THE GREEK AUSTRALIAN The oldest circulating Greek newspaper outside VEMA Greece OCTOBER 2014 Tel. (02) 9559 7022 Fax: (02) 9559 7033 E-mail: [email protected] DISCIPLINEOUR ARCHBISHOP’S IN THE VIEW HOME KISSING THE HAND

PAGES 5/23 MELBOURNE SETS AN EXAMPLE

Peristeri says tenant of tomb is a general with the Opening of the Greek Centre

Katerina Peristeri, the archaeologist lead- “Melbourne officially has the largest Greek Cultural ing the excavation team at Ancient Am- Centre in the world, marking a new, brighter future for phipolis Kasta tomb, believes that the ten- the Greek Diaspora,” said the President of Melbourne’s ant of the tomb is most probably a General Greek Community Vasilis Papastergiadis at the inaugura- of Alexander the Great. tion of the Greek Cultural Centre in Melbourne. PAGE 2/20 The opening ceremony of the Greek Centre (pictured) was held on Sunday, September 21, by the Premier of Victoria Dennis Napthine in the presence of government officials, representatives of the Church, diplomatic au- thorities, local government, Greek organizations and businesses, benefactors of the Greek Community and a large number of visitors. His Grace Bishop Ezekiel of Dervis said that he was “deeply moved” and called for unity and support of the Community. The state Premier reiterated that Mel- bourne is the capital of the Greek Diaspora and noted that the Greek Centre is a “great achievement of multi- culturalism and an example to follow.” Thousands of Greek-Australians who attended the cer- emony felt proud looking at the impressive glass building in blue and white colours, with the Discobolus on its façade. “This is a new chapter in the renaissance of Greek products Greek-Australian Victoria,” said Papastergiadis, who dominating the US market thanked everyone who helped and donated for the con- struction of the 15 storey building, including Greece for Greece is one of the largest exporters to its support to the Community, the Federal Government the US in a range of alimentary products of Australia, the state government of Victoria, Premier like olives, fish, legumes, and cheese as well Napthine, Matthew Guy and Nicholas Kotsiras. as a number of manufactured goods like pipes and razor blades. PAGE 19/37

Kea: Walk this way The ancient trails of the westernmost of St Andrew’s Patristic Symposium 2014 the Cyclades are an ideal way to explore its varied historical and natural attributes. PAGES 12/30 - 13/31 PAGE 20/38 OCTOBER 2014 2/20 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA

Peristeri says tenant of tomb is a general

Katerina Peristeri, the archaeologist leading the exca- vation team at Ancient Amphipolis Kasta tomb, speak- ing at “Mega Channel”, estimated that the tenant of the tomb is a very important figure, possibly a General of Alexander the Great, but the ‘secret of the tomb’ will only be revealed in about a month, when the excava- tion is completed. “We knew in advance that in Kasta hill we would find a tomb, but the door recently revealed confirms it.” Speaking on the strong criticism from fellow archaeol- ogists she said that: “I feel a bitterness, because when you do a job, all your collegues should be proud and happy. However, I am happy that the majority of common people and col- leagues are next to us.” Regarding the criticism received for leaks to the press Peristeri stressed that it is important to keep the media constantly updated on the progress of the excavation. Thodoros Mavrogiannis, professor of History and Ar- chaeology at the University of Cyprus, speaking at the same show, reiterated his belief that the close friend of Alexander the Great, Hephaestion, is buried in Kasta tomb. Mr Mavrogiannis said he is confident that it is a monument of the last quarter of the 4th century BC, as

Ebola measures Katerina Peristeri stated that the tenant of the tomb is most probably a General of Alexander the Great at Amalia Fleming Katerina Peristeri has already stated, and said that the tails of the figures, the horses and the colors. Caryatids found are a direct reference to the hometown The composition dates back to the time when the of Hephaestion, Athens. tomb was constructed - the last quarter of the 4th cen- Hospital, Athens Meanwhile, stunning photographs of the mosaic floor tury BC. at the ancient tomb at Amphipolis in northern Greece The mosaic is damaged in the centre, in the form of a A special Ebola quarantine unit has been created were announced by the Ministry of Culture. The exqui- 80 cm diameter circle. However, many parts of the in the Amalia Fleming hospital in Athens, the first site mosaic was revealed in the second chamber of the damaged section have been found in the sandy finish. such unit to be created in the country. tomb where the caryatids are. In the coming days, archaeologists will try to restore the A training exercise has also been planned by the The mosaic, 3 metres (10 feet) long and 4.5 metres mosaic in order for the original scene to be obtained as state medical services in cooperation with the (15 feet) wide, depicts a horseman with a laurel wreath far as possible. armed forces. driving a chariot drawn by two horses and preceded by The mosaic has not been fully revealed in the east Health services have already been placed on high the Hermes. and west end, as excavations in this part are still under- alert, while there will be an emergency meeting at According to the ministry of culture announcement, way. In the southern part of the mosaic, between the the Ministry of Health tomorrow to discuss ways of Hermes is depicted here as the conductor of souls to pedestals of the Caryatids, a limestone threshold has preventing the potential entry and spread of the the afterlife. been discovered covered with white plaster. virus in Greece. The mosaic is made up of pebbles in many colors: In the northern part the marble threshold decorated Emergency measures already apply at borders. white, black, gray, blue, red and yellow. A circular part, with Ionic elements at the bottom has been discovered, Police and border and coast guard officers in partic- near the center of the mosaic, is missing, but authori- belonging to the door that leads to the third chamber. ular have been instructed to take additional health ties say enough fragments have been found to recon- Just below the door to the third chamber, two more precautions, especially at the Evros border and in struct a large part. parts of the marble door have been discovered. the Eastern Aegean islands, when they come into The mosaic reveals the exquisite skill in portraying de- contact with travelers who may have arrived from the affected countries. They also have been trained to ask questions to assess the likelihood that indi- viduals may have come in contact with infected in- dividuals. Amal Alamuddin Clooney in Athens 8 year old Greek for Parthenon marbles among the finalists Human rights lawyer Amal Alamuddin Clooney, fresh from her marriage to Hollywood star George for best Clooney headed to Athens for the Parthenon marbles issue. The Lebanese-born Alamuddin, who recently mar- Wildlife Photographer ried Clooney in a star-studded ceremony in Venice, met Greece’s Prime Minister Antonis Samaras and of 2014 Culture Minister Konstantinos Tasoulas alongside her boss Geoffrey Robertson. “The Watchful Cheetah” a photo by Leon Petrinos “Mr Robertson and Mrs Clooney were first asked to of a female cheetah in Kenya is among the finalists provide legal advice to the Greek government on this of the prestigious international competition for best matter in 2011. They will be holding a series of meet- Wildlife Photographer of the Year, presented by ings with government officials during their stay,” the London’s Natural History Museum and BBC. chambers added in a statement. Leon is participating in the category “10 Years and Alamuddin Clooney, who is based in Britain, has Under”. The exhibition opens at the Natural History represented Ukrainian former Prime Minister Yulia Museum in South Kensington, London, from Octo- Tymoshenko at the European Court of Human Rights proceedings. She also advised former United Nations ber 24, to August 30, 2015. and WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange in extradition Secretary General Kofi Annan on the conflict in Syria. OCTOBER 2014 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 3/21 Editorial Ebola and our world

By Nikos Konstandaras - Kathimerini, Athens

Far as we are from the dank jungles that gave birth to it, the Ebola virus may have struck us as too foreign and too far away to concern us. And while it killed small numbers of villagers in West Africa, it was only mission- aries and workers of humanitarian agencies who had any idea of what was happening. As with the AIDS epi- demic in the 1980s, the world took notice only when the new disease jumped from Africa to high-risk groups across the planet before threatening the general popu- lation. A photo taken in The truth is that US President Barack Obama did an- Madrid shows Spanish nounce emergency assistance for West Africa (dispatch- newspapers featruring between October 7 and ing 3,000 troops to help) long before cases of the hem- 9 pictures of Ebola orrhaging fever were reported in the United States and virus affected Spanish Europe. But the reporting on the issue was still sub- nurse Teresa Romero. dued. However, a man who had been afflicted in Liberia died in Texas, while a Spanish nurse was fighting for her life, having caught Ebola while treating a missionary Suddenly, a new plague brings home the understand- lated from each other. Ebola, which is transmitted who had returned to Spain, fatally infected with the dis- ing that however different our civilizations may be, through touch, becomes a mortal danger. For this rea- ease. Two American doctors who fell ill while in Africa however far we live from each other, we share a com- son, Liberia has had to postpone elections that were were treated successfully with experimental drugs but mon fate and common dangers. scheduled for next week. The virus infects us by exploit- the Texas and Spanish cases show how dangerous the Athens in the Golden Age of Pericles and Constan- ing civilization - our political and cultural dimension. virus is, even with the best treatment. The World tinople in Justinian’s time suffered just two recorded Perhaps its greatest weakness is that it is so virulent Health Organization puts the mortality rate at 50 per- cases of major plagues. In Europe, the Black Death that it undermines its own expansion, knocking down cent. (Recent reports of a British citizen dying of Ebola killed more than 30 percent of the continent’s popula- people so quickly that it limits further contagion. in Skopje were not confirmed.) tion between 1347 and 1750. To avert a pandemic, we need quick and decisive Sometimes our age seems to encompass all historical If the Ebola virus is not contained quickly, it may be- measures at every level, from villages to international eras - from the Nobel Prize awarded to scientists who come even more dangerous than AIDS. With Ebola organizations. Now we shall see if humanity can deal devised a way to study living cells under a microscope there is no protection - such as condoms or abstinence with a microscopic organism in our time with greater to jihadis decapitating hostages. from sex. People are social animals, and cannot be iso- success than in the past. 4/22 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA OCTOBER 2014

Byzanfest 2015 – Orthodox filmmaking at its best When one thinks of film festivals, Tropfest and Sun- ing in California, USA. An ex-indie filmmaker, Mr Vla- dance come to mind. honasios founded OFA in 2008. “I wanted to create a However, there is now also a festival completely ded- support-network for people who wanted to work in the icated to Orthodox Christian filmmakers. Byzanfest, creative industries as Orthodox Christians and not feel now in its second year, is the world’s first Orthodox they had to comprise their Faith to do so. It’s a place of web-based short-film festival. creativity and discovery.” Since then OFA has become Byzanfest screens films via Orthodox Filmmakers & In its first year, Byzanfest 2014 screened a wide vari- the world’s largest network for Orthodox filmmakers Artists blog (OFA) YouTube Channel. Ideally, films ety of films from Northern America, Georgia, Czech Re- and artists where they can collaborate and showcase screened should have a spiritual theme or, if not direct- public and Australia. Though the quality of all films their work. He is also the host of the Orthodox Christian ly spiritual, topics and storylines acceptable to Ortho- were exceptional, the Festival favourite and winner of Network podcast series, The Moving Icon, which dis- doxy. With the growth in popularity of web-festivals in Byzanfest 2014 Best Screenplay and Best Film, was cusses the media and arts from an Orthodox perspec- recent years, OFA aims to bring Orthodox filmmaking POWER OF DOGS from the Czech Republic. It told the tive. One of his most recent interviews was with talent to a global audience. Films will be available to story of a young man’s struggle for redemption and for- Shawnee Smith, a convert and well-known actress from view during Screening Week, from 7th - 14th February giveness. According to Mr Vlahonsios, “It was a power- the TV sitcom, Becker and producer of Orthodoxy: A 2015, and viewers will also be able to engage with oth- ful film, rich in spiritual imagery. What was also inter- Love Story. er Festival ‘attendants’ by sharing, tweeting and voting esting is POWER OF DOGS was inspired by filmmaker The Festival accepts submissions from filmmakers for their favourite films. Joachim Vesely’s spiritual journey after converting to who belong to any canonical Orthodox Church. Open to This year’s prizes are worth nearly $3,000, thanks to Orthodoxy.” professional, student and amateur filmmakers. Dead- the generous support of several Orthodox sponsors. Another favourite was BEVRETI, a documentary about line for submission is 22nd January 2015. Each award category will receive a prize of a hand- the Bevreti Monastery in Georgia. “This film deserved For more information and how to enter, go to painted icon, hand-made necklace & timber-carved Best Director. The filmmaker showed great skill and the www.byzanfest.com wall-Cross and certificate. Award categories include cinematography was breathtaking. It really captured For Orthodox artists who want to showcase their Best Film, Audience Favourite, Best Director, Best the tranquility of God’s magnificence.” Other great work & promote their events on OFA, call 0423 273 803. Screenplay, Best Documentary / Educational Film, Best films included THE LAST STONE GRINDER, a documen- Websites: Cinematography & Best Youth Film (10-25 years old). tary about the dying art of stone-grinding in Romania www.byzanfest.com Byzanfest is looking for films with intriguing stories, and DANCE FOR TWO, an Australian film paying tribute www.orthodoxfilmmakersandartists.blogspot.com rich cinematography and topics relatable to global audi- to the music and dance of 1960s Greek cinema. www.myocn.net ences, both Orthodox and non-Orthodox. The goal of An exciting development for Byzanfest 2015 is the Byzanfest is to showcase the infinite imagination and hosting of world-wide screening venues in additional to Chris Vlahonasios creativity of Orthodox-minded filmmakers who can do the Festival’s online presence. Byzanfest is now working Founder & director of Byzanfest + OFA blog + so without jeopardising their beliefs and values. with The Orthodox Project who will be hosting a screen- THE MOVING ICON

Greek teenager will represent The new Syntagma Square Australia in the UN 18-year old Maria Skalisti (pictured) has been chosen to in Athens represent Australia, her country of birth, in the upcoming 47th International Youth Congress in the Hague. The Congress will see more than 4,000 delegates from 90 countries discussing various international issues. Their pro- posals will then be sent to UN Secretary General Ban Ki- Moon. The high school student has always been a passionate advocate of human rights. While she plans to attend this year’s Congress, it won’t be easy; her grandparents, with whom she lives, are currently unable to afford her airfare. Christian Dior, Gucci, Ted Baker

Katerina + Kyriacos Mavrolefteros Ray Ban Ray

Finally, Syntagma Square, the great financial support of a private sponsor, cultural focal point of downtown Athens proceeded with the replacement of all in Greece, has been fully restored fol- damaged marble, benches and foun- 874 Anzac Parade, Maroubra Junction lowing years of vandalism and rioting. tains, including the Square’s great cen- (at bus stop, on RTA block) The last few years of political protest tral water sculpture. The Square’s verti-

(at bus stop, on RTA block) Rodenstock, have seen the Square’s marble tiles dis- cal sides have also been restored, as TTeell:: ((0022)) 99331144--00339933 mantled, its fountains destroyed and its well as the various gardens and shrub- Serengeti, Maui Jim, Fendi statues covered in graffiti. The recent bery. [email protected] restoration project has gone a long way The project’s chief financier is Thana- in returning the Square to its original sis Laskaridis, owner of the Grande Bre- beauty and urban grace. tagne and King George historic hotels, Nina Ricci, Oakley, La font The municipality of Athens, with the located at Syntagma Square. OCTOBER 2014 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 5/23 Our Primate’s View KISSING THE HAND

In a previous article about ‘Kollyva’, we had under- The faithful kiss the hand of the Clergyman, not on- lined the need to renew from time to time the inter- ly as a gesture of courtesy (as ladies are greeted in est and knowledge of our faithful concerning the European culture). The faithful do so on the basis of a symbolism and meaning of what is chanted or con- purely liturgical relationship, i.e. in the context of ducted within the Church’s worship. what takes place in the Church itself. But in the final analysis, the entire human person is the ‘temple of And of course, when we say ‘worship’, we first of all God’, as is the whole Creation. mean those things which, in accordance with the Or- thodox liturgical rubric, are required and followed Consequently, when the faithful kiss the hand of the with reverence within the Church itself. Yet we do Celebrant, they are not honoring the mortal hand of not mean only those things, otherwise we would be the specific individual. Just as when then they kiss the deliberate hypocrites, or preoccupied with merely ex- holy Icon or the holy Gospel or the sacred relics, they ternal forms, much like the Pharisees. At any rate, our are not honouring ‘wood’ and ‘paint’, or ‘metals’ and spiritual life and Christian identity are not a special ‘bones’, but rather the One Lord and God, the ‘uniform’ that we ‘wear’ for the duration of our rele- supreme point of reference who, through finite and vant duties, and then take it off as soon as we are ‘off imperfect means and forms of worship, ‘conde- duty’. scends’ to allow the task of salvation to unfold! For this reason, it is not possible for the greater por- This is precisely the spirit of the verse in Psalms: tion of a Christian’s life, which unfolds outside the “Wondrous is God among His saints” (LXX Ps. 67:36). Church building and beyond the regular prayer time and services, to be anything other than in ‘accor- And to be clear: The hand that baptizes, anoints, dance’ with that which occurs within Church, not on- administers Holy Communion, that blesses, marries ly in relation to God, but also to various functions and or buries, that ordains or tonsures, that prepares ministries of the individual faithful. It is precisely this holy unction and generally performs all that is ‘be- organic continuity of Christian life both within and yond the human’ (not out of his own initiative or without the Church building which characterizes the power, but out of a ‘work that has already been ac- general Orthodox phronema and ethos. complished’ in the sacrifice for all people on the Cross of Golgotha), that is the hand which the faithful kiss! At this point, it is worth recalling the wise observa- Therefore it is not the hand of the private person, tion made many times in the past by Orthodox the- and so St Gregory of Nyssa did not hesitate to pro- ologians who specialize in matters of worship: they claim: “Being one among many and the public, he have named the conduct of the faithful (Clergy, suddenly becomes a leader, a president, a teacher of Monastics and Lay people) not only within the ‘home piety, a mystical initiator of the hidden mysteries; and By ARCHBISHOP Church’ (be it the family or monastery), but also in he does these things without any change in his body STYLIANOS the fields of education, professional or social activity, or form, but continuing to be in appearance as he was OF AUSTRALIA and even in ‘recreation’ (where ‘modesty’ is not nec- before, his invisible soul transformed for the better essarily excluded) as the “Liturgy after the Liturgy”. by some invisible power and grace” (MPG 46, 581). We mention all of the above, which have been ‘self- The honour given by the ‘kissing of the hand’ is evident’ for centuries (for the genuinely Orthodox, therefore undoubtedly not primarily directed to- that is) because, among the other oddities of our cun- wards the perishable and undoubtedly unworthy ning times, there are always certain hypocritical peo- hand of the Celebrant, but above all to Him who in- ple with ‘complexes’ - especially from the garrulous visibly ‘sent’ and ‘directed’ the ‘enlisted’ human field of journalism (read sponsored slander) - who hand. This is in any case the Orthodox teaching of the ridicule the traditional ‘kissing of the hand’ as being Fathers from centuries ago, for all who have ‘ears to servile. Their comments apply to lay people kissing hear’: “…for the honour directed to the icon passes the hand of Clergy, but equally to both Clergy and lay through to the original” (John of Damascus, On the people kissing the hand of the Elders who are greater Icons, Oration 1, 24). in seniority or age. If they questioned the traditional custom itself, in an indefinite sense, we could say We close with the astonishing observation expres- that it was a matter of mentality, viewpoint, particu- sed in the following verses of a Christian Cleric: lar sensitivity or possibly even psychopathological remnants of a … disturbed conscience! Yet the critical SELF-PORTRAIT article writers, lacking in judgement, do not stop there. I am a nobody who has been clothed in symbol They also mock (so as to humiliate and infuriate) which is why in my sinful hands those noble and grateful faithful as ‘crawlers’ and there burn as candles ‘flatterers’. These are the very people who, in addi- the kisses of seven hundred tion to their family up-bringing and their familiarity with Church life, possess sufficient psychosomatic thousand faithful! health to not feel that their dignity and freedom in (22-9-82) Christ is diminished, when showing various forms of respect to persons and institutions which have been May those who are critical of the custom of kissing established in the sanctified traditions of our digni- the Celebrant of the Most High learn that he himself fied people. - when seeing things correctly - does not sense it as an honour, but much more as a constant reminder Let us therefore remind the ungrateful and trouble- and spiritual ‘examination’. some ones who present themselves as being ‘mighty’ and make noises ‘like a barking dog against the inno- cent moon’ (as the Germans say), what the kissing of the hand means within the Church, regardless of cir- From Voice of Orthodoxy, v. 26(8), September 2005, cumstances or personal relationships of like or dis- the official publication of like. the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia OCTOBER 2014 6/24 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA

waited patiently for proceedings to begin. dience with stories from the classroom. It pointed to There was a traditional welcome to country from a lessening of standards. Same-sex marriage was sup- Letter an indigenous Elder. He was a religious person and ported by some in the audience. The Jewish rabbi had traced his boyhood background. He presented a eu- condoned some such unions. One member of his con- calypt branch with leaves as an offering to everyone. gregation wrote to ask whether he was sick on the from This indigenous ceremony has now become a feature day the class on Leviticus was given at divinity school! of most public gatherings. Maybe it tries to undo Acceptance of diverse viewpoints is fine but I did some of the discrimination to indigenous peoples in not travel all that way and at much expense to hear Australia by showing respect for those past and pres- Rationalist views. They argued on a flimsy basis and Maroubra ent. with little evidence on issues such as homosexuality. The first keynote address aimed to show how reli- Any form of special religious education was opposed. gion was incorporated into the Australian curriculum. For good measure, they were invited to be on the I thought there was really minimal emphasis on reli- closing panel in the segment recorded by the ABC. gion or faith in modern schooling. The extent of reli- Our Muslim brother on that panel mentioned the Is religious education gious illiteracy about all faiths in Australia is well-doc- discrimination against Muslims in Australia. He point- umented. ed out how Muslims were accepting of other tradi- living up It took this meeting of religious educators to re- tions. Many applauded. The Coptic held back his mind me of the vast difference between Orthodoxy tears. to our expectations? and other religions including Christian denomina- I was grateful to be part of this community of faith tions. There are marked contrasts in dogma and wor- and to support religious education. Freedom of reli- Last week took me southwards away from my ship. gion is vital for all faiths. It is good to hear diverse beloved Maroubra. I headed down to Melbourne for Buddhists, Hindus, Jews, Muslims, Protestants, viewpoints and to learn from others. the conference of the Australian Association for Reli- Catholics and Rationalists were present. Moreover it is heart-warming that Greek Orthodox gious Education. I asked the Coptic bishop why there were no clergy are received with great courtesy and warmth. A This was the first time I had attended such a meet- from other faiths. He said that they were here but Greek Orthodox presence in the public space is vital ing and was not sure what to expect. People were dressed casually. This included the female ministers but it can also drain our meagre human resources. It friendly and welcoming. I registered then looked in of religion. At morning tea or lunch I noted that the acts as a witness to our faith and a reminder to every- my conference satchel to find the conference pro- Coptic clergy were treated largely as exotic layper- one of the original Tradition. gram and a few brochures. Slowly the seats filled. sons. Nevertheless, at times I felt as though I was not on- There must have been around 200 in attendance. At lunch on Wednesday, I commented that there ly from Maroubra but also from another planet. Meanwhile a Coptic priest had introduced himself were lentils available in the buffet. The Coptic priest and sat next to me. He introduced me to his bishop. mentioned that before the conference they had in- * The views expressed are those of the author and not nec- They were the only persons in any traditional clerical sisted on some Lenten food for that day. essarily those of the VEMA or St Andrew’s Greek Orthodox The- garb. We kept company on-and-off throughout the Then there was an erudite and witty ex-Jesuit priest ological College. conference. who was the speaker at the dinner. He recalled his ex- A clarinet, piano and violin trio of young musicians perience of teaching religion and entertained the au- [email protected] “We won! We are here!” Learning from the Hellenic Genocide of 1914

“We won against the plans of the genocidaires be- unleashed against the indigenous Assyrians and the Ar- cause we are here and remind them of their crimes.” menians of Syria and Iraq. This was the essence of the address by the keynote The Hon. Rev. Fred Nile MLC told the assembly of his speaker, Prof Nikos Lygeros, to the Commemoration of pride in having the framed photographs of the Holy the Genocide of the Hellenes of Pontos, Asia Minor and Monastery of Panayia Soumela Trapezountas in his par- Thrace, held at NSW Parliament House on September liamentary office, gifts of the Pontian associations of 16. New South Wales at the 2013 Genocide Commemora- The commemoration was historic from many aspects, tion. the result of the cooperation of a number of organisa- In his closing message, Consul-General Dr Stavros tions including the Order of AHEPA (main sponsor of Kyrimis stated: “This is our obligation to humanity, to Professor Lygeros’ visit), the Pontoxeniteas, Panayia remind everyone of the values of Western civilisation: Soumela and Diogenes Pontian associations of Sydney acceptance of difference, human rights, democracy.” and Wollongong. On behalf of the Hellenic Genocide Commemorative “Unity is strength” was another of the Commemora- Committee, Mr John Theodoridis thanked Prof Lygeros tion’s main messages, conveyed as much by the organ- for his address and presented him with a memento - an isers as by the keynote speaker. Prof Lygeros empha- authentic boomerang. The Commemoration opened sised the significance of the unity of the victims - be Professor Lygeros receives a memento from members of the and closed with traditional Pontian songs performed by they Hellenes, Armenians, Assyrians or Jews. This was Hellenic Genocide Commemorative Committee. Christophoros Skenderidis and Euthymis Avgetidis on underlined by the delegations of the NSW Jewish Board The Master of Ceremonies, Dr Panayiotis Diamadis lyra. of Deputies, the Assyrian Universal Alliance, Sydney’s (Lecturer in Genocide Studies, University of Technology, Special Guests included: Armenian community and others who lent their sup- Sydney) opened the commemoration with a phrase Councillor Esta Paschalidis-Chilas (Canterbury City port for the Hellenic Genocide Commemoration in their from the 6th century BCE mathematician and philoso- Council), Councillor Petros Kalligas (Rockdale City Coun- own ways. pher Pythagoras: «ΤΑΣ ΛΕΩΦΟΡΟΥΣ ΜΗ ΒΑΔΙΖΕΙΣ» (Do cil), the representative of His Eminence Archbishop “The purpose of the genocidaires is the extermination not follow the well-trodden path). Stylianos, Dimitri Kepreotes, the Vice-President of the of the victims, the cessation of the continuity of the Hel- Those who attended the commemoration did not fol- Inter-Communities’ Council of the Archdiocese, Aposto- lenes, the Armenians, the Assyrians, the Jews and oth- low the well-trodden path. In their addresses, the Hon. lis Tsanis, representatives of the Grand Lodge of the Or- ers,” continued Prof Lygeros. “To deny to those yet un- David Clarke MLC (Parliamentary Secretary for Justice, der of AHEPA NSW and NZ John Theodoridis and Nick born, even the right to life. This is why we must persist Liberal Party) and the Hon Rev. Fred Nile MLC (Christian Lambros, K300 President and Ephor Andrew Kostopou- in demanding recognition of the genocides by all the Democratic Party) related the threats, pressures and los, Australian Hellenic Educators’ Association Vice- parliaments of Australia.” bribery attempts they had been subjected to by Turkish President and Secretary respectively Dimitris Kame- Speaking about his visit to the Sydney Jewish Muse- authorities in Ankara and Australia, and their local ad- topoulos and Charoulla Themistocleous, the Secretary um, Prof Lygeros stressed the importance of such in- juncts. These two dedicated supporters of the Aus- of the Constantinople Association of NSW Effy Samara, stallations for the continuity of historical memory, of tralian Hellenic community, who played leading roles in President of the Pan-Thracian Brotherhood of NSW the continuity of the peoples who have endured geno- the formal recognition of the Genocides of the Hel- Christos Pazaridis, the Treasurer of the Pan-Macedon- cide. He stated further that there must be created in lenes, Armenians and Assyrians by the Parliament of ian Association of NSW Constadine Tagaroulias and the Sydney a similar museum for all genocides, so that we New South Wales in May 2013, re-emphasised the sig- President of the Federation of Pontian Associations of do not forget, so that such events are not repeated. nificance of a new wave of genocidal action has been Australia Peter Stefanidis. OCTOBER 2014 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 7/25

The impact of the new Greek real estate tax law (En.F.I.A) on Greek Australians

By John Tripidakis Another tricky part, is the fact that all property heirs are taxed, irrespective of whether they have probated More headaches for Greek Australians with real es- the Will/Estate. So, even if an heir is not interested in tate property in Greece. With this new law (En.F.I.A.) inheriting the Greek property, he will still be taxed if he that has replaced the older tax “haratsi” (collected does not denounce the Estate promptly. This is of great through the electricity bills), every person (resident of interest to Greek Australians that have not proceeded Australia, Greece or wherever in the world) owning real with the required legal actions for their inherited prop- estate property in Greece, is subject to this new law. erty in Greece. Non-action, might create a tax obliga- Property includes the full ownership, the life estate tion here. (“epikarpia”), the remainder (“psili kyriotita”), the in- A tax reduction is provided to low income earners heritance rights etc, in full title or in undivided interest (less than 9.500 Euros), with poor financial situation, (joint ownership), on houses, units, lots, rural proper- owning property of less than 150 square meters and ties, parking rights etc, owned on the 1st of January of without debts to the tax authority. each year, irrespective of whether any income is gener- It seems that the thorough, fair and careful drafting of ated/collected or not. this new law, leaves a lot to be desired. The many mis- This new taxation is over and above the already ap- takes at the initial tax requests, compel the Greek gov- plying and collected yearly Council rates. ernment to reconsider various provisions. This tax’s calculation is a very complex procedure The tax is payable in 6 monthly installments. Atten- based on various factors, including the property’s loca- tion is drawn to the prompt payment of the install- tion, dimensions, age, face on the street(s), use, etc. ments. A two (2) months delay may create an addition- Properties of substantial value (more than 300.000 al raise of 12.73 %. Euros) incur an additional tax. As a final remark: Property owners may modify/cor- The data base used by the Tax Authority for the cal- payer, since the Tax Authority will employ the most se- rect their ownership status without any penalties by the culation of this tax is the www.gsis.gr (known in the vere factors. E.g.: If the E9 statement, does not mention end of November 2014 past as: taxisnet), created through the Ε9 tax returns. It the floor on which the unit is located, then the highest At the time, upon receipt of the tax requests, prompt is worth mentioning that if the E9 statement has miss- factor of the 6th floor will be used (which is the maxi- payment should be effected, after they are carefully re- ing information, then this is to the detriment of the tax mum ratio). viewed by an experienced tax accountant. Gramophone Awards 2014: Leonidas Kavakos voted GREEKORTHODOXARCHDIOCESEOFAUSTRALIA GREEKORTHODOXPARISH&COMMUNITY Artist of the Year  OF“ARCHANGELS” 378Olive378St,OliveAlburySt,AlburyNSWNSW  Leonidas Kavakos won the Gramo- puçon, Mariss Jansons, Mahan Esfahani, phone Artist of the Year Award 2014. Alisa Weilerstein, Alina Ibragimova, Jean-     The highly prestigious awards are be- Efflam Bavouzet and Vasily Petrenko.  ing presented annualy by the top music “I’m deeply moved,” Kavakos said, re- website Gramophone. Leonidas Kavakos ceiving his award. “I strongly believe  is recognised across the world as a violin- there is no way to success for anyone by ist and artist of rare quality, known at himself. I want to really mention and  the highest level for his virtuosity, su- thank those people who have been close  perb musicianship and the integrity of to me… all the people I have had the his playing. privilege to make music with.”  The 10 artists nominated for the covet- The Gramophone Artist of the Year ed Gramophone Artist of the Year Award award is the latest accolade for Kavakos  2014 were: Leonidas Kavakos, Iestyn Da- who has previously won prizes at several TheGreekOrthodoxCommunityofAlburycordiallyinvitesyoutocomeandcelebratewith vies, Yannick Nézet-Séguin, Renaud Ca- international violin competitions. th usourdoublecelebration,thefeastdayoftheArchangelsandthe50 anniversaryofthe th inaugurationofourchurch,onSaturday8 November2014. LAW OFFICE OF KONSTANTINOS KARRAS WehaveinvitedourBishophisGraceSeraphimandhopethattheliturgywillbeblessed with his presence.TH 17 Noembri 6-8, Alimos-Attikis (Athens), P.S. 17455 FRIDAY  7 NOVEMBER ͲVespers6pm Email: [email protected] or [email protected] TH FRIDAY7 NOVEMBERTH ͲVespers6pm Mobile: +30-693-67-08-018 SATURDAY8 NOVEMBER TH SATURDAYMatins and8 DivineNOVEMBERLiturgy( ) 8.30 am  Attorney at Law in Athens. Graduated from the Law School of University of     ɄʌɽʌʉʎʃɲɿȺɸʀɲȿɸɿʏʉʐʌɶʀɲ    MatinsandDivineLiturgy(ɄʌɽʌʉʎʃɲɿȺɸʀɲȿɸɿʏʉʐʌɶʀɲ)8.30am Athens, Master Degree in European Law from the University of Louvain – Belgium. FollowingtheDivineLiturgycelebrationswillcontinuewithlunch,sweetsandmusicatthe Practice Areas: Mirrambeenacommunitycentre19MarthaMewsLavington.Lunchpricesare:$18for adults,$10.00forchildren6Ͳ15yearsandchildrenunder6yearsfree. a) Hereditary Issues (Wills, Inheritance) It will be very helpful to us, if we know the number of people attending, to help us with b) Legal Support regarding Property Issues (Real Estate-Markets,                    Real Estate Leasing, Real Estate Registration in the Land Registry) seatingandcatering.Pleasenotifyusofnumbersattendingbycallingthephonenumbers c) Tax Matters (Tax Greeks Abroad, New estate tax law, inheritance belloworsendanemailto:[email protected] and gift tax) th RSVPbyFriday24 October,2014 d) Greek citizenship (Greek Conditions for Granting Citizenship, Registration at Registrar’s Office and the conditions for granting visas) Pleasecontactus: e) Family Law (Divorce, Affairs) TessAndronikoson0410032005 f) Recognition of foreign judgments in Greece GeorgeVenerison60215004or0414604069 Lookingforwardtoseeingyouallthere. Our office is located in Alimos – Athens and we can be contacted by email MayGodbewithyou on [email protected] or [email protected] TessAndronikos–President describing briefly your case. ForandonbehalfoftheCommittee. OCTOBER 2014 8/26 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA

Professor Paul M. Blowers (centre), the Very Revd Dr Doru Costache (right) along with reverend clergy, students and participants in T9684A Patristic Profile: St Gregory of Nyssa. Professor Paul M. Blowers Lecturing on St Gregory of Nyssa at St Andrew’s Greek Orthodox Theological College It was on a bright, sunny morning that lar would ‘shake up’ the very walls of St ty-members, and lovers of the fathers Of particular interest to me were his we went to pick up Paul M. Blowers Andrew’s Greek Orthodox Theological and mothers of the Church gathered at reflections on St Gregory’s cosmology (Dean E. Walker Professor of Church His- College - and I mean this as a most posi- the College to participate in this auspi- and theological anthropology, which tory at Emmanuel Christian Seminary, tive metaphor - with his two day lectures cious event, which was hosted by the were enhanced both by Professor Blow- Johnson City, TN, USA) from Sydney air- for the residential component of T9684A Very Revd Dr Doru Costache, Senior Lec- ers’ clear and amiable teaching style, and port; our brief time together acting as a Patristic Profile: St Gregory of Nyssa. turer in Patristic Studies at St Andrew’s, his references to his own experiences in foretaste for the week ahead, where this And so it was that from the 24-25 Sep- who also created and manages the on- order to highlight a particular point; internationally renowned patristics scho- tember 2014, clergymen, students, facul- line component of the unit. Professor thereby giving his lectures a personal, Blowers also visited St Andrew’s last year and relatable, ambience. to deliver lectures for the residential The spontaneity with which a particu- ScriptureTeachers components of units on ‘Spiritual Peda- lar topic would spark dialogue between gogy in St Maximus the Confessor’ and Fr Doru and Professor Blowers was also a ADVANCEDCOURSEͲ2014 ‘Creator and Creation in Early Christian highlight as it led us down new, unchart-  Theology’ - both created and managed ed pathways into the thought and works by Fr Doru - and, with the blessing of the of the Nyssen that were nevertheless Dean of St Andrew’s, His Eminence Arch- framed by the saint’s overall, ecclesial bishop Stylianos, returned this year to disposition. uncover the wisdom in the thought and In short, the lectures were truly inspir- writings of the great Cappadocian St Gre- ing, and were met with much enthusi- gory. asm and acclaim; the perfect precursor Professor Blowers traversed a wide to Professor Blowers’ keynote lecture at range of insightful topics during his two- St Andrew’s 2014 Patristic Symposium, day lectures, including the historical-the- which was held on the 26 and 27 Sep- ological context of St Gregory, his contri- tember. bution to Trinitarian Orthodoxy, his cos- mology, theological anthropology, bibli- Mario Baghos cal interpretation, ascetical theology, Associate Lecturer in Church History, and views on eschatology. St Andrew’s Theological College

 9.50AM–2.30PM,Monday3rdNovember2014  GreekOrthodoxParishofStsRaphael,NicholasandIrene 29ForbesStreet,Liverpool(besidetheChurch)  ThecourseisfreeͲLunchsupplied FreebusfromKogarahandMarrickville

PleaseadviseyourparishpriestorScripturecoͲordinator.Registerdirectly http://www.123contactform.com/formͲ1132372/AdvancedͲCourseͲ2014  SponsoredbytheParishofStsRaphael,NicholasandIrene andStAndrew’sGreekOrthodoxTheologicalCollege The Very Revd Dr Doru Costache and Professor Paul M. Blowers OCTOBER 2014 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 9/27

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Ο Ιερατικώς Προϊστάµενος π. Γεώργιος Αδαµάκης, το ∆ιοικητικό Συµβούλιο, η ∆ιεύθυνσις του Κολλεγίου των Αγίων Αναργύρων, οι Κηδεµόνες, οι Κυρίες της Φιλοπτώχου και η Νεολαία, σας προσκαλούν στην πανήγυρι του Ιερού Ναού. ΠΡΟΓΡΑΜΜΑ PROGRAM

ΠΑΡΑΣΚΕΥΗ 31 ΟΚΤΩΒΡΙΟΥ ΕΣΠΕΡΑΣ 7.00 – 9.00 μ.μ. FRIDAY 31 OCTOBER 7.00‑9.00 p.m. ΜΕΓΑΣ ΑΡΧΙΕΡΑΤΙΚΟΣ ΠΑΝΗΓΥΡΙΚΟΣ ΕΣΠΕΡΙΝΟΣ GREAT VESPERS SERVICE ΤΩΝ ΑΓ. ΑΝΑΡΓΥΡΩΝ ΚΟΣΜΑ ΚΑΙ ΔΑΜΙΑΝΟΥ (Μικράς Ασίας). SATURDAY 1 NOVEMBER 7.30‑11.00 a.m. ΣΑΒΒΑΤΟ 1 ΝΟΕΜΒΡΙΟΥ 7.30 ‑11.00 π.μ. FESTIVE DIVINE LITURGY OF SAINTS COSMAS AND DAMIAN ΠΑΝΗΓΥΡΙΚΗ ΑΡΧΙΕΡΑΤΙΚΗ ΘΕΙΑ ΛΕΙΤΟΥΡΓΙΑ ΤΩΝ ΑΓΙΩΝ ΑΝΑΡΓΥΡΩΝ ΚΟΣΜΑ ΚΑΙ ΔΑΜΙΑΝΟΥ SUNDAY 2 NOVEMBER 7.00 ‑10.30 π.μ. ΤΩΝ ΕΚ ΜΙΚΡΑΣ ΑΣΙΑΣ FESTIVE DIVINE LITURGY

ΚΥΡΙΑΚΗ 2 ΝΟΕΜΒΡΙΟΥ 7.00 ‑10.30 π.μ. ΠΑΝΗΓΥΡΙΚΗ ΑΡΧΙΕΡΑΤΙΚΗ ΘΕΙΑ ΛΕΙΤΟΥΡΓΙΑ OCTOBER 2014 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 11/29

 12/30 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA OCTOBER 2014

Group photo of the contributors and attendees of the Symposium St Andrew’s Patristic Symposium 2014

By Protopresbyter Dr Doru Costache

With the blessing of His Eminence Archbishop Stylianos of Australia, on 26 and 27 September 2014 was held the sixth St Andrew’s Patristic Symposium which had as a theme the interactions between the Alexandrian and Cappadocian traditions in Late Antiqui- ty. Under the generous, Tolkien-sounding logo, “From Alexandria to Cappadocia and Back Again” twenty scholars of various backgrounds and expertise, from Australia, the United States of America, New Zealand and Japan, offered papers on the main theme of the conference and several other matters. In my opinion, which was endorsed by many participants, this has been, by far, the best patristic symposium ever held at St Andrew’s Greek Orthodox Theological College. Glory to God! I take this opportunity to express my deep gratitude for the blessing and guidance of our Father, His Emi- Keynote Speakers and Convenors of the Symposium nence Archbishop Stylianos, Dean of the College, with- out whose wisdom and support the project of the pa- The quality of the papers and the Christian spirit that like the end of a majestic symphony at the Opera tristic symposia would not have been possible. When, transpired throughout the conference have been im- House; a first for our symposia. more than a year ago, I submitted my proposal for the pressive. My limited space here will not allow for an ex- Among the excellent contributors that graced the organisation of the event, His Eminence readily granted tensive account of these two otherwise amazing days symposium, St Andrew’s was represented by no less His blessing to me and my colleague, Dr Adam Cooper, we spent at St Andrew’s. I could not miss pointing out, than six presenters, namely, Dr Kariatlis, Professor Gar- from John Paul II Institute for Marriage and Family (Mel- however, the brilliance of the two keynotes. Introduced ry Trompf, Mario Baghos, Chris Baghos, Stefan Mas- bourne VIC), to convene this symposium and to invite by Dr Cooper, Professor Blowers offered an insightful tilovic and I. I have to acknowledge here the successful as keynote speakers good friends of the College, name- paper on “Mystics and Mountains: Comparing Origen’s papers offered by the junior representatives, Chris and ly, Professor Paul Blowers (Emmanuel Christian Semi- Exegesis of the Transfiguration and Gregory of Nyssa’s Stefan, who skilfully addressed important matters relat- nary, Johnson City, TN USA) and Dr Bronwen Neil, FAHA Exposition of the Sinai Theophany”. Due to the known ed to St Maximus the Confessor and St Symeon the New (Centre for Early Christian Studies, Australian Catholic charisma of the speaker, the detailed analysis of the pa- Theologian. Without this diminishing their own merits, University, Brisbane QLD). Both invited speakers are in- tristic texts, which competently highlighted the com- their well researched and articulated papers revealed ternationally renowned scholars, and it has been a mon grounds and the differences between the two ap- once again the quality training offered at St Andrew’s. blessing to have them again at St Andrew’s. Indeed, Dr proaches, did not come across as a dry, scholarly paper. I cannot end this account without expressing once Neil presented another keynote for our 2010 patristic Many participants confessed afterwards that they had a again my gratitude for the wonders that we witnessed symposium whilst Professor Blowers offered here two definite sense of being led by hand to the two moun- these two days at St Andrew’s. First of all, I am grateful series of intensive lectures last year, in July. As a matter tains, as though we have all been present there, wit- to our keynote speakers and true friends of our College, of fact, Professor Blowers received likewise His Emi- nessing the manifestation of God - like in a liturgical Professor Paul Blowers and Dr Bronwen Neil, who kind- nence’s blessing to teach a two-day intensive on St Gre- σήμερον, “today”. ly accepted my invitation; their scholarship inspires. gory of Nyssa, for my course unit “Patristic Profile”; his The second invited speaker, Dr Neil, was introduced Gratitude is due to all the contributors for their high highly successful, well attended lectures have been of- by Dr Philip Kariatlis, Academic Director of our College. quality input and enthusiasm, for their erudition and fered on 24 and 25 September. Dr Neil’s keynote, “Signs of Theosis in Synesius of Christian spirit. A special thank you is due to Mrs Re- The symposium was providentially prefaced by the Cyrene”, proved to be a minute analysis of the Cyrenian becca Burgess and her husband, The Revd Dr Andrew Divine Liturgy dedicated to the patron saint of the Col- bishop’s complex rapports with Christian theology and Burgess, Dr Naoki Kamimura, Mr Daniel VanderKolk and lege’s chapel, St John the Theologian, which was cele- Neoplatonism. The speaker’s erudite analysis, which as- his wife, Erin, for travelling to St Andrew’s from over- brated by The Very Reverend Archimandrite Kyrillos Zi- sessed the works of Synesius within the broader con- seas and for offering their insights into the Fathers. sis, the Dean of the Archdiocesan Cathedral and a post- text of the Christian and Neoplatonic traditions, was Thank you to the Australian contributors, from Sydney graduate student of the College. The actual works of punctuated by outbursts of charming humour savoured and elsewhere, who are not directly affiliated with our the symposium were opened by His Grace Bishop I- by the audience. Bringing the whole exposition to its cli- College yet considered our humble setting as worthy of akovos of Miletoupolis, a graduate of the College, who max, the conclusion of Dr Neil’s presentation was ac- their presence and contribution. Gratitude is due to The conveyed His Eminence’s blessing and led us in prayer. claimed (indeed, cheered and whistled at) very much OCTOBER 2014 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 13/31

Cont. from previous page

Revd Dr Joseph Azize, The Revd John D’Alton, Dr Ber- nard Doherty, Dr Graham Lovell, Mr Andrew Mellas, Mr Justin Pigott and Mr Kevin Wagner. My colleagues and I have been overwhelmed by their presence. Gratitude is due to all the attendees, old and new friends of the patristic symposia. It is my duty to men- tion that for the first time in the history of our sym- posia, this year a man travelled from overseas to listen to one particular paper - and how right he has been to do so! Thank you to Dr Paulus-Petrus Ieeming Chang, who travelled from Taiwan to listen to the paper of Fa- ther Joseph Azize on St Ignatius, and thank you to Dr Az- ize for his tremendous scholarship and impressive Christian humility. Special thanks are due to Professor Diane Speed, Professor James Harrison and The Revd Associate Professor Glen O’Brien, who, on behalf of the Sydney College of Divinity and its member institutions, honoured us with their interest. Whilst brief, the pres- ence among us of Professor Alanna Nobs (Macquarie University), did not go unnoticed; thank you. Gratitude From “Alexandria is due to the clergymen who attended and prayerfully to Cappadocia supported our event, representing three Orthodox ju- and Back Again” -- Artwork by Ion Nedelcu risdictions in Australia and New Zealand, namely, Greek Orthodox, Antiochian Orthodox and Serbian Orthodox. Many thanks are due to Mr Anastasios Kalogerakis honouring friendship. At the end of the symposium, Dr have already accepted the invitation with gratitude. and Mr Chris Baghos, who tirelessly worked before and Cooper disclosed details of the seventh St Andrew’s Pa- These days, when worse than the shadows of Mordor during the symposium and without whose input its suc- tristic Symposium, to be held in September 2016 and threaten the world, our little yet successful gathering is cess would not have been possible. Likewise, to the col- dedicated to the personality and contributions of St a reminder that when we join forces together in the leagues who accepted to chair various sessions of the John Chrysostom. Indeed, His Eminence Archbishop name of the unfading Light, whom darkness can never conference. Special thanks are due to the students and Stylianos already gave us the blessing to convene the conquer, signs and wonders are given to God’s people. graduates of St Andrew’s College, who assisted in so next patristic symposium, a task for which we will be The presence at St Andrew’s of friends from all the cor- many ways with the organisation of this conference and joined by our colleague, Mario Baghos. His Eminence ners of the world and of so many Christian back- encouraged us with their presence. likewise gave the blessing for the invitation of Professor grounds, is indeed a providential and hope-giving sign. I wholeheartedly thank Dr Adam Cooper, eminent pa- Pauline Allen, FAHA, and Dr Wendy Meyer, from the For all these magnificent gifts, glory to God. tristic scholar, for his invaluable input as co-convener of Centre for Early Christian Studies (Australian Catholic this sixth St Andrew’s Patristic Symposium, and for his University, Brisbane QLD) as keynote speakers; both Greek-Australian leads diabetes research

Sofianos Andrikopoulos (pictured), Medicine Professor and member of the Greek Diaspora, was elected President of the Australian Diabetes Society, the leading organization for research, med- ical education and practice in the field of diabetes in the country. Andrikopoulos stated that his ap- pointment is a great honor and a huge responsibility, since the body is respon- sible for guidelines and notices regard- ing diabetes, as well as communication with the federal and state govern- ments regarding a large number of ini- tiatives for people suffering from the disease. Additionally, the organization led by Andrikopoulos is responsible for the operation of Diabetes centers across Australia, which ensure the highest lev- el of medical care. Seattle in Washington, where he stay- Andrikopoulos has compiled a highly ed for two years. impressive career in Australia. He has After his return to Australia, An- been awarded many distinctions, mak- drikopoulos established a research ing him one the leading personalities in center at the University of Melbourne, the field of diabetes. the Islet Biology Research Group, The Greek Australian VEMA After finishing his PhD at the Univer- which has made landmark contribu- The oldest circulating Greek newspaper outside Greece sity of Melbourne, he completed a tions to diabetes research and under- Tel: (02) 9559 7022 Fax: (02) 9559 7033 post-doctorate at the University of standing the causes of the disease. Email: [email protected] OCTOBER 2014 14/32 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA

THE LIFE CHANGINGGreece EXPERIENCE awarded OF asTHE CROSS For Christians the Cross is the unity of heaven and flesh should glory in His presence… for I am determined earth, the vertical and the horizontal linked. St Max- not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ imus says all natural phenomena are in need of the and Him crucified … not with persuasive words… but in Cross. We are all in need of the Cross. All of nature is in “Destination ofdemonstration Year of the Spirit 2013” and of power that your faith need of the Cross. should not be in the wisdom of men but in the power of Recently, in the intensive care unit at St George Hos- the God.” pital we met an elderly couple that had a severely dis- Here we see the great mystery of the Cross. In weak- abled child aged 40 in hospital. The child was sick with ness and foolishness we actually find strength. In death pneumonia. Their prayer was for her child to be healed we have the Resurrection. After winter we have spring. of pneumonia. The couple otherwise were happy to When one becomes a servant he is first among us all. continue to have the Cross that had been granted to When we lower ourselves then the Lord glorifies us. In them. this manner, we do not rely on our own strength but on Jesus said to his disciples: the strength and Grace of our Lord. He is the one who “If anyone desires to come after Me. are freed from the tyranny of our distorted passions. In- shows that humility to the point of the Cross conquers let him deny himself, deed, these passions can control our lives: it may be our hearts and makes us trust in Jesus as our Lord and take up his cross and follow me.” Matt. 16:24 overeating, alcohol, gambling, pornography, jealousy, Saviour. Taking up ones Cross means you first make a free hatred, gossip, materialism, consumerism, technology, This humility is one that respects each other so that choice to follow Jesus, and then, your participation in TV, Internet, computer games… the list goes on. This is one person does not absorb the other. The great Saints denial of self. Lets look at this verse closely. First of all, how our “denial of self” is directed to good and for our in our history were powerful personalities who help us we need to make a conscious decision to follow Jesus. salvation. discover who we are. We are not puppets. On the con- God respects human freedom. Do you want to give up Freedom comes when God’s Grace is given to us to trary, the Christian is the example of bravery, as we do your passion or addiction? Do you want to forgive your help overcome our distorted passions and addictions if not rely on the strength of the world but on God. enemy? Do you want to make your marriage work? Do we are prepared to work with God in synergy. Freedom St Porphyrios our newest Saint says: you want to cope with sickness? Do you want to fight comes when we make a commitment to God. This com- “Let your soul devote itself to the prayer ‘Lord Jesus temptation? Do you want to fight depression? With all mitment is supported by prayer and fasting. Prayer as Christ, have mercy on me’ in all your worries, for every- of these throw yourself into the sea of life like St Peter we are in dialogue with God himself to receive His Mer- thing and everyone. Don’t look at what’s happening to and walk on the water. It is your choice! The only pre- cy and His Grace. Fasting because this is the means to you, look to the light, at Christ, just as the child looks to requisite is to keep your eyes on the Lord. Elder Paisios rein in our passions. Fasting is not just from food, but its mother when something happens to it. See every- of Mt Athos says: what we say, taste, feel, hear, see and do. It allows for thing without anxiety, without depression, without “Today, it is either for Jesus Christ that we are called discipline and catharsis in all these areas. strain and without stress. to arms or for the devil. It is a clear front. During the Freedom comes to us in our interpersonal relations as “Our disposition to love God also contains within it a Nazi Occupation, one would become a hero by not we look to the other person and not to ourselves. Free- certain pain. When you wish to live spiritually we suffer saluting a German soldier. Now days, heroes are those dom comes to us in our intimate relationship in Mar- pain because we need to sever every bond that links us who do not salute the devil. Have no doubt about it, we riage when we embrace the mystery of the person of to matter. But when we wish to satisfy ourselves or oth- will become witnesses to horrific events. There will be our husband or wife created in God’s image and like- ers, what we expend is love, an energy, a power of our spiritual battles. The Saints will become holier and ness. Archbishop Stylianos writes this in a poem called soul. We need to take care about how and for whom we those who live in filth will get filthier. Yet I feel a great The Other: expend that energy. consolation inside. This storm will pass, too. Our strug- The other is ineffable “The sorrow which we have in our love for God con- gle counts because it is not a struggle against Ali Pasha, Neither small nor large tains within it joy, and on account of this joy we perse- or against Hitler or Mussolini but against the devil him- an anonymous yearning vere and do not give way to soul-destroying depression. self. For this reason, our wages will be heavenly. May regardless how familiar or distant Where there is humility, there is no depression. An ego- God being the Good God that He is, take all that is evil is my nearest God. tist is vexed at the slightest thing. and turn it into good, Amen.” (p. 40-41: With Pain and “A humble person is free and independent from Love for Contemporary Man). However more different the other everyone and everything. This comes about through u- Our personal decision to struggle counts! That is the so much more astonishing nion with Christ. All our senses function in accordance first step. It is not easy to make that first step as Elder is my Lord and God with the law of our Lord. You are ready to empty your- Paisios says: “Today they have taken sin and made it only in touching him self to anyone whomsoever. This is freedom. Where fashionable”. This is why today the Elder continues to am I ecstatically redeemed there is love, there is freedom. When you live in the say: “Depending on their distance from God, people are in the fulfilment of the world. (Perth - 24.5.76) love of God, you live in freedom.” (p. 145 -146 - Wound- in constant pain in this life and will be in eternal pain in Freedom comes also by not being committed to con- ed by Love). the other life. For the taste and joy of Paradise begins, sumerism and materialism but sharing in communion Lets hear also what Elder Paisios says on the Saints in to an extent, in this life, depending on how much one and almsgiving. The Church of course is Holy Commun- relation to us: lives to the will of God.” ion! “Today, there are more words and books and fewer We have looked at choosing freely to live one’s life The third step is: taking up one’s Cross. “If anyone de- living examples. We admire the holy Athletes of the according to the will of God. This is the first step. The sires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take Church but without understanding how much they second step for one who wants to follow after the Cru- up his Cross and follow Me”. All of us have a Cross to struggled, because we have not struggled ourselves. cified and Resurrected Lord is “let him deny himself.” carry. The Lord gives us a Cross to carry according to the Had we done so, we would appreciate their pain, we What does this mean - denial of self? sins and passions of each of us. The couple who had the would love them even more and strive with philotimo It means denial of egotism, pride, selfishness, and in- disabled child we spoke about did not want to do away to imitate them. The Good God will of course take into dividualism. We all have a personal struggle. We are with their Cross. Our personal Cross is allowed by God account the age and the conditions in which we live, called to be in an interpersonal relationship with our for us to counteract our sins and passions and for our and He will ask of each of us accordingly. If we only fellow human beings. We are not to be individuals in a salvation. strive even a little bit, we will merit the crown more lonely monologue. This brings sure death. This is like After we have followed through on the 3 steps speci- than our ancestors.” (p. 33: With Pain and Love for Con- the Pharisee, in the Parable of the Tax Collector and fied we can follow our Lord. The Cross for the world is temporary Man). Pharisee, who went up to the temple to pray. The Phar- foolishness. Humility and offering yourself to the other The challenge for myself and for all of us is to accept isee prayed to himself and praised himself. The Tax Col- person goes contrary to the power and strength of the Christ and Him crucified in our lives. Lets all of us think lector prayed, to God, repented and glorified God. As world where the devil has an interest. St Paul makes of a practical way to apply the God-Man’s life-giving Christians we look to the other person to be inspired, this clear in 1 Corinthians 1: sacrifice upon the Cross in our lives and have real free- forgiven and to see God, but also, to our inner self that “For Christ did not send me to baptise, but to preach dom. It may be in our marriage, with our children, with is created in God’s image and likeness. When we do this the gospel not with wisdom of words, least the cross of our work or with a passion that is hard to overcome. we go through a purification of our souls - called in Christ should be made of no effect. For the message of Whatever it is, let’s hear St Paul speak to us again: Greek “catharsis”. Repentance, asking God and our fel- the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but “And do not be conformed to this world, but be trans- low human beings for forgiveness, is the first step to for those who are being saved it is the power of God… formed by the renewal of your mind, that you may reconciliation. This happens not because we are worthy But God has chosen the foolish things in the world to prove what is the will of God, what is good and accept- of forgiveness but because God offers this to us as a put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak able and perfect”. (Rom. 12:2) free gift by His sacrifice on the Cross for all of us, once things of the world to put to shame the things which are May the Holy Cross renew and transform us all. and for all. Now we are not trapped in a dead end. The mighty; and the base things of the world and the things antidote to sin, selfishness, pride and death is given to that are despised God has chosen and the things that Fr Constantine Varipatis those who believe in salvation through the Cross. We are not to bring to nothing the things that are, that no Parish Priest OCTOBER 2014 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 15/33

The new findinings from Antikythera

The Greek Ministry of Culture announced the most recent findings from the Antikythera ship- wreck archeological site, also releasing pictures from the operation. A solid copper spear with a butt cap called a sau- roter (Greek for "lizard killer") believed to have been part of a metal or marble sculpture, a copper ring fastened to a copper nail, the lead lower por- tion of an anchor (from the wreck found in 2013), a hoop, a copper bedpost, and an intact earthenware vessel are according to the Ministry of Culture the most recent items salvaged from the ancient ship- wreck in dives that began on 15 September. Other items brought to the surface include a piece of lead plating from the ship's hull. According to the ministry the fact that close by there is another posi- tion with stacked amphorae is raising the question whether this is part of the same ship, or another that went down in a separate incident. The issue is still unclear despite the extensive mapping of the underwater site carried out over the past few weeks. The cartography of the site was overlaid onto a GPS array allowing researchers to superimpose the data from the 1900 salvage operation, and the Cousteau expedition of 1976, and making possible a 3D depiction. Activities to follow will include sweeps with metal detectors to more accurately pinpoint the extent of the wreck and debris scattered. OCTOBER 2014 16/34 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA

Journey to Livissi, a Greek village on sale in Asia Minor

By Giorgos Lialios - been renovated and are inhabited. They Kathimerini, Athens Architects call on the Turkish government are a handful of properties that are still to protect this historic settlement following privately owned and have not passed to If you sit still for a minute at around the announcement of a development tender the state. noon in Livissi and put a hand on the wall One of these belongs to Birol Ganioglu, of one of the stone houses, you can al- who runs a restaurant on the ground most hear the sounds of life that once floor and has photographs of Greeks who filled this village, which suddenly emp- once lived in Livissi hanging in the en- tied in 1922. Until then, Livissi was popu- trance, showing them in the village or in lated mainly by Greeks - 3,500 according Nea Makri, where most of them were re- to some sources and 6,500 according to settled during the population exchanges. others - who were forced to abandon “My home belonged to Giorgos Geor- hearth and home as part of the popula- giadis, whose nickname was Kel Yorgo, or tion exchanges between Greece and Bald Giorgo - much like myself,” Ganioglu Turkey. jests. Today Livissi is a ruin of its old self, hid- den behind a hill in a dense forest just a Turkish plans few kilometers from the Turkish coastal resort of Fethiye (Makri in Greek), a two- The architectural community in both hour boat ride from the Greek island of Turkey and Greece has made several ef- Rhodes. A handful of Turks remain, mos- forts to have Livissi listed for preserva- tly at the southern end of the settle- tion. ment. Kumyol Ridpath was part of the first After decades in obscurity, Livissi was endeavor in 1999, which was a deal be- brought back into the spotlight recently tween the chamber and the Turkish when the Turkish Ministry of Culture and the Greeks in 1922 to just 300 a few Taxiarchis,” recalls Mavrikou. Tourism Association for the restoration Tourism announced a tender for the de- years later. Mavrikou was fortunate to be able to of the village's two biggest churches and velopment of about one-third of the his- “The alleys of Kayakoy still bear the im- fulfill her grandmother's wish as the the street that connects them. torical part of the village into a tourist re- print of Giorgos and Ibrahim, of Aishe church was closed to the public last year. At around the same time a series of sort. According to media publications, and Eleni. It was not their war but they “I searched for the house when I ar- meetings between architects were held the investor will be granted a 49-year paid the price. The walls still carry their rived at the church. I couldn't find the to discuss the restoration of the village. lease and will also be responsible for ren- memories,” says Taban. landmarks my mother had told me to fol- These included the participation of Nikos ovating the rest of the settlement. Some 500 kilometers away in Nea low. Then I went through a door and I Agriantonis, then-president of the Greek The Greeks of Livissi abandoned the Makri, east of Athens, 72-year-old De- saw it. All that was left was an L-shaped branch of the International Council of village in 1922, leaving their valuables spina Mavrikou grew up with stories wall. There was still soot in the fire- Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS), and and other belongings with their Turkish about Livissi told by her mother and place,” says Mavrikou. Arif Sedek, general secretary of the Turk- neighbors for safekeeping. Their exodus grandmother. The main part of Livissi today consists ish Chamber of Architects. The concept marked the beginning of the end of vil- “My grandmother died in 1952 and my of a few hundred stone houses huddled behind the restoration was to turn Livissi lage life as the Turkish farmers brought mother in 2006. They never managed to together along narrow alleys, with into a village of “peace and friendship.” from Thessaloniki in northern Greece go back to Livissi and it weighed heavily caved-in roofs and collapsed walls. In The initiative began to take shape a (according to locals' accounts) to resettle on their hearts. I remember one day my some cases nothing but a few scattered few years later. the empty Greek homes soon left due to daughter was playing in the yard with a stones remain to show where homes What has progressed in the past few a shortage of arable land. toy airplane and my grandmother said, once stood. Or a staircase that leads weeks, however, is the Turkish govern- The Turks of Livissi, or Kayakoy as it ‘Oh child, put me on that plane and take nowhere and a fireplace perched atop a ment's plans to develop Livissi into a was later named, gradually scattered as me home.’ She wanted me to go to Livis- piece of walling, still darkened by smoke, tourist resort, complete with hotel, well, with their population dropping si and bring her back a handful of peb- 90 years on. Or a sky-blue wall still bear- shops and attractions. from around 1,000 after the exodus of bles from the courtyard of the Church of ing the traces of the cupboards and The plan is to create accommodation shelves that once accommodated a kit- of 300 beds in Levissi's abandoned build- chen. Dirt covers the floors and nature - ings, which will be leased to the investor especially wild figs - has taken over, for 49 years. The investment is estimated Four Greek universities growing through walls, in the middle of at 300 million Turkish liras, or around living rooms, snaking into every nook. 10.4 million euros. Yet even among the remnants of time “We were terrified by the news,” says among world’s best and ruin, the past is still evident. Livissi is Seckin Basoglou, a lawyer and resident of probably the only Greek village in Asia Fethiye. “We are afraid that this initiative Four Greek universities were placed Minor that remains as it was, without in- will destroy the memory of the place.” among the world’s best 500 in the QS terventions, a landmark of the history of Back in Greece, Despina Damianou, the Top Universities Guide for 2014-2015. Hellenism in this part of Turkey. It is this head of the association for residents of MIT is the best University in the world, sense of history that has compelled the Nea Makri who hail from Livissi and while University of Cambridge comes authorities to turn it into a tourist attrac- Makri, agrees. second, followed by Imperial College tion. Turkish guide books describe it as a “First of all it is a gift that it has held on London, Harvard University and the Uni- ghost town. as it has so far,” she says. versity of Oxford. It’s worth mentioning “It makes me mad when they refer to it For Mavrikou, the birthplace of her that in 2013’s list, only 2 Greek universi- as a ghost town,” says Taban, one of the grandmother and mother is a holy place. ties were included. many people in the area who feel the “Our life began there.” Four Greek universities managed to be need to record the stories of the Greeks Five hundred kilometers away from included to the best 500: National Tech- who once lived here in an effort to rec- the land of her forebears, Mavrikou has nical University of Athens (photo) was oncile themselves with the past. her memories stored in a small box. She placed in the rank 441-450, followed by The QS Top Universities Guide (TUG) is “Many Greeks come to visit. Some cry opens it with pious care and shows me University of Crete which was ranked the official publication of QS World Uni- and it makes us very sad,” says Nail Kuyu- its precious contents: pebbles from the 451-460, Aristotle University in the posi- versity Rankings and a result of annual cak, a resident. “They write us letters Taxiarchis churchyard. She put some on tions 461-470 and finally National and research conducted by QS on the best telling us how difficult their lives have her grandmother's grave as she'd prom- Kapodistrian University of Athens in the universities, with commentary on the re- been [since they left].” ised. positions 491-500. cent trends in global higher education. Just seven of Livissi's residences have “I've kept a few for my own,” she says. OCTOBER 2014 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 17/35

An activity of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia

What’s been happening at Bribie Island?

The day would not have been successful without the efforts and assistance giv- en voluntarily by all Greek Orthodox Parishes and Communities as well as Greek Associations, other community groups and individuals. We take this opportunity to thank all of them for their assistance, whether it was in a material way or in giv- It has been an exciting few months since I started back in March; time sure is ing their time. flying along as we continue to establish and expand operations. It is with this support and generosity that we look forward to Bribie Island We have been working internally to improve our site and range of activities; Paniyiri 2015. whilst also focussing externally on marketing, advertising and networking to build relationships with a range of school, youth, sporting, Church and community Donations groups. We look forward to becoming busier on site as our number of bookings in- We are extremely grateful for donations and bequests which have been re- crease, and to also consolidate our footprint within the community as a Youth Re- ceived to date. Through these efforts, and with a substantial Federal Government treat & Recreation Centre. Grant, Stage 1 (Chapel) and 2 (Auditorium and Cabins) have been completed. We were recently honoured to welcome His Grace Bishop Seraphim of Apollo- Stage 3 lies ahead. It will include construction of remaining Cabins, grounds in- nias; also present were members of the Board of Governors, Management Com- frastructure and sporting fields to be established. mittee, staff and volunteers. If you would like to make a donation, or have questions in general about the Re- We were also pleased to welcome The Circle of Senior Citizens & Friends from treat, please feel welcome to contact a member of the Board of Governors (Pres- the Parish-Community of the Dormition of the Theotokos, Mt Gravatt, for a won- ident - Mr Emanuel Kallinicos), Management Committee (Chairman - Mr Stathis derful day! Efstathis) or I will also be happy to discuss.

Bribie Island Paniyiri – Sunday 6 July 2014 Matt Bender - Coordinator Bribie Island Retreat and Recreation Centre (www.gobribieisland.org) What a fantastic day after a couple of years’ break; Bribie Paniyiri is back with a Mobile: 0419 509 935 vengeance and we look forward to celebrating this cultural event again next year. Email: [email protected] Tripadvisor: Acropolis Museum among the best museums in the world The global museum list by Tripadvisor was released recently. It ranks 25 of the world’s best museums based on an algorithm that factors in the quality and quantity of reviews over a year-long period. Glowing reviews over a recent 12-month period have earned the Art In- stitute of Chicago the top ranking in TripAdvisor’s Trav- elers’ Choice awards for museums, whereas the Muse- um of Acropolis was ranked at number 8. The results are sometimes surprising: The Louvre, the world’s most visited museum, comes in at No. 19 on the global list, behind lesser-known museums such as Stockholm’s Vasa Museum (No. 13) and the Instituto Ri- cardo Brennand in Recife, Brazil (No. 17). The full list: 1. Art Institute of Chicago 2. National Museum of Anthropology, Mexico 3. State Hermitage Museum & Winter Palace, Russia 4. The Getty Center, L.A. 5. Galleria dell’Accademia/Statue of David, Italy 12. National Gallery, London 19. Musee du Louvre 6. Musee d’Orsay, Paris 13. Vasa Museum, Sweden 20. The Rijksmuseum (Nat. Museum), Amsterdam 7. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, N.Y. 14. National Gallery of Art, US 21. Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum , US 8. Acropolis Museum 15. British Museum 22. Qin Museum Terracotta Warriors & Horses, China 9. Prado Museum, Madrid 16. Hagia Sophia Museum/Church, Istanbul 23. Ιnhotim, Brazil 10.Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial, Jerusalem 17. Instituto Ricardo Brennand, Brazil 24. Museum of New Zealand (Te Papa Tongarewa) 11. The National WWII Museum, Louisiana 18. Borghese Gallery, Rome 25. Gold Museum (Museo del Oro), Bogota OCTOBER 2014 18/36 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA Arts, Food & Wine Editor: Imogen Coward Land of plenty

It is a curious fact that for a very long time indeed the variety of grape and the region it has been grown in has Mudgee is home to an amazing array of small producers, with many been regarded as essential insights into the likely char- wineries specialising in Mediterranean styles acter of a wine. Yet, for most Australians, applying a similar concept to the more mundane, everyday foods we eat is only just starting to gain a foothold. Something interesting to contemplate, next time you’re perusing a cookbook, or wandering around the local greengrocers, is how much more interesting cook- ing and food is when we are aware of the number of different varieties of, say, a lemon and the subtle differ- ences these and where it has been grown can impart to a dish and indeed to a cuisine. For example when a gelato recipe calls for a lemon, is it the good all round- er, the eureka, or the enormous lemons which are fa- mously grown on the Amalfi coast of Italy? Slowly but surely, the sort of regionalism that has defined the character of produce and cuisine throughout Europe is developing in Australia and with it comes a much more varied and interesting palate of flavours and produce. But, there’s a catch... As we all know the big grocers are geared towards more generic lines that transport well and have mass appeal and, to a very large extent, the concept of sea- sons, much less specific varieties of food, is almost en- tirely absent. To experience the sort of regional food specialities that are starting to grow up in Australia is not so easy. Indeed, if you live in the cities you often ei- ther have to a) eat at high-end restaurants that source my list of top 10 things produced in the region), Mudgee Showground Pavilion, and the name says it all. from specific producers, b) find one of the few shops Mudgee is home to an amazing array of small produc- Local food producers provided tasting tables to get the that makes a point of carrying regional and seasonal ers. There is, of course, a particular emphasis on wine, evening started. Wineries then teamed up with local produce, or c) (my favourite option) go bush and visit with many wineries specialising in Mediterranean producers to provide canapes and desserts matched some of our amazing food producing regions and ex- styles, notably di Lusso Estate. There is also plenty of with their wines, and between each round, ‘grazers’ plore it for yourself. good local cheese, including Leaning Oak which spe- were asked to vote on which wines best suited the If you’re a regular reader of country magazines or cialises in goats’ cheese, and High Valley, and olives, foods they accompanied. The competitive spirit was newspapers, or you’re in the habit of browsing the with Lomondo and Karabool Blue Shed producing fresh alive and well amongst the many eateries in town dur- tourist websites, no doubt you’ll be aware of the many vibrant olive oils of particular note. There is also now ing the whole festival as well, with diners asked to vote farmers’ markets around Australia. Some markets, and charcuterie from Pipeclay, free-range pork and smallgo- on various dishes. food and wine festivals, are well publicised, but too of- ods from Puttabucca Meats and outstandingly good Saturday’s (27 September) event would have to be ten they are known only to locals, or advertised too late lamb from Nanima Lamb, to name just a few of the pro- rated as the ultimate highlight of the Food & Wine Fes- for city people to make accommodation arrangements. ducers. tival. Part of Mudgee’s main street, Market Street, was If you find you’re starting to notice particular foods Distances are not very big between cellar/farm-gate closed off in the afternoon and 66 stalls were set up. (fruit, jams, cheeses, breads, vinegars, nuts, hams, etc.) stores for many of the producers so visiting three or Visitors could simply walk up and down enjoying the or wines from an area, why not consider going to that four in a day is quite possible. However, a fantastic op- beautiful weather and listen to the music on offer, or area for a foodies’ holiday? Chances are, if the region portunity to sample everything in the one place is the they could purchase a wine glass and sample the wines. has enough variety and enough producers, there will be major food and wine festival held each year. To help Stalls offering mustards, wine jellies, cheese, cake and regular farmers’ markets, cellar doors, and if you’re spread the word about what the region has to offer, everything else food-related one could imagine were lucky, a food and wine festival. food fairs are held twice a year in Sydney, but going to swamped by enthusiastic crowds. Food and Wine Festi- The high-profile regions like the Hunter Valley, Mudgee itself opens up a whole new experience. The vals, such as this one held in Mudgee, to show off what Barossa Valley and, increasingly, Tasmania, are well Mudgee Wine & Food Festival is held annually over a small Australian producers can achieve and the high known foodie stops, but one that is very much worth period of 3-4 weeks from September to October. As level they attain, are certainly worth adding to your checking out is the NSW Central Tablelands and in par- well as individual events being offered by the many plans for a holiday, especially if you’re keen to explore ticular Mudgee which is only 3-4hrs drive from Sydney wineries and food producers, there were two outstand- Australia. (depending on what route you take). Once known pri- ing events held on two separate Saturday nights this marily for it’s Port (van Gent’s port and muscat are on year. The first was called Go Grazing, held at the IC & AC

THE GREEK AUSTRALIAN The oldest circulating Greek newspaper outside VEMA Greece SEPTEMBER 2014 Tel. (02) 9559 7022 Fax: (02) 9559 7033 E-mail: [email protected]

OUR ARCHBISHOP’S VIEW SORROW - THE BEGINNING OF HUMAN FORMATION - Part B - PAGES 5/23 FFoooodd && WWiinnee

St George College Ni Hao China experience!

Fourteen excited senior students of St George College, and three teachers depart- ed Australia for what would be an unforget- table experience in some of the highly pop- ulated cities of China. PAGE 8/26 AMPHIPOLIS TOMB GATHERS WORLD di Lusso Estate Charity concert success

The Camerata Academica of the Antipo- des presented its inaugural concert sup- MEDIA ATTENTION porting two Australian children’s music cha- rities, the Don Spencer Australian Children’s Music Foundation, and the Brissenden Two Caryatids have been found at a second sealing wall in the tomb under excavation in Amphipolis. “The right arm Foundation. of the western Caryatid and the left arm of the eastern one are both outstretched, as if to symbolically prevent any- PAGE 18/36 one attempting to enter the grave,” Greece’s Culture Ministry announced. The marble sculptures, which bear traces of red and blue paint, are of thick-haired women wearing sleeved tunics and earrings. The face of one of the figures survives nearly intact, and fragments of parts of the hands and fingers have been found in the soil. A rectangular marble block decorated with rosettes and blue, red, and yellow paint was also discovered at the bottom of the vault. There’s some speculation that the tomb may hold the remains of a Mace- donian queen. FULL REPORT PAGE 19/37

WINDOWS TO ORTHODOXY: St John the Baptist and Forerunner:

Nisyros: Angel, Apostle Step onto the moon This Dodecanese island uniquely combi- or Martyr? Sangiovese 2013 nes a lunar landscape with splashes of greenery. PAGES 16/34 - 17/35 PAGE 20/38

Forget the dichotomy of the big beefy, larly well suited to Lamb dishes, but also The Greek Australian Vema knock-your-socks-off reds and the ‘I’ve goes well with antipasto, salad, chicken been watered down’ young reds of today. and more - a good all-rounder for the en- The oldest circulating Greek newspaper This Sangiovese is elegant, tasty with tire year. outside Greece flavours of cherry, raspberry and a touch of thyme and rosemary, and is smooth with a Cost: approx $26 per bottle Tel: (02) 9559 7022 Fax: (02) 9559 7033 hint of sweetness. It is the perfect match visit www.dilusso.com.au for the online Email: [email protected] for Mediterranean cuisine and is particu- cellar door OCTOBER 2014 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 19/37

Souris resigns from Australian politics It was not so long ago that the MP of the in 2015’s parliamentary elections. National Party of New South Wales, Greek Souris, the Nationals MP for the Up- Australian George Souris (pictured), was a per Hunter, will have served a total of prominent leader in Barry O’Farrell’s coali- 27 years in the Parliament of New tion government. South Wales, Australia’s biggest state. Between 2011 and 2014, Souris served Souris is the 40th Greek Australian as minister of Tourism, Major Events, Hos- MP to step down from a parliamentary pitality and Racing, as well as minister for seat. Moreover, John Pantazopoulos, the Arts. His time in office is now over, Nick Kotsiras and Costas Vatskalis have however, a sideline repercussion of NSW announced that they will also sit out on Premier O’Farrell’s failure to declare re- next year’s elections. ceiving the gift of a $3,000 bottle of wine. For the immediate future, the Greek Souris was given no role in the newly reformed govern- presence in the State Parliaments of Australia is at a low ment. He has announced that he will not recontest his seat ebb. (AAP)

Greek products dominating the US market

Greece is one of the largest exporters to the US in a range of alimentary products like oli- ves, fish, legumes, and cheese as well as a number of manufactured goods like pipes and razor blades. In 2013, olive exports to the US reached $100 million. In some product ranges, the contribution of Greek exports reaches 73.2% while basic competitors for Greece in this market are Turkey, Italy and Spain. Greece holds the reigns in such categories as farmed fish, like sea brim and bass, with 58% and 54.2% in 2013. What is more surpris- ing is that Greece is the chief exporter of beans to the US, whether dry or preserved, with 68.8% of the market share, leaving Mex- ico and Italy behind. In terms of cheese, whether made of cow or sheep’s milk, Greece was the third largest ex- porter after Spain and France in 2013. Greece’s firsts are not limited to alimentary goods. In 2013, Greece was by far the chief exporter of pumice, getting a 53.8% of market share. Greece also supplies the American market with pipes for gas and oil pipelines with a net worth of $55.7 million from $115 million in 2012. Greek products dominating the US market: 1. Olives 73%, main competitors Italy, Turkey, Canada. 2. Beans 68.8%, main competitors Mexico, Honduras, China. 3. Sea Brim, 58%, main competitors Cyprus, Turkey. 4. Bass 54.2%, main competitor Turkey. 5. Pumice 53.8%, main competitors Iceland, Mexico, China. 6. Figs 37.1% (fresh & dried), main competi- tor Turkey. 7. Cheese from sheep’s milk 29.8%, main competitors Spain, Israel. 8. Iron & steel pipes 26.4%, main competi- tors S. Korea, Germany, Japan. 9. Razor blades 25.5%, main competitors Mexico, China. 10. Peaches 20.1%, main competitors China, Chile, Australia. OCTOBER 2014 20/38 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA Travel Kea

Walk this way Kea re an The ancient trails of the westernmost of the Cycladesributes are an ideal way to explore its varied historical and natural attributes BY H. ARGYROPOULOS through thick vegetation will lead you to a beautiful beach In mythology, Kea, the west- on the southeastern coast and ernmost of the Cycladic islands the ruins of two ancient tem- - just 12 nautical miles off the ples. “Karthaia indeed is but a coast of the tip of Attica and 52 narrow ridge of land, yet I shall from Piraeus - was once the not exchange it for Babylon,” home of nymphs who lived in exalted Pindar, the ancient its dense forests. Due to its lyric poet. abundant water sources, it was Source: ATHENSPLUS known as Hydroussa. One day, a lion appeared and began to chase the nymphs, HMHS who escaped to Sirius - the Britannic brightest star in the sky. Sirius then burned Hydroussa and The western coast of Kea the other Cyclades with its is a strong pole of attraction powerful rays - and, for the for scuba-diving enthusiasts most part, deprived them of due to several large ship- their verdant glory for good. wrecks, including the HMHS The lion, however, is still tor vehicles have to be left out- island’s largest beach, shady hi and Sykamia - accessible on- Britannic, the Titanic’s sis- there - albeit in imposing, scul- side the settlement - quite a and almost perfectly round, ly by 4x4 vehicles. ter ship which was requisi- pted rock form, 6 meters long blessing, for whether on foot with two picturesque chapels Whether you are the adven- tioned and operated as a at Liontas, 1.5 kilometer north- or by donkey power, it is a joy and traditional tavernas. turous type or not, a visit to hospital ship during World east of Hora (or Ioulida), the is- negotiating the narrow, stone- At sunset, walk up to Pana- ancient Karthaia is a must. War I. land’s capital. Kea, which has a paved alleyways that pass be- ghia Kastriani - an 18th-century About 40 minutes of trekking Considered more “unsink- total area of 130 square kilo- low arches linking the white monastery built on the edge of along a wonderful trail from able” than the Titanic due meters, has also retained some houses. a cliff and ideal location from the village of Stavroudaki and to modifications in the de- rare and superb oak forests. At the entrance to the settle- which to enjoy the view. Just sign, the Britannic sank in The greatest part of its natural ment, note the wall paintings 300 m from the monastery, fol- just 55 minutes after an ex- beauty, however, seems hid- by renowned artist Alekos Fas- low the wide stone path uphill plosion caused by a German den in its wide network of sianos, then visit the neoclassi- that will take you to Hora in mine in November 1916 mostly stone-paved old trails cal Town Hall and the former about 90 minutes though a and was discovered by and footpaths, some 36 km in school (both designed by Ernst wonderful landscape with oak French explorer Jacques all, which make it a walkers’ Ziller). Continue past the ruins forest. Western Kea has excel- Cousteau in 1975. It is the haven. of an old fort and ascend the lent beaches - Spathi, Kalidony- largest sunken ocean liner Kea, also known as Tzia, hill toward the deserted wind- in the world. flourished in the pre-Classical mills, once the biggest wind- period (7th-6th c. BC), when it mill park in the Cyclades, com- comprised four independent prising 26 in all, that milled the and economically strong city- island’s sizable wheat harvests. states: Ioulida, Karthaia, Poiies- Hora is a lively place, full of sa and Korissia. Some of the small bars and tavernas along walking trails date back to tho- the quaint alleyways. If you se times. The almond- shaped stay out late and have to re- island’s terrain is mostly arid turn to Livadi, don’t miss out and hilly, marked by deep gor- on a chance to walk down the ges and tranquil valleys dotted stone-paved path under the with chapels. The highest sum- moonlight. 1 2 3 mit, Profitis Ilias, rises to 568 Kea’s 86 km of coastline of- meters. fer few but excellent options Where to eat Where to stay What to see Farming is the main occupa- for swimming. A relatively qui- et and scenic beach southwest Kea is famed more for its meat Hotels are few but many rooms The municipal authorities organ- tion, but in the last decade or ize an annual international story- of Livadi is Xyla, about 5 km than its seafood. The local speciality and studios are available for rent. so proximity to Athens has Red Tractor Farm is a busy agri- telling festival (July 17-25, www. away through rugged land- is paspalas, an omelet prepared made tourism a fast-growing with cured pork and tomatoes. Also tourism hub in Livadi, offering ac- kea.gr). The Aghia Marina tower, 6.5 sector, attracting many weal- scape. Gialiskari, an easy op- try local cheeses such as xyno, commodation and tailormade holi- km southwest of Hora, is a rare 4th- thy Greeks and weekenders tion some 600 m from Livadi chloro, myzithra and kopanisti; buy days including walking tours, boat century BC tower, part of a larger who flaunt their boats and and shaded by trees, gets easi- fragrant honey, almond cakes and rides and traditional cooking lessons defensive complex. Watch the sun- have pushed up realty prices. ly crowded. About 1 km further sesame candy bars (pasteli). In (tel 22880.21346, www.redtractor- set from the fort in Hora or from the Some complain, with a little along is cosmopolitan Vourka- Vourkari Aristos (tel 21475) is fa- farm.com); Seirii (tel 22355), small balcony of the Panorama patisserie. exaggeration, that Kea now ri. Opposite Vourkari, the Kok- mous for his lobster spaghetti; Ro- neoclassical building in romantic Visit the windmill houses at Koun- landos (tel 22224), on the square in style; Porto Kea Suites (tel 22870), douros, the Archaeological Museum feels like a suburb of Athens. ka peninsula was named after at Hora (tel 22079) and the two art the now-ruined coal warehou- Hora, has a wide range of good ap- elegant bungalows and suites in Ko- Hora, about 6 km from Koris- petizers and dishes; in Korissia La- rissia; St George Bungalows (tel galleries at Vourkari, named Vourka- sia (also known as Livadi), and ses, where cargo ships stocked goudera (tel 21977) offers excellent 22880.31 385), in Koundouros, 25 riani and Marina Keas, and the Mod- perched on the side of a steep up during the flourishing inter- options in Greek traditional cuisine, km from the port, near a quiet ern Art Center. Kea is excellent for hill, is charming. A protected war period. including moussaka, pastitsio and beach with taverna; Keos Katoikies bird-watching and its flora compris- traditional settlement, all mo- Continue east to Otzias, the rooster in wine. (tel 21661). es some 3,000 species.