Marking the Federation’s 36th anniversary, the event attracted over 100 attendees, both members and friends, and was described as “a great success” by president Vincenzo Ciano, who has led the committee for an impressive 19 years.
“The venue prepared an exceptional lunch, plentiful and delicious, and the staff were attentive and efficient,” he said.
At the start of the celebration, Ciano briefly welcomed guests, wishing everyone an enjoyable day and thanking the venue’s managers and staff.
During the appetising lunch, Calabrian Pasquale Ciancio on the organetto and Friulian Roberto Tomadini on the tambourine played popular tarantellas, delighting everyone present.
Guests came from around a dozen Italian regions, including the north-east. And this is the beauty of initiatives like this one organised by the Calabresi: at these gatherings, we are all Italians first and foremost. Outside Italy, regional differences and parochialism thankfully fade away.
The lucky door prize and the much-anticipated raffle with ten prizes, all donated by the Federation and committee members, brought even more joy. The lively, cheerful atmosphere in the room was unmistakable.
From time to time, people changed seats to greet other friends and exchange the traditional Christmas and New Year wishes. As always, the celebration concluded with slices of panettone and a prosecco toast offered by the Federation.
Reflecting on the day and the role of the committee, which includes Angela Arena as Vice-President, Maria Pangallo as Secretary, Rose Farronato as Treasurer, along with members Pasquale Ciancio, Maria Morabito and Tony Prostimo, Ciano expressed heartfelt thanks for their “exceptional cooperation, generosity and tireless work over the past months to ensure everything ran smoothly”.
“They represent the central axle that keeps the wheel turning, making everything else simple and enjoyable for everyone,” he continued.
“[We hope that] their enthusiasm and dedication will continue to motivate them to carry on with these annual gatherings, which give the Canberra community the opportunity to spend many hours together in pleasant company, celebrating our Italian identity.”
Without doubt, this association is among the most active in the capital. With over 220 members, it organises three major events each year: a dinner dance in April (which in 2026 will be held on Saturday the 18th), a lunch to celebrate Ferragosto and the Christmas lunch.
For 2026, the committee is also considering adding two outings: one to Sydney for a harbour cruise on a boat and another to Griffith, home to a significant Italian community.
The enthusiasm and energy of Ciano and the rest of the committee are evident and bode well for a future in which our roots and traditions are celebrated and friendships among Italians living abroad are strengthened. Well done to the Federation of Calabresi for their invaluable work.
