For decades, Italian clubs in Melbourne have been tirelessly continuing their activities that bring joy to both members and guests.
The Delianuova Social & Sporting Club is never missing from the list of successful providers of community events in Victoria. The club is always attracting large crowds with the promise of fun, music and friendship.
The club recently celebrated its first 50 years of service to the community. With 170 people in attendance, excellent music from Ross & The Golden Boys, Calabrian-style delicacies and many honoured guests, the day was a hit.
The club’s president, Tony Licastro, welcomed those present to the Licodia Eubea Social Club, whose venue was set up beautifully for the Delianuova’s birthday.
Licastro’s heartfelt speech stirred strong emotions in the crowd, especially among those who have been present since the early days of Delianuova.
“Welcome everyone to the 50th anniversary of our beloved club, which is named after the beautiful city in the Aspromonte area of Calabria,” he began.
“A city where many of us can find our roots, while for others, it is their place of birth.
“Fifty years ago, after a conversation with Father Francesco Villanova, who suggested she start a new association to reunite people from Delianuova, a young woman who sang in a Melbourne club [founded the club].”
The president then invited the ‘founder’ and honoured guest of the evening, Pina Cuce.
Cuce received a standing ovation from the room in what was a moment of collective gratitude to her for having relayed the idea to her father.
“From its first small steps, with the help of many, the club has grown significantly,” continued Licastro.
“[Together, we’ve celebrated man] important events, Christmas parties, dinners, lunches, billiards and card tournaments.”
Licastro also paid tribute to the late past presidents who helped the club grow: Pasqualino Vaccari, Vittorio Leuzzi, Alfonso Licastro, Valentino Frisina, Giuseppe Mafrici, Antonio Sidari, Raffaele Leuzzi, Rocco Carbone and Pasquale Scutella.
He then gave a final thanks to the ever-busy secretary, Joe Rechichi, for all the hard work done behind the scenes.
After the speeches, the celebration continued with smiles and stories aplenty, and with music and dancing between courses. The many special prizes handed out during the event crowned a special anniversary.
The lottery saw Sam Sposato, president of the Calabria Club and guest of the evening, win first prize. Assunta Righi took the second prize while the fourth went to Vittorio Chiodo.
Meanwhile, the third and fifth prizes went to the very lucky Nadia Inthous, who won in an endearing fashion. Inthous won twice thanks to being drawn by two of her grandchildren, causing laughter among those present.
At the end of the celebration, The Delianuova Social & Sporting Club bid its members farewell until the Christmas social lunch to mark another great year.
