The stunning blonde managed to raise $15,116.65 over four long months of organising events and fundraising activities alongside the other candidate for the Angelucci Reception Centre, Angela Mago, her parents – who are esteemed businesspeople – and a large group of Abruzzesi friends.
The title of First Charity Princess went to Frances Lentini, candidate for the Vizzini Social Club.
Having raised $12,422, the Vizzini Social Club proved itself as a leader among the Sicilian clubs in Melbourne.
Second Charity Princess was awarded to Elena Faella, candidate for the Azione Italo-Australiana of Ferntree Gully, an association which always takes home a prize in the competition (last year it won third place).
Miss Italian Community 1978 went to Maria Velona, who stood out to the jury from the other 23 young ladies this year.
The evening began with the Italian and Australian national anthems as special guests arrived.
They included: Italian Consul General in Melbourne, Ignazio Argento; Minister of Immigration and Ethnic Affairs, Walter Jona; Mayor of St Kilda, Ray Manning; managing director of Il Globo and La Fiamma, Ubaldo Larobina; president of the Spastic Society of Victoria, J. Pratt; manager of Alitalia, R. Sannino; chairman of the CIC, L. Bini; Miss Italian Charity Queen 1977, Sandra Di Francesco; and Miss Italian Community 1977, Alba Rigoni.
Miss Italian Community was presented by Consul General Argento, while Miss Charity Queen was presented by Walter Jona.
In a brief speech, Ubaldo Larobina noted the impressive amount of money raised this year: around $75,000.
He also announced First and Second Charity Princess.
As is tradition, the newly announced winners danced the waltz, bringing the formalities to an end.
The dancing was followed by music from the bands I Delfini and New Formula, while singer Diana Mastramico impressed with her performance.
Guests were pleased with the delicious dishes prepared by Augusto Catering Service.
