“This is the only way we can protect our community, and we’ll return to freedom soon,” he said.

“Let’s get vaccinated – that way we can get out of this lockdown, return to our way of life, hold events again and be together as one big family.”

Stivala appeals to members and friends of the association, which he has run for years and is among the most active in the Italian community.

“We must understand that the vaccine is the only weapon that we have to defend ourselves, our loved ones and the whole community from this terrible virus that continues to put our lives on hold,” he said.

“For over 15 months we’ve been forced to live in a very different manner from what we’re used to.

“And once again, we’ve been forced to cancel the scheduled events and to halt all the initiatives we would have liked to carry out.

“The reason is simple: we must respect the restrictions set out by the New South Wales government, but most of all, we must prevent the continued spread of this virus.

“We must protect each other in any way we can – from the smallest precaution to the largest gesture – such as avoiding seeing each other and being together physically.”

The San Sebastiano Martire da Cerami Enna Association had scheduled celebrations for its patron saint on August 22, at the Our Lady of Lourdes Church, in Earlwood.

The centuries-old ritual of distributing bread, cheese and wine was modified to comply with COVID-safe practices, and was set to go ahead until the Delta variant paralysed New South Wales. 

Unfortunately, for the second consecutive year, the celebrations will not be able to take place.

Likewise, the lunch for the anniversary of the association, scheduled for September 19, has been cancelled.

At the moment, it is unclear whether Sydney’s lockdown will end on August 28; if less severe restrictions will be put in place, or if it will be possible to return to normality.

“There are times when we need to prioritise the health of our community,” Stivala insisted.

“We must prevent this virus from having opportunities to spread.

“This is why we don’t want to take the chance, even if the restrictions are lifted and we can organise COVID-safe events in some way.

“For the moment, we’ll wait.

“Let’s focus on getting everyone vaccinated.

“I invite all members, friends and supporters of the San Sebastiano Martire da Cerami Enna Association to come forward and get the vaccine.

“It’s essential.”