The event opened with a welcome from the association’s president, Bartolo Fonti, originally from Canneto on the island of Lipari, who greeted the many attendees.
Guests included lawyer Major Dino Di Marchi, artist and general coordinator of the Association of Italian Pensioners’ Clubs Marcello D’Amico, as well as presidents of other military associations.
Maestro Tony D’Amico then performed the Italian and Australian national anthems, followed by the Last Post in memory of those who are no longer with us.
The day continued with a convivial lunch featuring an Italian-style antipasto, pasta with spicy meat sauce and chicken cutlets with sides, desserts and drinks.
After lunch, president Fonti recited from memory the Sailor’s Prayer, written in 1901 by poet Antonio Fogazzaro. This was followed by addresses from Fonti himself and Major Dino Di Marchi, who revisited key moments in the history of the Italian Navy, thanked those present and offered a special message to younger generations.
Among the central themes recalled were the Battle of Premuda on June 10, 1918, and the exploits of Admiral Luigi Rizzo, who led the naval action resulting in the sinking of the battleship Szent István.
The origins of the Italian National Navy were also remembered, established on November 17, 1860, even before the proclamation of the Kingdom of Italy.
The formal proceedings concluded with the reading of a letter from the national president of A.N.M.I., Admiral Pierluigi Rosati, and the blessing of the image of Saint Barbara by Father Aurelio Fragapane.
The afternoon was enlivened by musical entertainment from Maestro D’Amico, followed by the raffle draw. Fonti then extended Christmas and New Year 2026 wishes to all those present, thanking the committee, the patronesses and all supporters of the association.
