For the occasion, the club’s halls were transformed into a colourful, floral setting inspired by tropical flowers, palm trees and idyllic islands, complete with the unmistakable Tiki Bar logo behind the counter where refreshing drinks were served all night.
Hawaiian shirts were a must for the men, while the women embraced the theme with imaginative floral dresses—many accessorising with flower crowns and necklaces.
In this festive and carefree atmosphere, it was a pleasure to catch up with the club’s president, Santo Gervasi, visibly delighted to reopen the doors of the club he leads—and even more pleased with the strong turnout.
There were plenty of children, including a newborn, there to share the space with the club’s older members—all brought together by the simple desire for a night of fun and togetherness.
“I’m particularly happy with how successful this event has been,” Gervasi said.
“And the fact that we have 290 people here tonight is also because we’re celebrating two very special occasions. One of them is the 50th wedding anniversary of Pietro and Caterina Ierna, who alone have around 100 guests with them.”
The Iernas are long-standing members of the club and, while not part of the committee, are always ready to lend a hand when the club needs support.
“We met 52 years ago at the Sanremo Ballroom and were married on January 17 at St Anthony’s Church in Hawthorn,” Pietro recalled.
Asked how it feels to celebrate 50 years of marriage, Caterina replied without hesitation: “Wonderful! I would do it all exactly the same way again. We have two beautiful children, six lovely grandchildren and a very close-knit family.”
In one corner of the hall, two tables were set up to display the many gifts and floral arrangements presented to the Iernas.
Perhaps the most touching tribute, however, were two framed photo collages tracing the couple’s life together. After a romantic dance performed alone on the dance floor, the celebrations continued with the cutting of the anniversary cake.
Meanwhile, on the other side of the room, members Michael Vello and his partner Barbara Dundovic were also preparing to celebrate milestone birthdays—80 and 79 respectively.
Surrounded by family and loved ones, the couple enjoyed their moment in the spotlight, receiving warm wishes from the committee and all those present.
