Nine News Melbourne journalist Gillian Lantouris has received the 2026 Mersina Halvagis Award from Crime Stoppers Victoria, recognising her work promoting crime prevention and community safety.
Lantouris, who is Greek Australian, announced the honour on Instagram, paying tribute to Mersina Halvagis, a young Greek Australian woman whose life was tragically cut short at the age of 25.
Mersina’s family, including her father George, has spent years advocating for victims’ rights, raising awareness about crime prevention and continuing to seek answers and justice.
Lantouris praised the family’s determination, describing them as campaigners who have never abandoned their fight.
She also highlighted the work of Crime Stoppers Victoria, crediting the organisation with providing an important avenue for the public to share information that can assist investigations.
“It has been a pleasure to work alongside Stella Smith and the team to promote important campaigns that are instrumental in helping Victoria Police keep our community safe,” Lantouris wrote.
She also encouraged the public to remember that Crime Stoppers accepts anonymous reports.
Honouring Mersina Halvagis
The award honours the memory of Mersina Halvagis and recognises efforts to support crime prevention and victims’ rights.
For the Greek Australian community, Mersina’s story remains closely connected to her family’s long campaign for answers and justice. Their advocacy continues to raise awareness of the impact of crime on victims, families and the wider community.
Lantouris’s recognition also highlights the contribution of journalists and community organisations working to promote public safety and encourage people to come forward with information.
Source: Gillian Lantouris, Instagram
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