Greek Australian Community Slams Kia Tasman Ad for Cultural Insensitivity

Kia Australia is facing backlash from the Greek Australian community over its “Tasman Town” TV ad, aired during Game 2 of the State of Origin.

The ad features Collingwood legend Peter Daicos, nicknamed the “Macedonian Marvel,” running a fictional “Macedonian Marble” business set against Parthenon-like pillars, sparking widespread criticism.

Numerous posts on Facebook and X from community members expressed outrage over the ad’s use of classical Greek imagery alongside the term “Macedonian,” calling it offensive and misleading.

“It’s disappointing and insensitive,” said Steven, a concerned community member. “Pairing Parthenon-style imagery with ‘Macedonian Marble’ distorts history and disrespects Greek cultural identity.”

The controversy stems from the term “Macedonian Marble,” which some see as conflicting with the 2018 Prespa Agreement. This agreement resolved a decades-long dispute between Greece and the Republic of North Macedonia, emphasizing mutual respect for cultural heritage and prohibiting misrepresentation of ancient Hellenic symbols.

Many in the Greek diaspora view the ad’s combination of Greek iconography and the “Macedonian” label as either intentional provocation or careless oversight.

“This isn’t about politics; it’s about cultural respect,” another community member shared online. “Companies must use cultural symbols accurately and sensitively in their marketing.”

Kia Australia declined to provide an official statement but clarified that the “Macedonian Marble” reference was a playful nod to Daicos’ nickname, with the pillars meant to resemble generic architectural features, similar to those at the Archaeological Museum of North Macedonia.

Innocean, the agency behind the campaign, also declined to comment.

Peter Daicos, a beloved figure in Australian football, is of Greek heritage, with his family originating from the region of Macedonia in Greece, which adds further context to the sensitivity surrounding the ad’s use of his nickname and cultural imagery.