The guests of honour were a delegation from I Sud del Mondo, led by the organisation’s president Pompeo Torchia.
Also part of the delegation were Senator Mario Borghese (Overseas electorate, South America), director of the scientific committee and lawyer Giuseppe Galati, and former MP Francesco Saverio Romano.
The event provided an opportunity to reflect on Roots Tourism and strengthen cultural links between Italy and local community organisations.
Around 120 guests attended the elegant function, welcomed by white floral arrangements, a refined pre-dinner aperitif and traditional music that set the tone for the evening.
The event was the result of meticulous planning by the club’s executive committee, led by Sam Sposato, with organisational support from Giovanni Butera.
Titled Calabresi d’Australia – Stories of Excellence, the evening drew inspiration from the Victorian Multicultural Awards for Excellence, celebrating individuals who have distinguished themselves through community leadership, entrepreneurship, philanthropy, cultural continuity and social cohesion.
The food on offer was also widely praised. Prepared with dedication by Lucia Cefalà, alongside her sister Franca Stella and a large team of volunteers, the menu featured classic Italian antipasti and a rich ragù, followed by generous main courses, side dishes, fruit and desserts.
Among the guests were several well-known figures from the Italian-Australian community, including Senator Francesco Giacobbe (Africa–Asia–Oceania–Antarctica electorate), who offered a warm greeting and thanked the organisers.
Club president Sam Sposato also spoke, welcoming guests and highlighting the importance of belonging and identity.
“Thank you all for being here tonight,” he said, “It means a great deal to me, because it shows how strong our connection to our roots remains, even on the other side of the world.”
The centrepiece of the evening was the presentation of awards recognising Calabrians in Australia who have made a significant contribution to Victoria’s multicultural fabric.
The awards, presented by I Sud del Mondo in collaboration with the Calabria Club, were conferred in the presence of the Vice Consul for Victoria and Tasmania, Mariagiovanna Rizzo.
Among the recipients, Tony Schiavello was recognised for excellence in entrepreneurship and community impact, acknowledging his vision, leadership and commitment to innovation.
Mima Piccolo received an award for a lifetime dedicated to philanthropy and cultural leadership, fostering social cohesion and intergenerational dialogue.
Quin Scalzo was honoured for excellence in industry and community contribution, particularly for his leadership in the food sector and ongoing support of community organisations.
Aldo Capodiferro was recognised for extraordinary service to the Calabria Club, following decades of dedication that ensured its continuity and growth.
A lifetime achievement award for community leadership was presented to Sam Sposato, acknowledging a lifetime of service to the club and the Italian-Australian community, leaving a legacy of resilience and renewal.
The evening was further enriched by institutional video messages. Calabria Regional President Roberto Occhiuto congratulated Sposato on his long-standing leadership and lifelong commitment to preserving Calabrian traditions and cultural heritage in Australia.
In a separate message, the Mayor of Lamezia Terme, Mario Murone, announced his intention to pursue a sister-city relationship with the City of Hume, marking an important step in strengthening cultural ties between Victoria and Calabria.
Traditional Italian music by Elvira Andreoli, Tony Villella and Donata Dimase completed the evening and added to the warm and engaging atmosphere.
