή μέχρι τον παράδεισο των πρωτοπλάστων προκειμένου να δώσει απάντηση στο βασικό ερώτημα: το ταίρι του το βρίσκει κανείς ή το φτιάχνει; Greek language with English subtitles Greece/2011/91mins/35mm Written by Panayotis Christopoulos Produced by Panos Papahadzis, Maria Tsiga Cast: Krateros Katsoulis, Vladimiros Kyriakidis, Dafni Lambroyanni, Katerina Papoutsaki, Foteini Tsakiri

OTHER HALF (Το Έτερον Ήμισυ) Dir. Vangelis Seitanidis A very modern, riotous comedy featuring a rich cast of today’s most popular Greek actors looking at just how far we’ll go to find our other half.

Faidon and Vicky are successful relationship

therapists who, as husband and wife, practise what they preach: the ideal couple is made, not found. Then they meet a couple that act as a metaphorical fist-to-the-stomach, revealing Vicky and Faidon’s marriage to be anything but truly compatible. Is it too late for them to turn their lives around? Whatever the answer, one absolute certainty remains: a relationship needs

About the Director: Born in Athens in 1964, Vangelis Seitanidis received his MFA in film direction from Columbia University. He has written books on Wim Wenders and Robert Altman, as well as the screenplay for Nikos Panayotopoulos’ Beautiful People (2001). His films include Ghost of a Chance (2001), Face Control (screened at the Greek Film Festival in 2006) and Under Your Make-up (2009).

PLATO’S ACADEMY (Ακαδημία Πλάτωνος) Dir. Filippos Tsitos This sharp comedy/drama took out the 2009 Orpheus Award for Best Feature Film at the Los Angeles Greek Film Festival.

Bitter after being abandoned by his wife and forced to care for his elderly mother, who has suffered a stroke, Stavros (Antonis Kafetzopoulos) spends his days with his mates drinking coffee, playing soccer and sneering at the Chinese and Eastern European labourers working on projects in their neighbourhood.

Globalisation and xenophobia collide as Stavros finds himself confronting his prejudices - and questions about his own identity - when Nikos (Yorgos Souxes), an itinerant Albanian labourer, enters his world to hilarious, yet profound effect. ΑΚΑΔΗΜΙΑ ΠΛΑΤΩΝΟΣ Η ταινία μιλάει για τους μετανάστες και την ενσωμάτωσή τους , μέσα από μια μαύρη κωμωδία, όπου προκαλεί τον προβληματισμό χωρίς να σου δίνει την εύκολη λύση. Η ερμηνεία του Καφετζόπουλου είναι εξαιρετική

αφού καταφέρνει να περνάει τα διαφορετικά Titika Saringouli, Yorgos Souxes συναισθήματα μέσα από την εικόνα.

About the Director: Born in Athens in 1966, Filippos Tsitos origiWarnings nally studying marketing. After gaining work Occasional coarse language as a photographer, he moved to Berlin in 1991 and commenced studies in directing at the Greek language with English subtitles German Film and Television Academy. Plato’s Greece/2009/103mins/35mm Academy is his second feature film and a comWritten by Alexis Kardaras, Filippos Tsitos Produced by Thanassis Karathanos & Konstan- panion piece to his debut, My Sweet Home (2001). dinos Moraitis Cast: Antonis Kafetzopoulos, Anastas Kodzine, 69

The annual Sister City Federation Square Glendi Festival, which is organised by the Thessaloniki Association, has been a fixture of Victoria’s culture calendar since its inception...

The smell of souvlaki and sound of the bouzouki will drift from Federation Square on Sunday 14 November 2011 for the Melbourne-Thessaloniki 2010 Sister Cities Glendi Festival.

“The Glendi Festival is a celebration of our strong and vibrant sister city relationship with Thessaloniki which this year celebrates its 26th anniversary anniversary,” said the Lord Mayor in 2010.

“Melbourne has the largest Greek-speaking community outside of Greece, with almost 150,000 people of Greek ancestry living in metropolitan Melbourne.

The Greek culture has played an invaluable role in shaping and enriching the Melbourne we live in today.”

The successful establishment of the Thessaloniki Association, ‘The White Tower’, has amongst other things resulted in the bringing together of people of Hellenic heritage from Northern Greece residing here in Victoria. The annual Sister City Federation Square Glendi Festival, which is organised by the Thessaloniki Association, has been a fixture of Victoria’s culture calendar since its inception and aims at commemorating and celebrating the Sister-Cities relationship which now has been around for 27 years. The ties of friendship between both cities have grown and flourished over the years and it is this festival that provides the opportunity for the Greek-Australian community to enjoy what is best and exciting about Hellenic culture, offering it in a welcoming manner to the broader community.

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Furthermore the Festival brings out thousands of people into Melbourne’s Federation Square, and most particularly promotes the multicultural emphasis of our contemporary Australian society. Notably, the Festival has encouraged and assisted in building Victoria’s outstanding reputation as a thriving cosmopolitan State, and in the process, preserving Greek culture and traditions for future generations. This is a prime example of showing pride and sharing one’s cultural heritage.

Let us all therefore celebrate and share what we have in this cosmopolitan city of the southern hemisphere, with pride and excitement. In 2010, the Federation Square Festival organisers proudly hosted a multicultural program, with presenters such as the Lara Khronovska and Alex Vengerovski from the ‘Russian Hearts’, and the Shiamak Dance (Bollywood dancing). They were also delighted to announce the presence of the Folkloric Dance Group from Greece, Όμιλος Βρακοφόρων Κρήτης, and they provided the audience with a thorough look at traditional Cretan music and dance. From the group, traditional singers the ‘Rizites’ also performed, together with Cretan musicians Mr Tasos Bagourakis and Mr Manolis Hahlakis, providing audiences at Federation Square with a cultural and traditional musical feast.

As a result of the festival’s ethnic and multicultural prestige, foreign and national dignitaries were also present, including the Deputy Mayor of Thessaloniki, Dr Nicholas Papagiannopoulos, Councillor from the Municipality of Thessaloniki Mr Kostas Tsitouridis, and other Hellenic business men and women.

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“If you want to give your best in AFL, just go out and enjoy it.

Don’t worry about what people think or say about you!”

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P

ATRICK KARNEZIS TALKS TO NICOLE CONDOS ABOUT HIS NEW HOME IN BRISBANE, MISSING HIS FAMILY AND THE ROAD TO HIS DEBUT ON THE AFL STAGE.

PATRICK KARNEZIS

November 18th, 2010- a day that changed Patrick Karnezis’ life. His intense lead up to the national AFL Draft included family interviews and visits to his Melbourne home by clubs scouting the country’s finest talent. Following the Draft Camp in Canberra, where hopefuls are put through physical assessments and further interviews, came AFL Draft Day- the potential opportunity for Patrick to be recruited by any one of 17 AFL Teams. While watching the Draft telecast with his family, his name was announced in the first round at pick #25. Three days later, Patrick was on a plane relocating to Queensland- as a Brisbane Lion.

Months after his life -changing opportunity Patrick burst onto the AFL scene this year in his Round 6 debut game against Richmond in remarkable style, kicking 2 goals from his first two kicks. Patrick was given his senior football opportunity along with other new recruits at the Lions, as part of coach Michael Voss’ youth policy. A tall forward with the ability to set up scoring opportunities as well as creating his own, Patrick wrapped up his debut season with 17 goals from 11 games and was named the Brisbane Lions’ Rookie of the Year.

The interstate move wasn’t as easy as he made his debut with Brisbane seem. “To be honest the move to Brisbane was really hard in the beginning. Draft day was on the Thursday and

by Sunday I was gone. It was incredible and felt like dream. I couldn’t believe I was leaving home for good,” says Patrick. Coming from a close- knit Greek family in Melbourne, Patrick was forced to step out of the comfort zone of his Melbourne lifestyle and family unit. “I struggled pretty badly in the early stages. I couldn’t come to terms with being gone from my family and friends. But as months went on, I started doing my own thing…learning new things. To be honest, I literally grew up,” explains Patrick.

Kicking off his junior career for the Beverly Hills Football Club in East Doncaster, (whose club jumper is exactly the same as that of his current Brisbane Lions one), Patrick also played for Hawthorn Citizens. Brisbane recruited him from the national TAC Cup competition while he was with the Oakleigh Chargers,

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In his own words…

OPA! Who has been the biggest influence on your career?

PK: I would definitely say my dad in terms of his support and the time he gave up to take me to training and games. As well as my mum, who always would have my food and training gear ready. Lastly my brother, who would always tell me straight out what he thought.

OPA! Who has had the biggest influence on you at the Brisbane Lions?

PK: There are two people that have had the biggest influence on me in Brisbane- team mates Xavier Clarke and Brent Staker. Xavier took me in first when I moved up and he basically helped me out, showed me how to approach what was ahead for me. Then I moved in with Brent,who has become a real close mate. Luckily enough all three of us live together now. These two will be my life long friends because they have helped me to grow up and helped me with my move from home.

OPA! What is your advice for aspiring Greek Australian footballers?

PK: If you want to give your best in AFL, just go out and enjoy it. Don’t worry about what people think or say about you!

OPA! Which current player’s style are do you resemble?

PK: I wouldn’t really know to be honest; some people have compared me to Steve Johnson from Geelong, but let’s just say I resemble Patrick Karnezis!

OPA! Who do you think is the team to beat in the finals?

PK: Collingwood. After playing against them, they’re just so strong and fast.

OPA! What are your thoughts on two AFL teams from Queensland, with the Gold Coast Suns debuting this year?

PK: It’s a good thing for Queensland. Hopefully the AFL can grow a bit more up here because of the rivalry now.

the very club that delivered Lions triple premiership star Luke Power and fellow Brisbane teammates Ryan Lester and Sam Sheldon.

Patrick supported Collingwood as a kid and Nathan Buckley was his favourite player. But as his father and brother supported Sydney, he began to admire the style of dual Brownlow Medalist, Adam Goodes. Patrick now wears Number 28, aspiring to premiership glories beyond the Brisbane powerhouse of 2001- 2003, to include those of dual premiership North Melbourne captain Wayne Carey and Carlton champion Anthony Koutoufides. As a junior, Patrick wore Number 18 in honour of Carey. When Patrick progressed to TAC Cup level, he switched to Number43 because of Koutoufides. “Anthony was Greek and so was I, so it seemed like a good idea,” says Patrick.

Patrick admits he hasn’t mastered the Greek language as well as his aim at goal, confessing that he would cry before Greek school when he was younger so he could get out of attending classes. While Patrick’s parents are from Tripoli and Kalamata, he has yet to visit Greece. Going by his debut and contract for two more seasons with the Lions, a summer holiday in Greece for the 19 year old is on hold for the moment, giving him a little more time to recreate his mum’s Greek recipes in his new Brisbane home.

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‘The Thrillionaires’

BY NIK HALIK A relationship with money is imperative. One of the formative lessons I provide to young teenagers is a philosophy I adopted with great success. My wallet philosophy consists of keeping notes only and discarding coins. This means that I refuse to pocket small change of whatever denomination. Collecting change from any transaction, be it a restaurant, retailer or supermarket will only energise emotions of scarcity in later life. If you remove yourself from collecting the small change and focusing on the larger notes, you will integrate a higher consciousness of prosperity. Put back the small change into circulation and do not accept it. If you reside in a country where you have one dollar or two dollar coins, then collect those coins and deposit them into a money box for a charitable Christmas donation at the end of the year.

Clients have used my philosophies and find that during the festive season of Christmas, they have collected over $300 in coins, which they use to purchase gifts for underprivileged children. The laws that dictate this prosperity thinking suggest that you visit a child in a hospital with the

“I personally carry a minimum of $1000 in a money clip at all times...”

provide you with a job, one single source of ‘time traded for money’ -styled income and the role of a future taxpayer. The educational school system is a factory assembly plant for the purpose of producing taxpayers. I personally favour a self-tutored, purpose-designed approach to education as opposed to sending kids to school. This will ensure a well-rounded, cosmopolitan education with specialised knowledge.

If you haven’t been fiscally educated about money, you’re gambling. As teenagers mature into adulthood, plagued by the lack of cash flow in their lives, some gamble on slot machines, horse racing or play the lottery for that one in fifty- three million chance of winning. Assuming they win the lottery, the same individuals often have less money within two years than they had before they won. Such a vast amount comes their way – and they blow it within two years through indiscriminate purchases and the accumulation of fiscal liabilities and bad spending habits. They never possessed a financial formula to attract money into their life in the first instance.

least amount of visitors. The philosophies can also be applied to adults. I personally carry a minimum of $1,000 dollars in a money clip at all times.

We need to come from a space of abundance. Often you see adults with only $5.00 or $20.00 in their wallets or purses, which really resonates scarcity.

At all times we must feel abundant and exuberant in order to transcend our life to the highest order.

With regard to the current education regime, personally I don’t think the academic situation provides a solid financial foundation for life. Without a foundation, teenagers are already dipping their toes into financial quicksand.

As they become submerged in that quicksand, their thinking becomes far less exuberant. The educational school system guarantees one thing. It will

77

MONEY MATTERS

FINANCE

WITH ONE IN THREE AUSTRALIAN MARRIAGES ENDING IN DIVORCE AND PEOPLE LIVING LONGER, THE NUMBER OF BLENDED FAMILIES IN AUSTRALIA IS INCREASING AND FAMILY LIFE IS BECOMING INCREASINGLY COMPLEX. THE NEED FOR COMPREHENSIVE ESTATE PLANNING HAS NEVER BEEN MORE APPARENT.

MONEY MATTERS BY AMP FINANCIAL PLANNER, PETTE LIACOPOULOS

E

state planning is a topic that many people would rather not talk about too often, but it’s an important part of the entire financial planning process for anyone with responsibilities, whether they are family or business responsibilities.

With one in three Australian marriages ending in divorce and people living longer, the number of blended families in Australia is increasing and family life is becoming increasingly complex. The need for comprehensive estate planning has never been more apparent.

For many people these days, it means considering all possible scenarios and implications when mapping out how they wish to have their estate – that is, all of your assets and money – managed after they die.

It isn’t easy making difficult decisions about loved ones, and it’s even tougher for those in de facto relationships and second or subsequent marriages, where there are children from previous relationships. The difficulty in choosing beneficiaries and amounts to be bequeathed means that many couples choose not to make a decision at all.

While estate planning laws vary in every state, wills are typically rendered invalid by marriage and may become partially invalid by divorce. So, it’s particularly important for everyone to make a new will after marrying or divorcing.

Following are just some of the estate planning issues you should consider, in consultation with your solicitor and financial planner:

Keep your will up to date - If you already have a will, you should update it when your financial or relationship circumstances change. While remarriage may revoke an existing will, divorce may not.

78

Provide for dependants in your will - If dependants do not have specified entitlements set out in a will, they may have to make a claim for entitlement through the courts, at expense of the estate.

Nominate guardians for your children – If you have children under the age of 18, appointing a guardian for them in your will may help avoid disputes between family members by making your intentions clear. However, it is not binding as the Family Court can override your choice of guardian and appoint a different guardian where it considers this to be in the child’s best interests.

Careful planning to minimise tax - The executor of a will may decide to sell the estate assets rather than pass them directly onto the beneficiaries.

In this case, capital gains tax may be incurred, reducing the money the beneficiaries receive.

Bequeathing assets not owned - People need to understand what they can and can’t bequeath.

Assets owned by joint tenants, trusts or companies can’t be included in a will.

Don’t assume superannuation will bypass the estate - Large super funds may automatically pay superannuation benefits to a deceased person’s estate. Having the funds included as part of the estate increases the risk of money falling into the wrong hands if the estate is challenged.

To ensure superannuation benefits are paid directly to a beneficiary and not included as part of their estate, a person needs to provide a valid binding death benefit nomination directly to their super fund.

Managing family trusts - Family trusts need trustees to manage them. If, for example, a person stipulates in their will that when they die their sister is to be the person who appoints the trustee, what happens if the sister dies a short time later?

Testamentary Trust – To provide additional protection of your assets, a Testamentary Trust might be an option. Put simply, this is a trust established by a will.

Rather than assets being distributed upon death, some or all of the assets would remain in this trust for the benefit of a specific group of beneficiaries named in the will. There may also be tax advantages in having a testamentary trust due to the flexibility available to ensure that more income is distributed to ‘dependent’ children.

Let’s say a father leaves a sum of money to his son or daughter, who later separates from their spouse, the Family Court in a divorce settlement may rule that the spouse is entitled to a proportion of the inheritance.

However, this risk could be reduced if the assets had been left to the children in a trust.

assets are protected and your wishes carried out.

Estate planning is just as important as planning financially for other stages in your life, such as marriage, starting a family or retirement. After all, why work to create wealth only to see it dissipated by not planning for its distribution after your death?

While only a qualified practitioner can legally draw up a will, a financial planner can help you navigate your way through the complexities of estate planning and provide a framework for ensuring all considerations are covered when mapping out your final wishes.

Be clear and concise - Ambiguity in a will can lead to unnecessary disputes over meaning, and the wishes of the deceased person may not be carried out as intended.

Any advice given is general only and has not taken into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Because of this, before acting on any advice, you should consult a financial planner to consider how appropriate the advice is to your objectives, financial situation and needs. No payments are received by AMPFP or a financial planner accredited by it for the general advice in this article. If you decide to purchase or vary an AMP product, your financial planner, AMPFP and companies within the AMP group will receive fees and other benefits from the product, which will be a percentage of either the premium you pay or the value of your insurance.

While the saying ‘you can’t rule from the grave’ carries some truth, planning for what will happen after you die will ensure your hard earned

Pette Liacopoulos is an Authorised Representative of AMP Financial Planning Pty Ltd, ABN 89 051 208 327, AFS Licence No. 232706

Find out more by calling Pette Liacopoulos B.A. Dip FP FInancial Planner on: Phone: 03 9040 8514 or Mobile: 0447 344 008 Email: liacos@ampfp.com.au Web: liacos.amp.com.au (or scan code to right) Address: AMP Camberwell Centre, Shops B & C, 250 Camberwell Rd, Camberwell VIC 3124

79

By Jorge Sotirios

W

e arranged to meet in inner-city Sydney.

Vrasidas Karalis strode inside Sappho bookshop, sauntered past surly staff and ordered chai latte once seated in the leafy courtyard. This Greek intellectual carried heavy bags inside, filled with his vice.

Books at bargain prices were handed to me as though passing over bars of gold. Philosophy, mysticism, crime and history soon jostled for space on a wonky table. The infinite library was alive and thriving, transported by Karalis, who had once bumped into Jorge Luis Borges. Surprisingly, it was in Athens and as recently as 1983.

‘His skin was pale, his hair was white, and he was visiting the Labyrinth!’

Borges was a seminal literary figure to Karalis, and so was Patrick White.

Karalis’ recent book makes for a fascinating read. In ‘Recollections of Mr. Manoly Lascaris’ the youthful academic details a mystery man who inspired, supported, and encouraged the 1973 Nobel winner. As partner and muse since their 1941 introduction in Cairo when both men were stationed in Egypt, Lascaris emigrated to Australia in 1948 and was beside White till his death in 1990. Lascaris gave the writer the space and confidence to pursue literature in the manner, declared by the Swedish Academy, ‘of a Tolstoy epic’.

Who then was ‘Kyrios Manoli Lascari’ -as this beguiling Greek insisted on being called? Fluent in French and English and possessing a mind that sifted Theology and Philosophy with ease, Lascaris was deemed the ‘Housekeeper’ to the ‘Great Writer’. Yet as Karalis portrays Lascaris in his vivid recollections, Lascaris was an intellectual of finely-honed insights.

Indeed he was worthy of White’s praise: ‘this small Greek of immense moral strength’.

Karalis recalls an air of death clinging to Lascaris’ home, whenever he visited. Lascaris kept Byzantine icons as a shrine to his deceased partner, at odds with the Afghan rugs and gaudy curtains left over from the ‘70s.

Lascaris would greet Karalis in his worn cardigan,before serving him instant coffee. Then he’d begin his arcane observations, transforming into a Socrates of the Antipodes- a Socrates who wore mismatched socks and dispensed harsh wisdom.

“I was interested in White’s novels, but I discovered this person, so shadowy, so illusory, so well-disguised that I wanted to know more.”

Karalis thought Lascaris peculiar. “He never allowed me to have a taperecorder but I asked permission to write down his thoughts. He criticized this as being ‘so proletarian!”

Karalis acted like Oedipus piecing together the jigsaw that makes a man.

80

“The first words I wrote down were his dreams. They always had to do with his father, who was a strange, shadowy presence. He abandoned his children, so Manoly grew up with his aunties,” Karalis stated, adding in a whisper: “His father was a ghost figure and at the same time a diabolical presence.”

Karalis describes Lascaris as “a Byzantine aesthete” - which seems closer to fiction than to fact. “He probably had false memory syndrome that he originated from the Byzantine imperial family. Lascaris needed it since he was coming from lost homelands: Alexandria, Smyrna, Constantinople. The great capitals of Hellenism were once his homes. He lost his ‘kinoniki epifania’, his social distinction, as we say in Greece, during the Asia Minor Catastrophe in 1922. The trauma of losing this historical ‘grounding’ meant Byzantium was an ideal ancestry connecting him with the homeland.”

Interestingly, Lascaris met Kavafy in Alexandria a year before the poet’s death in 1933.

‘Kavafy was never the cleanest of human beings, you understand.He never washed his clothes, for example, so he stunk from afar “like cheap perfume” ‘They didn’t get on?’, I asked, riveted by this chance encounter “No. Lascaris was young. And it was a matter of class. Kavafy was considered ‘a bankrupt bourgeois’!”

Karalis confided that Lascaris ventured to this inner city haunt of Glebe, where we sank a chai. “He would discuss literature with a transvestite writer called Hatzis, even though the two men were complete opposites.

Hatzis’ homosexuality was highly theatrical (camp and cross-dressing), whereas for Lascaris the erotic life was a private issue and he didn’t want to publicize his relationship with Patrick.” One reason Lascaris disliked Oscar Wilde and Andre Gide was believing their lifestyle was a public performance of sexuality ‘and definitely not for us!’ Hatzis derided Lascaris describing the Byzantine as‘a pompous silk stocking!’

Karalis soon became an indispensable routine to the ailing Greek when translating White’s epic Voss into Greek. It’s considered a defining text of the vast Australian landscape and the dogged characters who inhabit it.

“Manoly had an important role in this gestation period. You can see it especially in The Aunt’s Story (1948) and The Vivisector (1971). The morbidity is because both men were brutally scarred. Lascaris believed they lost their goodness and kindness during WW2, a theme repeated obsessively till the end of his life.”

World War 2 brought White to the Mediterranean and the writer had written of his profound attachment to Greece. But what exactly was implied by ‘Greece is my second country’, and Greeks ‘the world’s greatest survivors?’

Karalis pondered the question over his steaming cup of spiced chai.

“White preferred the late Byzantium and Ottoman period of a nation under persecution and oppression. Therefore Classical Greece didn’t exist. The

struggle this nation underwent in order to resist the role of the subaltern of the oppressed and find voice in liberty, White found a drama of trial and retribution.’

Suffering and redemption, trial and retribution? The Tolstoy reference became clearer. Greece gave White a narrative the New World couldn’t.

But Lascaris liked Australia and continued to be scornful of his homeland.

Greece was a coarse nation that invented tragedy, ‘but were fated to play Operetta’.

Karalis agreed Lascaris possessed an acute eye and a sharp tongue, worthy of his partner’s writings. One reason the Australian public ignores their Nobel Laureate is due to White’s scathing critique at the hollow materialism of postwar society. Lascaris was more forgiving though, declaring Australia ‘a country designed by Chekhov!’

To obtain Recollections of Mr. Manoly Lascaris visit www.brandl.com.

J

Jorge Sotirios is the author of Lonesome George, C’est Moi! Currently he is writing a travel memoir: When Heidegger Met My Mother.

“It’s an amazing line!” Karalis enthuses and I agree, given the Russian’s use of the minuscule gesture for dramatic effect. “What Lascaris meant was Australians care for the small, the peripheral, the episodic, not the grand narrative or the big ideology. Details are the most important thing in life.” Lascaris used to say Patrick enjoyed ‘the skin of things’ like the bark of a tree or the rind of an orange because ‘only those with imagination can physical house’ in Centennial Park was sold to yuppies who renovated discover reality.’ and removed a slice of literary history. Lascaris ashes were scattered at a Sydney beach ‘that resembled Greek rocks’, with only a few of White’s Karalis continued. ‘Manoly had an amazing sense of ‘le mot juste’, es- colleagues in attendance. pecially in Greek.’ His awkward words came from an archaic mentality.

Reciting them in Sappho’s courtyard café seemed appropriate.

Karalis understood his role as foil to this obscure Byzantine and now laughs at Lascaris’ comments undermining his confidence. ‘Because 1. ‘Sydney is a pre-Christian city on its way to conversion.’ my time is short Kyrie Vrasida’ Lascaris would say, ‘I don’t have time for 2. ‘A good friendship is based on a good dictionary’. niceties!’ Karalis’ book reads as a Platonic dialogue, scripted with occa3. ‘Thessaloniki is full of churches, therefore sin abounds’ takes greater sional help by Oscar Wilde. significance when added to ‘Evil is charming, and it has many followers.’

Karalis exhumation of this small Greek who lived life in obscurity down Karalis shrugs his shoulders: “You didn’t know if Lascaris was a under, is a celebration of intelligence, dignity, and exacting standards. The wise man, or simply a fool!” same qualities said of Tolstoy. Written with wit, verve and containing a brooding nostalgia for times lost, Recollections of Mr. Manoly Lascaris is When Lascaris contracted Parkinson’s disease and died in 2002, his ‘meta- a minor classic.

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An ideal day at Chania starts with bougatsa and Greek coffee at the Old Port, one of the most beautiful spots in town.

Are you curious to know what comes next?

BY RANIA MARGARI 82

Am I eligible for a government subsidis In 2011 you are eligible for a government you: Meet one of the following citizen/residenc • Australian citizen • Australian Permanent Resident (holder • holder of a Special Category Visa (s citizen) • East Timorese asylum seeker, or • holder of a Temporary Protection Visa.

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CHANIA IN CRETE IS A PLACE THAT HAS IT ALL - FROM EXOTIC BEACHES TO IMPOSING MOUNTAINS, CRYSTAL CLEAR LAKES, WILD NATURE, A CHARMING HARBOR, INTERESTING MUSEUMS, TRANQUIL AND COSMOPOLITAN LIFE, OLD AND NEWCourses TOWN AREAS. IT IS FASCINATING available at AISIPRECISELY as Government S BECAUSE IT IS BOTH TRADITIONAL AND MODERN, A MELTING POT OF CIVILIZATIONS, ACTIVITIES, CULTURE AND POSITIVE MOOD. Automotive Mechanical: AUR30405 Certific

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To find subsidi www.s Victori

1 1. A TASTE OF CULTURE: put on a pair of comfortable shoes, take camera in hand and explore the seductive city of Chania. Walk along the small alleys of the Old Town; visit the Maritime and Archaeological museum which is housed in St. Francis monastery at the Old Port; stop by the renovated ‘Neorio Moro’ where various cultural events take place,and at the Municipal Gallery of Chania (www.pinakothiki-chania. gr); check the Museum of Typography (www.typography-museum.gr) for a trip back in time with its exhibition of 19th century manual printing presses, a rare collection of 16th century books and also Cretan newspapers, maps, currency and stamps from that era. Don’t miss out on the Centre for Mediterranean Architecture (K.A.M.) which is housed in the Great Arsenali building. Founded in 1997 with a mission to raise public awareness about the great influence that architecture imposes in our lives and promote the dialogue around this issue, it showcases at the same time Chania as the City of Architecture (www.kam-arsenali.gr).

2.

SHOPPING: For a taste of shopping and flavors stroll around Machairadika (traditional knife shops) on Sifakas street and Stivanadika (traditional Cretan boot shops) on Skrydlov street, where you can select amongst handmade traditional Cretan knives, often with an engraved mantinada, sariki and also leather products such as handbags, handmade sandals and stivania (Cretan male boots). If you are interested in their craft just ask: you will be surprised to know how much you can learn in just a few minutes about Cretan tradition.

Head to the Municipal Market and absorb its colours, smells, flavours and the whole atmosphere: taste the local products such as graviera cheese 84

with honey, mizithra cheese, thyme honey, oil, natural soaps and also dried plants which can be boiled and served as a drink (e.g. malotira, melissochorto). Don’t leave here without trying the tsikoudia, local red wines and beers (e.g. Harma).

October is the month of raki (tsikoudia) production, an interesting procedure usually taking place from 10th to 20th of the month (dates vary depending on grape collection). You can visit the local ‘rakokazana,’ where raki is produced; except for the distillery procedure, you might also find interesting the various fiestas surrounding raki production. Don’t go over the limits with raki though, you have been warned!

3.

VAMOS: once the capital of Sfakia area, the semi-mountain village of Vamos, which lies at Apokoronas region of Chania, 200 metres above sea level, has witnessed great development, with luxurious houses and neo-classical public buildings in the past. With an architecture influenced by the Venetians until the 19th century, the houses- which were built with local materials- are still nowadays impressive because of their authenticity and traditional ‘touch. ‘ Today Vamos Traditional Village, a small local company focusing on holidays based on the cultural aspects of Vamos area and promoting ethical sustainable ecotourism and agrotourism, has brought sophisticated travelers to the village. Located in the old quarter of Vamos, the company has restored many traditional homes which were once inhabited, and now offers them as holiday rental accommodation. Traditional guest houses, villas and cottages are among the options of the visitors while a tourist

office, a traditional restaurant called ‘The Sterna of Bloumosifis’ and an art café are also available. With a plenitude of activities like cooking lessons, hiking activities, road trips, agricultural activities and art exhibitions, Vamos constitutes a good reason just on its own to visit Chania region. (www.vamossa.gr )

4.

MILIA: a great ecotourism retreat set in a spectacular location in the area of Kissamos, which has adapted the philosophy of ‘back to basics’ and will amaze you with its harmonious simplicity. This authentic 17th century mountain settlement, transformed into an eco-friendly tourist complex promoting home-cooking, relaxed atmosphere, clean air and hospitality, is bound to seduce you. Even if you do not choose to stay here while in Chania, make the effort to come by and taste the traditional dishes served at its restaurants and breathe in the oxygen of another era. (www.milia.gr)

5. HIKING: the best way to explore the world and this land in particu-

Our

Priority

...

lar, where the roads stop before the secluded beaches, the breath-taking forests, the bare top mountains and ancient sites. There are numerous and diverse routes to follow, while autumn is the perfect time for hiking.

Here you can find the international path E4: starting from the Pyrenees through the Alps and across the whole Greece, the path reaches Kissamos (also known as Kastelli) in the west of Crete, crosses along the whole island, reaching Kato Zakros in the east while finally ending in Cyprus.

One interesting route to follow, among others, is from Agia Roumeli to Loutro (13km), a place only known by the locals until recently: it’s worth considering spending a day or two.

Apart from the famous Samaria Gorge, there are a few other magnificent ones like Agia Eirini, Chalase and Polurinia gorges that are also worth exploring. Unspoilt nature full of unique images, scents and flavors is revealed to those who are not afraid to seek the unbeaten paths of this land…

AISI FILLING INDUSTRY SKILLS GAPS IN AUSTRALIA AND ABROAD • Australian Industrial Systems Institute is offering Victorian Government subsidised places to eligible applicants for courses in the categories of Automotive, Building & Construction, Site Management, Business Management.

• AISI is making vocational education and training more accessible to people who do not hold post school qualification or who want to gain a higher – level qualification.

Level 2, 213-215 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne Victoria 3000 Australia. www.aisi.edu.au

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488 High Street, Northcote VIC 3070 Tel 03 9482 5215 Fax 03 9482 5216 Toll Free 1800 657 441 travel@touchdowntours.com.au www.touchdowntours.com.au

P R E - P R E P

t o

V C E

Imagine the opportunities awaiting your child at Alphington Grammar School.

Limited Enrolments for 2012 available now.

All Enquiries:

Mrs Judy Fetter School Development Manager

Old Heidelberg Road Alphington VIC 3078 Tel +61 3 9497 4777 Fax +61 3 9497 3479 www.alphington.vic.edu.au 87

Aaron Zerefos Age

27

Nickname

AZ/Arinos

Born

Sydney Australia

Lives

Sydney

Road Car

Aston Martin

Hobbies

Horse Racing, Polo, Motorsport

Music

RNB

Star Sign

Capricorn

Status

Single

Inspiration

Bart Cummings + Elvis Presley.

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Aaron Zerefos is a 27 year - old Porsche Racer and young businessman from Sydney. He lives life in the fast lane and was on the way to the Ayrton Senna movie premier when we contacted him whilst he was in Mykonos two weeks earlier racing to Paranga Beach on a Vespa.

A

aron is currently preparing to join the Australian Porsche Carrera Cup Championship later this year.

Aaron is a racer who is proud to represent the Greek community on the track and wave the flag: “I have always been keen to support fellow Greek/Australians and have been supporting Mark Philippoussis in the tennis throughout his career,” explains Aaron.

His racing career began at a young age when given a Pee wee 50 motor bike for his 7th birthday. Growing up on a small farm in Sydney’s north, it was the ideal place to learn his riding skills, moving from two to four wheels in his early teens, Motor Sport was in Aaron’s blood, with uncle Jim Zerefos already being a successful production car racer.

in motorsport, with a raw ability and passion as a race driver that motivated him along, and it didn’t take long to get him on the pace. “I would race between my business commitments, as I still do today, a few tests in different cars like formula Fords, Porsches and V8 Supercars. I knew I had to perform to keep the motorsport career moving forward and build a reputation.” Aaron was in the Porsche Car Club, taking Rookie of the Year honors in 2001: then the opportunity came for his first start in a Lotus Enduro race at Wakefield Park. It was a 500km night race; Aaron double stinted and finished a close second, but things could have gone either way. “I was rapt to come second and we finished strong,” explains Aaron

Aaron got his cams license at the age of 18 and can remember the day clearly: “I didn’t sleep at all the night before, all I was thinking about was braking and gear changes. It was one of those events in my life that I remember very clearly.”

Aaron finished his education at the exclusive Kings School and studied property management, becoming a licensed real estate agent at the age of twenty two, then came a change of career, when he joined the family dairy business.

Today,with Aaron Zerefos Enterprises, he has established himself as one of Australia’s main independent dairy suppliers, distributing all over Australia and supplying all sectors of the food industry. Aaron is also involved in distributing Fiji Water.

At the same time as he was building his dairy business, Aaron was juggling a budding career

Linking up with a Porsche team in 2006, he won the AROCA 6 Hour in a Porsche Turbo at Eastern Creek Raceway . Aaron was invited to test a V8 Supercar in 2009 in South Australia at Mallala Raceway in the ex HRT Racing Commodore.

2010 was a big year : Aaron raced In the 2010 Australian BMW Mini Championship, which was a perfect step in his career, for joining a National Championship brought him up against some of Australia best drivers and gave him the chance to practise his race craft and get to know the tracks. “The Australian Grand Prix was a fantastic event to race at and I love racing in Melbourne as there is a lot of passion for motor

racing there,” explains Aaron. “It was a highlight of the year, as was the chance to test a NASCAR in Las Vegas last year,” he beams.

Aaron has some advice for others interested in getting into motor sport: it is becoming more popular and public awareness is increasing.

“Probably the best way to get involved is through joining a car club and participating in track days .

If you have the passion, you will make it happen.”

Zerefos was selected to compete in the Cleo Bachelor Competition this year, and, as if this were not enough, is also a keen polo player.

Aaron has raced horses with Bookmaker Tom Waterhouse & Ian Thorpe. “My first race horse was called Turnip Mckenzie and was trained by Gai Waterhouse, I just love all forms of racing and horse power!” exclaims Aaron.

Aaron’s goals for the remainder of 2011 and into 2012 is participating in the Carerra Cup Championship: this is a great opportunity for Aaron to race on a major stage and he knows the importance of performing. “I need to improve every time I get in the car and get some good results and hopefully attract some sponsors; it won’t be easy but this is my best chance and I am looking forward to the challenge. I will be able to focus on a full season as in the past I have done a lot of one - off drives. I am looking forward to working with the team and getting used to the equipment.” The two - year goal for Aaron is to land an Enduro drive at Bathurst in a V8 Supercar with a competitive team. Aaron would be the first Greek/Australian driver to race in the V8 Supercar Championship.

Now that’s something to say OPA! about!

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MERCEDES BENZ SLS AMG ROADSTER

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Pure roadster design with perfect proportions

BY CHRIS BINOS

The performance brand within Mercedes-Benz Cars is presenting a new

The new AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension with electronically

dream-car: the SLS AMG Roadster. This super sports car thrills with a perfect synthesis of open-top driving pleasure, outstanding driving dynamics and systematic lightweight construction. The overall visual appearance of the new two-seater is marked by its purist design.

controlled damping is available as an attractive optional extra. It enables the damping characteristics to be modified at the touch of a button.

The technological highlights of the SLS AMG Roadster read like an A-B-C of modern sports car engineering: the combination of aluminium space frame body, AMG 6.3-litre V8 front-mid engine with dry sump lubrication, developing a peak output of 571 hp and 650 Newton metres of torque, seven-speed dual clutch transmission in a trans-axle arrangement and sports suspension with aluminium double wishbones is guaranteed to make the hearts of sports car enthusiasts beat faster, while ensuring outstanding driving dynamics and motoring pleasure.

The new Roadster adds a second exciting dream-car to the AMG model family. Head of Design at Mercedes-Benz, Gorden Wagener: “As in the gull-wing model, the purist, athletic design immediately captures the attention. Whether with roof open or closed, the SLS AMG Roadster is an impressive visual delight!” The perfect proportions are particularly memorable: a long bonnet, the cabin positioned well to the rear, and a short rear end. Plus the automatically extending rear aerofoil, long wheelbase, wide track and short overhangs – in short, the open-top SLS AMG likewise exudes effortless dynamism and an authentic charisma. The pronounced shoulder sections are reminiscent of tensed muscles, and suggest sheer power in combination with the large wheels in size 265/35 ZR 19 (front) and 295/30 ZR 20 (rear).

The compact fabric soft top of the SLS AMG Roadster opens and closes in just eleven seconds, and can be operated on the move at speeds up to 50 km/h.

Pure roadster design with perfect proportions

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Powerful AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine with 571 hp

Interior atmosphere as in an aircraft cockpit

Interior atmosphere as in an aircraft cockpit The interior continues the breathtaking design idiom of the exterior and awakens associations with an aircraft cockpit: prominent stylistic features include the dashboard in the shape of a wing section and the air vents with adjustable, cruciform nozzles reminiscent of jet engines. The extended centre console of matt, solid metal and the new E-SELECT lever in the shape of an aircraft’s thrust control are also design features adopted from the world of aviation.

Powerful AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine with 571 hp The SLS AMG Roadster has the same, muscular engine as the gull-wing model. The 6.3-litre V8 with a peak output of 571 hp at 6800 rpm makes the open-top SLS one of the most powerful sports cars in its segment.

Its power-to-weight ratio is 2.9 kg/hp. This naturally aspirated engine

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generates its maximum torque of 650 Newton metres at 4750 rpm. The open-top SLS AMG accelerates from 0-62 mph in 3.8 seconds, and the top speed is 196 mph (electronically limited) – which means that the Roadster has a performance comparable to the gull-wing variant.

Production in Sindelfingen, market launch early 2012 in Australia The SLS AMG Roadster was designed and developed in parallel with the Coupé under the autonomous aegis of Mercedes-AMG GmbH. The open-top super sports car will be produced at the largest Mercedes-Benz production plant in Sindelfingen. The AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine comes directly from the AMG engine workshop in Affalterbach, where it is hand-assembled according to the traditional “One man, one engine” philosophy.

Mercedes-Benz Australia says the SLS Roadster will arrive in early 2012 with a price tag slightly north of the coupe’s $468,820.

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SCAN FOR MORE ‘GREEKS GOING WILD!’

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SCAN FOR MORE ‘GREEKS GOING WILD!’

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PROVERB OF THE MONTH: “Άλλα λέει η γιαγιά μου, άλλα ακούνε τα αυτιά μου.”

Translation: “My grandmother says something, my ears hear something else.”

Meaning: The real meaning is deeper - it essentially means that the young do not listen to the old.

WISDOM OF THE ANCIENTS: IT’S (ALL) GREEK TO ME: An expression that is incomprehensible due to complexity or imprecision, generally with respect to verbal expressions with excessive jargon of dialect, mathematics, or science.

In the sixth century B.C., a half-mile tunnel was dug on the Aegean island of Samos under the supervision of the Greek architect Eupalinus. Though the tunnel was started at both ends and worked toward the middle, the two halves met only a couple of feet off centre - a stunning achievement for those days.

T

he ancient Greeks are often called the inventors of mathematics because they were the first to make it a theoretical discipline. The work of Greek mathematicians such as Pythagoras, Euclid, Archimedes, and Apollonius lies at the basis of modern mathematics used today across the globe.

REALLY?

The life expectancy for ancient Greek women was 36, and the average for males was 45. Of the children born, only half survived infancy. Currently the life expectancy for Greek females is 82 years and for men, 77 years. Greece is ranked #26 in the world for life expectancy rates. The United States is ranked #49.

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Some Things Never Change...

The Tradition Continues...

Available at all Woolworths, Coles and selected outlets.

CKA5140

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Tell a friend

Call 1300 660 550 or visit your nearest branch.

It’s simple just tell a friend or family member about the benefits of joining Bank of Cyprus Australia.

When your friend opens an account and deposits a minimum of $500, we will reward you both with a $50 deposit into your accounts.*

Freedom and flexibility

Liberty Account ... Enjoy unlimited transactions • Unlimited transactions with no fees if a minimum of $2000 is deposited each month or No minimum deposit with a low monthly fee of $4 For more information call 1300 660 550 or visit www.bankofcyprus.com.au

• Access options such as Eureka Visa Debit Card, ATM/EFTPOS, internet banking, cheque book and over the counter • Competitive interest rates calculated daily and paid monthly.

*Terms and Conditions apply. Bank of Cyprus Australia Tell a Friend Campaign offer is valid from 04/07/2011 to 02/09/2011 and subject to change anytime. Full Terms and Conditions for Tell a Friend are available in-branch or at www.bankofcyprus.com.au. Before taking up any of Bank of Cyprus Australia’s products or services, you should consider if they are appropriate Bank of Cyprus Australia recommends that you read the respective Terms and Conditions and other disclosure documents for you. Bank of Cyprus Australia recommends that you read the respective Terms and Conditions and other disclosure documents before deciding to acquire or use any of the Bank’s products before deciding to acquire or use any of our products or services. These documents can be obtained from any of branches or services. These documents can beAustralia obtained AFSL fromNo. any244611 of our branches at 907 www.bankofcyprus.com.au. AFSL No 244611 ABN 51 092 167 907 or at 100 www.bankofcyprus.com.au.

Bank of Cyprus ABN 51 092or167