Reaching such a milestone speaks of a long history of success, survival and adaptation to challenges. The 50th anniversary of the family business is a source of pride for the founders, employees and everyone involved with Navarra Venues.
Over 350 honoured guests filled the finely-decorated hall celebrate five decades of a brand that has established itself as one of the leaders in the catering and entertainment industry.
As well as Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, local parliamentarians, entrepreneurs and representatives of various Italian associations were present. The evening was hosted by the popular television presenter Karl Stefanovic, while Bishop Antoine Charbel Taraby recited the opening prayer. Victor Dominello, former minister and now director of a new initiative at the University of New South Wales, added to the occasion with his presence.
The room was decorated with old photos of Navarre’s past and adorned with round tables and red and black motifs as guests were welcomed into an intimate atmosphere.
The musical trio Rat Pack Reloaded were extraordinary, performing a series of classic songs featuring hits by Frank Sinatra and the others from the 1950s, creating a timeless setting.
Sal Navarra, managing director of Navarra Venues, expressed his honour to carry on his father’s business, promising to work hard to keep it alive and adding that he is looking forward to the next 50 years.
“I am truly honoured to be part of this legacy that my father built,” said Navarra.
“He passed the baton to us and we work hard to honour him. I cannot thank him enough for all he has done for us, and we look forward to the future of Navarra over the next 50 years.”
The words of Prime Minister Albanese were touching as he briefly outlined the history of the Navarra family.
“Fifty years of anything is a significant event. To be able to maintain a business in the hospitality industry for half a century, to overcome all those changes and not just survive, but thrive, is indeed something that deserves to be celebrated in a big way,” said the prime minister.
“We have gathered here to celebrate half a century of Navarra, a great Australian business that proudly bears the name of an extraordinary family,” added Albanese, who recalled how Filippo’s migration story is an experience shared by many Italian-Australians.
“Filippo’s business, with the help of his wife Sarina, another Sicilian force of nature, grew with this city. Sarina was an entrepreneur ahead of her time, and I know that we all miss her very much.”
Albanese also mentioned that the Navarra family is heavily involved in charitable activities with the Navarra Care Foundation, which raises funds through their employees, industrial partners and customers who give back to the community via fundraising initiatives and donations.
Albanese went on to say that he was “proud to stand here before you as an Australian Prime Minister with Italian roots”.
“And I am equally proud of the fact that, growing up in Sydney’s west, I have always felt a special bond with the Italian community of Australia.”
The Prime Minister then concluded by recalling how much Italians have contributed to the growth of this country through business, politics, education, health, culture and community.
Starting from humble beginnings in 1973 with their first restaurant, La Conca D’Oro, Filippo Navarra and his wife Sarina, who was always a great source of inspiration for him, took the financial risk of starting their own business.
Today, their successful legacy continues to distinguish itself by offering impeccable service.
In 1996 it was time for a second venue in the heart of the Italian community; Le Montage, formerly called Apia Club.
In 2003, Curzon Hall was annexed after undergoing a major renovation to build a new dance hall. In 2012, Oatlands Estate (formerly Oatlands House) was next, to cater for the Western Sydney market.
In 2024, the latest venue to join the list is The Villa Navarra, the most exclusive venue to date located in the Southern Highlands, reserved to host only 20 events per year.
With over 50 years of experience in the industry and more than 200,000 successfully organised events, the company’s reputation is well established.
Navarra venues have employed over a million people during their time in business, with each and everyone one of them having helped shape the brand.
Marketing manager Romeo Jahjah spoke about how the company has adapted to changing trends.
“We have a team of experts who are always on the lookout for new trends, this team is led by people who have spent their whole lives in the hospitality and event business,” explained Jahjah.
“We have innovation and creativity ingrained in us, so we are always up to date with the latest trends and those to come.”
To conclude the evening, founder Filippo Navarra spoke emotionally about his decades-long entrepreneurial career.
“These fifty years have been an incredible journey, full of challenges and triumphs,” said the founder.
“Navarra Venues represents more than just a business for me. It’s the fruit of hard work, dedication and the support of my loved ones, including the indelible memory of my wife Sarina.
“I’m grateful to my children and grandchildren for continuing our commitment to maintaining such standards of excellence. Looking to the future, I am full of enthusiasm for what lies ahead. Thank you to everyone who helped make this occasion special.”
