Peter Patisteas and Chris Togias from Oasis Coffee have reported raising $3,000 at this year’s Antipodes Festival, bringing the total amount raised from 2022 to 2025 to over $10,000.
The funds raised will support the Melbourne Central Mission (MCM) which aligns with the
values of Patisteas and Togias.
“We are looking at ways to strengthen our relationship with MCM to be more meaningful and deliver measurable outcomes in addition to our event-based donations,” Patisteas and Togias told Neos Kosmos.
“Relaunching our pre-pandemic barista training program at our roastery and showroom is one example,” Patisteas said.
Trainees receive an introduction to the coffee industry—from harvest to hospitality—alongside a deep dive into Melbourne’s history as the nation’s coffee culture capital.
They also gain hands-on experience in pulling shots, steaming milk, adjusting grinders, and preparing a full menu of coffee beverages.
“Give a person a coffee, and you provide for them for a morning; train a person to be a barista, and they can provide for themselves long-term,” Togias said.
Patisteas said that they are exploring partnerships with aged care facilities following the release of their decaf pulverized Greek-style coffee, which aligns with a commitment to senior care and healthy living.
“The MCM motto is ‘people first,’ and that is a mission we can get behind,” Patisteas said. “Our team is driven to give back, provide purpose, and create pathways that empower people to achieve economic independence and help break the welfare cycle.”
Through coffee, community, and action, Peter Patisteas and Chris Togias brew opportunities that make a lasting impact.
