The turnout reflected a special occasion. Among the guests of honour were Club Marconi President Morris Licata, President of the Venetian Association of New South Wales Ivana Smaniotto and several members of the executive committee of the Trevisani nel Mondo Association of Sydney.
Particularly meaningful was the presence from Italy of Caterina and Rose Mary Bortolazzo, who travelled from Crespano del Grappa, and Maria Volpato from the municipality of Cornuda in the province of Treviso—a journey of thousands of kilometres to symbolically feel at home once more.
The day opened with Secretary Bruno Parolin inviting those present to sing the hymn to the Madonna del Grappa. It was an intense, almost suspended moment, as the hall fell into silence before rising in collective voice—not folklore, but living memory.
President Federico Simonetto then thanked members, volunteers and Club Marconi for their constant support of the association’s activities—often quiet work, yet essential in keeping the community fabric alive.
In his address, Licata reaffirmed Marconi’s commitment to supporting the Figli del Grappa’s initiatives and expressed the hope that the association would continue to choose the Bossley Park club as the venue for its events.
With his customary humour—generously shared with many associations—he described the Figli del Grappa as his “favourite association”, drawing smiles and applause.
Live music by Tony Gagliano, at times joined by Dino Seraglio, accompanied the afternoon with traditional Venetian songs, evoking village festivals and past celebrations. Not nostalgia for its own sake, but continuity.
The day concluded with a lively raffle featuring sought-after prizes and enthusiastic participation—a light ending to a day rich in meaning where friendship, tradition and Venetian pride once again found space and voice.
The next gathering is already set for May 3, again at Club Marconi, to celebrate Mother’s Day. Because communities do not sustain themselves—they are cultivated, season after season.
