Players have already returned to the bocce court, engaging in friendly matches with renewed energy and a strong sense of community.
On January 26, in celebration of Australia Day, some of Melbourne’s leading Italian clubs gathered for the annual Rosebud Cup, a highly anticipated competition for lovers of the popular sport.
Three enthusiastic teams from different suburbs of Victoria’s capital - the Veneto Club of Bulleen, the Freccia Azzurra Club of Braeside and Club Italia of Sunshine - came together on the Mornington Peninsula at the historic Rosebud Italian Club.
Rosebud not only hosted the event but also competed.
“This was the first event of 2025 and probably one of the most anticipated sporting gatherings,” said Lorenzo D’Alia, president of the Rosebud Italian Club.
“The atmosphere was incredible. We’re absolutely thrilled to be resuming recreational activities and returning to the bocce court for our annual friendly matches.”
The competition was sponsored by Bertocchi, D’Alia’s Fresh Produce in Rosebud and the Rosebud Italian Club itself.
Sincere thanks were extended by the committee and participants to the organisers, Lina Pepe, Sonya Velo and Tom, who were praised for their unwavering dedication and commitment.
“We had around seventy people in attendance, a crowd that helped make the event even more dynamic,” D’Alia added.
The coveted prizes of the Rosebud Cup went to the following winners: Max and Mark (first place), Sam and Nicola (second place), Dino and Tony (third place) and Andrew and Michael (fourth place).
Bocce competitions will continue throughout the year. The next social and recreational event at the historic Rosebud Italian Club will take place on February 16 with a ‘Friendship Lunch’.