This year’s celebration attracted around 300 people. Held on February 21, the day began with a Mass at Sacred Heart Church in Oakleigh, followed by a traditional procession carefully recreated in line with customs from Colle d’Anchise.
The ritual continues to hold strong spiritual and symbolic meaning for those who keep it alive.
Cristina Spina, a member of the organising committee—an independent group formed specifically to preserve the tradition—explained the significance of the event.
“It’s the most venerated Madonna in our town, very important to all of us,” she said, noting that the original celebration in Colle d’Anchise takes place on August 21.
The initial plan had been to bring the original statue to Australia, but transport challenges made this impossible. Instead, in 2005 the town donated a painting of the Madonna, marking the beginning of the celebration in Melbourne.
“It was a way to preserve the memory and pass it on to younger generations,” Spina explained.
The day continued at the Whitehorse Club with a dinner dance attended by a large and enthusiastic crowd.
The menu reflected Molisan tradition, with antipasto, lasagne, chicken and dessert, along with cunchiell—known elsewhere in Italy as chiacchiere or crostoli—shared as a symbol of conviviality.
Music was provided by the band No Limits, now a regular feature of the event, keeping the atmosphere lively throughout the evening.
“There was a real sense of family among the tables,” Spina said. “People shared memories and stories from the past.”
For many, the celebration is more than a social gathering. It’s a way to honour those who migrated to Australia, bringing with them traditions that continue to shape community life today.
“It’s our link to the past,” said Spina. “We want to pass it on to our children, so they understand what mattered to our parents and ensure these traditions are never lost.”
