The initiative brought together over a hundred guests, including many members of Sydney’s Italian community.

Present were Giulia and Gianni Carelli, Frank and Rosemary Placanica, Frank and Nina Mirabito, Peter Ciani with Ivana Reghelin Montresor, Simona Bernardini from the Italian Trade Agency with her husband Stefano Senatore, Liana Paolino and Tamara Mansueto from the GIA Network, Natalino Bongiorno from the Foundation for a Bloody Great Cause and many others.

The catering was expertly handled by chef Domenico Stefanelli from Machiavelli, who is also the president of the GIA Network.

Stefanelli was supported by a group of young volunteers, while the gelato served by Luigi De Luca and his daughter Virginia wrapped up the evening on a sweet note for guests.

A particularly meaningful moment of the afternoon came from the contribution of the Knights of San Silvestro and the Tiberine Academy, represented by Giulio Vidoni, who donated $1500 and $1000 to the cause respectively.

In total, the event raised a remarkable $70,000 for MDNSW - a result that highlights the strength of a community united for an important cause.

Carolyn Campbell-McLean, Senior Community Support Specialist for Muscular Dystrophy NSW, shared her own and other moving stories in her address, reminding everyone that for over 60 years, MDNSW has stood by people with neuromuscular conditions across New South Wales, offering specialised support and tailored services built around the needs of individuals and their families.

These include Peer Connect, a safe space for peer-to-peer sharing to break isolation and build genuine relationships; Support coordination offering professional assistance in managing NDIS funding and planning; and programs for children and youth such as summer camps and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, both of which promote growth, independence and inclusion.

The evening’s guest of honour was the State Governor, Margaret Beazley, a longstanding patron of the association.

In her speech, Beazley emphasised the importance of listening and understanding.

It’s a message that rings out loud and clear, strengthened by the generosity of those present and the collective effort.

Every act of solidarity can make a difference, and this was another example of the Italian community coming together to support a noble cause, as well as a great gesture of generosity from the Montrone family, who opened their home.