D’Antonio began to learn how to make bastoni when he was only 10 years old, when his father, a carpenter, left his family behind in Ripacandida, in the province of Potenza, to seek his fortune in Argentina.
He still remembers his first solo job – creating a coffin for his teacher’s wife.
Today, D’Antonio is 83 years old and has more than 70 years’ experience in supporting members of the community through his creations.
His designs have an Italian flavour, some painted green, white and red – the tricolore – to help his clients feel more connected to their Italian origins.
To pursue his passion, D’Antonio abjures his other passions: bowls, cards and dancing, all of which he participates in with Italian social groups and associations.
D’Antonio is a member of the Associazione Regione Lazio, Noantri & Carpineto, an organisation famous for its monthly dinner dances, which have been on hold during the pandemic.
The craftsman participates in the Kogarah group, and is extremely proud of his Italian heritage, rejoicing in his ability to pass on his knowledge of cultural traditions.
D’Antonio left Italy when he was 15 years old and migrated to Argentina, where he lived for 30 years, before arriving in Australia in 1984.
At 45 years old, he set up a new life in Sydney, diving into his work to build a better future for himself and his family, who migrated with him.
D’Antonio retired so that he could enjoy his life outside the confines of work, but still makes time to pursue his passions with his many Italian friends across Sydney.
