Mayor recognises 100 years of The Greek Herald

Canterbury-Bankstown Mayor Bilal El-Hayek has acknowledged the 100th anniversary of Australia’s longest-running Greek and Cypriot publication – The Greek Herald.
In a Mayoral Minute, unanimously endorsed by Council last night, he paid tribute to the publication which has stood the test of time.

First published on 16 November 1926, as the Hellenic Herald, the newspaper has spent a century serving as a trusted source of news and information for generations of Greek Australians.

Originally branded as “The Leading Greek Newspaper in Australasia”, the publication was founded with a commitment to “enlighten and educate” the Greek community in Australia while remaining independent and free from partisan influence.

Canterbury-Bankstown Mayor Bilal El-Hayek said The Greek Herald has played a significant role in preserving culture, sharing community stories and supporting migrants as they built new lives in Australia.

“For 100 years, The Greek Herald has been much more than a newspaper,” Mayor El-Hayek said.

“It has been a voice for the Greek and Cypriot Australian community, documenting important milestones, achievements, challenges and celebrations across generations.

“The paper reported on the highs and lows, the good and the bad but most importantly its aim was to keep the community informed and connected.

Over the past century, The Greek Herald has reported on community events, cultural celebrations, political developments, church affairs and stories from both Australia and overseas.

For many early migrants with limited English, the newspaper provided an important connection to current affairs and community life.

“The publication is also an important connection to relatives and loved ones living abroad,” Mayor El-Hayek said.

“I recall reading a story about an elderly Greek man living overseas, who had passed away, and a copy of the Greek Herald was found beside his body.

“I understand the man’s relatives would regularly send him a copy of the paper as a way of trying to entice him to come to Australia.

“The success stories are endless. Australians with Greek heritage achieving greatness on the sporting field, in our Parliaments, in our Legal System, in business and in our universities.

“The contributions of the Greek community in our City should never be taken for granted.”

Mayor El-Hayek singled out the ongoing contribution of Publisher Dimitra Skalkos and the newspaper’s editorial team for their dedication to serving the community and ensuring the publication remains a respected and influential voice.

To celebrate the milestone, the Mayor will host a morning tea and present The Greek Herald with a Mayoral Certificate of Recognition, honouring 100 years of publishing excellence and service to the community.

“This remarkable anniversary is a testament to the passion, commitment and resilience of everyone who has contributed to The Greek Herald over the past century,” Mayor El-Hayek said.

“On behalf of Council and the broader community, I congratulate all involved.”