The event was catered by Saluministi and Vino Bambino and was sponsored by Bertocchi Smallgoods, Hamper World, Mr Sally, The Cookie Dough Co., Hoyts Foods and That’s Amore Cheese.

Guests were dressed to the nines as they mingled with friends old and new, all the while enjoying an array of savoury delicacies to pair with Italian beer and wine.

“We held our first event at a sponsor’s office not too dissimilar to this,” recalled ALTO committee member Steve Perri during his welcome address.

“We invited guests without actually knowing if anyone would attend.

“And we filled the room – with people that have been coming back ever since.”

Perri called those who have attended events throughout the decade ALTO’s “biggest asset”.

He also paid tribute to ALTO president, David La Greca, which was met with a round of applause.

“Thank you, David, for your leadership,” he said.

“You’ve led us through a difficult period with Covid … we’ve managed to come out the other side and we still continue to prosper.”

ALTO’s treasurer, Adrian D’Aprano, was next to speak and immediately reflected on “how far the organisation has come”.

“Throughout my journey with ALTO,” he continued, “I’ve made countless meaningful connections, both professional and personal, and have truly felt part of the Italian-Australian community.”

“Everyone is welcome, with many people attending their first ALTO event solo and leave having made friendships and connections for life.”

D’Aprano then paid a heartfelt tribute to the Italian migrants of earlier generations for giving their descendants the opportunity to flourish.

“Tonight, we celebrate not only our accomplishments, but also the enduring legacy of those who built bridges for us to thrive,” he said.

D’Aprano also thanked the founders of ALTO, including founding president John Persico, Joseph Valente, Louise Farinotti and Matt Persico.

The evening concluded with a raffle, where three lucky guests won one of three generous prizes: a delectable hamper from Bertocchi and another from Mr Sally, as well as a bottle of Il Palazzo Chianti from Vino Bambino.

To join ALTO and keep up to date with their upcoming events, click here.