OPA! Magazine - Issue 8 by Steve Agi

SAYS OPA! DOWNUNDER

TENT OBILE CON TAGGED M

INSIDE SYDNEY’S HOTTEST NEW CLUB: MYKONOS BAR

www.2rdj.com ile app Get the free mob

ile app E mob bi at the :/FRE tag .mo Gethttp / get then scan http://gettag.mobi for an overview.

Karamela 2rdj 88.1 fm 9

771838

772001

Tuesday nights 9pm -11pm plus The Mykonos Hour 11pm-midnight

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

HELEENA ALATSAS Heleena Alatsas has grown up in Melbourne with a deep sense of pride in her community and specifically in her Greek heritage. With a passion of all things

DESIGN + PRODUCTION

Mediacode

www.mediacode.com.au

Greek and sport and particularly football, her recent marketing degree is the

PHOTOGRAPHY

perfect platform for her to join the OPA! team and share her experiences,

Alexander Brunacci Nick Ghionis Raymond Korn Rania Margari Vicky Papas Woodrow Wilson Paul Zarogiannis Chris Binos Tom Andronas Special thanks to Joanna Georgiou of Miss Photography

opinions and learned insights. Welcome Heleena – OPA!

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 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.

NIKITA CHRONIS

Australia, for her amazing work last issue

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, Tom Andronas, Gina Lionatos, Mark Kotsikas, Nikita Chronis, Heleena Alatsas Vicki Yianoulatos, John Pandazopulos

Nikita Chronis, is a 12 year old who is very passionate about football, and

MAILING ADDRESS

anything Greek in general! We are very excited to have him as part of the

PO BOX 406 ALBERT PARK VIC 3206

OPA! team. “I am very grateful about becoming a writer for OPA! and will do my best to keep the readers entertained.” Nikita is our youngest contributor and he proves that you can do anything if you believe in yourself and want

SUBSCRIPTIONS

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

it bad enough.

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

MARTHA KARATSIORIS For many seasons and reasons Martha advocated for marginalised people

PRINTPOST APPROVED: PP320135/00072

within mental health and Greek aged care by professionally publicising the needs of not-for-profits. Schooled in journalism and as an impassioned Opa! Contributor, she lives by the motto; a good story means never having to say

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.

‘you had to be there’. 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.

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.

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-reach-

ing 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.

trust holders can nominate their preferred charities or the Lord Mayors Charitable Foundation can distribute the income on their behalf .

THE OPA! CHARITABLE TRUST

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 engage, communicate and

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

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 an annual 1% administration fee. Charitable

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.

Charitable Trust Name: Address: Email: Tel: All donations over $2 are tax deductable and a receipt will be forwarded to address supplied.

Mobile: Visa

Master

Amex

Card Number

Expiry Date Name on Card Amount $

Signature

Diners

Cheque

Cash

A NATION OF HEROES SAY OPA!

SMARTPHONE? 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 including Iphones, Windows Phone 7, Windows Mobile, BlackBerry, Java, Android, Symbian S60, and Java ME platforms.

In the words of the great Winston Churchill, “let us not say that Greeks fight like heroes but that heroes fight like Greeks.” These words were never more relevant as they are today, even though they were spoken over 70 years ago. We are faced with the harsh reality that Greece is on the precipice and we as Hellenes and philhellenes in the diaspora must do whatever we can to help. We all have a responsibility and a duty, they have an expectation and a need... In such uncertain times, it is surprising that I have been able to find such great exposure, penetration and support, so far away. Make no mistake – OPA! is a hit in Greece. It is testament to how amazing the Australian people are and how committed we are to help those who need it most, NOW! We are working closely with ERT World both here and abroad, with Zougla.gr and with a number of other contacts and publishers in Greece who LOVE what we do and are keen to watch us grow…… Look out for some big news in the coming weeks and months including an international version of our beloved OPA! a digital Ipad version for you all to enjoy globally and a new GREEK insert as of next month, FREE, in every issue sponsored by ERT World, Ta NEA newspaper and 3XY Radio Hellas. Truly now more than ever, everybody is saying OPA! Talking of 3XY, make sure you all tune in to and enjoy Nicole & Christine on the Greeks & The City drive time show from 4 ‘till 6 Monday – Thursday. In this issue of OPA! we continue the GOCMV Benefactor Series with the amazing Andrianakos family, we catch up with So Tiri on his recent Aussie tour and head out west for the Adelaide Glendi. It has been an amazing month with 2011 almost gone…… Finally, I would like to congratulate the Hellenic Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry for the Excellence Awards held last month – look out for our feature in our December issue that will cover all the amazing stories, along with your favorite insert, the HACCI Herald. Thank you so much for joining us once again on this monthly journey, we look forward to your feedback and support. Like us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/OPA-Magazine/144770622268553 Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/opamagazine Watch us on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/opamagvideo

Everybody say OPA! 12

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

STEVE AGI - PUBLISHER

COMMUNITY: OPA!

Charitable Trust

COMMUNITY: 21st Century Immigration

EDITORS LETTER

GLENDI: Adelaide 2011

FEATURE: Mythos Beer

PROFILE: Lipsmack

ATLANTIS RISING:

ODIGOS: Ferrari 458 Spyder

OPA! Social Pics

IT’S ALL GREEK TO ME

Lenita Vangellis

ATLANTIS: Fact, Fiction or Delusion?

THE BENEFACTOR SERIES: The Andrianakos Family

MUSIC NEWS w/ Krazy Kon

MATERIAL GIRL:

Beauty & the Greeks

PROFILE: Minister Wendy Lovell

COVER STORY: So Tiri

PROFILE: 3 Wise Men

PROFILE: Julie Kiriacoudis

KHEIRON’S CORNER: Bleaching Teeth

COMMUNITY: Pan Hellenic Games

THE WORLD GAME: Ole Ole Ole

FEATURE: Women Kicking Goals

PROFILE: Karamela FM

DOLLARS & SENSE: Bank of

Cyprus Australia Foundation

MONEY MATTERS: Movember

MESSAGE: W.H.I.A President John Pandazopoulos, MP

FEATURE: A Journey on the Waves of history.

TAXIDI: Chalkidike

WWW.GREEKMEDIAGROUP.COM

on ComingPSaod on i

Have you registered for the latest Greek updates at opamagazine.com.au?

WWW.GREEKMEDIAGROUP.COM

Never m iss

Delivered t

an issue

o your d

SCAN TO SUBSCRIBE OR GO TO

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

oor!

MYTHOS BREWERY IS THE SECOND LARGEST BREWERY IN GREECE AND A MEMBER OF THE CARLSBERG GROUP. THE PRODUCTION AND BOTTLING PLANT IS LOCATED IN THESSALONIKI WHERE MYTHOS, KAISER, KAISER DOUBLE MALT AND HENNINGER BEERS ARE PRODUCED AND INCLUDES THREE PRODUCTION LINES WITH A BOTTLING CAPACITY OF 11,000,000 CRATES PER YEAR. The company operates according to the HACCP quality system and is strongly active in making investments for the continuous upgrading of its production equipment. Mythos Brewery beers are produced and packed using high quality ingredients and modern equipment and they undergo strict quality controls at all stages of production in accordance with the international standards of quality assurance. Mythos beer, the first authentic Hellenic beer, is the only Greek beer brand that is exported to approximately 30 countries having brand recognition and a loyal and growing fan base. Moreover, Mythos Brewery imports and distributes throughout the country international beer brands: the Danish Carlsberg, the Mexican Corona Extra, the Irish Guinness and Kilkenny registered trademarks by Diageo Ireland, the Belgian Grimbergen, the Bavarian weissbier Schneider Weisse and the French Kronenbourg 1664.

“ With its excellent product quality and its genuine, unconventional brand personality, Mythos is now one of the top three beer brands in the Greek Market. “

herefore the Mythos Brewery expands the Greek beer market and offers Greek consumers new quality choices and tastes.

The company also maintains distribution centres in Athens, Thessaloniki and Crete, providing nationwide distribution coverage. The lager with the rich head, bright golden colour, and pleasant refreshing taste. Brewed from select varieties of barley and hops, Mythos guarantees pleasure for every occasion. Mythos is the authentic Hellenic beer that was created in 1997. Even from the first year of brewing, Mythos left consumers with the best of impressions and in fact brought an end to the long term status quo of limited choices in the Greek beer Market. Mythos became the high potential, dynamic alternative proposition. The Mythos brew recipe results from a combination of the expertise of the Greek Master Brewer of Mythos Brewery with the collective know how that the brewery built through years of cooperation with some of the top European Schools of Brewing, like the German, the Irish, the Danish, and the French. Brewing know how, blended with deep understanding of consumer preferences, comprised a key ingredient for Mythos’ success. After numerous internal taste tests, as well as external tastings among consumer groups, the brewing team finalized the authentic recipe. With its excellent product quality and its genuine, unconventional brand personality, Mythos is now one of the top three beer brands in the Greek Market. In 2001, Mythos received the Gold Award in the Canadian “2001 Interbeer International Beer and Whiskey Competition”. And in 2008, Mythos is recognized once more! Its unique taste and quality impressed the sommeliers of the globally recognized International Taste and Quality Institute (iTQi), who awarded Mythos the Superior Taste Award. In 2011, Mythos wins for the second time Superior Taste Award of ITQI. Mythos potential is not limited by the boundaries of Greece. As the world’s most famous Hellenic Beer, it is the favorite beer of foreign visitors who enjoy the Mythos experience. Furthermore, Mythos is the only Greek beer that is exported to about 30 countries, including most European countries, as well as the USA, Canada, Australia, Japan and Brazil.

BRAND

MY THOS

TYPE

Lager

INGREDIENTS

Water, Barley Malt, Maltose, Hops, Yeast

SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS

Rich head, bright blond color, complex yet distinct aroma, balanced taste with fruity nuances and hops, slightly sweet, with rich and long-lasting aftertaste that makes it pleasant and refreshing.

“

The Mythos brew recipe results from a combination of the expertise of the Greek Master Brewer of Mythos Brewery with the collective know how that the brewery built through years of cooperation with some of the top European Schools of Brewing, like the German, the Irish, the Danish, and the French.

”

TASTING NOTES Brewed since 1997 in Thessaloniki, Greece, Mythos is truly the heart of authentic Hellenic beer. The brew recipe is the product of the Greek master brewerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s years of experience, combined with a long association with some of the finest European schools of brewing in Germany, Ireland, France and Denmark. Mythos is now the largest selling Greek beer in Greece thanks to its superior quality and a genuinely unconventional brand personality. It is a highly favoured beer amongst foreign visitors but its potential is by no means limited to the boundaries of Greece. It is considered the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most famous Hellenic beer and its popularity is increasing as consumers continue to relish the Mythos experience. Mythos has a balanced, slightly sweet taste comprising if fruity nuances and hops, yet just the right amount of bitterness. With a long lasting and clear aftertaste, it is the refreshing way to enjoy the finest brew Greece has to offer.

A VISION TO CREATE A MODERN GREEK RESTAURANT, AN EYE FOR DESIGN AND A STREAK OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP WERE THE THREADS THAT WOULD LEAD TO THE FORMATION OF MADE ESTABLISHMENT. The vision and talent of four men, George Calombaris, Joe Calleja, George Sykiotis and Tony Lachimea, coupled with the creativity and finesse of some of Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most skilled chefs has changed the dining scene in Melbourne forever.

www.thepressclub.com.au P: 3 9677 9677

www.mahabg.com.au P: 3 9629 5900

www.pm24.com.au P: 3 9207 7424

www.hellenicrepublic.com.au P: 3 9381 1222

www.stkatherines.com.au P: 3 9207 7477

www.mamababa.com.au P: 3 9207 7421

ithin the temples of my mind there is a portal Leading me to days gone by Days when we were one There was no you There was no I No separation One heartbeat One Breath Perfect Balance Harmony Time is closing in Speeding up To Now We have arrived ONE AGAIN Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve waited aeons for this moment This is the moment weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been waiting for.... This is it...

PREV PAGE Embrace Jewellery Hemimorphyte Pendant $540 Choker $35 Blue Chalcedony $170

ALEX PERRY Aloise Gown Nero $899 Â Embrace Jewellery Turquoise Pendant $249 Chain $32 Turquoise Ring $270 Turquoise Earrings $69

ALEX PERRY Catalina Gown Blanco $799 Embrace Jewellery Pyrite pendant with green amethyst and fossilised shell $229 Pyrite Cuff $592 Choker $35 Rutilated Quartz ring $360

ALEX PERRY Lourdes Mini Aqua $799 Embrace Jewellery Blue Chalcedony Ring $170

ALEX PERRY Cybele Kaftan Ether $899 Embrace Jewellery Larimar, Turquoise And Blue Topaz Pendant $534 Choker $35

ALEX PERRY Serena Gown Dusty Pink $899 Embrace Jewellery Smokey Quartz Pendant $378 Choker $35 Smokey Quartz Ring $129

ALEX PERRY Isabella Gown Geranium $2500 Embrace Jewellery Rodrigo Otazu/ Sex And The City Jewel Drop Earrings $345 Clear Quartz Ring $149

ALEX PERRY

I came into the world the same year that Walt Disney exited, the “Sound of Music” won the Oscar for best picture and the Earth’s population had exceeded 3.4 billion people. After an agonising 48 hour struggle down the birth canal, I finally looked into the eyes of my mother....here I go again, Planet Earth!...hmmm what a ride this is going to be..I was right! I lived and grew up in the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney, attended Daceyville Public School and St Catherine’s Church of England Girls school in Waverley. Mum and Dad had migrated to Australia from Greece in the fifties, but unlike most of their generation who were put to work in factories and shops, they both graduated from High school and went on to University. Dad has a degree in Electrical Engineering and mum obtained her degree in Medical Technology. Not bad for two non English speaking migrants that got through High school with a Greek English dictionary in their hands! I also have a younger brother. Our home was a lively place to grow up in, socialising a big part of each week and music a constant in our home. I have always been a deep thinker and so many things made no sense to me at all. Even as a child I was plagued with thoughts that didn’t seem childlike to the adults that knew me. I always challenged my mother, teachers, and anyone I felt could offer a view point with very deep soul searching questions and the answers I received never quite cut it for me. I was also very aware of things outside five sensory perception which I was told early on was my imagination... Looking back my very first Spiritual crisis was the death of my paternal grandfather. I was four years old at the time. It was February 1971 when I laid eyes on the gentle giant of a man I knew as Pappou Mercury for the very last time. I felt plagued with an inner turmoil, a deep sadness and feelings of loss. I desperately needed to understand death. I remember being told he had gone to heaven and he was with God but no-one could explain who God was, at least, not in a way I understood. Who was God and where was heaven? Why did he feel so unreachable to me? Is he a good guy or a bad guy and if he is good why does he take away the people you love?

Eventually the questions got too much for a five year old and I consciously shut down.... I began to understand that the world is all about identities and so I began creating many... I was really good at it and always had this inner feeling that I could be, do anything I wanted. During my teenage years I was extremely restless and rebellious...rocking every boat I got anywhere near. Just short of my sixteenth birthday I landed my first modelling job, two editorial shoots for Vogue magazine with Greg Barrett and Patrick Russell, at the time the most respected photographers in the country. I was the first ‘Ethnic’ model to enter the realm of the blue eyed blonde. The rest is history. It was amazing to step in front of the camera after quite along break from it all and I have to say these would have to be my favourite photos ever...I put that down to many factors, least of which is the amazing egoless attitude of the photographer, Vicky Papas, she was so open with no preconceived rigid ideas in her head..the whole experience was very organic. Teaming up with my gorgeous old colleague Chris King (makeup), he did my early Vogue photographs when I was just 16 years old....and most importantly they reflect that after all these years of struggle and a search for peace and answers, I’m there...happier than I’ve ever been.

CREDITS

FEATURING LENITA VANGELLIS GOWNS BY ALEX PERRY JEWELLERY BY EMBRACE MUA CHRIS KING VIDEO PRODUCTION DANIELLE STEEL PHOTOGRAPHY & EDITING VICKY PAPAS

g re e k i nsp ir ed jeweller y

LIFTING THE VEILS

ATLANTIS

ELUSION D R O N IO FACT, FICT

“I was standing at the highest point of the majestic landscape of Atlantis and the temples stood proudly behind me. My body was tense and the pending destruction I sensed was tearing at my heart and ripping it to shreds. I looked down at him, searching for an answer, yearning for comfort. His gaze penetrated my heart and with the knowing of a wise one he stated: “There is no end, Beloved...in the blink of an eye we’ll be together again...you and I...One.” © Lenita Vangellis - ASHANTI’S SYMPHONY” here does one begin to write about a subject that has stirred wild debate and provoked hostility amongst philosophers, scholars and archaeologists for hundreds of years?

eerily familiar about the primary moral lesson in the Atlantean story: Greed and the quest for military domination violates the link between humanity and divinity. Hmmmmm, interesting huh?

These words have proven to be frighteningly accurate, as Science has now discovered.

Andrew Collins (Gateway to Atlantis) states that “Atlantis, next to God, is the most written about, debated, abused and ridiculed concept on our planet. More books have been written about Atlantis than any other subject except the Bible.”

People are starting to question the known history of the world - something Plato did all those years ago “by asserting that the known history of the world was far from complete and that periodic cataclysmic destructions had wiped the memory of countless events from human knowledge.”

Atlantis is a subject that many have filed away in the Mythology box... it is “just a story” that has been passed down through the ages and doesn’t stir opinion, let alone emotion, in the hearts of those who hear it. I am not one of these people. Atlantis is in my heart and the memory of this time in pre-recorded history held the key to my deepest wounds, as I discovered a few years ago.

Sitting here sipping my latte, I can’t help but wonder if Plato, who wrote the first known account of Atlantis, circa 355 B.C, had any idea of the long - lasting effects of his writings and the controversy and incredible interest that is still alive today. Many believe that it was a fictional piece with the intention to impart moral lessons for the Greeks at that time. If that is true, then there is something

There have been and there will be many and diverse destructions of mankind, of which the greatest are by fire and water, and lesser ones by countless other means...but the truth of it lies in the occurrence of a shifting of bodies of the heavens that move around the earth, and a destruction of the things of the earth by fierce fire, which recurs at long intervals. (Timaeus 22 C-D)

In 1987 I had relocated - together with my eighteen month old baby boy - to Los Angeles. During this adventurous time in my life I experienced my first earthquake, (in this life, anyway) and my response to this event (that registered 6.5 on the Richter Scale) was nothing short of Greek tragedy, melodrama at its best! My fellow “Los Angelians” laughed and ridiculed me, not being able to understand why I was so 31

LIFTING THE VEILS

ATLANTIS

deeply traumatised, and at that time, I didn’t know either. All I knew was that feeling the earth move under my feet triggered memories which up until that point in time, I had no reference point for. I recall receiving images of another life, vivid flashbacks, and the memories felt intensely personal. It was freaking me out and I was faced with strange stares every time I tried to express what I was feeling. I quickly realised it might be best for me to just shut up and keep it all to myself, secretly hoping that it was just my imagination. Over the months and years that followed the memories faded into the background; that is until fifteen years later, when a veritable Pandora’s Box exploded in my face, changing everything I thought was reality. Clear, accurate memories that were indisputably mine surfaced and I remembered things from lives past that I could never imagine, not in my wildest dreams. I do realise that I’m ‘chucking a Shirley Maclaine’ here, and going out on a limb, but I’m at a stage in my life where judgement from others doesn’t concern me and besides, like Plato, there’s more to sharing these insights with the outside world, now more than ever before. Atlantis was a divine experiment that lasted 240 000 years, and went through various stages. The whole purpose was to see if souls could live in a physical body and still keep their connection with All That Is (God, Source, Creator). For a period of 1500 years the people of Atlantis maintained their oneness and purity and enjoyed the most extraordinary spiritual, psychic and technological powers. This is the period referred to as the Golden Age of Atlantis. As time passed they longed also to experience all that their physicality had to offer,and so it was decided that they would go deeper into matter, knowing that this would be even more challenging now that emotion and sexuality entered into the equation. It is said that the Temple of Poseidon, sometimes referred to as The Cathedral of the Sacred Heights, contained the Sacred Crystal which was a generator crystal of Atlantis. This temple represented one

of seven peaks. These peaks symbolised the Seven Pillars of the Universe, which are also the Seven Spiritual laws that govern humanity. 1. The Law of One 2. The Law of Karma 3. The Law of Manifestation 4. The Law of Grace 5. The Law of Responsibility 6. The Law of Unconditional Love 7. The Law of Intention The Atlanteans knew that everything, including stones, crystals, trees, plants and animals, were all a beautiful manifestation of divine life force, All is God. They honoured and respected every single thing, understanding that everything is a part of the divine order of things. This was mirrored back to them even with objects that we consider inanimate today. I recall the reverence for plant life and have shared and practise this with my children today: before cutting fruit from a tree, taking a moment to be grateful for this gift of nourishment and asking permission telepathically from the living breathing plant before cutting the fruit. Psychically you can see the tree pulling back the life force energy from the branch before you cut it. Crystals were widely used in ways that would blow the mind of humans today. They could be programmed and store knowledge and information, just like the computers of today. The healing temples of Atlantis used specific stones and sounds for treating different ailments and the Priestesses were highly skilled in this area. Crystals were a focal element in most structures and were connected through an energy grid to the master crystal. Sounds a little familiar, doesn’t it? The feminine and masculine energies were perfectly balanced and the wisdom of the female was greatly honoured and admired... there was no power and control between genders. The Golden Age of Atlantis was a civilisation so intensely beautiful and harmoni-

ous that I often lose myself in the memory during meditation. For many reasons that would require a thesis to explain, and even then be incomplete, Atlantis began to decline as the allurement of the senses tempted them away from their spiritual wisdom and into the illusions of the flesh. This occurred due to external interference by darker energy forces. They seduced the Atlanteans with promises of wealth and power, redirecting them from heart - based living to a life controlled by the intellect and ego. They were responsible for introducing hierarchical structures into society, transforming the once love - based Atlanteans to servants of the ego. The world we live in today is still reeling under the effects of their manipulation. Their actions resulted in the mutation of humanity, physically and spiritually. They eliminated the code of Oneness and replaced it with codes of separation and fear - based hierarchical control, where strife and warfare reigned supreme. Humanity has lived this collective trauma for long enough, don’t you think? Our world has reached a crux point, we all know that; but what do we do about it? Regardless of whether you think Atlantis is fact, fiction or that I’m downright crazy, do we shrug our shoulders and say it’s out of our hands? Or do we reconnect with that all - knowing part of us, that craves love, peace, harmony and reverence for all life, and radiates it out to every thing every day? My Atlantean memories have reconnected me with a larger part of my soul and served as a heart opener as I navigate life in 2011, doing whatever I can to transmute fear in my path and in the hearts of others. I pray every night that Atlantis will rise, and that as we enter the Aquarian Age, we will all collectively step into the Golden Age of a New Earth. Sending love and blessings from my heart to yours! Lenita xxx

Your e r u t u F ... Your Choice

Our

ΠΡΟΧΩΡΟΝΤΑΣ ΜΠΡΟΣΤΑ ΠΕΤΥΧΑΙΝΩ ΜΑΘΗΣΗ ΠΟΥ ΘΑ ΜΟΥ ΜΕΙΝΕΙ ΓΙΑ ΠΑΝΤΑ

Career Pathways in Areas of: • Business Administration • Business Management • Automotive Technology • Building and Construction

y t i r o i Pr

Κλάδοι ειδικεύσεων: · Επιχειρήσεις · Μηχανολογία · Οικοδομικές σπουδές · Αγγλικά

Level 2, 213-215 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne Victoria 3000 Australia. www.aisi.edu.au 33

BENEFACTORS ANDRIANAKOS

The OPA! Benefactor Series

ANDRIANAKOS FAMILY 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.

here aren’t many people in Melbourne’s close knit Greek Community that do not personally know, or know of, Nick Andrianakos, the self made millionaire and founder of Milemaker Petroleum. Nick is a man on a mission and one of those rare individuals who seem to have it all. Not just material wealth and success but a heart as big as his boisterous smile and a love for Hellenism and Greek Culture as deep as his pockets. Milemaker Petroleum is Caltex Australia’s largest independent fuel re-seller in Australia. They have maintained a joint business venture with Caltex Australia for over 20 years. Founded from very humble beginnings and led by Nick Andrianakos, the operational aspects of the business are now managed by Nick’s two sons, Paul and Theo. Apart from his obvious business successes, Nick is a giant in the Greek community. This humble man, who arrived here from Tripoli with big dreams and the passion and motivation to achieve them, has proven to one and all and especially himself, that he had what it takes to make it, even halfway around the world in a foreign country where he never allowed himself to feel intimidated or inferior to his local counterparts. When it comes to trying to understand how it all came about and what this means for Nick, one must look deeper, further into the heart and psyche of this man whose philanthropy is just as important to him, if not more so, than his business success. “My philanthropy in the Greek Community is something I consider as a vitally important part of my life,” explains Nick. “To maintain and encourage the celebration of Greek Culture, History and Language is the responsibility of all of us. Melbourne is home to the largest amount of Greek people outside of Greece itself and we need to be able to create and foster an environment which maintains this wonderful heritage.”

It is more blessed to give than to receive...

Putting his money where his mouth is, Nick recently not only contributed $50000 towards the Cultural Centre being developed by the Greek Orthodox Community of Melbourne and Victoria, but also donated a staggering $250000 towards a multipurpose hall at Alphington Grammar which bears his name. “For me I see what the Greek Orthodox Community in Melbourne is doing as both exciting as well as inspirational and I personally want to do all I can to help and promote these exciting plans.” “The planned Cultural Centre is something we should all support, it is something we all do together now to leave for future

The OPA! Benefactor Series

ANDRIANAKOS FAMILY

AS ONE OF THE LARGEST ETHNIC GROUPS IN AUSTRALIA THE GREEK COMMUNITY HAS AN OPPORTUNITY TO MAKE A SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTION TO THIS COUNTRY. generations. We all have a responsibility and no matter how great the plans of the committee are, they cannot be achieved without our help and support.” In his decisions of philanthropy, Nick has the full support of both his wife, Anthoula as well as the rest of his family, daughters Vicky and Christina and sons Paul and Theo “After recently being elected as the Vice President of the Greek Orthodox Community of Melbourne, I too wanted to step up and take responsibility and carry on the work done by previous generations,” explains son Theo. “It’s important for me to contribute to the community and inspire other young people to be community focused. As one of the largest ethnic groups in Australia the Greek community has an opportunity to make a significant contribution to this country. A culturally diverse society can only enrich us and it’s important for our children to ensure the continuity of our culture in Australia.”

While Paul is just as strong in his support and agreement, yet more philosophical and stoical in his observations by comparing the modern with the past. “Just like Socrates of the past, our community is the pillar of our future identity. We have freedom and a voice, it is our moral duty.” Either way, Nick’s motto in philanthropy as well as in life in general holds true, “give, with all your heart give, and it will come back to you. After all, is there a better feeling in life, than being able to give and help?” Editor’s Note: The planned Cultural Centre is indeed a very exciting project, and with support from individuals like Nick and the other benefactors, it is ensured success. If this story or any of the other’s you read about in our ‘benefactor series’ inspires you and you feel that you too would like to be a part of history and help make this happen, please contact the Greek Orthodox Community of Melbourne and Victoria; they deserve all the support we can give them for their tremendous works and will be very happy to help you to get involved. www.greekcommunity.com.au

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

速

S W E N C I S MU MUSIC

DJ KRAZY KON

O DJ KRAZY K

IVI ADAMOU

DJ KRAZY KON

OLOKERNOURGOS Panos Kiamos

PANIKOS Giorgos Tsalikis

TA GENETHLIA MOU Elli Kokkinou

MPEXE MAZI MOU Elena Fouriera

MONO ESI Dionisis Makris

AGRIES THIATHESIS Kostas Martakis

APO DEFTERA Panos Kiamos

TO PIO TRELO KALOKAIRI MOU Kristina S

ANANTIKATASTATOS Paulina Hristodoulou

10. THEN ISE EROTAS MONO GIA SIMERA Giorgos Giannias feat. Theodora

ELENA PAPARIZOOU

SAN ENA ONIRO

GREATEST HITS & MORE

After her big success with Greek super group Stavento with their hit track ’san erthi I mera”, Ivi Adamou releases her new album titled “like a dream”. This new release by the Greece X Factor sensation and one of rising your female stars features 10 new tracks and is released through Sony Music Greece. This chick can sing baby!!!

Greek pop star Elena Paparizou is back with a greatest hits album + 2 new songs. This special pack features all her hits over the years including some of my favourites like ’mambo’ ‘katse kala’ ‘pirotehnimata’ ’ to fili tis zois ” plus 2 new hit tracks with English vocals called BABY ITS OVER + LOVE ME CRAZY. The cd is out through Sony Music Greece and is a must for all ELENA fans.

One of Greece’s most popular laiko singers today and one of my personal favourites PANOS KIAMOS will be touring Australia in February 2012 with shows announced for Sydney, Melbourne & Adelaide to date. This guys rocks and his last 4 albums have been kick ass. This is one concert not to be missed. TOURING FEB 2012!

www.djkrazykon.com

MYKONOS BAR SYDNEY is the latest Greek themed hotspot recently opened by world renowned entreprenuer DJ Krazy Kon & Chrisia Saffioti . Mykonos Bar Sydney offers the best in dinner, dance and entertainment. Your complete Greek night out experience! This new venue has been designed &Â builtÂ by a leading European architect to showcase everything that is essential in a stylish nightclub of today. Over the next few months Mykonos Bar Sydney will feature celebrities, international acts, interstate acts and the best local talent in the business. Check it out if you get the chance and, of course, say OPA!

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

MATERIAL GIRL RECOMMENDS: • Eyebrow threading and manicures for him & her plus luxury Minx Manicures (enjoyed by Beyonce, Lady Gaga and Katy Perry) offering a range of chrome and custom nail patterns ottoman3.com.au • Pamper yourself at home with a relaxing bath using bath salts. • Create a routine to make time for all of your priorities. Use your mobile phone to set reminders and keep a schedule • Spoil yourself - buy a new perfume or cologne • Think about what is fueling your vehicle - you are what you eat!

MATERIAL GIRL BEAUTY

We take pride in our homes, our careers, our relationships and our culture, pedantically fussing over every last detail to reach perfection. Heaven forbid you should have unannounced visitors and your house looks like a Spray N Wipe commercial in pre-miracle clean, disaster mode- according to some “wiser” Greek experts, your visitors will think you are “lazy” and people will talk! In our attempts to meet expectations and reduce our never ending to-do lists, some forget to look after the most important vehicle on the highway of life- themselves. When I say vehicle, I mean the outer shell and physical facade that is on display for the world to see. What the outer shell protects and represents is the subject matter of a more intricate, profound discussion, but for the sake of this article, I’ll discuss all things outer, however superficial they may be. Taking care of your appearance will help improve how you feel about yourself- if you dress well and take pride in your personal presentation, you will feel well. Basic grooming may take a backseat if you are juggling the priorities of your career, family and finances, yet the beauty of choice is that well, you do have a choice about how much to spend, what routines to follow, what products to use and whether to even bother taking care of yourself. Time is of the essence - you firstly need to make time to look after yourself. Will you take time out for a daily walk? An exercise program? A monthly brow treatment? A relaxing bath? Take the time to think about how you are going to dress and what is appropriate to the environment you are in. It’s not about having the latest runway looks or giving everybody a stroke when you do your grocery shopping in not much more than your Mykonos club-hopping outfit - it’s about common sense and making the most of what you already have, on any budget. If I were to catch up for a weekend with Aphrodite, the Greek Goddess of love & beauty, I’m certain that in addition to discussing her tips to enjoying Cyprus (which is believed to have been enjoyed by Aphrodite when she was on earth) we would chat about our beauty regimes and what we do to “look after ourselves.”

Beauty and style experts say that your eyebrows are the most important feature on your face- they frame your eyes, which are what other people are instantly drawn to upon looking at you. Since some of our ancestors injected hair growth stimulants into our genetics, two brows aren’t often natural to either male or females. Let’s be honest- who appreciates a Bert & Ernie from Sesame Street inspired mono-brow? I don’t. While females typically visit beauty salons and invest in hair removal solutions, a recent surge in male grooming has seen men also enjoy a manicure or brow treatment on their lunch break or before heading home to their partner and family. Aphrodite would be pleased to know that a metro-sexual phenomenon has emerged, with many men taking more pride in their grooming and fashion habits than ever before. Just ask Ottoman3 Nail & Brow Bar- not only are they favored by local celebrities and female fashionistas, they are often visited by fathers & sons on weekends for a, hold on a second - a brow tidy up! Their specialized technique of eyebrow threading does not involve chemicals or wax, rather a simple cotton thread held together which is repetitively twisted to remove the hair from the skin. Ottoman3 also caters to male fans of manicures and pedicures, swapping feminine flamboyant Minx nail coverings and glamorous polishes for masculine even edges and neatened cuticles. Are the men in your life really going to Bunnings for gardening supplies on a Saturday afternoon? Check their cuticles and brows! No matter what you have been naturally blessed with, basic grooming and lifestyle choices can enhance your appearance and boost your confidence. To many, their appearance is of utmost importance. To some, it isn’t a priority. Each to their own. Indeed it is “what is on the inside that counts,” but beyond obsessions with designer products and epic beauty regimes, there is no harm in a little “Grooming 101” to perfectly complement and highlight your inner beauty.

FOLLOW THE MATERIAL PR GIRL www.facebook.com/materialgirlpr www.twitter.com/materialgirlpr 41

BY MARTHA KARATSIORIS

SHEPPARTON W

hen Wendy Lovell visited Greece she instantly felt at home as she made her way to the landmarks of her ancestry. There she was overcome with a sense of familiarity at the sights and sounds. The Victorian Minister for Housing and for Children and Early Childhood Development was raised in a cultural melting pot, yet credits her family’s Southern European influences to have shaped her the most. Wendy grew up in Shepparton, where she was exposed to all aspects of her English, French, Norwegian and Greek background. She was disappointed that the languages of her history were not passed on and constantly found that people started to speak to her in Greek at the sight of her curly, black hair. Now turned blond and in a perfect cut, she spoke to Opa! about how she grew up within a multicultural family in places of diversity. Fond memories were exposed as Wendy talked about her Greek heritage. She remembered the food; sampling her family’s addictive olives was a favourite; the hard working businesses around her - so many of which were run by Greeks; the Greek alphabet plastered all over multicultural Melbourne that gave her that sense of deja vu on her visit to Greece, and her keen admiration of Ancient

Greek history. She was so eager to get up close to the Acropolis that in an ironic twist of fate, she slipped on a worn piece of marble and hurt her Achilles heel. It was her memory of the persevering Greek migrants with their small businesses that seemed to have affected Wendy the most. The challenges faced by migrants were obvious; a different language and traditions set them apart from the start as they tried to participate in Australian life. Australia’s migrants of the time faced incredible prejudices, yet they kept on trying to make a go of it. “Growing up in Shepparton, my family and other migrant families around us faced enormous challenges and overcame prejudices through hard work.” Wendy took this work ethic to heart and opened her own newsagency. Today she proudly states that her background is Greek and small business. It’s easy to think however that the two are quite closely linked. “I observed how hard the Greek migrants worked. They did so not only to provide for their families but also to prove that they were worthy of the respect of those around them.” The perseverance of Greek migrants post - World War II is constantly used as a yardstick to measure the effective balance between integration and contribu-

I observed how hard the Greek migrants worked. They did so not only to provide for their families but also to prove that they were worthy of the respect of those around them.

tion of culture to Australian life. Wendy’s opinions on multiculturalism come quicky and with conviction, “Multiculturalism has largely been a success for Greek migrants in Australia because the leaders have been able to integrate into Australian life whilst keeping their traditions alive. We have seen Greeks move from small business to become great leaders and Andrew Demetriou is a great example of how someone who comes from the land that created sport is now running the biggest game in the country. ” Andrew Demetriou is a large scale example of how Greek Australians contribute to Australian life, but Wendy makes the distinction that it is actually the collective contributions of many individuals that continues to add to our culture. “In Victoria, Greeks have thoroughly integrated into Australian life for their own benefit and in doing so have enriched the fabric of our lifestyle and culture.”

genuine connection whilst travelling through Greece. Living in Williamstown, she relates to her heritage through food, stating that it is no coincidence that some of the best restaurants in Melbourne are Greek or showcase Greek dishes. Wendy often finds herself returning to her Shepparton electorate to take part in events, festivals and programs of the region, which continues to enjoy strong migrant flavours. While the Greek delicacies and trips home keep Wendy connected, it’s hardly a straightforward endeavour for anyone to pinpoint the exact parts of their history that shapes them. There is usually a mix of references to values, traditions, rituals or words of wisdom from a parent and the same applies to Wendy - a piece of that influence for her were the hard-working individuals around her. When reflecting on the contributions of Greeks in Australia it is easy to overlook those with the rose coloured names. From her newsagency right through to Cabinet, Wendy Lovell is proof such stories come in all shapes and sizes.

Food is one of those contributions that keeps on enriching the Australian culture. It is through her experience of Greek culture and food, both in her early life and within a diverse city like Melbourne, that she felt such a surreal yet

FIVE FAST QUES TIONS WITH SO -TIRI Your real name: Vas sillis (Billy) Anastas iou Before YouTube sta rdom you were: bartending in New York Your actual favour ite food: Gyro…I’m an American and I hav e the worst combin ation ever – with fries and ketchup! Your biggest inspira tion: My father, a har d working Greek Your parents are from: Cor fu and Igoumenitsa

COVER STORY SO TIRI

HE’S THE YOUTUBE PHENOMENON WHO HAS TAKEN THE SOCIAL MEDIA WORLD BY STORM IN A MATTER OF MONTHS WITH CLEVER PARODIES THAT HAVE STRUCK A CHORD WITH GREEKS ALL OVER THE GLOBE. WITH OVER FIVE AND ONE HALF MILLION VIEWS ON YOUTUBE AND A MASSIVE FAN BASE AROUND THE WORLD, SO TIRI SITS WITH OPA! ON THE EVE OF HIS FIRST TOUR TO AUSTRALIA TO TALK ABOUT FAMILY, MUSIC AND TRADING IN HIS GOAT FOR A KANGAROO! BY GINA LIONATOS You’re about to embark on a 24-hour flight to Australia. Excited? I’m very excited about coming to Australia, I’m counting the days…I think its going to be fun! My first supporters were Australian so I’m really excited about that. Let’s go back to your roots. You grew up in the Bronx in New York. What was that like and how do you think it shaped you as a Greek-American? It gave me a different perspective on things, especially living outside of Greece. I was proud of being Greek, I think it was instilled in me from a young age from my parents (puts on a thick Greek accent) “We are Greek!” (laughs) Growing up, what was your favourite part about being Greek? For one – the food! Plus family - I had a tight family growing up, even though I have thirty one first cousins. Growing up, church was also a big thing for us. Has making people laugh always been important to you? Yep! Usually I was the type of person who didn’t like to be put on the spot but (the

comedy) came naturally. I like seeing people laugh, that’s the best thing. When was that moment when you knew you had created something worth sharing? The thing is, it just happened. I’ve been making songs for my family and myself since I was young. I took it upon myself to go into the studio and record something and it really worked out. You named yourself So Tiri after your dad and your Yiayia features in the video for “Avgolemono” - how influential has your family been in the parodies you create? I think they’ve been very influential! Plus, everyone can relate to the Yiayia in the video clip! Aside from being incredibly funny, your videos have also shown that you actually have a great voice. Why comedy and why not pop stardom? Thank you! I think there are a lot of great voices and so much talent out there. I think the comedy is just who I am, it came out that way. This whole thing wasn’t really planned and I think the reason why a lot of people really took to it was because it was something different.

COVER STORY SO TIRI

Food has been a big part of your parodies (not surprising to any Greek). What else can we expect to hear you sing about in your upcoming songs? More food! (laughs) Definitely whatever is ridiculous, I’m going to sing about it and have some fun. To get a smile out of people is good enough for me. Your lyrics have struck a chord with Greek-Australians and indeed Greeks all over the world. What do you think is the common link that keeps us united despite the huge geographical distance? I think it’s the history, the pride…that all ties together. Whether you’re a Greek living in Greece or anywhere around the world,we’re all very proud to be Greek and I think that’s instilled in any Greek. In your new clip “Eime Sthn Ellada” you make some great observations. Do you think as a Greek-American you’re able to observe the Greek life and experiences in Greece differently to a native? I think there’s a big difference and that only Greeks living outside of Greece can observe these things. I guess it’s because we’re raised in a culture outside of Greece and we like to compare

things…it’s the whole experience of when you go somewhere new, you see how that culture lives and you compare it. What do you think of the whole YouTube phenomenon? It’s worked for you, but will you stick with it? I don’t think YouTube is something I’ll move away from because I’ve reached so many people across the world ,which is amazing, and I’ll take it with me for the rest of my life. I enjoy that people are laughing all over the world and that’s the greatest thing you can accomplish in my mind. I think YouTube is really great for that. I’m always on YouTube, seeing what other people are doing and constantly staying up to date. What can people expect to see from a So Tiri live show? We heard you recently brought your Yiayia and a goat up on stage in New York… Yiayia gets jetlagged so I don’t know if I can bring her! (laughs) I don’t know about goats but we’ve got to get some kangaroos up there! Whenever I have a show I’m not really focused on coming in there and being really serious…

I just try to have fun with people and make them dance, laugh and mostly just party! 46

one faMiLy, their Story A CelebrAtion of DArwinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Greek Community

Forty years

Forty

years rap Fine Foods

is Family and Pa

the Pantaz A Celebration of

rest

Peter & Sheila For

Peter & Sheila Forrest

Launching Soon in MeLbourne 25 COPIES TO GIVE AWAY! SIMPLY REGISTER YOUR DETAILS AT aS part of the fLavourS of greece WWW.OPAMAGAZINE.COM.AU www.parapfinefoods.com

OR SCAN THE TAG TO ENTER!

s e o r e h l l a b t o o f l a c Lo NDOS

BY NICOLE CO

playing l personalities t three individua ee M . ip Mersh so ague Director/ d crucial spon atthew Pillios (Le recruitment, an M llba its r ot fo fo d n an /Coach) in local Victoria Rules Football, Condos (Player ominent roles t of Australian and (Coach) & James cal football pr ball is the hear lo os ot a nd fo to b t Co owner, TV host en clu ck s Ni ity es itm ommun a Personality), League, busin an their comm di ll th ba l ot ril cth Fo en mr n m te co er m ea or is no gr s since juni e season even co or with the North devotees there cal football circle often before th A Senior Direct lo d in te hus en ac ew ha be co s th ex ff, e at ha ar ndraising sta dedication otball Club, M atthew Pillios club. Months of ers, trainers to fu yrnong Park Fo father of two, M ep ib ar ke is M e s ith tim ist gh w hi to ial e er rs ec gnized as th administrato d football sp his playing care es. From board Channel 31, reco of volunteers an petition. After n on io ll tiut ba g pe ot rib in m nt Fo ag s co co an l e generous evity of loca family and m on District Know es to players, th vital to the long ggling a young hosted Essend , an in television. Ju ding ground ow ee sh br ll e th ba st of Fight Club is ot ho it fo e , tions. After all thew is also th est rating local at M , ue ip ag the rsh Le is s ll ale alian Footba two young kid ne Business de for future Austr y great wife with his own Vodafo m g r in fo lp n he tio d ra an pi e driving as ram. “Working ys Matthew. (AFL) stars. Th online TV prog outside footy,” sa iership glory ng hi em y yt pr it an n d r u fo an m s club succes only time I have “A sense of comnnects ague, community ball & Netball Le bers in a true em co m n s io ite ss un e Northern Foot a th n p. ru hi ds ho and p mpew en s co fri or e anship and ard of Direct s of the entir atics, spirit of sportsm One of seven Bo - making proces n d io te cis ni all sporting fan ig de s and e se er th ur irit is furth a key role in coaching co Community sp development, Matthew plays or ni m ju fro much like Greek to s ions. an vis ed di ali itt iting Austr e is comm for all of its with the AFL un tition. The leagu sorship relations on e ar sp ess d culture” ne an sin Go ia bu s. l background but in media, mmunity, med diverse cultura developing co as a footballer ly d on t an ld. l no fie na ls e tio th tia na AFL, both rs on and off luable creden the days of the own endeavou Matthew ’s inva eir sth ll in Au ba e kot gu ee fo Gr y lea support the L and share m ns. With many and marketing, by Anglo-Saxo ber with the NF ed nem at co m in d rs, m ar te do Bo or g ically bein be a Senior ues to lure supp local, stereotyp “I am thrilled to the AFL contin munity levels. l about soccer, m ica co at d fan thew. an l at lly M na ua tralians us both at natio passion,” says Greek heritage, of s er ay pl d tributors an n, lucrative eless dedicatio stiny through tir de b’s clu ll ba ot create a fo Key personnel

“The contribution of Greek- Australians in both local football and the AFL highlights the sport’s ability to unite its diverse audience and embrace our multicultural society”

rowing up in the North Western suburbs of Melbourne, Matthew admits he occasionally was targeted by racial taunts. “I did receive it occasionally as a player from spectators, but it was at a time when it was tapering off for Europeans. I am strongly against racism and the thought of it in football makes me sick,” says Matthew. His nicknames of “Greek Adonis” or “Big Greek” from some of his football mates certainly do not suggest any hint of racism, rather praising a heritage that he is proud of. So much so, that his beautiful wife Belinda, who comes from a mixed - culture background of Dutch, English & Chinese, was baptized Greek Orthodox to marry Matthew. They have two gorgeous children, Duke and Stella. While AFL players are endlessly under media scrutiny for their off - field behavior, Matthew believes that the pressure on players to be good role models should be eased by the support available to players. “It should be easy for them now. They nearly have it all with club support and solid salaries on offer. Former AFL player Anthony Koutoufides has become a fantastic role model for football fans of all backgrounds,” says Matthew. While players of Greek background are becoming more common, coaches on the other hand are quite rare, let alone an active father- son combination at the same club. Matthew has made many lifelong friendships through his local

football involvement, particularly with current Deer Park premiership playing coach, James Condos and his assistant coach and father, Nick. “James is a sensational footballer and Nick a great, passionate coach. Nick was one of very, very few Greek - background coaches to ever coach at a decent level. They are both quality football people and I felt a genuine friendship with them both in the early days. Now, they are like family,” says Matthew. After playing junior and senior football with the Parkside Football Club in the Western Region Football League, Nick has been involved in local football for over twenty years as a coach and board member. While his son James grew up playing for Keilor in the Essendon District Football League, Nick kickstarted his coaching career with the Keilor Under Eighteens in 1990, winning the premiership in his debut year. Nick is well regarded in football circles, having coached 7 premiership sides throughout the Under Eighteens, Senior Reserves, Seniors and Senior Reserve amateur divisions. His football expertise and coaching style has seen Nick coach the Victorian Football League Under Eighteens State Team, along with being the assistant coach for the Victorian Metropolitan Under Sixteens Team. He mentored Bomber Jake Melksham, Western Bulldog Thomas Liberatore & Brisbane Lion Patrick Karnezis through the AFL Academy Squad, an AFL initiative

“Family-like bonds are made throughout local football clubs following months, often years of cameraderie”

with the Australian Sports Commission and the Australian Institute of Sport, to develop and enhance the sporting, personal and educational opportunities of the game’s up and coming players. Nick also coached Andrew Lovett and Rick Olarenshaw before their debuts with Essendon. While other second generation Greek Australians grew up marking soccer goals in their backyards with empty olive oil tins or feta buckets, Nick grew up in the Western suburbs of Melbourne in the 1960s where “football was everywhere,” during an era where some of the greats dominated and revolutionized the direction of the game. “Football ruled the school playground over soccer. I was lucky enough to see some of the game’s legends play. I loved watching Geelong champion Graham “Polly” Farmer,” he says, explaining that Australians of Greek heritage in football coaching roles are rare, due to a lack of experience and passion. “Not many other Greek - Australians had the knowledge or passion to pursue any kind of involvement in football, apart from being supporters. I am fortunate to have had experience as a player in a period where it wasn’t the norm, to develop years of game knowledge before my coaching career,” he says. Through strategic multicultural programs, the AFL works closely with local leagues to identify cultural barriers and develop strategies to encourage participation. The Harmony Cup, which features teams drawn from Melbourne’s migrant communities, includes an all star team of Greek Australians in a round robin style tournament. In 2005 Nick coached the inaugural Greek team to victory, with players including future Carlton champions Anthony Koutoufides & Ang Christou in recent years. In 2011, Nick was given the opportunity to co-coach with his son, James, at Senior Division Two level with the Deer Park Football Club. Together, along with the contribution of new recruits and staff, they took the club to premiership success, with a 131 - point Grand Final victory against Albanvale. With James taking on both a coaching and playing position, Nick has played a mentoring role throughout James’ career, even more so upon James’ coaching debut.

James booted a remarkable 150 goals from fifteen games in 2011, including a bag of seven in the team’s premiership win. He kicked a massive nineteen goals in one game alone in a string of weekly goal blitzes, as Deer Park inflicted continuous embarrassing losses on opposingteams. He was often forced to beat multiple defenders, as the opposition attempted to block strategic delivery to the full forward target. The inclusion of James, combined with fresh, experienced recruits and club personnel, led to a surge in local fans eager to relish the team’s sensational form. Deer Park’s Grand Final victory advanced the club to Division One. Drafted to the Western Bulldogs as the Number One rookie pick in 2003, James went on to play for Werribee in the Victorian Football League, before his local football journey took him to Deer Park this year with an opportunity to coach and play. “I’ve always wanted to coach,” he says. “I was given a great challenge and opportunity to take Deer Park from Division Two to One and be part of a great team on and off the field. Along with key recruits, my father coaching, Pat Christofi as Fitness Trainer and Rodney Callahan as assistant coach, we have established a strong base to be an ongoing successful club,” says James. Not only did Deer Park win the 2011 Premiership, they remained undefeated all year, where James was named both the Western Region Football League’s Division Two Coach- and Full Forward-of the Year. Most of his other Greek-Australian friends attended Greek school whilst James was either training or competing, quickly replacing Greek studies with a football passion. Showing talent early on as a junior, perhaps his love of Greek food has been a part of the formula to his success, but growing up, James aspired to the skills of one of the AFL’s greatest forwards, Gary Ablett Senior. “Ablett’s freakish ability around goal was unbelievable and along with my Dad, he was someone who definitely inspired my football,” says James. While you won’t find James at Melbourne’s Greek social haunts, his detailed upper arm tattoo pays homage to his heritage- Saint Dimitrios, his parents’ names written in Greek along with a battle image of Leonidas, hero-king of Sparta, were intricately inked over 10 hours.

With season 2011 done and dusted for all community football leagues, preparations for next year’s competition will commence as early as November, with pre-season focus and fitness development. Although local football is thriving, particularly for these “Three Wise Men,” they each identify threats to the longevity of grassroots football. “In fiveyears, the threat of junior players coming through clubs will decrease due to the growth of soccer and a lazier generation,” says Matthew. James and Nick believe that a lack of resources poses a threat. “Local football is becoming more of a business. Teams that can’t afford to spend on recruitment subsequently can’t afford to compete in finals and win premierships,” says James. AFL is an Australian sport for all Australians to enjoy and has recently stirred interest in international supporters, players and competitions. The contribution of Greek- Australians in both local football and the AFL highlights the sport’s ability to unite its diverse audience and embrace our multicultural society. A sense of community and passion connects all sporting fanatics, much like Greek culture. For some, a hobby or career in local sporting organizations is similar to adopting a second home where family dinners and commitments are compromised for team meetings and training sessions. Family-like bonds are made throughout local football clubs following months, often years of cameraderie. No doubt the glorious legacies of our ancient descendants are a driving force in Matthew’s, Nick’s & James’ achievements, spirit of competition and striving for victory. Keep up to date with the Deer Park Football Club via http://www.deerparkfc.com.au and catch Matthew as the host of Fight Club on the new web TV channel www.eyeworldtv.com * This article is dedicated to the memory of family friend and local sport supporter, Ray Bunce.

SHOOT! SHOOT! SHOOT! SOUND ADVICE FROM PRO PHOTOGRAPHER JULIE KIRIACOUDIS BY NICOLE CONDOS

or the last six years, Julie Kiriacoudis has always had the hottest ticket in town. She works the red carpet like no other. As the Snaparazzi Social Photographer for the Sunday Herald Sun, one of Australia’s highest circulating daily newspapers, Julie is on a first name basis with some of the highest profiled national and international personalities. Her demanding schedule is determined by A-List functions ranging from The TV Week Logies to the AFI’s and with events up to six nights a week, Julie’s passion, she explains, is the reason why she has survived the ruthless media circuit.

What does a typical day in the office involve for you? My work day is always different. I usually go into the office at about 5pm. I discuss the night’s events with my journalist Luke Dennehy, check emails and head out to the events. Events we cover vary from red carpet movie premieres, top fashion parades, awards nights like The Logies and AFI’s, to store launches and the Spring Carnival. Sometimes it’s a lunch or even a breakfast. Luke and I often make a video for online, so I’ll shoot the event with my still camera and video with the video camera. I then have to go back to the office to edit and load it onto the Internet.

Julie can thank her Year Eleven photography teacher, Mr Andrew Wutke, for taking her under his wing and inspiring her creative obsession with her camera. Ditching her other subjects for any opportunity to discover the world of photography in the dark room, Mr Wutke would meet Julie before school and correct her (self declared) terrible spelling errors. She would rewrite her assignments during recess before resubmitting them, to the delight of her teachers.

What is your most prized tool? I definitely love my babies… my cameras! I now have underwater housing for one of my cameras, which has given me a new passion for underwater photography. But with the current Melbourne weather, I haven’t been able to go scuba diving since I got her, so I’m just playing with her in the pool.

Although Julie’s first photography job was with a portrait company (taking baby photos, family and glamour shots), her break came whilst studying at university. Her lecturer announced an opportunity to photograph for Melbourne nightclub magazine Beat. Fellow students looked down upon the prospect of taking pictures of boisterous night clubbers. Not afraid to get her hands dirty, Julie jumped at the opportunity to visit up to twenty nightclubs every weekend, taking happy snaps of the punters. She was then offered a position that went on to become her current role with the Sunday Herald Sun.

What & where did you study? After high school, I studied at the Photographic Imaging College for one year and received a Certificate in Black and White Photography. I was then accepted into a Bachelor of Art in Photography at the Victorian College of the Arts. After one year, I just couldn’t afford full time study, so I went to work full time to save some money. I enrolled in a photographic studies college and went to classes at night, while working during the day. I received my Advanced Diploma of Photography in 2006, majoring in photojournalism.

OPA! Magazine’s very own Material PR Girl, Nicole Condos, caught up with Julie to chat about climbing the photography ladder, “babies” and curtseying for Eddie Maguire.

Why did you get into photojournalism? While I was a student at university, I fell in love with photojournalism. I loved the fact that it could still be your own image, but the world could share it with you. I wanted to work for a newspaper. When I was offered the role as Socials Photog-

Moonee Valley Racing Photography Awards ‘Race Horse Photo of the Year’ rapher, I found that I loved everything about it- the variety, the fun, the people. What keeps you in your current job? I’ve been shooting for Snaparazzi for 6 years now, so I’m pretty good at it. Celebrities know me and always stop for a chat and a pic. I really love my job so that’s the main reason I have survived in this industry. I’ll never take a bad photo of anyone. Why do you prefer to be behind, instead of in front of, the camera? I like to be in charge of the camera. It’s more fun to take a good photo than worry about making a good one whilst being in front of it. I’m a little camera shy. Who is your role model and why? While I was in high school and discovering the SLR camera and the dark room, I was also introduced to the work of celebrity portrait photographer Annie Leibovitz, way before I even thought I’d become a celebrity photographer. I would never compare my little pics to her amazing images… come to think of it, she also loves shooting underwater! What part of Greece is your family from? My father is from Florina. My mother is from Malta, so I’m a cross breed. In photography geek - speak, I’m a hybrid! My parents gave us kids the best upbringing, with a little bit from both cultures. As my mother wasn’t Greek we didn’t get typical delicious Greek food. But she did do wonders with traditional desserts. Have you visited Greece? No, I’ve never been to Greece. My father hasn’t been back either since he migrated to Australia 45 years ago.

Do you plan to take a holiday in Greece? I have always said I would love to go. I would love to take my camera and my Dad. But when I do have the money, I buy a new camera instead of taking a holiday. I would love to take a yacht around the islands. What has been the highlight of your career? (insert horse racing photo here) Last year, the day before the Cox Plate at Moonee Valley, my picture editor asked me to take a photo of the “last 400 of the race.” I didn’t even know what that meant and even though I go to every major race day of the Spring Carnival I’ve never even seen a horse as I’m too busy shooting the celebrities in the marquees. So everyone gave me advice and I went out to the other side of the track with a 400mm lens, almost as tall as me. I shot away as the horses took the last bend and I captured the moment So You Think made his winning move. I was so surprised when the next day the photo was printed, almost double page. I entered the photo in the Moonee Valley Racing Photography Awards and I won Race Horse Photo of the Year! What are the sacrifices you have to make for your job? As I work at night as a socials photographer I miss out on having a social life. I’m working the opposite hours to my family and friends so it’s hard to catch up with my real loved ones. What are the perks of your job? I get to be with my camera all night. It’s an amazing job. I get to go to some amazing events that people would pay and arm and a leg to go to, yet I’m getting paid to be there. What advice would you give to aspiring photographers? SHOOT! SHOOT! SHOOT! Take every opportunity you see. Start at the bottom and

whole new passion for me. When you’re under water, you forget everything you ever learnt and start afresh each time. It’s like taking your first pic each time. I also still love taking family portraits - I think everyone should have a good portrait on their wall. What makes you different from other photographers? I genuinely want to take a good photo for the subject and the newspaper. It may sound cliché, but it’s also my personality- I think everyone I regularly shoot knows a stupid, entertaining story about me! What are some of the big names you have photographed? Oprah Winfrey; Julia Gillard; Bill Clinton; Jerry Lewis and even comedian, Con the Fruiterer! Who has been the most intriguing celebrity you have met? I love all of our local Melbourne celebrities. Some of them I make a real connection with as I see them so regularly. But I’d have to say Harry Potter’s Daniel Radcliffe was so lovely. He came to the premiere of his Australian film, December Boys. I was in the wrong area for shooting and his minders would not allow him to do any more photos. He overheard I was disappointed I didn’t get a pic and he came over to me and asked me personally what I wanted him to do. I was speechless- all I could say was “Just stand there.” Eric Bana is also lovely. A few years ago at the AFI’s, I was in the media pit with about 40 other photographers. I had met him a few weeks earlier at the movie premiere for his Romulus My Father. He pointed at me and called out “Hi Jules!!” Oh shucks, so nice! Who has been the most disappointing celebrity you have met? Some international celebrities are fairly stiff as they think Melbourne social photographers are like the international paparazzi. work your way up. I remember when I was at uni, the lecturer said he’d received a call from a past student who was looking for a current student to shoot for Beat magazine. I jumped up out of my seat across the table to grab the contact details. Other students thought that this type of work was beneath them. Out of that very class, only two other classmates have a photography job now. What do you enjoy doing outside of photography? The industry I work in is so glamorous and all the events are amazing, so when I have time off I just want to spend it with family and friends. Nothing wild, just hanging out makes me happy. I really want to get into scuba diving more when the bay weather improves.

What would be your dream photography opportunity? I think I’m living my dream at the moment! Any embarrassing red carpet moments? At one red carpet event, Eddie Maguire came rushing through. I asked for a photo and he was lovely enough to stop, even though he was in a rush to MC the event. I was caught up in the moment and I curtsied after taking the pic! What the..?!

What does your Greek heritage mean to you? I love coming from a very rich Greek culture - but not so much having the long surname!

What is the favourite part of your working day? Every day is so different, but I love a red carpet event, hanging out with other photographers, having a laugh and the uncertainty of who will turn up - who will pose and who won’t.

If you could have one of your photographs represent what you are about, which would it be & why? Every photographer is still waiting to take the photo. So am I.

What does taking a photo mean to you? Making someone happy when they see themselves in Snaparazzi- I love it when they upload it to Facebook or cut it out and stick it on their fridge!

Do you have a good luck or charm or any photography superstitions? I don’t let anyone else carry my camera bag. Even when my journalist Luke tries to help me I don’t let him touch it.

Outside of your “people snaps” do you photograph landscape, portraits or creative pieces? Recently getting my under water housing for my camera has brought out a

Julie would love to have her own exhibition soon, with some creative images as well as her Snaparazzi photos. Follow Julie every week in Melbourne’s Sunday Herald Sun Snaparazzi feature.

THERE’S moRE... For fresh food, fashion, health and beauty or just a place to catch up for coffee, Centro oakleigh is the place to be. Everything’s a breeze on one convenient level with plenty of undercover parking available. Join Freebies RewardsTM and you’ll have even more fun, with instant prizes and special offers daily.

War rigal

Atherton

Hanove r

Portman

At kinson

centrooakleigh.com.au Station Street oakleigh Ph 9569 4507 over 40 stores, open 7 days and free convenient parking

Bur lington

KHEIRON’S CORNER

HEALTH

SMILE, IT’S ALL WHITE.

PRACTICE PRINCIPAL AT MELBOURNE DENTIST, DR DAVID TREHERNE GRADUATED IN DENTAL SCIENCE FROM MELBOURNE UNIVERSITY IN 1987. DAVID IS COMMITTED TO THE CONTINUOUS ADVANCEMENT OF HIS SKILLS – THE GOAL IS TO ENSURE PATIENTS OF THE PRACTICE RECEIVE THE HIGHEST QUALITY DENTAL CARE AVAILABLE. WITH A RELAXED AND FRIENDLY CHAIR-SIDE MANNER, DAVID PROVIDES PAINFREE PRECISION DENTISTRY. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, VISIT MELBOURNEDENTIST.COM

any factors work to destroy the naturally white smile we are born with. Tobacco, certain foods we eat, and certain drinks actually stain teeth. These substances continually work on our teeth, causing our white smile to gradually fade. Hot coffee and tea may be particularly hazardous to your smile. The theory suggests that temperature change (hot and cold cycling) causes the teeth to expand and contract, allowing stains to more readily penetrate the teeth. Just cutting down on coffee and tea can go a long way to creating a great smile. Foods that are slightly acidic are also dangerous to your white smile. These foods open up the pores of the tooth enamel, allowing stains to more easily move into the teeth.

Some people have tooth - coloured fillings in their teeth that match their yellow teeth before the bleaching. After the bleaching the teeth whiten but the fillings stay the same colour. Consequently, these fillings will need to be replaced at an extra cost after the bleaching is completed.

As previously discussed, using abrasive pastes or hard tooth brushes can actually wear away the exterior enamel surface, which will allow the darker dentine substance to shine through.

Additionally, crowns or porcelain restorations in conspicuous areas will not lighten from bleaching and may not match the shade of your newly bleached teeth.

Heavy bites and grinding habits can also contribute to darkening – microscopic fracturing of the surface enamel related to this increased load allows stain to penetrate into the tooth.

Another word of caution.Those people with sensitive teeth should be cautious when bleaching. Bleaching could increase the sensitivity of your teeth. Rarely, people even experience extreme pain when bleaching sensitive teeth although this generally only occurs when very high concentration bleach is used. If you have sensitive teeth but would still like to bleach them, we suggest you first attempt to correct the sensitivity problem. This being said, let’s examine some of the common dental bleaching techniques, starting with bleaching techniques that occur in the dental office.

In recent years many toothpastes have been released which claim to whiten teeth and mistakenly lead consumers to think that these whitening toothpastes are miracle cures. These toothpastes are not effective at whitening the underlying tooth. Instead, most brands of whitening and smokers toothpastes can destroy tooth enamel as they use harsh abrasives to remove the stains. Over long periods of repeated use, these harsh abrasives begin to remove tooth enamel, making teeth appear yellow and causing teeth to become sensitive to cold or heat. Bleaching teeth to get them white has become increasingly popular. In general, bleaching is a very safe, inexpensive and effective cosmetic treatment. Sometimes people are dissatisfied with the results – mostly because they have unrealistic expectations. Many expect their teeth to be as white as copy paper after the procedure. Even at their whitest, however, your teeth cannot approach this degree of whiteness. If you have seen teeth like this before they are most likely porcelain veneers covering the underlying tooth. As this is a cosmetic procedure, the bleaching cannot guarantee you a specific result. All teeth have an innate shade they will lighten to. This shade is different for every person and cannot be predicted before the procedure is carried out. How Long Does Bleaching Last? The length of time the whitening lasts depends on whether or not you smoke,

consume acid - containing foods, or consume staining foods like red wines and coffee. Even though bleaching will fade, it still delays the eventual darkening that happens to us all and can be regularly “topped up” to maintain the desire level of lightness.

THINGS TO BE AWARE OF:

Dentist In-Office Power Bleaching The In - Office “power” bleaching is one of the quickest ways to whiten teeth but requires a session at the dentist’s practice. We take great care and time to protect your lips, gums, and inside lining of your mouth. Next, a powerful bleaching agent is applied to the teeth. Finally, a powerful light source is applied which completes the procedure by activating the bleaching agent. While this provides a quick result it is moderately expensive, ranging around $950. Some people wish to continue bleaching beyond the level possible at one sitting so we always provide a Take Home Kit (as described below). This is also used for “touch ups” in the future when you feel the colour may be darkening a little. Dentist-Supervised Treatment This is the most conservative and cost effective technique available. With these systems we make a mould of your teeth. This mould is then used to create custom trays which snugly fit your teeth (an ultra-thin clear mouthguard). The patient takes the trays and bleaching agent home. Each day for three to four weeks the patient places bleaching agent on the trays and places the trays in his or her mouth.

KHEIRONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CORNER HEALTH

hat we like about these systems is that the mouthpiece trays are custom made to fit each individualâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mouth. This means that bleaching agent is less likely to be swallowed or less likely to seep onto and irritate gum tissue. Secondly, when using these systems the patient is encouraged to visit the practice with any concerns to ensure that the procedure is proceeding smoothly. It allows us to check for gum irritation / damage and to check for tooth sensitivity. These are the most common side effects of the bleaching procedure. Independent studies have shown the Opal Essence Take Home Bleaching System to provide excellent results and consistently ranks as the best material. This system costs $270 per arch ($540 for all of your teeth). Over-the-counter (OTC) bleaching systems are take home kits which you can buy at the local store, order by mail-order, or buy off the Internet. Usually they are relatively inexpensive, costing from $29 - $175. All independent research we have seen to date suggests these do not work. There are a number of reasons for this: Firstly, many of these kits contain a standard mouthpiece tray for applying bleach onto your teeth. Because the trays are standard (made to fit everyone), they tend not to fit snugly. Consequently, you may be ingesting bleaching agent. In addition, trays that are not custom made allow bleach to seep onto and irritate gum tissue. Secondly, dentists do not check your teeth and gums when you use these systems to determine if the bleaching process is proceeding safely and to ensure that you are not injuring your teeth. Thirdly, and most importantly, the bleaching product and concentrations supplied are not as strong or effective as those that can be legally supplied under dentist supervision. For those who are disappointed with bleaching or who want a still brighter smile, several techniques exist. These techniques, however, tend to be more expensive than bleaching. Porcelain Veneers Porcelain veneers are a popular option. These are very thin pieces of porcelain which are shaped and placed on the front of the tooth with a resin glue (analogous to false fingernails). The advantages of veneers are that they provide for a brilliantly white smile which is resistant to discoloration and fades only very minimally over time. They can be expensive however, costing around $12000 per tooth. Bonding Another option is bonding. During bonding we apply a white plastic resin to the tooth. This resin is then sculpted onto the tooth. Costing around $450 per tooth, this procedure is less expensive than veneers but does not withstand discoloration by foods, coffee, and smoking as well as veneers do. Crowns Crowns represent a more drastic measure and are usually reserved for teeth completely broken down, teeth with fillings, or teeth having undergone a root canal. The tooth is prepared, an impression made, and a porcelain cap added to the tooth. The cost - $1600 per tooth. Special Situations Some people have discoloured teeth as a result of their mothers having been treated with tetracycline during pregnancy or as a result of having themselves been treated with tetracycline during early childhood. These stains can be especially difficult to remove. A common procedure is to first bleach the teeth and then apply porcelain veneers to the affected teeth. Bleaching fades the stain to a point where it will not show through the veneer when it is applied. The latest research shows that persistent bleaching over a six to twelve month period can even remove those stains that were previously believed impossible to remove.

MELBOURNE DENTIST

GO TO SITE

PAN HEL-

Around 400 Greek-Australian basketball, soccer, athletics, DARWIN 2011 28 SEPTEMBER – 3 OCTOBER swimming and tennis teams from all over Australia had officially begun their invasion of this ‘crocodile territory’

By Heleena Alatsas

BY HELEENA ALATSAS

t was the last week in September when the usually quiet, Darwin airport, began experiencing an uncharacteristic wave of European looking athletic types. These rather attractive, muscular beings, seemed to be travelling in groups, and were almost immediately on the receiving end of bemused looks as a result of this strange language they were speaking; Gringlish – a combination of English and Greek. Around 400 Greek-Australian basketball, soccer, athletics, swimming and tennis teams from all over Australia had officially begun their invasion of this ‘crocodile territory’, otherwise known as Darwin. Usually, the threat of crocodiles may cause the average person to feel somewhat anxious or even fearful upon arrival, but to these descendants of ancient Greek Olympians, fear was simply not an option. Teams were greeted by none other than the tournament organiser himself Nick Poniris, and his ever hard-working team of volunteers. It was evident from the beginning that the organising committee was focused and ready to make this an event to remember, and that, they did. On the opening day of the games, athletes received a Pan Hellenic Games backpack, polo-shirt and cap, along with tickets to dinner events and lunch vouchers for every day of competition. Also in the packs were free tickets to see Glykeria, who happened to be conveniently performing on Friday 30 September! On the Thursday evening 29 September, the opening ceremony was held.

Athletes from all sports paraded through the main stadium and were greeted by families, friends and locals. Also in attendance were various dignitaries from the Northern Territory Government and SAE representatives, including the President Mr. George Angelopoulos. The Australian and Greek National Anthems were respectively sung both loudly and proudly. The main performance on the night featured cultural dances by an Aboriginal dance group, who commanded the close attention of all who were present. Competition officially began on Friday 30 September. As each team commenced its quest for glory, the rivalry between states also came out to play. As Greek pride and passion flooded the venues, teams gave it their all to ensure they would be leaving Darwin with the illusive silver-wear, and more importantly Pan Hellenic glory! Throughout the tournament, the games committee organised social events for the athletes and their families. Each event of course featured a Greek flavour, with music and kefi a-plenty! Glendi Band from Melbourne also made the journey to Darwin for the games, and this, coupled with Darwin’s European-like weather in the evenings, inevitably resulted in good times! It was great to see friendships formed between Greek-Australian athletes from different states. As the tournament went on, it was more and more evident

R E S U LT S 2 0 1 1 G A M E S SPORT

PLACE

STATE

MEN’S BASKETBALL

1st 2nd 3rd

NSW VIC NSW

MEN’S SOCCER

1st 2nd 3rd

VIC NT QLD

WOMEN’S SOCCER

1st 2nd 3rd

VIC NSW NT

MEN’S SOCCER VETERANS

1st

ATHLETICS

1st

VIC

SWIMMING

1st

NSW

that the games were achieving what they in essence set out to achieve – the unity of Greek- Australian youth, Australia wide. Whether it was supporting their new found friends in competition by day, or joining hands in cultural Greek dancing by night, the games were a true representation of what Greeks abroad can achieve. With all of this being said, the organising committee and SAE must be commended for their successful execution of the games. Without the work of the volunteers, the collaboration of the NT Government, and the support of SAE, events like this could not be possible. The games can, and will, only get bigger and better each year.

See you in Canberra, 2013!!

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

By Nikita Christos Chronis.

BY NIKITA CHRONIS

n 11th of October 2011, the Greek national football team played Georgia in their European Group F encounter and prevailed as 2-1 winners, with this win officially earning a spot for Greece in the EURO 2012 finals in Poland and Ukraine.

Greece’s current manager, Fernando Santos, is undefeated with his Greek side, with which he has taken a slightly younger approach. Santos has brought in players (many of whom were from the Greek youth squad) like Giannis Fetfatzidis (20), Thanos Petsos (20), Giorgos Georgiadis (23) and Sotiris Ninis, (though already in the Greek side, Santos has been giving him more playing time). In early 2010, Otto Rehhagel retired as coach of the Ethniki soon after Greece’s 1st round elimination in the 2010 World Cup. Santos took his place and stated that “Otto Rehhagel and his players are part of Greece’s golden history, but one era has closed and another is starting now.” He immediately picked trustwor-

thy sides to take on top opponents, which in the end produced good results. Though most of the players were happy with their new coach and what he was trying to achieve with the squad, Sotirios Kyrgiakos, Theofanis Gekas and Ioannis Amanatidis somewhat suspiciously retired from the squad, saying that there were “special circumstances inside the team.” Time passed and Greece was winning and drawing matches and racing for the top spot in their group, with Croatia on their tail. Faulty results for Greece were causing 1- point differences between the two sides, but both were promised top two spots in Group F. Leading up to Greece’s rematch with a currently strong Croatian side, Theofanis Gekas surprisingly rejoined the Greek squad, explaining that “it was a mistake to leave the national team.” Also, winning goal scorer in Greece’s amazing 1-0 victory over Portugal in the Euro 2004 and the player who got very little credit in World Cup 2010 for not

“I can see that people’s faces look different. You can see anxiety about the future in their eyes.” - Angelos Charisteas

producing any goals, Angelos Charisteas was picked in the starting Eleven for their big coming clash. He said in an interview with UEFA.com, “I am so happy to be back. I consider it a reward for my efforts this season and am really proud and excited that I am able to help out ahead of such decisive encounters. Everything has been going smoothly with coach Fernando Manuel Santos so far and I am sure we will work well together.” When UEFA.com asked about Angelos’ reaction when returning to Greece after ten years, he said: “I can’t begin to describe the shock I felt when I first saw the situation up close. Having been away for ten years, I can see that people’s faces look different. You can see anxiety about the future in their eyes. I do not know how the situation will turn around but I hope it does because the morale of the nation is really low. I hope that on Friday we can put a smile on people’s faces by defeating Croatia and getting closer to UEFA EURO 2012. It is important, even for one night, for us to make Greeks forget their worries; football has that power.

That would be great for them and very rewarding for us.” Those touching words must have had an effect on his fellow teammates, since Greece played a fantastic game in that 2-0 victory. The first goal was scored in the 70th minute by Celtic FC striker Georgios Samaras, then another near the 80- minute mark by Theofanis Gekas. They then won 2-1 against a ten- man Georgia in their last European qualifying encounter, with Giorgos Fotakis scoring a deflected shot that flew into the top corner of the net at 79 minutes, and Charisteas successfully placing his shot into the bottom left corner at the 85th minute, leaving the Georgian keeper no chance. The future looks bright for Greece and their coach in their upcoming tournament, if only they can stay consistent, tactically organised and play with flare. It’s their destiny, since Greeks were born with Saganaki in one hand, and a soccer ball in the other!

BY MARK KOTSIKAS

hen you talk about the success stories of the “World Game,” it is hard not to immediately think of Messi, Ronaldo, Kewell and Beckham. Each of these stars has a tale to tell, from humble beginnings to the achievement of success on the world sporting stage. Out of the shadows of men who play and support the World Game, second generation Greek Australian girls Jesse Kotsikas and Georgia Koutrouvelis, passionate about this sport, are starting to make their mark in the Victorian Women’s Premier League (WPL). Their passion and love of the game is infectious and their faces light up at the mention of EPL, Socceroos, Tim Cahill. However, mention the WPL and they respond from the heart with much to share and say. “The pathway to the WPL has been very difficult. My early years were playing against my brother and in the Kingston Under 8 Boy’s team. You soon learn about competition, passion and rough play when playing against boys! Thank God for Ashburton Women’s Soccer Club, which now has teams from Under 7s to seniors,” reflects Jesse. “Hard work pays off,” adds Georgia. “I am lucky enough to play for a great and very successful club like Box Hill Women’s Soccer Club, winning multiple WPL grand finals and the 2005 Gold Medal for best player in the WPL.” “To be the best you can in any sport comes at a price and many sacrifices. My grandparents were shocked when I told them I could no longer go to Greek school because it clashed with soccer training,” Jesse says with a smile.

“I missed my best friend’s Twenty First, my sister’s wedding rehearsal and my cousin’s wedding, just to name a few sacrifices I have had to make,” says Georgia. Instead of dwelling on the sacrifices, both girls are happy to look at the big picture. “I watched the Matildas at the recent World Cup in Germany and was proud of their achievements. We should try to bring the Women’s World Cup tournament to Australia. It would do wonders for the profile of the game in Australia,” states Jesse strongly. “It’s exciting to see the new young talent in the Matildas side being captained by my Box Hill teammate Melissa Barbieri,” adds Georgia. A confronting question for all sportsmen and women who are offered the opportunity to represent their country in international sport is one where they need to declare their allegiance to their country of birth or heritage, in this case Greece or Australia. Jesse declares, “Although I am proud of my heritage and I have relatives in Greece who have played at the highest level, including the national team, I would only play for Australia as it has the more developed training programs for young women. “ “My uncle played for the great South Melbourne Hellas sides of the 70’s and was very influential in my early development by providing me with specialist training from the age of 14. That aside, it’s the Matildas for me because of the better brand of soccer they play,” Georgia continues. Getting the best out of the girls requires committed coaches and Chris Michail, coach of Ashburton Women’s Soccer Club, epitomizes commitment to the cause. “I have played and coached at all levels in the men’s game, but the willingness of the girls to listen and want to learn always amazes me. Sure I would like to win that elusive WPL title but I have enjoyed developing the young girls in the WPL and watching three of them go on to play at international levels.”

dvertising, marketing and television coverage have always been the Achilles of the World Game in Australia. If only the game had access to a small percentage of the television rights the AFL are privileged to have, what a difference that would make! “Throw in social media too. It is such a strong promotional tool these days,” says Georgia. “More coverage and advertising of the WPL in the local newspapers and creating a recognizable link from WPL to the elite W League competition would help,” continues Jesse. “It was great that some WPL games have been filmed and shown on the FFV website, Channel 31 and Youtube. There needs to be more risk - taking by the free- to -air TV stations, similar to the way the ABC shows the W league. Any coverage is good coverage,” says Chris.

he gamlelhpaedrIf onlytt a accesse oofatshm televie centagights the AFL are sion reged to have privil

lthough the women’s game is moving forward at a rapid rate, there is still work to be done. “We need specialist coaches for all age groups. Unfortunately, there are too many coaches out there who are coaching above their capabilities,” reflects Chris. At this point the girls are eager to express their views on what they look for from coaches. “Visionary and adaptable coaches are what we need. They should be open to many different styles of play, creating a footprint and unique style of play from all levels right through to the national team,” asserts Jesse. Georgia adds, “The implementation of better technical development clinics from a younger age and at grass roots levels will definitely help improve the women’s game in Australia. Having tasted what it’s like to play in the Women’s W League with Melbourne Victory last year, it’s important that coaches are able to provide the specialist coaching to prepare you for the highest levels.” As in all sports, the window of opportunity comes and goes, and playing careers inevitably end. Leaving your mark on the game and giving something back is always a goal. “I am sure I will be involved at club level after I stop playing. I would like to think that all the sacrifices and friendships I have made will prepare me for the future. It would give me great pleasure to pass on my knowledge and experience to young players,” Jesse says. “Too focused on playing at the moment. Haven’t thought about coaching,” Georgia says with a determined expression.

It is clear the game is in good hands. Somehow I see the next Ashburton v Box Hill Derby taking on a new rivalry between these girls. “Next year Box Hill will be on top where it belongs,” says a confident Georgia. “Go Ashy! We have a very young side with enormous potential. As a young group we are looking to improve and hopefully make the finals,” challenges Jesse. “An Ashburton v Box Hill Grand Final would be nice and my first WPL title would be nice,” concludes determined coach, Chris.

Karamela – n. sweet, bonbon, goody, candy (Oxford Greek-English dictionary)

IT ALL BEGAN WHEN DJ JIMMY V STARTED HIS TUESDAY NIGHT 9-11PM RADIO PROGRAM (RADIOTRELA) BACK ON MAY 11, 2010. He was joined by another Sydney DJ who brought along a “gossip girl” (Roula Angel). But a few months into the show the two DJs parted, preferring to go in different directions, leaving DJ Jimmy V with Roula Angel. That was the birth of ‘Karamela.’ Karamela has the music, the celebrities, the interviews, the gossip, the chat, the giveaways, and last of all, endless amounts of karamelas. The show has taken off, and neither Jimmy nor Roula anticipated this success. Karamela has transformed into a global craze. “We have regular listeners streaming live from Boston, NY, Chicago, Cyprus, Paros, Limnos, Patra, Thessaloniki,” explains Roula. “Karamela FM started off as a two-hour radio show, but we recently added another hour - THE MYKONOS HOUR, 11pm-midnight with already established Space/Mykonos DJ Tom Hyper,” continues Jimmy. From its little ‘retro’ studio in Burwood, Sydney, the Karamela house has seen : Anna Vissi, Thanos Petrelis, Nikos Tzoumas, Maria Maroulis, George Kapiniaris, Tony Nikolopoulos, Nick Kouparistis, Chris Eliadis, Alex Lykos, Peter Katholos, Peter Tsekenis, Peter Papoythis, Maria Stavropoulou, Chrys Xippo, local musicians, deejays, photographers, night club promoters plus so many more. Everyone is welcome in the Karamela house - We love to entertain!!

“Our show is fun and casual - we imagine our listeners are with us in our lounge room, having a drink and a dance with us. I think the key ingredient here that draws listeners in, is that we get our listeners involved. For example on last week’s show we asked our listeners to write on our Karamela Facebook wall how they proposed to their partner. The ‘best’ proposal won a dinner for two to Chrys Xippo’s - THE ISLaND restaurant. The fact that most of our listeners are on the Karamela Facebook ‘group chat’ means everyone is chatting to each other during our show. It has become a social night ‘out’ or ‘in’, whichever way you look at it. We work well together - we bounce ideas off each other, I sometimes tease DJ Jimmy V on air and vice versa. You never really know what to expect from Karamela FM as we prefer to keep the show spontaneous, exciting and with that element of surprise. Being a live show, you do get your usual bloopers and you can’t go back. Comments/jokes have been aired, either by us or our guests, that perhaps shouldn’t have, but this is what makes Karamela listeners want more. We do not play safe. Karamela fm also does spin-off red carpet VIP events. We have had two sell -out nights up to date - the Karamela Christmas party and The Kings of Ammos (Mykonos theme) with Vince Colosimo, where we gave away a a return ticket to Mykonos to one lucky guest. We are working on an exciting event at the moment. Watch this space!

I was born in Sydney, Australia on the 19th July in 1968. My parents migrated from Greece in the 50’s. My mother was from Tripoli and my father was from Samos. I was one of two children, the other being my sister Stella. I attended Daceyville Public School from kindergarten until Year Six. My high school years were spent at Randwick Boys High School. I completed Years Seven to Ten. My time at school was the beginning of my exposure to music. Whilst doing music at school, I also learned to appreciate Greek music because it was such a big part of our family upbringing. On the weekends I was assisting DJ Harry at his DJ job and this became the awakening I needed to confirm that music was going to play a large part in my life. DJ Harry played English as well as Greek music, so I was keen to ensure that when I became a DJ that was the type of music I wanted to play. After leaving school in Year Ten, I attended TAFE and completed my trade certificate as a Motor Mechanic. At this point I knew that I had my favourite things in life at that time - music and fast cars. I worked as a motor mechanic and soon made my way up to Service Advisor. This gave me the opportunity to learn some valuable skills, one of which was dealing with customers. I knew that this skill would be of benefit for all aspects of my life. After a few years, I was given the opportunity to become Service Manager for a major motor dealer in Sydney. I put all my effort and energy into my job, but also found that I was missing the weekend work surrounded by my other love, music. One weekend I was Djaying at a friend’s engagement, and from across the room, I saw my soul mate. That was the night I met the love of my life, Maria. We got married and after a few years were blessed with the birth of our first son, John. A few years later, we were blessed again with our other son, Kyriakos. I knew that I needed to make sure that everything I do is for my family, to make their life just

that little bit better. I began spending my weekends Djaying at weddings, parties and anything that came my way. I became a regular DJ at Doltone House and this gave me the opportunity to contribute to the community in my own way. One day, I approached the Doltone House about having a “Greek Night” at the Sailing Club. This became a brilliant event that ran 2 years, called SPASTA. I decided to form my own DJ company called JJK Entertainment. People at times ask me why I picked that name, and I reply that it is the first initial of me and my boys. My main reason for setting up this company was to offer DJs to the public and also allow for Greek DJs, Greek Bands, Greek Wedding MCs, and comedians like George Kapinaris. I have worked at some of Sydney’s best wedding reception venues. One day, I was thinking that there is a very large Greek community that really enjoys music and would love to have something that is directed at them, so I decided to commence a radio program with a twist. While some Greek radio stations play only Greek music and speak in Greek, I decided that I wanted to have a program that incorporated modern Greek music, some Greek speaking but also having things in English. We also have special guests attending the station to speak about what is happening with them... but the catch is, they all have to have a Greek background! I currently still work in the motor industry as a Pre Delivery Manager for a major Mazda and Subaru dealer. But in the evenings, I still find the time to go through my Greek and English music and meet with brides and grooms to go through their music selection for the big day. I always make sure that I spend quality time with my family. I am fully involved in their sports (soccer and swimming), Greek dancing and Greek school. I became the coach for my son’s soccer team, which trains and plays once a week.

Employment Right now I am an entrepre neur, I have various proje cts goin

g, plus I manage my taxi fleet, 24/7 2001-2006 Art director/Creative Dep artment for emap publishin g, pitching creative ideas the business, designing adve to clients and winning rtorials and advertisemen ts for emap magazines, and booklets/catalogues/poste all points of sale, from rs. Magazines: I work on FHM , FHM Collections, New Wom an, Zoo Weekly, Empire, Health, Mother & Baby, Trac Smash Hits, Slimming & ks. Editor’s Note: What about OPA!? 1992-2000 Art Director for Australia n Playboy. As well as the design and layout of the tion and budgeting for all magazine I also did the prod the photographic shoots, ucand frequently appeared shows to discuss and prom on current affairs television ote celebrity issues. Freelance • Aerobics Oz Style (TV Show) art directing and designing DVD cover sleev • Glue catalogue (big chai es. n of boutiques) • Writing for website gree kcity.com.au TV & GREEK THEATRE 2005 TV host on Hello Greece, filmed once a week, wee knights. 2002-2005 TV host/presenter on Its All Greek To Me - Greek/Au stralian lifestyle/chat show also did the Homeart(chai . I was one of five hosts n of shops) commercials. and I Filmed at studio four hou 2001 rs live every Sunday. Member of Greek theatrica l group Paraskinia. St. Geo rge Theatre, Rockdale. 1994 -2001 Member of Greek theatrica l group Theatro Komothia s. We were putting on an aver age of 2 plays a year for a duration of 4 weeks. Tom Mann Theatre, Sydney. PRODUCTION & EVENTS 2006 Produced the Epsilon bou tique fashion parade for the Greek Festival Of Sydn Darling Harbour. Organise ey in front of 10,000 peop d the models, hair&make le at up artists and the music. before the main act, Zig This was a headline show Zag from Greece. just 2005 Produced a red carpet VIP fashion show to launch the new fashion house Epsilon. iterranean’ was held in a The event ‘Taste The Med famous outdoor Greek resta urant, Georges. The catw top Greek fashion designer alk showcased the designs s Modus Vivendi; Makis Tseli of os; Vasil ios Kostetsos; Aslanis; Xzen Lussile; OnLine; Gramma and Lynne, in the order of o; NoName; BSB; Lingerie & Swimwear; Stree twear; Evening.

For this show I designed the invitations, cast the mod els, hair & make-up artists, be written and played live comissioned the music to on the night; organised the staging/lighting/sound/pr with the stylist. I presente ops and worked closely d this show to 700 VIP gues ts and celebrities mostly who were surprised by the from the Australian med high standard of Greek fash ia ion. It was a very successfu everything Greek and it got l night for promoting lots of press coverage in all mainstream tabloids. Enmore theatre and was The event was filmed by also shown on Greek telev the ision. 2003 Worked on the art direction & production of music clips for Australian Idol singer local TV comedian/rapper Cosima and for a popular called Sleek the Elite. 2001 Did the local p.r and mark eting of the Anna Vissi “Kray gi” Australian tour for prom and Michael Chugg. App oters Constantine Nellis eared at Greek nightclub s promoting the tour with and promoted the tour on lots of competition giveawa tv and local press. toured ys with Anna Vissi and crew representative. as the local Greek publicity 2000 Producer for US Playboy 2000 Olympics Special Shoo t ‘Girls Down Under’ - a big missioned by Jim Larson, budget production com US Playboy picture edito r. Tasks included finding scouting and auditioning locations all around Aust the talent, from models, ralia; extras and real life cowboys the logistics; hiring the equi ; organising the budgets pment for the Los Angeles and photographers; hiring prop helicopters and the use s as well as planes, boats, of the Sydney Harbour Bridg e to shoot from; organisin models and Los Angeles g accomodation for the crew ; organising all the licen ses required to shoot in vario ing the building of sets in us locations; comissionthe Australian desert and on the tropical islands. Education/Studies • TV presenting course at TV pro Global, Sydney • Studied drama at Ense mble Studios, Sydney. • Graduated from Univ ersity Of Technology(Sydne y College Of The Arts) with • Communications Deg a Bachelor of Visual ree. • Completed high scho ol education at Methodis t Ladies College, Burwood , Sydney (MLC) Interests/Hobbies • Cooking • Swimming • Dancing • Target pistol shooting • Reading • My pets • Motorcycle riding • Biography of Jim Voul inos (DJ Jimmy V)

IN SY D N EY ?

TUNE IN

TUES NIGHTS

2RDJ 88.1FM

www.2rdj.com

DOLLARS&SENSE B.O.C.A

Bank of Cyprus Australia Foundation raises $105,000 for Very Special Kids Online accounts are all the rage, but have you really checked the benefits? If you want online banking plus a competitive interest rate - Bank of Cyprus Australia’s MIDAS Account is the account for you. FOR MORE INFORMATION ON PRODUCTS AND SERVICES CALL 1300 660 550 OR VISIT BANKOFCYPRUS.COM.AU

In the above photo left to right: Mr Joe Pannuzzo Director Bank of Cyprus Australia Foundation, Ms Yvonne Flynn Corporate & Community Fundraising Manager Very Special Kids, Mr David Agnew Chief Executive Officer Very Special Kids, Mr George Tacticos Director Bank of Cyprus Australia Foundation and Mr Jim Sarris Online banking has changed the way we bank, allowing total 24/7 control of our finances, Director Bank of Cyprus Australia Foundation.

but how many online accounts offer competitive interest?

On Saturday 10 September, at the annual Charity Gala HE Dinner, theCYPRUS Bank AUSTRALIA’S of Cyprus BANK OF MIDAS ACCOUNT GIVES A HIGH Australia Foundation raised a record $105,000 INTEREST RATE WITH ONLINE for Very Special Kids.

Mr Tacticos, also Managing Director of Bank of Cyprus Australia said, “We are very proud to be able to donate $105,000 to Very Special Kids as a result of this year’s fundraising efforts. The Foundation extends its thanks to all the customers and clients of Bank of Cyprus Australia for making events like this possible. We are thrilled with the outcome.

ACCESS TO YOUR FUNDS 24/7. Each year, the BankTHIS of Cyprus Australia hosts a black tie MEANS YOUFoundation CAN TRANSFER event to raise funds for a chosen charity. YOUR This year theAND Foundation raised ANYTIME WITHOUT AFFECTING RATE $105,000 for Very Special Kids, an association that provides family THERE ARE NO ACCOUNT KEEPING FEES.

Mr Agnew said that “Very Special Kids is very grateful to the Bank of Cyprus Australia Foundation for the substantial donation of $105,000. We appreciate that this outstanding result has only been possible though the hard work of the dedicated management and staff of Bank of Cyprus Australia, through a number of fundraising activities culminating in a Gala Event.

The annual Charity Gala Dinner was held at Zinc at Federation Square, where 150 guests attended the exclusive event, was an evening filled with entertainment headlined by Australian comedian Peter Rowsthorn.

With an annual fundraising target of more than $3 million the reality is without the support of organisations like the Bank of Cyprus Australia Foundation and the very generous financial support of clients of the Bank, Very Special Kids would not be able to continue supporting more than 800 families across Victoria who are caring for children with lifethreatening conditions.”

support programs, planned emergency respite and end-of-life care for families caring for a child with a life-threatening illness.

Foundation Directors Mr George Tacticos, Mr Joe Pannuzzo and Mr Jim Sarris presented the $105,000 cheque to Mr David Agnew, Chief Executive Officer and Ms Yvonne Flynn, Corporate & Community Fundraising Manager from Very Special Kids.

To date, the Bank of Cyprus Australia Foundation has now raised almost $350,000 for charities. In October, the Foundation will also host a second event for 2011 in Sydney.

MONEY MATTERS

FINANCE

Remove financial stress & fight against cancer! BY AMP FINANCIAL PLANNER PETTE LIACOPOULOS

During the month of November is Movember, a time to remember all those loved ones who have died from prostate cancer, build an awareness and raise funds for men’s health issues. My father lost his battle with prostate cancer after five years of numerous hospital visits, countless specialist visit, all types of treatment, both medical and natural theraphies it’s was a painfully journey for him as well for all of us watching them going through the pain and stress of all the treatment, knowing there is nothing you can do to help them. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer for Australian men. After lung cancer, it is also the second most common cause of cancer deaths for Australian men. Each day about 32 men learn they have prostate cancer and tragically, every three hours one man loses his battle against this disease “You have cancer” are words that you never want to hear but when you do, you can be faced with questions like: Why me? What will happen to my family? How do I fight this? How much will it cost? How will my family cope financially if I can’t work or, worse yet, if I don’t survive? According to the Cancer Council of Australia, cancer is the second leading cause of death with approximately 43,000 people estimated to have died from the disease in Australia in 2010 and about 114,000 new cases diagnosed during the year. Being told that you have cancer is a big enough blow to your mind, body, emotions and overall spirit without having to worry about your finances. As a person living with cancer, your first priority is to get well again and spend as much time with your loved ones as possible. However, it can be hard to concentrate on these priorities when you have bills to

pay, a family to feed and mounting medical costs. Many people believe that taking out life insurance is for the aged, those who are ill, have children or are thinking about retiring. This is a myth. An illness like cancer can strike when you least expect it and one of the most responsible actions you can take is to be financially prepared. Similar to private health insurance, taking out life insurance when you are young and healthy ensures lower premiums for the lifetime of your policy. SO WHAT LIFE INSURANCE POLICIES SHOULD YOU BE CONSIDERING? TRAUMA COVER Trauma Cover provides a lump sum payment if you’re diagnosed with a specified trauma condition. Trauma Cover is designed to help pay for your medical costs and living expenses, providing you with some financial security during the important recovery process. The types of conditions that Trauma Cover may cover you for include: heart attack, multiple sclerosis, motor neuron disease, major organ transplant, severe burns, cancers, dementia and stroke or paralysis. INCOME PROTECTION Income Protection, also known as salary continuance, usually pays a monthly benefit of up to 75 per cent of your regular income if you’re too sick or injured to work. This type of insurance is designed to help you continue to pay the mortgage, children’s school fees, utility bills and buy food, clothes and other day-to-day expenses. TOTAL AND PERMANENT DISABLEMENT (TPD) TPD cover provides a lump sum payment if you’re totally and permanently disabled. This cover will usually help you pay for medical expenses and repay major

debts and ensure that you are looked after in the future. DEATH COVER Death cover works by making a lump sum payment to your family if you were to die, or, under some policies, are diagnosed with a terminal illness. It offers you the security that if the unexpected were to happen, your family would have financial protection. For anyone who has large debts such as a mortgage, it is important to take out death cover, irrespective of your age.

investigate how much cover you currently have and how much you should have by taking into consideration your personal circumstances and needs. Not sure if you are accurately covered? Or need to get insured? Get in touch with Pette Liacopoulos, a professional AMP Financial Planner, mention this article and get a free insurance health check for you and your family. Pette Liacopoulos is an Authorised Representative of AMP Financial Planning Pty Ltd, ABN 89 051 208 327, AFS Licence No. 232706. This advertisement contains general information only. It does not take into account your objectives, financial

Making sure you have the right cover will help give you peace of mind now and financial support in the unfortunate event that you experience disability, illness or death.

situation or needs. Please consider the appropriateness of the information in light of your personal circumstances. All insurance covers mentioned in this article are issued by AMP Life Limited. Please consider whether the product is right for you. Reading the Product disclosure Statement, which is available amp.com.au, will help you decide whether to buy or keep the product.

If you would like professional advice about which life insurance option is most suitable for you and your family, if you are currently accurately covered, please consider consulting with a qualified financial planner. Your financial planner will

www.prostate.org.au

Find out more by contacting 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

A MESSAGE FROM

W.H.I.A

ΠΑΓΚΟΣΜΙΑ ΔΙΑΚΟΙΝΟΒΟΥΛΕΥΤΙΚΗ ΕΝΩΣΗ ΕΛΛΗΝΙΣΜΟΥ (Πα.Δ.Ε.Ε) WORLD ΗΕLLENIC INTER-PARLIAMENTARY ASSOCIATION (W.H.I.A)

Γραφείο Προέδρου President’s Office Τηλ/Tel: +61 408 310 733 E-mail:johnpandazopoulos@parliament.vic.gov.au

Γραφείο Προέδρου President’s Office Τηλ/Tel: +61 408 310 733 E-mail:johnpandazopoulos@parliament.vic.gov.au Αθήνα 28.10.2011

Athens 28.10.2011

MESSAGE OF W.H.I.A PRESIDENT JOHN PANDAZOPOULOS, MP FOR THE OCTOBER 28th ANNIVERSARY

Οctober 28th 1940 the world looked on as Greece said 'no' to Mussolini and the Axis forces aligned with Nazi Germany. Greeks stood tall, took the challenge, united, despite terrible odds against them. Yet their courage, their love for their country made them victorious against Mussolini's forces. When so much of Europe was taken by the Nazis and their allies with little struggle it was Greece that became the beacon of hope to the world. Greece did what no one else achieved that despite being a poor country and without the resources of other countries. Greeks showed the world what could be done with faith, hope and endeavour. This is why British Prime Minister Winston Churchill said 'no longer will we say that Greeks fight like heroes. But that heroes fight like Greeks'. This is the same sentiment that Greece now needs in its new battle. A battle to rebuild a sustainable economy, its public sector with a focus on customer service and efficiency, a strong and effective private sector trading with the world whilst retaining all that it means to be Greek. Greece already has a strong and effective tourist industry that can grow more through a focus on innovation, service and excellence. Greece manufactures and grows so much wonderful food whose exports can grow significantly with a focus on finding additional markets through efficient supply chains. Greece has one of Europe's highest educated communities whose skills can be utilised more effectively. Greece has so many strengths and natural attributes to help it rebuild through the courage and focus of its people.

MHNYMA ΤΟΥ ΠΡΟΕΔΡΟΥ Πα.Δ.Ε.Ε κ. ΓΙΑΝΝΗ ΠΑΝΤΑΖΟΠΟΥΛΟΥ ΓΙΑ ΤΟΝ ΕΟΡΤΑΣΜΟ ΤΗΣ 28ης ΟΚΤΩΒΡΙΟΥ

Στις 28 Οκτωβρίου το 1940 τα βλέμματα όλου του κόσμου στράφηκαν στο ñΟΧΙô της Ελλάδας στον Μουσολίνι και στις Δυνάμεις του Άξονα που συντάχθηκαν στο πλευρό της Ναζιστικής Γερμανίας. Οι Έλληνες στάθηκαν στο ύψος τους, ένωσαν τις δυνάμεις τους και αντιμετώπισαν την πρόκληση παρά τις φοβερές αντιξοότητες που υπήρχαν εναντίον τους. Το κουράγιο τους, η αγάπη για την πατρίδα, τους κατέστησε νικητές απέναντι στις δυνάμεις του Μουσολίνι. Την περίοδο που τόσο μεγάλο μέρος της Ευρώπης είχε καταληφθεί από τους Ναζί και τους συμμάχους τους χωρίς μεγάλη προσπάθεια, η Eλλάδα ήταν εκείνη που αποτέλεσε σύμβολο ελπίδας σε όλο τον κόσμο. Κατόρθωσε αυτό που κανείς άλλος δεν μπόρεσε παρόλο που ήταν μια φτωχή χώρα και χωρίς τους πόρους των άλλων χωρών. Οι Έλληνες έδειξαν σε ολόκληρο τον κόσμο τι μπορούσε να επιτευχθεί με πίστη, ελπίδα και προσπάθεια. Ακριβώς για αυτό τον λόγο ο Βρετανός Πρωθυπουργός Winston Churchill είπε ñΣτο εξής δεν θα λέμε ότι οι Έλληνες πολεμούν σαν ήρωες, αλλά ότι οι ήρωες πολεμούν σαν Έλληνεςô. Αυτό ακριβώς το αίσθημα χρειάζεται τώρα η Ελλάδα στην νέα μάχη της. Μια μάχη για την ανοικοδόμηση μιας σταθερής οικονομίας, του δημοσίου τομέα, με έμφαση στην εξυπηρέτηση του πολίτη και την αποδοτικότητα καθώς και ενός δυνατού και αποτελεσματικού ιδιωτικού τομέα που κάνει εμπόριο σε όλο τον κόσμο διατηρώντας ταυτόχρονα την ελληνική του ταυτότητα. Η Ελλάδα ήδη διαθέτει μια ισχυρή και αποτελεσματική βιομηχανία στον τουρισμό που μπορεί να μεγαλώσει δίνοντας έμφαση στην καινοτομία, στις υπηρεσίες και στην αρτιότητα. Η Ελλάδα παρασκευάζει και παράγει τόσο θαυμάσια τρόφιμα που οι εξαγωγές μπορούν να αυξηθούν σημαντικά δίνοντας έμφαση στην εξεύρεση επιπλέον αγορών μέσω νέων αποδοτικών αλυσίδων διάθεσης προϊόντων. Η Ελλάδα διαθέτει μια από τις πιο μορφωμένες κοινότητες στην Ευρώπη, της οποίας τα προσόντα μπορούν να αξιοποιηθούν αποτελεσματικότερα. Η Ελλάδα έχει τόσες πολλές δυνάμεις και φυσικά πλεονεκτήματα που μπορούν να την βοηθήσουν να ανοικοδομηθεί μέσω του θάρρους και της συγκεντρωμένης προσπάθειας των ανθρώπων της.

Γραμματεία Πα.Δ.Ε.Ε: Λεωφ. Αμαλίας 22-24, 105 57 Αθήνα, Τηλ: +30 210 373 3835 Fax: +30 210 373 3611

W.H.I.A Secretariat: 22-24, Amalias Ave., 105 57 Athens, Tel: +30 210 373 3835 Fax: +30 210 373 3611 www.whia.gr

The World Hellenic Inter-parliamentary Association

CONGRATULATIONS Welcome To The Most Powerful Cashow Strategy On The Planet. SCAN TO LEARN MORE

The same CashFlow strategy used by NIK HALIK.

Economies are going through massi massive transformation. Globalisation has levelled the playing eld and changed the way we need to invest. The way we did business even a year ago is clearly outdated. Tough times call for new technologies and savvy CashFlow strategies. Discover how to catapult your personal fortune using the Most Powerful CashFlow Strategy On The Planet.

• Discover how investors are generating between $5,000 - $30,000 Per Month. • Discover how to generate between 3% - 9% on a MONTHLY BASIS. • Discover how to dismantle credit card debt and pay off a home mortgage. Accelerate your true nancial destiny and fast-track your nancial blueprint. Wealth is your destiny… So please, settle back in your favourite chair and discover exactly how to claim it. Take assertive command of your nancial future, where money is no longer a limitation, but a potent tool you wield with power, assurance and impact. This CashFlow strategy is unlike anything that has ever been created in the world before. It’s the most cutting edge, practical and PROVEN ‘down-in-the-trenches’ strategy that *YOU* will ever see.

Visit www.GenerateCashFlowNow.com to gain exclusive access to

$247.00 worth of **FREE BONUSES** 77

Visit NOW to gain EXCLUSIVE ACCESS

$247 worth of FREE Bonuses

MINIATURE MODEL SHIPS EXHIBITION DATING FROM FIFTH CENTURY BC TO 19TH CENTURY AD ARRIVES IN MELBOURNE

A journey on the Waves of history

he Hellenic Foundation for Culture in collaboration with the Nafsika Stamoulis Hellenic Museum present, for the first time in Melbourne an exhibition of miniature ships created by Evangelos Grypiotis. Comprising of 15 model ships and spanning over centuries these ships highlight the milestones of the development in navigation. The exhibits on display are the life work of Evangelos Grypiotis, a connoisseur and ‘lover’ of miniature ships and Hellenic naval history and will be open to the public from 23 September, 2011 until 26 February, 2012. President of the Hellenic Foundation for Culture (Greece), Prof. G. Babiniotis describes, “The special relationship between the Hellenes and the sea is reflected in the detailed works of Evangelos Grypiotis. The sea is an element which is completely interwoven in Hellenic history and culture; it is also what brings different people and cultures together, uniting and often, inspiring individuals.” The exhibition promises to take visitors on a journey through history and also provides the opportunity to take a closer look at the intricate details on each ship, which have been beautifully and accurately captured by the artist. The ships will be accompanied by a series of replica artifacts that depict the seafarers life or were used during the time these ships sailed. The miniature ships exhibition created by Evangelos Gryptiotis displays his passion for his craft found in the details of the wooden hulls, oars and sails. These model ships focus on the minutest detail: a real dock is set up so as to commence the shipbuilding process. The structure begins with the construction of the keel, followed by the frame and the bindings and the ship slowly begins to take shape. The raw materials

used are rigid and often difficult to work with, but are durable they include: oak, beech, walnut, mahogany teak and pine. Under the dexterous hand of the artist and with the use of tools, naval ornaments are created. The sound, sturdy construction, together with the imposing size of the models, capture every realistic component of their original counterparts, combined with beauty and a clear understanding of the proportions of each part of the ship, justifying the admiration of the onlooker. To create the interior equipment is a very tedious and time consuming process; even the parts not visible to the observer are painted and treated with great care. Bronze, copper, steel, canvas and rope are all materials used to create these nautical legends. The galleries, the benches for rowers, the holds, the storage areas, the galleys, the infirmary, the captain’s quarters, the ballast, and the ‘live’ goods cargo area resurrect the maritime life and travels of the past. Each model has every object has its place: barrels, buckets, ropes, rugs, upholstery, jars, boxes, bags, tools, weapons, ammunition, bombs, anchors, furniture (beds, tables, chairs), libraries and kitchen utensils including dishes and cups. The Grypiotis collection is a result of years of study and research. He has collected valuable information from archaeologists, researchers, builders and seafarers. These rare types of ships date from 15th Century BC to the 19th Century AD, transporting us in time to places of glorious moments in world naval history. Ships have always played a key role throughout history; through navigation, the development of shipbuilding craft, as well as defending national ideals. They were the instruments used to discover distant places, join continents and contribute to the spread of cultures and trade.

The Grypiotis ships now in Melbourne, will provide visitors to the exhibition the opportunity to explore Greece’s culture and naval history. “Beside the visual splendor presented, visitors to the exhibition will also discover themes encompassing: shipbuilding, history, ethnology, mythology, economics and democracy”, reveals Prof. Babiniotis. “The Hellenic Museum is proud to be able to present this exhibition to the people of Melbourne and we would like to thank the Hellenic Foundation for Culture and especially Professors Babiniotis and Lambrinoudaki for their unfailing support,” said the Museum’s Chairman, Mr. Harry Stamoulis. “The second half of 2011 promises to be a very exciting time for the Hellenic Museum and the Hellenic Foundation for Culture in Melbourne”, says representative of both organisations, Ms. Vicki Yianoulatos, “With this amazing exhibition now on and a second exhibition commencing in late November, we are working tirelessly to engulf the people of Melbourne in Hellenic history and the arts. Both exhibitions will have a specially catered tour for visitors and in particular for students from primary to secondary school age. I would encourage people to book early in order not to miss these magnificent opportunities to learn and discover the mystical life of the ancient mariner”.

THE HELLENIC MUSEUM 280 William Street, Melbourne Ph: 03 8615 9016 info@hellenic.org.au Get the free mobile app at

/ gettag.mobi A Journey on the Waveshttp:/ of History Open to the Public from 23 September, 2011 until 26 February, 2012

TAXIDI TRAVEL

Take a road-trip along one of Greece’s least-trodden tracks. BY TOM ANDRONAS

IT’S FAIR TO SAY THAT MOST AUSTRALIANS’ PERCEPTION OF GREECE STRETCHES NO FURTHER THAN THE ACROPOLIS AND THE ISLANDS. EVEN THOSE THAT HAVE BEEN TO GREECE RARELY VENTURE BEYOND ATHENS AND THE HANDFUL OF TOURIST TRAPS DOTTED ACROSS THE SOUTH AEGEAN. BUT HIDDEN AWAY IN THE NORTH-EAST OF THE COUNTRY IS CHALKIDIKE, A REGION THAT FEW PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT, AND EVEN FEWER HAVE VISITED. IN MANY WAYS, THAT’S THE BEST THING ABOUT IT. Chalkidike offers something for everyone, from peaceful mountain towns, to thumping beach side bars, to secluded crystal-blue coves, to the pinnacle of Orthodox piousness. It’s all here, waiting to be discovered. PEACEFUL MOUNTAIN TOWNS Nestled in the mountains about 65km south-east of Thessaloniki is Poligiros, the capital of Chalkidike. With a population of about 6,000 people, Poligiros’ status as a hub for the local olive industry has seen it apparently escape the devastation of the current Greek economic crisis. A walk through the town centre will reveal a swathe of new infrastructure projects, which coupled with its steadily growing population reflects somewhat of an economic boom for the area.

Chalkidike: GREECE, UNSPOILT

Strolling along Poligiros’ pedestrian main street will take you past the town hall, a grandiose former school building now watched-over by a newlyerected statue of the great philosopher Aristotle, a Chalkidike native. Further along a series of shops, restaurants and bars sit in the shade of a giant old chestnut tree. The nearby blue-domed church of Agios Nikolaos becomes a hub of activity on Sundays and feast days. After church, locals often retire to the Exi Bryses (Six Springs) park, where you can drink the fresh spring water that flows out of the nearby mountains, and has been providing the town’s water supply for centuries. Continuing your walk, you’ll pass

TAXIDI TRAVEL

through the well preserved Old Town, where villagers still live in centuries-old clay brick houses, many of which still bear the scars of the Ottoman occupation and the two World Wars that the town has endured. Getting to Poligiros from Thessaloniki is easy, with several busses running each day. However, getting beyond Poligiros to tour the region can be tricky, so if you don’t have a car, it’s best to hire one. Start by driving south towards Gerakini, a beach side town that played host to the first sea-seeking tourists, when summertime beach holidays first became popular. At this junction you have three choices: hedonism, unspoiled beauty, or religious reflection.

Beyond the view and a feed however, it’s not really worth stopping here. Heading further south you’ll find countless beaches of varying quality and cleanliness, predominantly populated by western European package tourists. If that’s not your scene, continue along the coast until you reach Paliouri, where taking one of the many dirt tracks that lead off the highway will lead you to a series of secluded sandy beaches where a handful of holiday-makers have established a makeshift caravan park. Many look like they’ve been setup for years, their caravans complete with timber decks, solar power and gas supply. The sea here is so still that they place tables and chairs in the water and while away their summer holidays in the water, playing backgammon and sipping frappe.

HEDONISM Turning west from Gerakini will take you towards the tourist centre of Chalkidike, the Kassandra peninsula. Here you will inevitably find tourists in their hordes, and all that comes along with them, including allnight beach clubs, tacky tourist shops, water sports and a seemingly endless sea of beach umbrellas and sun lounges.

UNSPOILED BEAUTY Turning east from Gerakini will take you through the beach side town of Nikiti and on to the Sithonia peninsula, undoubtedly the most tranquil, beautiful part of Chalkidike. Here, the rugged landscape is dotted with goat shelters and the beaches look like no other human has ever set foot on them.

The town of Kallithea, which could easily be confused with Faliraki on Rhodes, offers panoramic views over the Kassandrian Gulf and surprisingly good gyros from any of the many fast-food joints along its main street.

After Nikiti follow the signs towards Sarti and take the dirt road turnoff just before you hit Sykia. This will take you over a headland and down to a tiny, rocky cove called Pygadaki, or ‘the little well’. Here a small stretch of sandy beach is hemmed by rocky outcrops

that plunge into deep, crystal-blue pools. It’s the perfect place to spend a relaxing afternoon on your own private patch of the Mediterranean. Once you’ve worked up an appetite grab a bite at one of the beach side tavernas, which specialise in fresh seafood and other local treats. The fried calamari and kolokithokeftedes (zucchini balls) are divine. After leaving Pygadaki, head around the southern tip of the Sithonian peninsula for breathtaking views of the rugged undulating coastline, and eastward of the towering Mount Athos on the Agion Oros peninsula. RELIGIOUS REFLECTION Heading further east from Nikiti will ultimately take you to Ouranoupolis, the last town before the autonomous monastic peninsula of Agion Oros, the Holy Mountain. Ouranoupolis essentially serves as a gateway to the Holy Mountain, though it has some attractions of its own. In particular there’s a Byzantine stone tower, originally built as a watch-house, but more recently used as lodgings for Australian Quaker Joice Loch, who was sent to Ouranoupolis post-WWI as a missionary. Joice spent her life helping refugees from Asia Minor and eastern Europe, and lived out her days in the tower with her husband Sydney. Agion Oros has been a refuge of the Eastern Orthodox church since the 3rd century A.D., and

Chalkidike: houses some of the most ancient and prized relics of Christianity in its twenty grandiose monasteries. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a place of peace, where pilgrims can go to reflect on their faith or seek refuge from the world. As a result, the entire peninsula is a male-only zone, in order to ensure the faithful who visit or live there cannot submit to temptation. In order to take a closer look at the snow-capped Mount Athos, as well as some of the oldest and grandest of the monasteries, there is a ferry service along the peninsula from Ouranoupolis that runs twice daily, though it stays a minimum distance of 250 metres offshore. Men who wish to visit the Agion Oros must apply to the pilgrimâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office in Thessaloniki to obtain a diamonitirion for permission to enter. The permit allows entrance for three days, with preference given to Orthodox males. Once on the peninsula you can book a bed in any of the monasteries, which provide free accommodation and food. Maximum stay is one night in each. TRACKS UNBEATEN If you have more time in Chalkidike, there are plenty more road trips to take. Driving north from Poligiros, turn through the sleepy village of Palaiokastro and head towards the university town of Taxiarhis, in the Holomontas mountain range.

TAXIDI TRAVEL

Chalkidike:

As you weave through the dense green mountain forest, an old man, known locally as the ‘Sogambros, will inevitably wave you down and try to lure you into his tavern. If you can look past his quirky, slightly weird character, you’ll have one of the eating experiences of your life. All the vegetables are grown in the fields behind the tavern and all the meat grown at his nearby farm, and the flavour tells the tale.

So next time you’re in Greece, take the time to beat your own track through Chalkidike, Greece truly unspoilt....

The ‘Sogambros is also a fountain of local knowledge. Having never met me before, he asked my name, then proceeded to tell me who my grandparents and great-grandparents were, and which villages they were from - a truly amazing experience. Further along the road at Stageira stands a giant statue of renowned philosopher Aristotle, who was born nearby. The statue stands in a park that features interactive re-builds of some of Aristotle’s most famous and innovative experiments, which can be explored for a gold coin donation. Chalkidike is also noted for its many traditional religious feasts, dotted throughout the year. Of particular note are the Apokries, celebrated with colourful parades and pageantry in Poligiros in the lead up to lent each year. Also a major event is the Feast of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, celebrated each 15th August at the tiny exoklisi (out-church) of Panagia, nestled in a tranquil garden near Poligiros. In early autumn locals will tell you that if you can think of it, you can find it at the festivals of Agios Mamas and Agios Prodromos.

VISIT GREECE

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

Greek migrants of today will inject new ideas, energy and a European way of life into our community

21st Century Migration THE NEXT WAVE OF THE GREEK DIASPORA

BY MARTHA KARATSIORIS

The current situation in Greece is well documented, with commentary added daily. The blame game continues; the Greek Government needs everyone to pitch in while the ordinary man wants those that created the mess to be held accountable. The anger is real, as is the desperation. In an era of labels, disillusioned Greek youth have found solidarity in what they on the streets call the IMF Generation- a generation of people that lived well beyond their means because they were taught that they were part of an affluent Europe, ignorant of the fact that it took years of cooked books to get them into the club. Make no mistake: this desperation is not localised with the young, with Greeks of all ages putting calls in to the Greek Orthodox Community of Melbourne and Victoria for guidance.

“If I don’t leave this place, I will die. I need your help.” What would you do if you received a call saying exactly that? What if you received 5000 similar calls in just one month? This is the dilemma facing the GOCMV, which continues to be on the receiving end of desperate pleas from Greeks looking for a way out. President of the GOCMV, Bill Papastergiadis and General Secretary Costas Markos emphatically agree.“If you have a heart, you just can’t look away.” Markos is at the coalface of the flood of enquiries, and having lived through some of the most challenging times in Greece’s history explains that nothing compares to the present level of desperation that is compelling him to act. It is this sentiment that propelled the GOCMV, along with other prominent Greek-Australians, to form a lobby group targeting the Australian and Greek Governments to open up avenues through visa programs to include Greek citizens. They have made real progress. At the beginning of 2011 the lobby group ap-

proached Immigration Minister Chris Bowen with a proposal for what they considered to be the first steps to assist Greek migrants, while providing Australia with the skill sets it needs. They had the exemplary history of the previous integration of Greek migrants on their side, but it took some serious and compelling lobbying to influence the Government to accept their two primary points within six months... a major achievement according to Papastergiadis. Part of this movement includes John Pandazopoulos, who successfully lobbied the Greek Government to become a signatory to the Working Holiday Visa, which will now include Greece. This major step forward will allow people aged 18 to 30 to enter Australia for up to a year, providing them with working rights. Bill Papastergiadis explains: “We can definitely say that the lobbying of the Australian Government by the GOCMV was a successful endeavour. In particular, the proposed bilateral agreement between the two Governments concerning tourist visas will go a long way in assisting Greeks until the economic situation in Greece improves.” Another major coup for the group was the two-day Skills Expo conducted in Athens by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship in October, which was attended by Victorian and South Australian Governments and WA Health repesentatives. The invitation-only event (based on relevant qualifications and experience) discussed visa options and possible employment opportunities Areas of demand were presented within the health, engineering and construction sectors as well as in the electrical and mechanical trades. As the only Greek-Australian presenter, Mike Zafiropoulos provided an insight into the “Australian way of life” for those of Greek background. Zafiropoulos presented at the Expo as President of Fronditha Care in a bid to source health

sector staff for culturally and linguistically diverse aged care. The issue continues to take up prime real estate in the Greek media. Papastergiadis and Markos should know – they have spoken to more news programs than they can count, testament to the stagnation of the Greek economy. The job market is frozen. There are truly no opportunities and many who do have jobs are not being paid and definitely not being paid what they are worth overall. So, what would new migrants bring to Australia that we don’t already have? Papastergiadis easily runs off a stack of positive outcomes that a new wave of Greek migrants would add to our community. ”Aside from their professional skills, Greek migrants of today will inject new ideas, energy and a European way of life into our community. Their presence will act as a renewal for not only Greek Australians, but all Australians, adding a new perspective and enriching our culture and language. They will have the background and skills to be active members of our society.” A happy end is more than likely for some, but more than anything, a reprieve from the daily uncertainty, anxiety and depression is needed. They are either desperate for change or terribly afraid of it, depending on your point of view. The GOCMV understood the need of the individual and acted swiftly. Papastergiadis sums up the ideals behind the GOCMV’s political lobbying: “What we did was to respond to the cries of assistance of Greeks by pushing the Australian Government to organise the Skills Expo in Athens. The purpose of the Skills Expo was to provide Greeks with some guidance on how to navigate their way through the migration process. As we are all citizens of the world, we hope that we can provide Greeks with an opportunity during their current struggles.”

CULTURE ADELAIDE

ADELAIDE

GLENDI GREEK FESTIVAL 2011

THE 33RD ANNUAL GLENDI FESTIVAL WAS HELD AT THE ADELAIDE SHOWGROUNDS ON THE WEEKEND OF THE 29TH AND 30TH OF OCTOBER TO THE DELIGHT OF THE THOUSANDS IN ATTENDANCE. With the first GLENDI being held in 1978, it is remembered as the largest Hellenic festival outside of Greece, for it’s time. This relatively small, yet close-nit Greek community has been an inspiration to the entire nation, with the Adelaide Hellenic Lions Club instrumental in creating this unique event to appeal not only to Adelaide’s Greek population, but also the wider community. A hugely popular and successful event, the GLENDI is a great way to spend the weekend with the family, an exciting way to celebrate Hellenic culture and the perfect opportunity to take in some music, enjoy a gyros or munch on some of the finest loukoumades anywhere in the world. – OPA! www.glendi.org

http://www.

myspace.co m

/lipsmackban

Lipsmack. Wireless guitars, ripped jeans, wild hair and excitement everywhere… This is just a little taste of what you would expect to see at a Lipsmack gig. Lipsmack is a dynamic all girl rock band sensation consisting of 3 girls brought together by their common passion for music… and the Greek community. First establishing themselves in tiny rehearsal room, Lipsmack formed with Sundy Mantis on guitar and vocals, Shivon on bass and Betty on drums and vocals. September 2009 saw Lipsmack perform their first public gig at House of SAP and have since skyrocketed into the industry, picking up a strong fan base along the way with their dynamite shows and catchy tunes. Lipsmack have travelled around Australia independently and as part of the “Scorcher Fest” festival as a feature band. They have also performed on National Television for Channel 10’s network program - “Toasted TV” filmed in Movie World, Queensland. Since opening for newly signed Sony band Syndicate, winning Burnside’s Battle of the Bands in 2010 and winning the Adelaide Heat of the Global Battle of the Bands (the Regional Final to take place on 13 November 2011), Lipsmack are ready to embrace more of their wild and spontaneous journey, promising to provide an experience you wont forget.

At bwired, At bwired, we use we use our our expertise expertise to protect to protect andand grow grow our our customerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s customerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 or download or download a white a white paper. paper.

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

ODIGOS

AUTOMOBILES

0 to 100 km/h in under 3.4 seconds

Maximum speed of 320 km/h

BY CHRIS BINOS

Ferrari’s exclusive new 8-cylinder, the 458 Spider has finally been the wind-stop opens to the height that guarantees the most unveiled to the public at the 64th Frankfurt International Motor efficient aerodynamics, reducing buffeting in the cockpit. Show. The 458 Spider is powered by Ferrari’s 570 CV 4,499 cc V8 which was The latest addition to the Ferrari range is a mid-rear-engined two- named International Engine of the Year 2011. This is coupled with seater featuring a fully retractable aluminium hard-top, a world first Ferrari’s class-leading dual-clutch F1 paddle-shift transmission for a sports car with this layout and will arrive in Australia and New which delivers 0 to 100 km/h acceleration in under 3.4 seconds and Zealand in the middle of 2012. a maximum speed of 320 km/h. The 458 Spider’s innovative new hard-top is not only 25 kg lighter than a traditional folding soft-top, but is also quieter and thermally more efficient when raised. Aside from taking just 14 seconds to open or close, the hard-top was engineered to occupy a very small space when stored so that the designers were able to include a generous rear bench for luggage behind the two seats.

The all-aluminium chassis incorporates new alloys and castings, also adopted on the coupé, which ensure the 458 Spider already conforms to 2020 safety legislation.

Its category-topping performance aside, the new car also boasts class-leading fuel consumption and emissions levels. Thanks to the HELE (High Emotion Low Emission) system, in fact, fuel consumpThe rear windscreen doubles as an effective wind-stop which tion on the combined urban cycle stands at 11.8 l/100 km with CO2 is electrically adjustable. When the hard-top is folded away emissions of 275 g/km.

ODIGOS

AUTOMOBILES

class-leading fuel consumption and emissions levels.

OTTOMAN3 NAIL & BROW BAR LAUNCHED AT MYER CHADSTONE, MELBOURNE, ON SATURDAY OCTOBER 15, 2011 To the delight of excited devotees and glamazons. Signature Ottoman3 Eyebrow Threading & Haute Couture Manicures were the craze for the day, withÂ VIPs amongst the guests to be pampered.

666 Pure Tasmanian Vodka 40% ALC/VOL (80 PROOF) 100% neutral distilled from barley grain. Produced by Pure Distillery Company Ptd Ltd, Tasmania, Australia.

Made in Tasmania

Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Number One Premium Vodka 666purevodka.com Drink responsibly and join us in being environmentally responsible. facebook.com/666purevodka 666 Pure Tasmanian Vodka is committed to supporting the Save The Tasmanian Devil Appeal.

PROVERB OF THE MONTH:

«Η γλώσσα κόκαλα δεν έχει, αλλά κόκαλα τσακίζει.» Translation: “The tongue has no bones, yet it crushes bones.” Meaning: Can be seen as an equivalent to “The pen is mightier than the sword.

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.

CZEMA is a very old condition, probably as old as man himself. As with many words of western civilization, it originated from the Greek language. When translated into English the word ECZEMA means, “BOIL OUT”.

HE GREEK SCIENTIST Aristarchus believed that the motions of the heavenly bodies could easily be understood if it were assumed that all of the planets, including Earth, revolved around the sun and that the stars must be infinitely far away because they seemed motionless. Copernicus knew of Aristarchus’ views and mentioned them in a passage in De Revolutionibus Orbium Coelestium that he later eliminated, as though not wishing to compromise his own originality

The Lydians, who were allies of the Greek Spartans, and the Medes, who were dominated by Cyrus of Persia, had been locked in a five-year war in Asia Minor on May 28th, 586 B.C., when the two armies were again preparing for another battle. At this point a solar eclipse occurred, one that is believed to have been predicted by Thales, a Greek mathematician. When the Medes and Lydians observed the eclipse, they stopped fighting and signed a peace treaty. Incidentally, this is the earliest event in human history to which an exact date can be assigned, due to the eclipse.

Eczema first begins as small blisters that are similar in appearance to sago granules. To the Greeks these small eruptions made the skin appear to be “bubbling” or “boiling out” hence the word “boil out” or “eczema” was developed

REALLY?

Greece has more international airports than most countries because so many foreign tourists want to visit...

Some Things Never Change...

The Tradition Continues... Available at all Woolworths, Coles and selected outlets. CKA5140

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.*

Midas Account

Add a Midas touch to your money Manage your money online and be rewarded with high interest and no account keeping fees. Enjoy online access to your money 24/7 with interest calculated daily and paid monthly. For more information call 1300 660 550 or visit www.bankofcyprus.com.au

Add the Midas touch to your money today.

*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

TellCyprus a Friend arerecommends available in-branch www.bankofcyprus.com.au. Before takingdocuments up any of Bank of Cyprus Australia’s products or services, you should consider if they are appropriate Bank of Australia that you reador theatrespective Terms and Conditions and other disclosure you. toBank of Cyprus Australia recommends youdocuments read thecan respective Terms andofConditions beforefor deciding acquire or use any of our products or services.that These be obtained from any our branchesand other disclosure documents before deciding to acquire or use any of the Bank’s products or at www.bankofcyprus.com.au. Bank of can Cyprus AFSL No. 244611 51 092 167 or services. These documents beAustralia obtained from any of ourABN branches or 907 at www.bankofcyprus.com.au. AFSL No 244611 ABN 51 092 167 907 100