Forty years spent keeping alive a bond that knows no distance—the bond with one’s homeland, with the flavours of home and with traditions that mark the year like a calendar of their roots.

On Sunday, February 15, the Padovani Association of Melbourne celebrated its 40th anniversary with a delightful luncheon at the Veneto Club in Bulleen.

Everything was carefully organised by the energetic executive committee, working behind the scenes with its usual dedication to ensure a lunch worthy of the occasion.

The afternoon was accompanied by music from duo J & C, and each guest received a complimentary bottle of sweet wine from the region—a small gesture that was warmly appreciated.

As tradition dictates, the menu featured two entrées, a creamy porcini mushroom risotto, two main courses and, to finish on a sweet note, custard-filled cannoli and a traditional cake.

On every table, a printed menu traced the association’s history from 1986 to today, listing past presidents and thanking all those who have supported the group over the years. A simple yet meaningful way of saying, “We have come this far together.”

Opening the celebrations was President Luigi Bacchin, visibly pleased with the strong turnout. “We have reached our 40th anniversary,” he said.

“May this be a day filled with joy and emotion as we reflect on the many years spent together, the memories and the friendships formed along the way.”

A minute’s silence followed, as the room paused in heartfelt remembrance of members, relatives and friends who have passed away.

Vice-President and Treasurer Angelo Ricinato also addressed the guests, reminding them that the bar was open in addition to the wine and beer already provided. “Today will be a day rich not only in surprises, but above all in emotion,” he said.

And there was certainly no shortage of emotion. The association’s milestone coincided with other personal celebrations: Gianni Lorenzi chose the occasion to celebrate with family and friends; Ida Trentin marked her birthday; and Mario Codaro recently turned 80—celebrations within a celebration.

Also present were representatives from sister associations: Father Vito Pegolo, spiritual guide of the community; Dionisio Sanorà, president of Vicentini nel Mondo, with his wife Adriana; Renzo Zanella of the Veronesi, with his wife Ida; and Giuseppe Bolzonero, vice-president of the Trevisani, with his family.

Their presence highlighted the spirit of cooperation and solidarity among the Venetian associations in Melbourne.

Father Vito invited everyone to experience the anniversary as “a moment of gratitude and thanksgiving”, recalling key milestones in the life of the local Italian community—from the 50th anniversary of the Veneto Club to 50 years of Italian Mass at San Clemente.

“Forty years is an important milestone,” he said, “to rediscover our values, our culture, our faith,” he said, before a joint recitation of Ave Maria sealed the moment.

Behind the scenes, much of the organisational effort was carried by the tireless secretary Katia Bacchin, a pillar of the association for over 20 years.

“We’re all a bit older now, and sadly we have lost many members,” she reflected, “It’s increasingly difficult to involve younger people and organise activities as we once did.”

Yet when there is work to be done, the committee steps up. “The last two weeks are always the most intense, but teamwork has never been lacking,” Katia declared.

Today the association counts around 120 active members, but attendance for the 40th anniversary approached 200—an encouraging result.

Over the years, the group has organised traditional festivities, the feast of Saint Anthony, the Christmas picnic and other initiatives that have strengthened the Padovan community.

“In the past we did even more,” Katia noted, “but we continue to move forward, always with precision and commitment.”

The afternoon continued with a generous raffle, lively music and the much-anticipated cake cutting, amid applause and commemorative photographs.

“Forty years on, the desire to be together is the same as it was then,” the secretary concluded.