A cascade of white flowers welcomed the guests, while two display panels on the walls told the story of Raffaele Mazza’s, a Calabrian artist who, with ‘75 Emotions’, brought a profound fragment of his homeland to Melbourne.
At the centre of the room, elegantly set tables adorned with floral arrangements. Every detail was carefully curated, but the true heart of the event lay elsewhere: in the connection to one’s roots. Starting with the menu: lagane with Sambiase-scented ragù, mixed cutlets with ‘npacchiuse potatoes and Tropea red onion, and a trio of desserts from the Kingdom of the Bourbons. It was a true celebration of Calabria’s extraordinary culinary heritage.
About a hundred people attended, including well-known figures from the Italian community in Australia such as Elvira Andreoli, member of The Rustica Project and Pat Rocca, the president of the Australian Calabrese Cultural Association.
The exhibition also had a charitable purpose, with proceeds going to the Italian foundation for Alzheimer’s research.
The event opened with a tribute to the fallen. Outside, in front of the monument, a minute’s silence was observed as a wreath was laid by the artist’s son, Francesco Mazza.
On stage, two drapes concealed a work that would only be revealed later. The atmosphere was animated by the rhythms of the tarantella, thanks to the duo Viva Cu’ Sona, made up of Pasquale Spirlì and Matteo Arena.
Then, the stage was graced by Ilenia Fatima Mazza, the artist’s daughter, who performed a dance suspended between folk and contemporary acrobatics, wrapped in choreography that merged tradition with modern art.
La Pacchiana, Pride, Prayer and Work was the star of the show, and Mazza presented it on stage with emotion. “I created it with a palette knife; it’s textured, with inserts recalling the history of Calabrian women,” he explained.
“La Pacchiana is a symbol of pride, sacrifice, work and prayer. The dress she wears signified a rite of passage: a girl ready for marriage, her dowry, her entry into society. I chose colours that unite the territories of Lamezia: Sambiase, Nicastro and Sant’Eufemia.
“It’s been a wonderful experience,” the artist added, “The Calabria Club gave me a warm welcome, starting with President Sam Sposato and the entire committee. I felt at home. I wanted to bring art here as a gift. For me, art must be shared.”
For Mazza, art is also a bridge. “I also presented this piece in the press room of the Italian Chamber of Deputies and at the Prefecture of Catanzaro,” he shared. “Here in Melbourne, I wanted to create a virtual connection between Catanzaro and this community. A tribute to those who left their homeland after the war, embarking on a journey of hope.
“Keeping traditions alive is our way of feeling closer, even from far away.”
Sam Sposato, president of the Calabria Club, offered a warm welcome to everyone present.
“Today is a day dedicated to art, memory and identity,” he said, “I thank all of you for being here. It’s an honour to host Cavaliere Mazza and share this moment with the entire community.”
Giovanni Butera, event coordinator and member of the club, invited guests to the stage.
“Isn’t it truly wonderful to think that one-third of Victoria’s population was born overseas?” asked Gabrielle Marchetti, commissioner for Multicultural Affairs in Victoria.
“I thank the Calabria Club for organising this event. Calabrian culture has a huge impact on our community. And the appetiser was absolutely delicious!”
John Pesutto, representing the Liberal Party, was also present. “La Pacchiana is a historical representation, a symbol of hard work, prayer and pride,” he said.
“It’s a generous gift that allows us to reflect on the impact of those who came here. It’s beautiful to see that spirit still alive today.”
Between courses, a video made for the Multicultural Film Festival was screened.
“We shot a four-minute film, Echoes of Traditions, showcasing the tarantella between Calabria and Australia,” explained Butera.
“The video was presented at the festival. It was accepted, even if not in competition. It’s a contribution that shows how vibrant our culture remains, even here.”
Then he announced a new development: “We signed an agreement with the Pro Loco of Lamezia Terme to create ongoing relationships with Calabria. We want to connect the local community with those of our origins for initiatives like the spiritual trek along the path of Saint Francis of Paola, and collaborations with the Accademia del Peperoncino in Diamante.”
Throughout the lunch, guests shared positive comments testifying to their love for their cultural identity. Among them was Maria Molea, a longtime member of the club who emigrated in 1962. “I’ve been here for over 40 years,” she revealed, “This club is my home, I found friendships and support here.”
Carmela Petrasso, who has lived in Melbourne for 57 years, also shared her bond with the club. “This club saved me,” she said, “We celebrate Calabria because we’ve never forgotten it.”
Lucia Cefalà, an incredible cook from Sambiase, dressed in traditional clothing “because it makes her feel at home”. She also revealed the secret behind her delicious pasta.
“A ragù cooked for an entire day, but it takes two days to prepare everything,” she explained.
“I’ve been cooking Calabrian food, the food of my heart, for 60 years.”
A raffle closed the lunch, with the table centerpiece becoming the prize and a keepsake to take home.
