THE GREEK AUSTRALIAN The oldest circulating Greek newspaper outside VEMA Greece MARCH 2017 Tel. (02) 9559 7022 Fax: (02) 9559 7033 E-mail: [email protected] DISCIPLINEOUR ARCHBISHOP’S IN THE VIEW HOME MESSAGE FOR THE ANNIVERSARY OF THE 25th MARCH 1821

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Parthenon voted the most beautiful building in the world The Parthenon has been v oted the mos t beautiful building in the w orld according to Business Insider, followed by The National Con- WORDS gress of Brazil in Bra-sília, The São Paulo Muse- um of Art (São Paulo, Brazil) and The Forbidden City Temple in Beijing, (China). Between Turkey and Greece PAGE 7/23

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Ca vusoglu told CNN soglu’s threat that Turkey could set foot on the Imia isles Turk that the blame for the escalating war of words be- whenever desired. He said, “ther e is no w ay Cavusoglu tween Turkey and Greece lays in the hands of the Gr eek can step onto a Greek island. If the y want to they can Defense Minister, Panos Kammenos for making “provo- see. I’ll see how they will get off the island if they set foot cative” comments. there.” “That defense minister of that racist party is provok- The threats by Turkey regarding the Imia isles is a part ing,” Cavusoglu claimed on CNN Turk, whi le patting the of the irr edentist rhetoric of the Turkish gov ernment Turkish military on the back sa ying that thanks to the which claims tha t dozens of Gr eek islands ar e in f act calm demeanor of the Turkish arme d forces, further es- Turkish property, including Imia. caation such as an “accident” in the southeastern Aege- Back in December 2016 Turkish F oreign Minister Mev- an over the Imia islets has not occurred. lut Cavusoglu spoke in front of his country’s national as- “We don’t want (an accident) and we have many times sembly stating claims specifically to the Greek islands of warned,” Cavusoglu said during the interview. Imia, a pair of two small uninhabited isletsPAGE in the13 Aegean/29 In recent weeks tensions rose to new heights between Sea, saying, “There is no change in our policy r egarding Blessing and Official Opening the two countries as Kammenos responded to Cavu- Imia. Imia is Turkish land.” (Cont. p. 2/18) of Estia villas in Brisbane On Friday, 17th February His Grace Bishop Seraphim of Apollonia travelled to Brisbane to represent his Eminence Ar chbishop Stylianos for the ble ssing and of ficial opening of St John’s Community Care Estia villas.

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Helen Stamelos, from Morely WA, talks about her incredible long life ‘How on earth can I still be

Parnassos villages Easily accessible from Athens, this group of here at 110?’ small communities offers opportunities for hik- PAGE 10/26 ing or just sitting back and admiring nature. PAGE 16/32 MARCH 2017 2/18 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA

War of words between Turkey and Greece

Cont. from page 1/17

Turkey’s claims to Greece’s Imia Isle have previously led the two countries to disputes which came extreme- ly close to an outbreak of military forces in both 1987 and as recently as 1996. Mitsotakis briefs EPP counterparts, EU and NATO about Turkey’s provocations

New Democracy leader K yriakos Mitsotakis said on Thursday he informed his counterparts at the European People’s Party (EPP) summit in Brussels as well as top EU and NATO officials about the recent spike in airspace violations in the Aegean by Turkey. Mitsotakis met with EU foreign policy chief F ederica Mogherini, the President of the European Parliament Antonio Tajani, the President of the EU’s Military Com- mittee (EUMC) General Mikhail K ostarakos and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg. “I expressed to everyone my intense concern for the escalation of the provocations in the Aegean from Ankara and of course I informed them about Greece’s standard positions [on the issue],” he said, noting that for the first time Greece witnessed a military exercise of the Turkish Navy with real fire inside Greek waters. “Greece does not intend to be dragged into an esca- lation which, as it seems, the Turkish side wants. But it will not allow any provocation to go unanswered,” he Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu (left) told CNN T urk that the blame for the escalating war of words between said and added Greece wants good neighborly relations Turkey and Greece lays in the hands of the Greek Defense Minister , Panos Kammenos (right) for making “provocative” with Turkey based on international law and treaties. comments. Lecture on the Antikythera Mechanism at the Greek Centre Melbourne

Church still not satisfied with school religion A dispute between the Church of Greece and the gov- ernment, which began last September when new teach- ing material for religion classes was distributed to On Monday, March 20, at 6:30 p.m., Professor Xeno- At the lecture the discussion will revolve around the schools, is continuing to cause problems in the relation- phon Moussas will present a lecture about the An- most basic question of how humans conceived, de- ship between the institutions. tikythera Mechanism at the Greek Centre, as part of the signed and constructed a mechanical Cosmos. The bid to change the content of the lessons so they Greek History and Culture Seminars offered by the The reveals in the lecture are results based on 12 moved away from the catechism and gave students a Greek Community of Melbourne. years of research by Professor Xenophon Moussas’ better understanding of other religions was one of the The Antikythera Mechanism is the oldest known com- team and especially on the latest readings and interpre- reasons that a bitter dispute broke out between the puter, even originally named tablet in Greek (“pinakid- tations of the manual of this ancient Greek computer. Greek Orthodox Church and the coalition, leading to ion” meaning little table, i.e. tablet). It was made during Professor Xenophon Moussas (University of Athens) is Nikos Filis being removed from his post as education the 2nd century BC somewhere in the Greek world and one of the protagonists of the study of the Antikythera minister. was found by sponge divers from Syme, in a huge ship- Mechanism. He is a space physicist, with research inter- The new textbooks have yet to be printed, leaving wreck of the 1st century BC on the island of An- ests including space and solar physics, planetology, teachers to work from photocopies provide by the Edu- tikythera. Ulysses mission, WIND/WAVES and STEREO space mis- cation Ministry. The government has appointed a team The ancient astronomical device displays the position sion, Solar Orbiter. of experts to draw up the teaching material for next of the Sun and the Moon in a map of the sky, the phase He has supervised 25 PhDs. Awards include: NASA year. It is believed that 80 percent of the content will of the Moon, the time of solar and lunar eclipses as well group achievement, Ulysses Mission, 2009, Geophysical consist of texts from the Bible. as the places these are visible on E arth. It is speculated Research Letters excellence in refereeing, American This satisfies one of the Church’s demands but it still that the Antikythera Mechanism probably worked like a Geophysical Union 2001, Hipparchus award, Arcadia, objects the idea of religious classes being optional in cuckoo clock, with a system of weights and counter- thens, 2010. He has also created exhibitions about the senior high school. weights and a water clock as regulator. Antikythera Mechanism around the world. MARCH 2017 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 3/19

Swagger and gamesmanship

By Nikos Konstandaras – Kathimerini, Athens

In the fluid period we live in, with an increasingly aggressive and unpredictable neighbor, one would ex- pect the government to function carefully, to work out where the country stands in terms of strengths and alliances in the current balance. We would expect it to exhaust every method of diplomacy to show that it remains calm but ready, that its political parties are in unison, that its leadership is determined and in control. Turkey is in the whirlwind of Recep Tayyip Er- dogan’s referendum (on April 16), which has created so many dangerous variables that any neighbor would be wise to avoid becoming part of the problem – while preparing for all possibilities. The pompous statements, the swagger against Turkey, the clever predictions of what may occur, are no use. All they achieve is to unite (to the degree that this is still possible) our deeply divided neighbor. When the aggressive eruptions are from people who devoted themselves like few others to creating divi- sion in Greece, it is clear that the situation becomes more dangerous. The answer to President Erdogan and the Grey Wolves is to isolate Turkey by example, not become tangled in the dispute. Because it is Turkey which has the opportunity and the motive to embroil Greece in balance of power and overestimated the country’s When Athens’s moves are not devoted to showing dangerous adventures. But when politicians have strengths, when they were swept away by the flow of the international community and Ankara that Greece built their careers on hyperbole, it is unnatural to ex- things rather than making the necessary preparations will not be tricked into playing Turkey’s game, it will pect them to handle issues that are complicated and – or, simply, when luck was against them. be led to a battlefield that it does not control, where dangerous. Whoever is in a position of great responsibility the slightest trouble will benefit only Turkey. Past victories encourage all kinds of irresponsible ought to respect those who depend on his actions Turkey has Erdogan and the Grey Wolves. We need people who think that these were granted to the and words – whether this be the people or the armed not try to emulate them. Greece must show in every Greeks because they were better, more beautiful, forces or a friendly country. Cyprus, for example, way, every day, that it is serious, organized, Euro- more deserving than their enemies – just as these which is recovering from a serious economic crisis pean. The prime minister, however, must ask himself: politicians see themselves. They don’t recall that the caused by Greece and is at a critical point in settle- After the economic deluge that followed Varoufakis’s same good, beautiful and deserving nation suffered ment talks, cannot afford to be caught up in such game theory, can we afford more games and irre- defeats when its leaders misread the international rhetoric. sponsibility? The case for security

By Costas Iordanidis – Kathimerini, Athens

For the last seven years Greece’s negotiations with its international lenders have frequently entered phases of uncertainty that have simply prolonged do- mestic antagonisms, with the opposition slamming whichever government happened to be at the helm at the time. In turn, the government called out the “irre- sponsibility” of its political opponents. It’s the same old story played out again and again, and the same old drama. And this goes on even though Poul Thomsen out- lined in full detail the tactics he would pursue with re- gard to Athens and Berlin in an e-mail to Delia Vel- culescu, the current IMF mission chief in Greece. According to Thomsen, threatening Greece with economic asphyxiation and the application of coercive pressure on Germany ahead of elections there would be the catalysts for a deal. The leak of this communication came as a shock to These tensions are being fueled on a daily basis as a Of course we will not be able bring anyone to their many, but in the process they forsook the content of result of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s senses. And no politician – in Greece or Turkey – will the mail. Today we see how it is being implemented in quest to secure votes ahead of the April 16 referen- take a determined stance to reverse the trend that practice. dum to expand his executive powers. has been created, which burdens relations between Given this, eurozone leaders and ministers could be At the most crucial junctures in any nation’s history, the two countries on a daily basis. considered the whipping boys of IMF bureaucrats. it is patriotism and not just material forces that ensure The danger of being called a traitor is very real given But, for now, the shots in Europe are being called by that a foreign danger is successfully kept at bay. that the term “treason” has been used for far less im- the technocrats. “Patriotic” rhetoric for domestic purposes is a paro- portant matters. What should not pass unnoticed is The difference now is that there is another far more dy, exposing the weaknesses and shortcomings of a that Washington, according to information garnered serious factor of instability at play, because it con- political system. And there is a danger that a random by Kathimerini, has urged Ankara to reduce tensions. cerns not just the economic future of Greece, but its event could lead to a serious incident that even politi- The fundamentals must not be lost on anyone while very security – on account of the spike in tensions be- cians who engage in irresponsible rhetoric do not wish a country’s security is at stake and before a European tween Athens and Ankara. for. army is created. MARCH 2017 4/20 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA

trias in Tripolitsa. This school had the branches of fir own Golgotha. For a short period of time (13 Septem- trees as its roof. But it became the standard due to ber to 17th October 1943) it was occupied by the Eng- the zeal and the knowledge of its teacher. lish and became a wartime supply centre. On the Letter This rocky outcrop gave a loud cry of “present” to 17th October, the island attracted the German bom- every call in the struggles of Greece. With the out- bardment. The English commander ordered the evac- break of the revolution of 1821, the inhabitants uation of the island within three hours. from threw themselves into the line of fire. The husbands The inhabitants were transferred by boats to the sent their women and children to neighbouring is- shores of Asia-Minor opposite and took the road as lands to be able to fight without encumbrance. They refugees. They were transferred to Cyprus and from converted the older boats to fire ships, and used their there to the Middle E ast where they remained in Al- Maroubra newer boats to face the Turksat sea. lied camps for two years, living in tents under difficult The women and children remained away from conditions. Kastellorizo for many years and wrote a song of their In 1945, they were ordered to return to their island. love for their homeland: This was an island where a fire had raged for months and had incinerated everything. But now they would “I went to Karpatho, And I have been to Kaso be free. And this freedom was gained by the blood But my poor Kastellorizo, How can I forget you” their children. Around 830 K astellorizians fought in the Middle-East in the Mountain Brigades, in the Roy- In 1912 the Italians occupied the Dodecanese with al Air Force, in the Dodecanese Volunteer Regiment, the exception of K astellorizo. With the outbreak of in partisan commando groups or helped with Allied the Balkan wars, the Greek fleet granted freedom to anti-espionage. all the islands of the Aegean that were not under Ital- They returned at last to their island and endured ian occupation. In 1913, the inhabitants with the help the cruellest poverty. Their only consolation was the of a small group of Cretans revolted. The Turkish Blue-and-White that fluttered with pride on their A small island with guards surrendered. The blue-and white of the Greek small island, waiting with them two years later for the flag was raised on the island but the Greek Govern- incorporation of this beautiful island with its mother- an immense history ment announced that it was not in a position to occu- land, Greece. py it officially. The tiny Greek island of K astellorizo is like a guardian in the East. It is a small, beautiful rocky out- crop around two kilometres from the Asia-Minor seashore that is placed in a position of the highest strategic importance. With the passage of history many nations have glanced at this rocky outcrop and eyed itenviously. The Persians, Romans, the legendary K nights of St John of Rhodes that built the most formidable castle in the Aegean, the Saracen pirates, the Venetians, the fearful Suleiman who besieged cities with his armies. The list goes on – the Italians, the Germans, the

French, the English. And today, our neighbours the Turks desire it more than anything else. But this rocky outcrop keeps its heart Hellenic. And In 1915, during the conduct of the First World War, it carries names and inscriptions that that bear wit- the island came under the control of the French fleet. Today on that beautiful rocky outcrop that is called ness to whose it was and to whom it belongs. This lit- The German and Turkish bombardments from the Kastellorizo, there are still several hundred guardians, tle island is filled with churches and chapels, that bear Asia-minor side pounded the island mercilessly. The possibly forgotten by most. They stay there as custo- witness to the faith of its inhabitants. The metropolis inhabitants, with whatever means they had at their dians of our territorial integrity, with the Turkish of Sts Constantine and Helen, St George of Louca, St disposal, helped the French in their defence of the is- fighter jets making the window shutters of their hous- Spyridon, St Paraskevi, St Nicholas, Panagia Palaioka- land. Even the women and children carried food and es rattle and shaking their hearts to their very depths. stritissa (Panagia of the Old F ort) and St George the ammunition for the troops. The admiration of the But they remain there, to make up the vanguard of ftohoulaki [St George the Pauper], as the residents French for the bravery of the islanders was such that our Motherland. Heroes on the frontline. call the smallest of the chapels that is dedicated to they conferred a special award. the triumphant Saint, and so many others. But this admiration did not last long. In 1921, fol- Source: Translated and adapted from Η Δράση Μας, Issue The rocky outcrop can take pride because through lowing a Franco-Italian agreement, K astellorizo was 545, January 2017, pp. 24-26. The views expressed are those of the passage of history it gave birth to heroes and peo- conceded to the Italians, who bullied the Orthodox the author and not necessarily those of the VEMA or St An- ple of spirit. It nurtured Teachers of the Nation such inhabitants, with the result that many of them mi- drew’s Greek Orthodox Theological College. as Emmanuel Kisthinio, the first teacher in the first grated to Australia seeking a better life. Greek school that was established by Ioannis Kapodis- With the Second World War the island ascended its [email protected] Talented Greek Tourism Professor honored with International Award

Last month in Rome, Professor Marianna Sigala (pic- When speaking about winning this latest award she tured) was bestowed the Best IFITTalk of the Year said that she felt honored, adding, “but above all I con- Award during the 24th ENTER2017 eTourism Confer- sider myself incredibly privileged for the opportunity to ence that took place at Palazzo Brancaccio in Rome, Ita- participate and put together the biggest panel of indus- ly. try and academic experts representing all tourism sec- The International Federation for Information Technol- tors in order to discuss the emerging issues of the shar- ogy and Travel & Tourism (IFITT) is a leader in e-Tourism ing economy phenomenon.” and organized the event. Over 300 delegates from 39 “We explored the ‘sharing economy’ phenomenon, countries, both with industry and academic back- which is rapidly diffusing in all aspects of life and indus- grounds attended the conference and participated in tries, including tourism,” Dr. Sigala explained . lectures on their chosen topics as they related to this Dr Sigala came to Australia around 2 years ago and year’s themes of research, destinations and industry. was recently appointed the director of the Centre for Dr Sigala was judged on several factors in order to win Tourism and Leisure Management at the School of the award such as how many people participated at the Management at the University of South Australia. She IFITTalk event, lecture content and how her ideas will has a PhD from the University of Surrey, a Certificate of contribute to the tourism industry. formation and Communication Technology (ICT) appli- Advanced Academic Studies from the University of According to The University of South Australia’s web- cations in Tourism and Hospitality” she also has made a Strathclyde and a MSc in Tourism Management from site, Dr Sigala is not only a “widely published authority name for herself with her research winning her multiple the University of Surrey. in the area of Service Operations Management and In- awards and recognition over the years. Source: www.greekreporter.com MARCH 2017 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 5/21 Our Primate’s View MESSAGE OF HIS EMINENCE ARCHBISHOP STYLIANOS OF AUSTRALIA * FOR THE ANNIVERSARY OF THE 25th MARCH 1821 Sydney, 26th March 2017 (Opera House Forecourt)

The double Anniversary which we are called to cele- (σύν Ἀθηνᾷ καί χείρα κίνει ) “By all means call upon brate once again is a splendid opportunity for contem- Athena, but you move your hands as well” ? It means plation and spiritual assessment. that they recognised their personal responsibility for their historical destiny. Moreover, the following saying Contemplation and spiritual assessment, however, pre- (ἔστι δίκης ὄφθαλμος, ὅς τά πάνθ’ ὁρᾷ ) “there is an suppose people who are vigilant and responsible. Con- eye of justice which sees all things” signifies their ab- sequently, the tragic question posed by the double re- solute certitude that ultimately we cannot escape the membrance of the 25 th March is to what extent the impartial judgement of God, even though we may think Greeks of today – both within and outside of Greece – that we can deceive ourselves and others. By ARCHBISHOP possess that fundamental degree of responsibility and STYLIANOS vigilance for the truly honourable interests of the Greek We, unfortunately, though we are Christians who, with OF AUSTRALIA Nation. the Annunciation of the Mother of God, received the definitive message of the true God, are far behind the We cannot lay claim on virtues which we do not pos- Ancient Greeks in our behaviour. Because we neither sess, neither can we expect successes there, where we trust the Providence of the True God, nor do we fear His have not toiled honestly and honourably. wrath.

The Annunciation of our Lady, the Panayia, came as a If, once again, we become more honest with God and response to and a reward from God for the obedience with ourselves, then certainly we will be conducting the and the humility shown by the Virgin Mary. Indeed, the most sacred Memorial, not only for our own National Annunciation has a mystical parallelism with our Na- Martyrs, but also for all those known and unknown peo- tional liberation. Here, we clearly see the hand of God ple who believed, fought and, at some time, sacrificed who ultimately justified a people that suffered unjustly themselves for the sacredness of the human person in for 400 years but that was a faithful and hard-working whatever place of the world. people. It is self-evident that to all those noble human exis- It is disappointing when one considers that the ancient tences we are obliged today to mystically chant, “E ter- Greeks, although they believed in idols, however, in nal be their memory!” their daily lives demonstrated deeper piety and greater integrity. Because what does that famous saying mean: Amen!

On Saturday the 4th March 40 people from the Parish of St John the Baptist Cairns travelled to the Parish and community of Sts Theodores as part of their Annual Pil- grimage. Father Menelaos and F ather Alexios con-celebrated the Divine Liturgy to celebrate the miracle of the Koliva. The Parish of St John the Baptist has made the annual pilgrimage for the last 20 years. The trip to Townsville takes 5 hours by bus. The Ladies Philoptochos provided a sumptuous nistisimo lunch and morning tea. As always wonderful fellowship and abundant conversation took place. MARCH 2017 6/22 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA

Parish & Community of St Ioannis Parramatta NSW Blessing Services & Official Opening of the Learning Centre and Community Space

On Sunday 12 February 2017, Bishop Multiculturalism and attended by repre- of its neighbouring properties where The relocation of the Parish Communi- Seraphim of Apollonias, Assistant Bishop sentatives from the Federal and Local chocking the Parish Communities ameni- ty represents another opportunity for to His Eminence and Vicar General, to- Government, community groups and the ty and its future as a vibrant and viable the Parish Community to cater for the gether with the Very Rev Fr Dimitri Kokki- broader Parish Community. Parish Community. The deep concerns growing demands and needs of Western nos (Parish Priest), the Very Rev Fr The blessing service and official open- where shared by His Eminence and His Sydney. This space will be used for the Nicholas Tsouloukis (Fmr Parish Priest) ing of this Learning Centre and Commu- Grace and through their prayers and Parish Communities services including its and Deacon Nicholas officiated the bless- nity Space was memorable and very with three simple words ‘Να είναι ευλο- education, aged and welfare services. ing service and official opening of the emotional as it signified and celebrated γημένο’ the Parish board, together with Finally, the day was made all the more Learning Centre and Community Space the completion of a ten year chapter in His Grace and representatives from the memorable when Mrs Panayiota Tsigou- of the Parish and Community of St Ioan- this Parish Communities history. GOA property trust began on a journey nis (Bishop Iakovos’ mother) unlocked nis Parramatta. This story commenced some ten years resulting in a series of events that no one the icon of St John the Forerunner and The space was jointly opened by the ago when a rather young Parish board could imagine… the miraculous reloca- Baptist. Hon Dr Geoff Lee, Member for Parramat- was rather troubled by the Parish Com- tion of this Parish Community, just 800 The Parish Community now enters its ta and NSW Parliamentary Secretary for munities future. The over-development metres down the road, to a site that was next chapter, the rebuilding of the per- g offered to the Parish Community some manent church of St John the Forerunner 60 year ago by the banks of Parramatta and Baptist. Christian Dior, Gucci, Ted Baker River.

Katerina + Kyriacos Mavrolefteros Ray Ban Ray

874 Anzac Parade, Maroubra Junction (at bus stop, on RTA block)

(at bus stop, on RTA block) Rodenstock, TTeell:: ((0022)) 99331144--00339933 Serengeti, Maui Jim, Fendi [email protected] Nina Ricci, Oakley, La font MARCH 2017 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 7/23

Parthenon voted the most beautiful building in the world The Parthenon has been voted the compared to the rest of the world? most beautiful building in the world ac- Most Greeks take the Parthenon as a cording to Business Insider, followed by given. It is there; it has always been The National Congress of Brazil in Bra- there. sília, The São Paulo Museum of Art (São Most, when they think of it, feel some Paulo, Brazil) and The F orbidden City pride in it, even though a critical observ- Temple in Beijing, (China). er could comment that it doesn't really Like paintings and sculptures, buildings encapsulate all Greek history. can be beautiful works of art, therefore Despite this, it is certain that the architects were asked to vote for the one Parthenon is very close to the hearts of building that in their opinion defines most Greeks. building design, inspired them to be- come architects, or that they simply con- sider to be a stunning piece of architec- tural art. 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The award-winning flavors of the Southern Aegean

By Emilios Harbis– Kathimerini, Athens ly food production. It is these people, he a number of factors: the establishment entrepreneurship are for this endeavor, said, who “when others looked to the of the southern Aegean as a gastronomic the concept of sustainability is perhaps Ask the average Northern European west, remained loyal to the traditional destination, combined with the many in this case even more important. After why they come on holiday to Greece and products and practices that make our celebrations and festivals that take place all, the heart of the Aegean’s gastronom- they’ll likely mention three things: sun, country unique.” The region’s program is even on the smallest islands, the exten- ic identity is simple, natural foods pro- sea and good food. It’s no secret that titled “Taste the Seasons.” sion of the tourism season, the promo- duced on a small scale, which could com- Greece, and especially its islands with The contemporary challenge which the tion of unique local products, and the pletely lose its value if mass-produced their innovative cuisine, can offer visitors European Region of Gastronomy pro- systematic training of local groups based without the appropriate qualitative memorable gastronomic experiences. gram addresses is that of thematic on the principles of quality and sustain- measures. However, in tourism as in cooking, tourism. This was also reiterated by IG- able culinary development. That was aptly summed up in Hadji- good ingredients alone are not enough CAT, which described the Southern During a speech at the ceremony, markos’s speech: “A dish that leaves the for success. Knowledge, effective promo- Aegean’s program as extremely promis- Tourism Minister Elena K ountoura said kitchen includes, among others, culture, tion, improved practices and improved ing. This promising potential is based on that as crucial as competitiveness and history, human effort and pride.” products are key to winning the market when it comes to thematic tourism. In this regard, the Southern Aegean region recently being named European Region of Gastronomy 2019 for its commitment to food and cultural diversity is particu- “To sin and not larly significant. Issue 1 The European Region of Gastronomy repent is blasphemy platform and award, organized by the In- ternational Institute of Gastronomy, Cul- against the Lord”, ture, Arts and Tourism (IGCA T) with the support of European institutions, aim to Anony m ous contribute to better quality of life in Eu- ropean regions by highlighting distinctive Portion 1.1 on Repentance Portion 1.3 The Seven Basic Crimes and the Ten food cultures, educating for better Commandments health and sustainability, and stimulating gastronomic innovation. According to I wish to speak to your love what is Repentance, the award’s website, their philosophy and how a person owes to do it if he wishes God to The Seven Basic Crimes are: Gluttony, greed, centers around the belief that “regions forgive him his sins. Every Christian who fears God vanity, pride, lust, envy, and rudeness. play a key role in the gastronomic value owes to repent from the evil he has done, and not We will speak of them in detail in future portions. chain, from agricultural food production to food processing, providing gastronom- do it anymore. Because there is nothing greater The Ten Commandments in summary are: ic experiences and hospitality in hotels than Repentance. For Repentance saved the tax- 1. I am the Lord your God, revealed as the Holy and restaurants, and attracting visitors collector, the sex worker, the thief, King David, the Trinity of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. There is no with regional gastronomy products.” apostle Paul, who was first a persecutor of Christ other God besides Me. “Our peripheral regions are responsi- ble for around a third of the country’s and repented to become an apostle, Saint Mary of 2. Do not make an idol and worship it as God. tourism-based activity. Tourism gener- Egypt who was formerly a sex worker and an 3. Do not take the name of the Lord in vain. ates jobs and incomes and the culinary adulteress. What saved her but Repentance? And 4. Remember the Lord’s Day and keep it holy. dimension is as important as any other,” all the apostles preached Repentance always. And 5. Honor your father and your mother. said Southern Aegean Regional Governor Giorgos Hadjimarkos, who spearheaded what is Repentance? Listen. When a person does 6. Do not kill. the efforts that resulted in the award, evil and wishes to be saved, they cannot be saved if 7. Do not practice adultery. which was presented during a special they do not abandon the evil and repent of it with 8. Do not steal. ceremony at the Hotel Grande Bretagne all their soul and heart. 9. Do not bear false witness. in Athens last month. “The Southern Aegean is now included 10. Do not covet the things of your neighbor. among European regions with long tradi- Portion 1.2 On Confession tions in gastronomy. This distinction for Portion 1.4 The Three Parts of Repentance our region is our outward-looking and The people who wish to save their souls and inherit optimistic answer to a difficult period for Repentance has three parts: contrition, confession, our country. The islands of the Southern the eternal kingdom, require all to run with tears, Aegean, at the forefront of Greek tou- to confess to their spiritual fathers. And when they and satisfaction. rism, are the best representatives for confess they must say their sins without shame, Contrition is sorrow and pain of heart, which is due supporting the title of European Region and without blaming others but only themselves. to sorrowing God and transgressing His divine law. of Gastronomy,” he continued. Hadji- Confession is the willful verbal revealing of all your markos made special mention of the For God knows all, both the good and the bad, and people on the islands who deal with dai- the thoughts we have. Therefore brethren let us evil works, evil words, and evil thoughts. run with all our heart, without guile and cunning Satisfaction is the rule of penance we receive after but with a pure heart. We must run with joy and confession in the form of penance practices. gladness to the spiritual father, because we run to God when we confess.

A fisherman at work on Kalymnos. In tourism as in cooking, good ingredients alone are not enough for success. Knowledge, strong promotion, improved practices and products are key to winning the market when it comes to thematic tourism. MARCH 2017 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 9/25

Passenger traffic in Greek airports 450,000 Greeks left grew 7.2 pct the country in Jan-Feb 2017 in past 8 years Passenger traffic in Greek airports increased 7.2 per- cent in the first two months of 2017 compared to the Almost 450,000 Greeks left the country in the retaining talent to maintain the country’s competitive same period last year, data from the Civil A viation Au- 2008-2016 period, depriving Greece of brain power advantage.” thority showed earlier this month. while at the same time contributing to the aging of Anna Diamantopoulou, former education minister The number of passengers in Jan-F eb. totaled 3.75 the population. and head of the Network for Reform in Greece and million, versus 3.49 million in the first two months of The figures were presented earlier this month, dur- Europe, stressed the importance to cooperate and 2016. ing the American-Hellenic Chamber of Commerce establish synergies with other countries, such as Den- The total number of flights handled in Greek airports conference discussing the state of the labor market mark that has a very well organized farming sector. reached 38,298, of which 23,310 were domestic and and emigration of Greeks to search for work abroad. Former labor minister Yiannis Vroutsis said on his 14,988 were international, showing a marginal drop of According to the speakers, Greece is a country ag- part that there would be much less unemployment if 0.9 percent (-3.6 pct in domestic and +3.5%in interna- ing very rapidly, while the biggest problem it faces necessary reforms were made before the outbreak of tional flights), compared with 38,665 flights in the simi- imminently is the “brain drain,” the approximately the crisis and that unemployment would exceed 30% lar period last year. 450,000 natives who left Greece during the 2008- if Greece had not promoted specific reforms in the Specifically for February, passenger traffic (domestic 2016 period to seek employment in other countries. years 2012-2014. and international) rose 5.4 percent with passengers to- The brain drain Greeks have yielded to the econo- Vroutsis said that the term “flexibility” in the labor taling 1,830,215. The largest traffic was recorded in the mies of these countries, particularly the United King - market was terrifying in Greece when elsewhere in airports of Athens, Thessaloniki, Heraklion, Chania and dom and Germany, is 50 billion euros. Europe it was common practice. He argued that labor Rhodes. “These people are mostly under 45 years old. Their laws give the state great powers, sometimes to the Athens’ International Airport handled 1,122,420 pas- return should be a national target,” said former min- detriment of companies and businesses, while the sengers, Thessaloniki “Macedonia” Airport had 357,502 isters Anna Diamantopoulou and Yiannis Vroutsis, Trade Union Act in many cases leads to the abuse of passengers, Heraklion 74,902, Chania 65,434 and discussing” The role of government in attracting and the right to strike. Rhodes 5,910.

ST EUPHEMIA COLLEGE PREP CLASS

St Euphemia is pleased to announce the establishment of its Prep Class.

The Prep class optimises learning success in Kindergarten by offering a well-structured program that allows for a gentle introduction to formal learning. Children are exposed to the Early Stage One outcomes from the Board of Studies syllabus through an integrated, play based and inquiry based, hands on approach.

Our new students have settled in well and are enthusiastic and eager to play and learn. MARCH 2017 10/26 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA

How on earth can I still be here at 110? Helen Stamelos, 110, from Morely, WA, talks about her incredibly long life

Loaf of bread in hand, I held my breath and quickly made my way down into our basement. I placed a few scraps of bread and cheese on a table and looked deep into the darkness. “Here’s your food,” I whispered and watched as three soldiers emerged, ready to gobble it up. We were in the middle of World War II and the Nazis had taken control of Greece. My husband, Dimitris, and I had decided to help some of the Italian soldiers fleeing the Germans by hiding them in our basement. It was absolutely terrifying. If we were caught we would be killed, but Dimitris had strong morals. He made friends easily and as a Greek soldier himself he felt he owed it to these men to do everything he could. “This war isn’t fair,” he said. “We need to save as many people as we can.” It wasn’t the first time Dimitris and I had snuck around. Back when we were just courting, we’d sneak into the basement of my parents’ house so we could talk a little more and get to know each other. Our village, Kymi, was on a small Greek island, dotted with more olive trees than people and everyone knew everyone else. I made money for my family by stitching and mending clothes while Dimitris was renowned for his shoemaking business. With deep brown eyes and a tall, muscly frame, he was the most sought-after bachelor. Married life with him was bliss. One year after our wedding we were blessed with a daughter, Maria, and had another baby, George, right before the war. Thankfully, my brave husband survived and every sol- dier we hid was able to return home to their family. The Germans never caught us and they lost the war! Dimitris and I had two more sons, Antoni and Yiannis, nicknamed John. We had a good life in our village, but as our children grew older they wanted to experience more than Greece had to offer. Maria got engaged to a Greek-Australian man and moved to Perth. She loved Australia so much she con- vinced John to go over, too. After a big discussion, Dim- itris and I decided to join them. Maria and her husband had organised our visas so we were able to settle in immediately and, within a few years, our other sons, Antoni and George, made the move, too. I fell in love with Perth. The excitement and bustle of the city enthralled me, and the people were so friendly. Trying to get a grip on the English language was very difficult, but I had enough family in Perth that I could still rely on communicating mostly in Greek. Dimitris fit- ted right into the Aussie way of life. We kept busy, helping our kids with the fish and chip When I reached my 100th birthday, we gathered for a My children and grandchildren set up a roster so that shop they bought. Soon we had plenty of grandchildren huge family lunch at a traditional Greek restaurant. each of them visited me for a meal every day. to look after. I knitted thick woollen booties for each of I was even reunited with my sister, Lili, who I hadn’t When my last birthday came around and I was still them. Our family continued to grow and by the time seen since I left Greece! I couldn’t believe how lucky I kicking, everyone was shocked, especially me! we reached our 80s we also had great-grandchildren. was. We had a big family celebration at the home. E ven a But one day Dimitris found blood in his urine. I wasn’t Although my mind was still quick my body started to reporter and photographer from the local paper visited. worried as Dimitris never smoked or drank, but what get frailer as more years passed. “Congratulations,” Soula cheered as she enveloped the doctor found shocked us. One day, when I was 108, I slipped over and broke my me in a hug. “You’ve made it to 110!” “You have liver cancer,” he said grimly. “You don’t left hip. “Don’t be silly,” I hushed. “If I was that old I’d be have long to live.” “We have to operate, but the chances are not good,” dead.” I was in shock. We had been married for more than the doctor told me. I can’t believe I’ve been lucky enough to make it this 50 years. Luckily, he was able to stay at home and al- He said I had only a 20 per cent chance of surviving. far. though it was hard to watch the love of my life deterio- Despite the risks the doctors operated and I was sur- Now I have 12 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, rate, I cared for him every day. But three months after prised when, hours later, I woke up. and my first great-great-grandchild is on the way. his diagnosis, he was in worse shape than ever. “God’s forgotten about me,” I moaned, as 30 mem- They’re all worried my mind will fade away. I knew I was losing him. We took him to the hospital bers of my family crowded around my bed. “How am I “Do you remember me?” they say every time they vis- and my daughter in-law, Soula, sat with me throughout still living?” it. the night. We held Dimitris’s hand as he slipped away. “It’s okay to go,” my granddaughter Nicole whispered Sometimes I play a little joke on them and pretend I Maria was nice enough to let me move in with her, tearfully. “We love you and we’re so lucky to have had have no idea who they are. I might have lived through even though it was hard on her and I was extremely you this long.” two world wars and two centuries but I’ve learnt it’s im- grateful. Life continued on as it always had and I kept It was a hard battle and the surgery took a lot out of portant to have a laugh! sewing tapestries and knitting clothes for my family. me. I was put in an aged care home. Source: Australian Women’s Weekly - Take 5 FEBRUARY 2017 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 11/27

St Andrew’s Grammar School Blessing (WA) The Very Reverend Father Elpidios pro- The highest scoring Year 12 ATAR stu- vided the Whole School Blessing at St An- dents from 2016 Shivani Radia and Ni- drew’s Grammar in Perth on Friday 10th yanta Lekha received The Emanuel Pe- February. trelis Award for Academic Excellence as The service included the traditional part of the assembly. cutting of the Vasilopita and each year The Principal Mr Simon Midson wel- group teacher from Kindergarten to Year comed new staff and students to the 12 nominated a student to receive a school. In his address, Mr Midson fo- piece of the Vasilopita on behalf of their cussed on the importance of empathy class. and continuing to build positive relation- Students throughout the school en- ships throughout the close-knit St An- joyed the Whole School Blessing and drew’s Grammar community. Mr Midson Year 10 student Tessa Venoutsos recited said: ‘People will forget what you said, the Epistle reading as part of the cere- people will forget what you did, but peo- mony. ple will never forget how you made them The School Blessing was preceded by a feel.’ School Assembly to formally welcome all The Welcome Assembly and School students and staff to the 2017 school Blessing was a great occasion and a very year. positive start to the 2017 school year. Evzones to join Australians in celebrations LAW OFFICE OF KONSTANTINOS KARRAS for ANZAC Day and the 76th anniversary 17 Noembri 6-8, Alimos-Attikis (Athens), P.S. 17455 Email: [email protected] or [email protected] of the Battle of Crete Mobile: +30-693-67-08-018

Attorney at Law in Athens. Graduated from the Law School of University of Athens, Master Degree in European Law from the University of Louvain - Bel- gium. Practice Areas: a) Hereditary Issues (Wills, Inheritance) b) Legal Support regarding Property Issues (Real Estate-Markets, Adelaide and Sydney residents get trustee of the Foundation for Hellenic Real Estate Leasing, Real Estate Registration in the Land Registry) ready — the Evzones are coming your Studies. Some of the special events the c) Tax Matters (Tax Greeks Abroad, New estate tax law, inheritance way! The historical ANZAC Day and the Evzones will take part in are various East- and gift tax) 76th anniversary of the Battle of Crete is er celebrations as well as attend the War d) Greek citizenship (Greek Conditions for Granting Citizenship, being marked this year with events and Memorial on North Terrace (Adelaide). ceremonies all throughout the month of The events honor the memory of the Registration at Registrar’s Office and the conditions for granting visas) April. This year, nine Evzones, the fa- Australian and New Zealand Army Corps e) Family Law (Divorce, Affairs) mous soldiers of the Greek Presidential (ANZAC) who fought in the battle. The f) Recognition of foreign judgments in Greece Guard, are traveling to Australia to par- Battle of Crete is not one of the best- ticipate in the events. known conflicts that occurred during “After obtaining special permission of WWII, however, it is considered to be Our office is located in Alimos – Athens and we can be contacted by email attendance by the Greek government, one of the most decisive battles of the the nine Evzones and their two lieu- war, where it was the first and last time on [email protected] or [email protected] tenants will visit the two cities in order to that paratroopers were deployed on describing briefly your case. celebrate the role of the soldiers of such a vast scale from the Germans to Greece and Crete, often known as the capture a target during WWII. ‘forgotten Anzacs,” Harry Patsouris, the Source: www.greekreporter.com 12/28 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA MARCH 2017

ST NICHOLAS PARISH WELCOMES NEW SCRIPTURE TEACHERS St Nicholas Parish, Marrickville (NSW) was the scene for the 2017 Basic Accred- itation Course for new Scripture Teach- ers. Just over 20 new teachers attended the program in February. These teachers will take the special re- ligious education session in State schools in New South Wales. An estimated 6000 pupils are involved in these classes throughout the State. Many people are not aware that there is a program of training for Greek Ortho- dox Scripture Teachers. Teachers are exposed to the role and responsibilities of a teacher. The training is conducted by knowledgeable Scripture coordinators. Mrs Kandia Tagalakis is a qualified high school teacher and she demonstrated a sample lesson on “The Holy Liturgy”. Mrs Mary Stathos coordinates Scrip- Mr Louis Chambers coordinates Scrip- priest. This address captivated those them achieve the Basic Accreditation as ture for the parish and community of ture with Fr Constantine Varipatis in the present and motivated them to under- a Scripture Teacher. The online course is Kogarah. This caters for almost 1200 Gymea-Sutherland region. He introduced stand that the Scripture Teacher is a rep- also available for those unable to attend pupils. Mrs Stathos is an expert with the topic of child protection. This is an resentative of the Orthodox Church. the face-to-face introduction. many years’ experience. She introduced area where the Greek Orthodox Church Together, the Rev Fr Nicholas Bozikis On behalf of His Eminence Archbishop the program of lessons for 2017. She em- is vigilant to ensure that all our teachers and the hardworking philoptochos, ma- Stylianos and His Grace Bishop Seraphim, phasised the lifelong value of the Greek have a Working with Children Check. The de all the delegates to the Basic Accredi- the spokesperson for the Archdiocese Orthodox curriculum. safety of the child is of paramount im- tation Course feel welcome at St Nicho- thanked the teachers for their dedication Mrs Evangelia Vasili is also an experi- portance. las Parish with their exceptional philoxe- and efforts. The parish and community enced teacher and she coordinates Scrip- The training program finished with an nia. of St Nicholas was praised for their coop- ture at St Nicholas. She provided guide- address from the Very Rev Fr Christodou- At the close of the program, partici- eration and support of special religious lines on classroom management. She los Economou. He spoke about the char- pants were encouraged to complete the education in New South Wales. outlined the importance of the school acter of the teacher and used many ex- training online through a specially devel- rules. amples from his own experience as a oped educational package. This helps [email protected] Australian ambassador calls for more integration John Griffin, Australia’s ambassador to Greece, has called on the country to aid the integration of mentally and physical- ly disabled members of society. During a special event at the embassy in Athens yesterday to mark the hanging of a painting presented to the embassy by students from the Aghios Dimitrios School of Special Professional E ducation and Training, Griffin said that the inclu- sion of the mentally and physically dis- abled in society was vital. “The purpose of today’s event is very simple and very important. When we ar- rived in A thens, my partner Pete and I were surprised that we didn’t see people with special needs in the street – and hardly any facilities for them. Social in- clusion is a basic human right in society. Everyone deserves that Australian funda- Australian Ambassador to Greece John Griffin with students from the Aghios Dimitrios School of Special Professional Education a nd mental value of a ‘fair go,’” he said, also Training. referencing the American Declaration of The embassy’s small contribution is to cialist organizations which work with, Disabilities, and as part of this the coun- Independence article citing the right to help raise the visibility of people with train and educate people with special try is required to take continuous steps life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness special needs, and of those dedicated needs. toward improving the lives of those with for all members of society. professionals who work for their devel- Thanking the school and its students, disabilities and give them an equal stand- “I always bear in mind the words at- opment – so as to highlight the impor- Griffin said: “This gift will serve as a re- ing in society, including access to an edu- tributed to the great Mahatma Gandhi: tance of social inclusion for all,” he con- minder to us all of the valuable work be- cation. ‘A nation’s greatness is measured by how cluded. ing done in the community to ensure Despite this, a report by the Greek it treats its weakest members,’” he said. The Aghios Dimitrios School of Special everyone receives a fair go. We should branch of ActionAid in May 2015 re- The artwork, based on Gustav Klimt’s Professional Education and Training is a all be aware of and support this work.” vealed that 85 percent of Greek children painting “The Kiss,” was a Christmas public vocational school in A thens for Social inclusion for the mentally and with a disability were not receiving an present to the ambassador following an children and adults with special needs physically disabled in Greece remains a education. embassy visit to the school in September such as mental difficulties, autism and challenge and is further compounded by The main obstacles keeping disabled while students had been working on it. various psychological issues. There are the economic crisis, which has seen fun- children from attending school were cit- “Every individual and organization can currently 245 students aged 12 to 22 en- ding for special schools slashed. ed as shortages in transportation, infra- make a small contribution to integrating rolled. Several were in attendance at the Greece has ratified the United Nations structure such as ramps, audiovisual people with disabilities in our society. event, as were other people from spe- Convention on the Rights of Persons with aids, qualified staff and regular funding. MARCH 2017 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 13/29

Blessing and Official Opening of Estia villas in Brisbane

On Friday, the 17th February His Grace side. During the evening, many topics Bishop Seraphim of Apollonia travelled were discussed that were of interest to to Brisbane to represent his Eminence those attending including the structure Archbishop Stylianos for the blessing and and canons of the church. Other topics official opening of St John’s Community discussed were how other parishes in the Care Estia villas. Over 100 people attend- major cities engaged with their youth ed the opening with representatives of and the challenges that they face into government, other parishes and associa- days world. tions. His Grace conducted the ayiasmos On the Saturday of Souls, His Grace service and then together with the Hon- Bishop Seraphim attended the liturgy at ourable Stirling Hinchcliffe, Leader of the the chapel by the sea at Bribie Island. Fa- House in the Queensland Parliament, un- ther Menelaos Hatzoglou parish priest of veiled the plaque. St John the Baptist in Cairns conducted The Honourable Yvette D’ath A ttorney the liturgy and His Grace conducted the General and Minister for Justice cut the trisayio for the departed. F ollowing the ribbon and declared the houses open. service His Grace attended a luncheon The Honourable Stirling Hinchcliffe ad- with the committee of the St Andrew’s dressed the gathering and thanked His Bribie Island Youth Retreat. Grace for the long standing and ongoing At the Parish Council Dinner in honour commitment of the Greek Orthodox of His Grace held on Saturday evening Archdiocese in supporting the needs of Bishop Seraphim congratulated the com- the wider community over so many mittee on their hard work and progress years. within the parish of St Paraskevi. His His Grace thanked the state funding Grace acknowledged the many years of body for their financial contribution of service and dedication of Dr Peter Ma- one million dollars toward the construc- rendy, President of the Parish of St Pa- tion of the Estia villas and for the trust raskevi and his wife Mary Marendy. He and confidence in the Greek Orthodox also acknowledged the progress of the St Archdiocese, St John’s Community Care Paraskevi Child Care Centre, St John’s and the Parish of St Paraskevi in deliver- Community Care and the new Estia sup- ing this and many other projects togeth- portive houses. er in a collaborative partnership. His He reaffirmed the commitment and Grace expressed the gratitude and ap- support of the Greek Orthodox Archdio- preciation of His Eminence Archbishop cese and to the future activities that are Stylianos and the Archdiocese to all who being considered for the Parish. His laboured and worked for this wonderful Grace emphasised that first and fore- supportive accommodation initiative. most that central to the Orthodox faith is Following the official proceedings, the the eucharist. He stated that love for one houses were open for people to see and another and the ability to do God’s work to discuss with St John’s Community Care in supporting others follows the partak- the options available for elderly carers ing of the eucharist. wanting to plan for the adult child with a On Sunday, His Grace lead the divine li- disability once they are unable to care turgy at the church of St Paraskevi. The for them themselves. The St Paraskevi service was well attended. Following the Over 200 people attended. His Grace Michael Elfis, Vice President of St Para- ladies philoptochos provided a wonder- service His Grace tonsured Stavros K os- again acknowledged and thanked every- skevi and his wife Aspasia for their many ful banquet and refreshments. matos as a reader in the church. F ollow- one for the work that they do and for the years of service. His Grace presented On Friday evening His Grace Bishop ing the service the ladies provided a warm welcome and love that was shown them with a commemorative plaque and Seraphim hosted a dinner for the youth sumptuous luncheon in celebration of to him. wished them well in their retirement in and future leaders of the church at port- meat fare Sunday and the start of lent. He also acknowledged and thanked Perth. MARCH 2017 14/30 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA Arts, Food & Wine Editor: Imogen Coward The Impermanence of Beauty and the Artist’s Paint-Box

van Gogh's "Roses" as it originally appeared (left), and how it looks today (right). By Leon Coward golden but in fact had a blue background, and the sit- be ephemeral. The responsibility of conservation can ter’s red (not brown) sleeves were set against a green only lie with those who conserve, but the artist’s deci- It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a gallery in (not black) dress, and her dark hair was lighter with sions will largely determine whether their work endures possession of fine, valuable, and historically-important golden highlights. It is also the reason why she seems to or is ephemeral, or forces their owner to continually re- paintings, must be in want of their conservation. And have no eyebrows. pair defects, or commit it to the darkened storeroom. while it would seem fair that the difficulties and re- Other discolourations occurred in the artist’s lifetime, sponsibilities of conservation should rest upon those and with their knowledge. Paul Cézanne’s watercolours, who are entrusted with these works and wish to pre- for example, have suffered both discolouration from THE GREEK AUSTRALIAN The oldest serve them, there is a question—how responsible are the pigments, as well as from the paper: what was once circulating Greek newspaper VEMA outside the artists? bright green has darkened and dulled. Greece To consider this question, one must look at a primary Van Gogh’s paintings of blue irises were in fact bril- FEBRUARY 2017 Tel. (02) 9559 7022 Fax: (02) 9559 7033 E-mail: [email protected] OUR ARCHBISHOP’S VIEW concern in conservation: colour. Pigments are artistical- liant purple, and while some may consider this loss of ON REPENTANCE PAGE 5/21 ly valued for their colour, but we know all too well from colour a metaphor for the life of flowers, he was known our faded book-spines and the low lighting levels in to paint in thick strokes hoping the additional paint Fiires burn outt public galleries, how susceptible colour is to vanishing. would give longevity. Van Gogh was himself sadly off conttroll iin NSW

But is this the whole story? Before proceeding further, aware that one of his paintings of pink roses, contrast- The characteristics A 'horrifying' three-day heatwave of a teacher in Orthodox Day Schools ‘hit’ Australia's east coast we need to think of colour no longer in terms of hue, ed against a green background, had all faded to white. The Orthodox Day Schools of our Archdiocese are significant co-workers of the Church. Annu- al in-services and professional development seminars aim to improve the knowledge and skills of our teachers so that they are empow- saturation and brightness—but instead think in terms Since museums will not restore paintings to how they ered to respond to the specific needs of our students. of chemistry. originally appeared, a growing trend has been to digi- PAGES 6/22 - 7/23 The late 1700s to mid-1800s heralded many advance- tally reproduce a painting and restore the colours in the ments in pigment manufacture and newly available digital version. Through various techniques including paints. With the exception of fancy marketing, the microscopy and spectroscopy, many original colours PAGE 13/29 Greeks among the hardest- working population in the world names of most paints refer not to their exact hue (as we can be identified. In the case of JMW Turner, however, Despite the prevailing myth that sees Greek workers as lazy and trying to avoid work at all cost, the annual OECD Employment Outlook report can confirm that Greeks are among the imagine a swatch-book does for wall-paints) but instead we may have a ‘lost cause’. hardest-working population in the world. PAGE 10/26 to their chemical composition. For example, ‘Cobalt When Turner bequeathed to the National Gallery a Green’ is a mixture of cobalt oxide and zinc oxide—indi- larger number of paintings, he did so with an apparent vidual manufacturing procedures and quality of ingredi- sense of posterity, that his work would endure beyond Opening of the Law Skiathos Term Service in NSW ents will mean variations between different brands, but his lifetime—the final amount of the bequest amounts The smallest of the Sporades islands offers PAGE 4/20 relaxation along with inspiration. each will be ‘Cobalt Green’. to some 300 oil paintings, 300 sketchbooks, and 30,000 PAGE 16/32 But why should it be so important to know ‘what’ sketches. your paint is made out of? The answer lies in chemistry. But in Turner’s lifetime, he had a flagrant disregard Certain pigments are ‘fugitive’, meaning they will light- for the permanency of his colours. When William Win- The Greek en, darken, or change hue depending on environmental sor, co-founder of the artist’s brand Winsor & Newton, conditions, especially under UV exposure. In other cas- chastised the famous artist, Turner replied “Your busi- es, pigments react with one another, and this is espe- ness, Winsor, is to make colour, mine is to use them.” Australian VEMA cially the case for pigments in an aqueous binding medi- Turner used Carmines and Madders which he knew to um (watercolour) where the reactions occur more be highly fugitive. The oldest circulating freely. One of Turner’s picturesque seascapes, where he For example, pigments containing sulphur (such as Ul- used Indigo, Vermilion and Black, has faded from a cool Greek newspaper tramarine, Vermilion and Cadmium colours), are known blue scene to now only red and blacks. In other cases, to blacken when mixed with copper-based paints the red has faded, turning a sunset sky into a dull grey outside Greece (Malachite, Emerald Green, Azurite, and so on) or lead wash. So notorious was Turner, that the art critic John paints. There are very few paints which are considered Ruskin claimed not one of his works was “seen in per- Tel: (02) 9559 7022 ‘safe’ all-rounders. fection a month after it is painted.” Fax: (02) 9559 7033 Some discolourations have taken years—such as in While there is sometimes beauty in the ephemeral, Email: [email protected] the da Vinci’s “Mona Lisa”, which was not so green and there are very few who would agree that beauty should MARCH 2017 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 15/31

The bumpy road traveled by the Acropolis Museum

By Yiannis Papadopoulos

Every so often, Acropolis Museum President Dimitrios Pandermalis will see a familiar face in the crowd. “Some of the people who reacted negatively to the museum’s construction are now coming as visitors,” he says. Seven years since its launch, and averaging 4,000 visitors a day, the museum today is a firm and much-lauded fixture in Greece’s cultural life, yet there was a time when this major state initiative divided public opinion like no other. Other than the usual obstacle of Greek bureaucracy, the process of getting the museum built included a lengthy judicial battle that is fairly typical of the kind of thing that goes on behind the scenes during any major project in this country. “I started becoming familiar with the court system when I became president of the Organization for the Construction of the New Acropolis Museum (OANMA) in 2000,” Pandermalis said. Almost every sector of the judicial sys- tem was involved in the issue in one way Visitors at the Acropolis Museum in thens, overlooking the ancient citadel. Other than the usual obstacle of Greek bureaucracy , or another, culminating in criminal the process of getting the museum built included a lengthy judicial battle that is fairly typical of the kind of thing that goe s on behind charges being brought against OANMA the scenes during any major project in Greece . and other parties involved in the muse- for two decades, peaking after 2000. Everyone involved in the new muse- would be like a judge who violates his um’s construction by an Athens first in- Another competition was held in 1989, um’s construction was prepared to face a code of ethics or a doctor who breaks stance prosecutor in 2004. “I found my- and this time it was international, result- major battle by residents and the owners the Hippocratic oath. It would rock my self in the office of an investigating mag- ing in the arrival of 438 teams of re- of buildings slated for demolition in the very existence. I would never be able to istrate for the first time in my life, wait- searchers. The Makriyianni location con- Makriyianni area. However, the reac- cover something like that up,” he says. ing for a decision on whether we would tinued to stir reactions and the architec- tions were not always limited to legal Visitors to the Acropolis Museum to- be remanded in custody,” says the respe- tural plan failed to stipulate measures for means. Former officials of the Culture day can see part of the excavation of the cted academic. The case never reached a protecting antiquities found on the site. Ministry and OANMA remember a man Makriyianni plot through the glass floor court room, but it took three years be- Although a winning design was chosen, from a house that was being appropriat- at the entrance and plans are in the fore the charges were dropped by the the Council of State ruled in favor of the ed harassing construction workers pipeline for a basement area to be Council of Appeals Court Judges. Association of Architects in 1993 and through a megaphone every single day turned into an exhibition of the plot’s The beginning of the museum’s misad- canceled the competition over procedur- for several years. fascinating contents. ventures lie more than two deaces earli- al issues. “Our dream has been an- Pandermanlis also recalls several inci- One-vote rescue er, however. It was June 1977 when nulled,” then culture minister Melina dents with residents demanding a halt to Kathimerini first wrote: “The architectur- Mercouri told the media, expressing her the work, saying that they had a court or- OANMA’s legal adviser at the time, al competition for the new museum at- disappointment. der to that effect but it had not been is- Dimitris Kourkoumelis, explains that tracted 26 studies that are being as- OANMA was set up in 1995 as a private sued yet. “I’m not going to stop until the while many different means were em- sessed by the committee of judges. The company to smooth the bureaucratic bailiff turns up,” he’d responded. ployed to stop the construction, the final project will be completed within three path. “I remember being accused of destroy- decision rested with the Council of State, years.” After the fourth successive competi- ing an ancient temple when we demol- the country’s highest administrative The need for a new museum to house tion since 1976, an international commit- ished the basement lavatories of the old court. In 2004, with a majority of just one the wealth of exhibits from the Acropolis tee selected a proposal in 2001 by gendarme station,” Pandermalis re- vote, the court rejected all claims that was first expressed in 1976 by then Bernard Tschumi and Michael Photiades, counts. antiquities were being threatened and prime minister Constantine Karamanlis, but the project met with obstacles at In another incident, Pandermalis was gave the project the green light. but the first call for proposals went with- every step of the way. suddenly summoned to the administra- “I was very anxious about the ruling,” out response, as did a later one in 1979. Between 1993 and 2004, the Council of tive appeals court one morning to re- remembers Pandermalis. “I felt the en- Even then there were reactions to the State examined more than 10 demands spond to accusations that there was pho- tire responsibility resting on my shoul- proposed site of the new museum in the for the project to be scrapped at various tographic evidence of an excavator dig- ders, the symbolic and the actual respon- populous neighborhood of Makriyianni phases. The discovery of artifacts on the ging at the site of archaeological finds. “It sibility. Imagine abandoning a building in the Greek press, a public debate that construction site just made the endeavor was a large rock that couldn’t be re- just after you’ve poured the concrete continued to a lesser or greater degree that much more complicated. moved by hand, so it was shifted with and leaving behind a modern ruin.” the excavator,” he says. The last bump in the road was criminal There were times when both sides charges filed against the organization’s called in the police, as was the case in board, members of the Central Archaeo- late March 2002. Members of a citizens’ logical Council and the jury of the archi- to movement opposed to the construction tectural competition, following a suit A Ωmega Renovations called the police saying that the jackham- filed in March 2003 by New Democracy mers and bulldozers were destroying an- MP and later deputy culture minister HOUSE RENOVATIONS tiquities. At the same time, the archaeo- Petros Tatoulis for antiquities destruc- logical service had asked for help to stop tion. Tatoulis later dropped his suit, but protesters harassing the construction Roofs Gardening Driveways Tiles claimed that his intervention would force crew. his successors to be more cautious. Brickwork Pruning Painting Cleaning Pandermalis explains that the project “All of those things belong in the past. Asbestos Cleaning was designed to protect and showcase It’s over,” says Pandermalis. Now his the antiquities found on the Makriyianni biggest concern is keeping people com- Nikolaos Tsiotsias Office: 02 9594 5379 plot. He never thought he of all people ing to the museum so that it evolves into would be accused of destroying antiqui- a “public house of treasures,” where the ties. public will feel at home among the ruins 0404 67 63 66 Mobile: 0414 381 996 “If I were to destroy antiquities, I – and he appears to be succeeding. MARCH 2017 16/32 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA Travel

ATHENSPLUS • FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2010 TRAVEL

Parnassos villages Parnassos villages Run for the hills Easily accessible from Athens, this group of small communities offers opportunities for hiking or just sitting back and admiring nature

BY HARIS ARGYROPOULOS

The villages on the northeastern side of Mount Parnassos, some 170 kilo- meters northwest of Athens, are a very interesting proposition for a weekend outing. The foothills of the mountain, which look out over a huge plain, host some fine guesthouses, good eating places, historical sites and plenty of op- portunities for mountain walks. Amfikleia is a lively and friendly vil- lage – a listed traditional settlement and home to at least 500 stone-built houses with neoclassical elements and arched gates. It also has a wonderful church dedicated to the Virgin Mary, with old frescoes, several ambient guesthouses and good tavernas. A stroll to its upper reaches will be re- warded with excellent views of the vil- lage and the plain below. If you come by train, check out the old diesel en- gines at the station. An invigorating walk, lasting about an hour-and-a-half, is to the Monastery of Aghia Ier- ousalim, inside a cave, believed to have been built around 1200 by the Cru- saders. On the way, you’ll find a wa- a medieval tower near an old hy- are the ruins of an early Christian centuries BC. Several of its towers re- ter spring and a huge walnut tree – dropower station. Polydrosos also church. The area, which is traversed tain their windows and bastions. look out for squirrels. Accommodation developed the craft of knife making, by National Walking Route 22, also fea- Near Tithorea is Ancient Chaeronea, in Amfikleia tends to be expensive, es- of which there is one practitioner left. tures the Polydrosos cave, with won- the birthplace of 1st-century AD his- Ano Polydrosos is an appealing village derfully strange formations. torian Plutarch. The site is best known with restored stone-built houses amid On the road to Eptalofos, you will for the statue of a lion guarding the Spring of spirit a fir forest, brooks and fountains. At also see signs to the “Fortification of tomb where the fallen in the 388 BC Above the source of the the springs near the Church of Aghia Ancient Lilaea” – an acropolis with im- battle against Philip of Macedon were Kifissos River – no relation Eleousa there are ancient and Byzan- posing walls and towers built of huge buried. There is an archaeological to the one in Attica – are tine ruins in a tranquil and lush area. stones. The ancient city of Lilaea, be- museum, an ancient theater carved in- the ruins of an early Above the source of the Kifissos Riv- tween Kato Agoriani and Polydrosos, to the rock and an acropolis with a er – no relation to the one in Attica – flourished between the 10th and 7th wall. Christian church pecially in winter, due to its proxim- ity to Mt Parnassos’s popular ski cen- ter (17 km). Driving across the plain in a south- easterly direction, you’ll come to Ka- to Tithorea after 8.5 km and, after tak- ing a right turn, ascend to the village of Tithorea, on the slopes of Parnas- sos. Signs of habitation in the area date from as early as 2000 BC as well as re- mains of a Hellenistic-era wall. An up- hill climb taking a little over 90 min- utes will bring you to a historic cave Transport & useful info Where to stay Where to eat What to see & buy (called “Mavri Troupa” – “Black Hole” Touring the area requires your own In Amfikleia: Kyriaki (tel 29011, In Polydrosos: En Parnasso, small, Amfikleia’s Bread Museum, with – by the locals) above a gorge, which transport, unless you are an avid www.xenonaskiriaki.gr), tasteful ambient family restaurant with good dozens of different shapes of bread was used as a hideout by Odysseas An- walker. The shortest route to guesthouse with excellent breakfast, wine and desserts; Magos (tel 51422), and traditional equipment used in its droutsos, a hero of the War of Inde- Amfikleia is via the Athens-Lamia pool and fantastic views; Dadi (tel well known in the area for its amazing preparation; an annual, three-day pendence against the Ottomans. highway – follow signs for Kastro, 29040, www.xenonasdadi.gr), grilled meat; Kotsoulas (tel 51275), on bread fete is held in November; Davlia, Tithorea has a pretty square built Orchomenos and Livadia (watch your restored 1890 house with wonderful the square, serves game. In Amfikleia: 5.5 kilometers from Kato Tithorea, a around a plane tree and is reputed for speed on the Kastro-Livadia stretch or garden, very clean. In Polydrosos: Andreas, excellent homemade dishes; verdant village near ancient Davlida – its olive oil and wine. the police will book you). Without a Karahalios (tel 51116), restored old Giatros, on the square, fine Greek grill; mentioned by Homer – with An attractive route across the plain car, you will have to rely on taxis. house with courtyard; Erohos Suites Merentitis (tel 22246), traditional panoramic views; 5 km from Davlia, in in a northeasterly direction, 10 km Trains will take you to Amfikleia and (tel 29610, www.eroxos.gr), deluxe, Greek cuisine and grilled dishes; a wonderfully lush spot at 900 from Amfikleia, brings you to verdant Tithorea (tel 1110, 210.527.7777) in wonderful views; Scholarchio (tel Mantha’s Pies (tel 23020). In Tithorea: meters, is the Convent of Aghia Polydrosos, frequented for its popu- about one hour and 45 minutes. Area 51777), an old school with a loft area; Limeri tou Seskoulou (tel 71249) and Ierousalim, founded in 1088; buy lar tavernas and cafes. There are sev- phone code: 22340; Amfikleia police: In Tithorea: Amfikaia Farm (tel 48860, Steki tou Giala (tel 71237), which both widely available good fir honey, feta eral beautiful locations around the vil- 22435; health center: 22944/5; town www.amfikaia.gr), agritourism serve excellent mutton and have big and yogurt; the Argyriou Winery in lage, in the area of Aghia Eleousa, and hall: 22435. complex. fireplaces which serve as grills. Polydrosos has very good Merlot.