The Floridia Social Club in Flemington was no exception, and during the dance night held on November 8, it certainly put on its finest display.
It was impossible not to notice the overall elegance of the roughly 200 attendees, and the style with which the ladies in particular wore their carefully chosen hats, matched impeccably with their outfits.
Among the many members and friends who attended this highly anticipated event on the Club’s annual calendar was Secretary Connie Matarazzo.
“It wasn’t easy choosing the best outfits,” Matarazzo revealed.
In the end, first prize went to Stella Renda, followed by Zeza Castanheira in second place and Tony Stefanelli in third.
Another highlight of the evening was the generous menu, beginning with a well-stocked antipasto—one of the best around—featuring fresh ricotta, mixed olives, bocconcini, a delicious selection of cured meats, pickled vegetables and a cherry tomato and fresh basil salad.
Dessert deserves a special mention. The Floridia Social Club has always been committed to supporting Pasticceria Padova in Fawkner, which was forced to close for a year and a half after an arson attack.
The pastry shop finally reopened its doors on November 9. As always, its famous cannoli—among Melbourne’s favourites—were served at the end of the dinner.
During the evening, we also had the chance to speak with Nella Zannino, a member of the Club for over 30 years.
Zannino told us about her three decades working at the Flemington Race Course, and how much she has seen the Spring Carnival Week evolve into the major event it is today, attracting tourists and celebrities from all over the world.
“It’s been interesting to watch what happens, year after year, during that particular week,” she said.
“It has become such a social occasion that many women rush to find the right dress—and the right hat—a year in advance.”
