Last Sunday 9 November, our community came together for something truly special. Organised by the Hellenic Medical Society of Australia (HMSA) and the Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM), the Fertility & Filoxenia event at Caffe Greco in Oakleigh created a space where people could speak openly, learn together, and feel genuinely welcomed.
Filoxenia, that distinct Greek principle of ‘hospitality to all’, guided the afternoon. It wasn’t just a seminar. We spoke openly about trying to conceive, family planning, and the challenges of navigating these decisions in modern life. You could feel the care in the room.
The panel reflected the breadth of the fertility journey: medical, emotional, nutritional, psychological, relational. It consisted of Dr Hector Georgiou (Fertility Specialist), Dr Spiri Katsenos (Perinatal Psychiatrist), Ms Voula Koufariotis (Fertility Dietician), and Dr Arete Koutreris (GP), with Dr Billy Stoupas (GP) guiding the conversation. Together, they aimed to provide clarity where fertility can often feel overwhelming or isolating. Ms Kristie Cocotis, Director of Health Programs at the Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education (FARE), also spoke about initiatives including ‘every moment matters’.
The panel explored fertility across the lifespan of both women and men, including how age, lifestyle, and overall health can influence the chance of conception. They discussed the role of fertility testing highlighting when it can offer useful clarity and when it may introduce unnecessary concern. They also examined how nutrition, wellbeing, and mental health play a supportive role for those trying to conceive.
Egg freezing was highlighted as a powerful option for preserving future fertility, particularly for those in their early 30s who are not yet able to start a family. The panel outlined the treatment pathways available to individuals, couples, and those needing donor eggs or sperm. Finally, they acknowledged the emotional dimension of fertility care and the importance of support throughout the journey.
A consistent theme emerged: so much of modern fertility is about choice and empowerment, not pressure. Many guests were interested to learn that early conversations about fertility are not about rushing into family building, but about understanding your options, so your life decisions can be thoughtful rather than reactive.
In Greek culture, family carries deep meaning, offering belonging and continuity across generations. The panel expressed that supporting individuals and couples to start or grow their families is about much more than the here and now, it is about shaping the generations to come.
Over coffee and something sweet, the audience asked thoughtful, honest questions and shared personal reflections. People left not only with clearer information, but with the sense that fertility is not a niche issue, but something that touches many of us in different ways.
The Hellenic Medical Society of Australia would like to thank its sponsors including DBG, Greek Media Group, Genomic Diagnostics, Zaparas Lawyers, Mantzis Family Trust, Accountancy Group, Alex Bros Jewellers. The HMSA and GCM would also like to thank our event sponsors including Caffe Greco, Melbourne IVF, Meleros, Healthy Empire and Moxie for their generosity throughout the event.
Quotes:
Dr Hector Georgiou: It was a privilege to be part of a conversation that was real, heartfelt, and needed. Seeing people engage so openly, ask questions, and share their experiences reminded me just how important it is to create spaces where fertility can be discussed without judgment. Events like this help turn what can feel like a private struggle into a shared journey of learning and support.
Dr Athina Pirpiris (HMSA board member): The highlight of this event was the community engagement generated through the ability to ask questions anonymously during the session. Our aim was to inform and empower individuals to make the right decisions for themselves through the sharing of evidence-based information and professional experience. We felt that we have achieved that.
Anonymous: This event was so useful and important! The panelists were so sensitive, thoughtful and considered in their responses. We really appreciated this opportunity to attend and to learn from experts and hope there will be more such events.
