This was recalled by president Ben Sonego as he opened the ceremony marking the club’s 59th anniversary, highlighting “the deep value of this milestone”.
Club Italia has its roots in the amalgamation of three historic organisations: Fogolar Furlan Sydney, The Veneto Club of Sydney and the Abruzzi Sports Club—a merger that succeeded in bringing together different traditions under one shared home.
Sonego expressed this clearly and sincerely: “The union of Friulians, Venetians and Abruzzese, with their diverse cultures, has brought our identities together into one single community.”
He then thanked the individuals who, over the years, have safeguarded and passed on regional traditions through cultural celebrations: Lidia Gentilini (Fogolar Furlan Sydney), Antonio Santomingo (Abruzzi Sports Club) and Flavia Sonego, the acting president of the Veneto Club.
Beyond religious and regional festivities, Club Italia continues to invest in activities that support Italian identity: social events, language initiatives and moments of community life that remain a cultural stronghold for its members.
Sonego gave a special thanks to the presidents of the subcommittees, coordinators and volunteers who make such a full and vibrant calendar possible.
“We are grateful to the presidents of our subcommittees, to the coordinators and to the volunteers who organise our bocce competitions, card games and special events,” he said.
The year 2025 recorded significant figures: 129 events in total, 14 cultural functions, 98 bocce competitions, four bocce BBQs and 12 monthly card competitions—a total of almost 5200 member participations.
“Your support has made this one of the most successful years I have experienced in my 28 years at the Club,” he said emotionally.
The president also recalled the importance of the partnership with the Mounties Group, which has ensured continuity and stability.
In particular, he thanked past and present staff, mentioning familiar faces to regular patrons, like chef Fei, “who provided excellent cuisine throughout the year”.
He also mentioned Jordan and his team who are “always by our side”, John Vadala and Tony Gagliano as “guardians of the musical atmosphere” and the artistic contribution of Elizabeth Sonego and her opera singers.
Sonego then reaffirmed the Club’s commitment for the year ahead. “We will continue to promote Italian culture, language and education throughout 2026, while also supporting the wellbeing of our members with the help of Mounties Care and your service providers,” he said.
He also announced the date of another historic milestone: “On Sunday, October 18, 2026, we will celebrate our 60th anniversary, and our committee is already working to ensure it will be a truly extraordinary event.”
In closing, the president thanked all members, the true protagonists of the Club’s vitality.
A day of celebration, collective memory and renewed commitment: 59 years of intertwined stories under the tricolour, with eyes already firmly set on the future.
