The ACCA is an organisation dedicated to the promotion of the rich Calabrian culture in Australia. Founded with the goal of extending and facilitating relations between Calabria and Australia, the association also aims to enable people of Calabrian descent to connect with their roots, while promoting a positive image of Calabrians in Australia. Moreover, the organisation strives to recognise the significant contribution that Calabrians have made to the Australian community over time.
The culmination of this mission is the annual Gala Dinner, in which the prestigious title of the ‘Calabrian of the Year’ is awarded. The prize aims to celebrate individuals who have in some way set themselves apart and offered an important contribution to Australian society.
Amongst the winners of previous years, for example, appear distinguished figures from diverse disciplinary backgrounds, such as Anna Maria Arabia, CEO of the Australian Academy of Sciences; Tony Roccisano, an important businessman from Mildura; the Emeritus Professor and decorated academic Teresa De Fazio; and the professor Elisabetta Barbiero, Doctor of Physics at the University of Melbourne. These individuals are shining examples of how much Calabrians have contributed to the Australian community.
This year, in which the prize reaches its fifth iteration, all eyes are on an internationally famous entertainer known for making audiences around the world laugh with their contagious humour. Can you guess who it is? Whether or not you have guessed, the evening promises to be an unforgettable occasion to celebrate the talent and success of the Calabrian community.
If you’d like to participate in the event, select tickets are still available and can be purchased via https://australiancalabrese.weebly.com/2023-calabrese-of-the-year.html.