Families were also present, along with many members of the Avondale Heights & East Keilor Residents’ Association—long-standing and active supporters of the Italian band operating in Australia.
The meeting coincided with the band’s 54th Annual General Meeting. After a welcome from Vice President Mario Sabatini and greetings from President and Coordinator Frank Di Blasi, who chaired the session, proceedings began with the presentation of the official reports.
Secretary Ann Robinson delivered the social report, followed by the annual financial statement presented by Treasurer Ilario Audino, who highlighted careful and responsible management of resources.
The final report was given by Di Blasi, who offered an in-depth reflection on the current situation of the Banda Bellini within an Italian community that, over the years, has been progressively ageing.
This shift has also affected community life and the continuity of many religious feasts and community events that were once widely attended.
“Over the past decades,” Di Blasi explained, “many religious feasts have disappeared from the social calendars of Melbourne’s suburbs. Communities are increasingly struggling to find people willing and able to organise these events, especially among younger generations.”
This trend has led to a gradual reduction in work opportunities for the band.
The president recalled that, from the 37 religious feasts the band once played at each year, only five now remain active.
“Despite our efforts to travel to different areas of Melbourne in search of new opportunities,” he added, “the fees are not even sufficient to cover the cost of hiring the venues where we hold our weekly rehearsals. Fortunately, we can rely on some partial government support.”
Events that continue to involve the Banda Bellini include the Feast of Our Lady of Anzano di Puglia in Truganina, St Gabriel of Our Lady of Sorrows in Templestowe, Our Lady of Grumentino in North Fitzroy, the Divina Pastorella of Piminoro in Moonee Ponds, Our Lady of Grottaferrata in East Oakleigh, the Mediterranean Fiesta in East Keilor and the 2025 Republic Day celebrations in Epping.
Once the reports were concluded, the assembly moved on to the election of the new committee for the next twelve months.
In recognition of their commitment, those present unanimously confirmed the entire outgoing committee: Frank Di Blasi (President and Coordinator, a role he has held for 36 years), Mario Sabatini (Vice President), Ann Robinson (Secretary), Ilario Audino (Treasurer), Aldo Falcone (Band Leader), Pasquale Sofrà and Lucia Falcone (Committee Members), with Maestro Jason Vella confirmed as Musical Director.
After the formal proceedings and the traditional toast, the committee hosted a Christmas-themed dinner for those present. Particularly appreciated was the tasting of traditional lentils with vegetables and pork zampone, carefully prepared by Mimma Sabatini with the assistance of Frank Puopolo in the kitchen.
The evening continued with a symphonic concert in which the musicians of the Banda Bellini performed well-known Italian arias and melodies from years past, greeted with warm applause. The program also included classic Christmas carols, helping to create a festive and shared atmosphere.
The gathering concluded with the exchange of Christmas wishes and gifts, amid hugs and the hope of meeting again in the new year in good health and with renewed enthusiasm.
