This year’s recipient was Isabella Guerra, born in Lamezia Terme in the province of Catanzaro, to Francesco and Rosina Cappellano.
In the 1950s, during a period of intense Italian emigration to Europe, North America, South America and Australia, Francesco travelled to Melbourne to assess the country’s economic and social prospects.
He settled initially in Moonee Ponds, where he rented a house and saved to purchase a home of his own. Later, Rosina’s brothers joined him. In 1961, Rosina, Isabella and her younger sister Teresa finally arrived in Australia aboard the Sydney.
While still in Italy, Isabella had begun studying English. Once in Melbourne, she attended Santa Maria Catholic Primary School in Ascot Vale, followed by Flemington Girls School.
She completed several professional courses, including First Aid and translation/interpreting. Her natural inclination to help others led her to dedicate herself wholeheartedly to the Italian community.
In the 1970s she began a career in banking, assisting mainly Italian clients and explaining procedures and documentation clearly and accessibly.
Her competence earned her trust and respect, and she became a key point of reference for many migrants navigating the banking system.
She later worked for more than ten years in private medical clinics, including those of Dr Frank Incani, Dr Graeme Thompson and Dr Aram Demirdjian, continuing to offer generous support, especially to elderly people living alone and to those in difficulty.
Isabella’s contribution extended well beyond her professional work. From 1981 she was actively involved in the Parish of St Christopher’s in Airport West, promoting the celebration of Mass in Italian—now one of the few remaining churches to do so in Melbourne’s north-west.
For 35 years she served as president of the Italian Catholic Federation of Airport West, welcoming Italian families, widows and widowers, and anyone in need of help or comfort.
Isabella has been recognised as a tireless leader and a pillar of the Italian Catholic community, also capable of mediating in situations of intergenerational conflict.
Despite her extensive community involvement, Isabella has always maintained a central role within her family: she is a devoted wife, mother of three and proud grandmother of six.
Her example of dedication and generosity has left an indelible mark on the Italian community in Melbourne’s north-west.
At the presentation of the Solidarity Cup, Frank Di Blasi announced the winner, prompting a long and warm round of applause from those present.
“First of all, I would like to express my gratitude to the president of the I.C.K.A. Club, Maria Camiolo, and the members of the Executive Committee for giving us the opportunity to present this unique annual award within the Italian community of Victoria, in such a beautiful festive and lively pre-Christmas setting,” said Di Blasi, founder and promoter of the award.
Now in its 26th edition, the award was established in 1999 and has recognised 26 Italian Australians across Melbourne and the state for their extraordinary commitment and selfless service.
A few evenings later, around sixty members of the Catholic Federation gathered in the St Christopher’s parish hall to celebrate the Advent season and pay tribute to their leader.
Most of those present were people living alone, for whom such occasions represent rare moments of social connection and joy.
During the evening, which included dinner and music by entertainer Sam Balbo, Isabella’s recent recognition was recalled amid applause, embraces and group photos, reflecting the community’s affection.
People like Salvatore Sudano, 83, originally from Francofonte, who found comfort in the church after losing his wife and child, embody the tangible impact of Isabella’s service.
Her work shows how dedication, generosity and genuine care for others can leave a lasting and positive imprint on a community, keeping Italian life in Melbourne’s north-west vibrant and welcoming.
