It was this wind that, back in 1925, carried the soul of the Aeolian people across the ocean to Melbourne. And today, a century later, it still dances through a large hall on Lygon Street in Carlton, where the Isole Eolie Society of Melbourne continues to tell a story of identity, belonging and genuine love.
In the heart of a city that was once all dreams and discovery, Bartolo Di Mattina and brothers Giuseppe and Stefano Tesoriero planted the seed of the Aeolian community, founding an association that would serve as both refuge and family. Ironically, the spark that led to the creation of the society in Melbourne was lit in New York City. While living in the American metropolis, Giuseppe Tesoriero joined the Stromboli Benevolent Society and recognised the immense value of a supportive community. His visionary spirit led him to bring that model to Australian soil, alongside other bold pioneers.
Today, the Società Isole Eolie Melbourne is more than just a venue; it’s a sentinel of time. Its walls echo with music and laughter, with Christmas letters and dawn departures. It’s a living memory that evolves, yet always true to itself.
Current president Sam Portelli, the son of Aeolian parents from Lipari, has been leading the committee for nine years. “And one year before that as a committee member,” he adds. “Being part of this history is truly extraordinary. I’ve seen the club grow, I’ve seen the hall renovated and I feel we’ve evolved so much over the past ten years.
“Reaching 100 years is an incredible milestone, and I like to think I’ve contributed at least ten per cent to this remarkable journey,” he continues, “It’s a real tribute to the community that came together to make it all possible.”
Portelli fondly recalls the days when “we came together like one big family, with beach picnics and constant visits between relatives and friends”. A social fabric of authentic relationships that, sadly, feels thinner today in an increasingly digital and less communal world. “But events like our historic picnic at Keast Park in Seaford remind us of who we are. They give us hope that something of that unity still lives on.”
Now in its 78th year, the club’s annual picnic is far more than a gathering; it’s a rite of passage. Hundreds of children compete in egg-and-spoon races, tug-of-war and watermelon-eating contests, while parents and grandparents watch with eyes full of memories from fifty years ago. It’s a bridge between generations and a way to stay connected to their roots, especially through Aeolian cuisine, which is an integral part of the picnic and a unique culinary tradition in its own right.
Throughout the year, other cherished events include the crowning of “Mr & Mrs Isole Eolie”, aimed at engaging the younger generation, and the annual La Famiglia celebration, which honours outstanding members. “It’s one of my favourite moments,” says Portelli, “and I’m especially proud of the commemorative plaque we installed at the entrance to our main hall, displaying the names of families who wished to be remembered. Every golden plate holds a story we don’t want to forget.”
The original committee in 1925
The centenary will be celebrated in grand style with a gala dinner at the Pullman in Albert Park, filled with music, joy and shared memories. Hosted by comedian James Liotta, the evening will feature performances by Siesta Cartel and soprano Rebecca Gulinello.
The rest of the year will continue with a rich calendar of cultural and religious events, from the Feast of Saint Bartholomew to Sicilian Adventures II, following last year’s success. The program includes The Last Sicilian on October 23 at Co.As.It., a panel on mafia and feminism titled I fimmini dicinu no on October 24, a seminar on the pumice trade on October 28 and a theatrical tribute to Nino Randazzo at the Eolian Hall on October 29.
The year will conclude in festive style with a Christmas party on December 13, featuring music by DJ Morena and a live floor show by Cumare Peppina.
The Isole Eolie Society of Melbourne is not just a memory of what once was; it’s the living breath of an identity that renews itself year after year. “This centenary is a chance to celebrate everything the community has been and everything it still has the potential to become,” says President Portelli.
And as long as the wind from the islands keeps blowing, even thousands of kilometres away, there will always be a community ready to be swept up in it.
