The change in leadership took place at the Wests Ashfield Leagues Club during a convivial lunch, marked by the traditional “exchange of the pen”—a symbolic handover within the Alpini.
Querin will remain closely involved as honorary president of the Sydney Section and will continue in his role coordinating Alpini sections and groups across Australia.
Around 50 people attended the event, including members, family and friends. Querin welcomed guests and provided an update on the section’s finances, thanking members and supporters for their ongoing and generous contribution.
In his address, he also highlighted an important milestone ahead: in 2026, the Sydney Section will celebrate its 50th anniversary, with special events planned to mark the occasion.
During the lunch, awards were presented to Luciano Liberale and Sandro Isabella in recognition of their long-standing support for a charitable project in Thailand.
Funds raised, with significant help from Isabella’s wife, Pom, were used to build an air-conditioned classroom and cover school fees for as many children as possible for a full year.
As a gesture of thanks, the children sent colourful handmade elephant figurines, delivered by Isabella, which moved those present.
The day also featured several symbolic moments. Alpino Marco Simoni presented Querin with a special limited-edition wine, one of only 100 bottles, sent by the Alpini of Oderzo (Treviso).
There was also an exchange of pennants between Querin and Orlando Brombal, a visitor from Treviso and a member of the Caerano San Marco Section.
Among the guests were Ugo Bergamo, president of the Associazione Trentini nel Mondo in Sydney, and Alessandro Maremonti, president of the Inter Club Sydney—both active members of the Alpini.
New president Davide Mazzoldi brings strong ties to the Alpini tradition, having attended nearly all 23 National Alpini Gatherings in Italy, missing only the year affected by the pandemic.
With the continued support of Querin and the committee, Mazzoldi is expected to carry the section forward, maintaining the values of solidarity, friendship and tradition that define the Alpini.
