The clubs bring together families and generational groups, in this way, contributing the wellbeing and social connection of all who participate.
Of course, Italian clubs, whilst they have regional names emblazoned across their impressive buildings across Australia, have their doors open to the broader community. Hospitality, sharing of cultural elements – and having fun seem to be three underlying principles common to all the Italian clubs.
Certainly, the Aeolian Club is one such club which epitomises these three principles. The Club has historic significance as it was founded by the Società Isole Eolie (Aeolian Society) Melbourne dating back to 1925. Early immigrants set sail from the Aeolian islands – an active volcanic archipelago which stretches out in the Tyrrhenian Sea and sits under the gaze of Mount Stromboli.
From its early beginnings, the Melbourne Aeolian Club continues to provide a very busy annual program. And the Club was buzzing again on Saturday February 18th. Members and friends were delighted with the delectable array of regional dishes, the sound of the Aeolian dialect intermingled with standard Italian and English, and music which reflected Italian oldies and English language dance hits. The dance floor was very busy.
The Society has always provided opportunities for generations to come together. Saturday was no different. Nonni (grandparents), parents and ragazzi (children), uncles, aunts, cousins and many friends gathered. They were there to celebrate a special event that has morphed over the years to reflect modern values and ways of thinking.
The evening focussed on the Miss and Mr Isole Eolie. The event started 74 years ago as Miss Isole Eolie. Only female nominations were allowed alongside strict criteria reflecting the thinking of the time. However, the event is now becoming increasingly inclusive of all, as can be seen by its more recent listing of nominated and winning participants.
The nominated candidates for the competition are put forward at the annual Society picnic held at Keast Park, Seaford each year. A very popular event that attracts 100s of Aeolians and their friends. The day allows all to participate in many of the entertaining activities such as watermelon eating, tug of war, egg and spoon races and so on. Also, to put forward nominees for the Mr and Miss Isole Eolie Quest.
The winners of Quest are then formally presented at an annual Club dinner, as was the case last Saturday. This year they are, in first place, Isabella Muleta and Marco Reitano. In second place, Lauren Duarte and Lorenzo Cincotta, while in third place, Jillian Arkoudis. Each a deserving winner as can be seen by the profiles below.
Miss Isole Eolie: Isabella Muleta, Lauren Duarte, Jillian Arkoudis. (Photo: Michael Angelini)
Isabella Muleta has a strong background in Italian culture and food. In fact, she says her background in food helped in her chosen vocational pathway. After gaining her degree and moving on from her parents’ business, Delicatessen Roma, she has taken up a position as Sales Executive for The Big Group. She admits she thrives on the fast-pace and creativity of the role. She speaks Italian fluently, which is advantageous professionally, as well as allows her to stay connected with family and community. Growing up, she has always enjoyed participating in Club activities and is looking forward to lending her support given her new role.
Marco Reitano is 16 years of age and a current Year 12 student at Marcellin College. Marco has big plans. He has specially selected his studies to provide a strong platform for a career in real estate. Whilst business studies and maths will provide one skillset – his proficiency in the Italian language opens doors to connecting with the community and professionally also. Marco is very comfortable with his bi-lingual and bi-cultural background. He has spent several family holidays in Italy and says he loves “exploring Lipari, from where his mother originates”. His father is from Abruzzo, and this adds another dimension to his Italian heritage.
Lauren Duarte is looking forward to improving her Italian as part of a much-anticipated trip to meet family in Lipari and explore Italy. 2023 will be a big year for Lauren as she graduates from her studies in Bachelor of Business (Sports Management) at La Trobe University. Whilst of Italian heritage on her mother’s side, her father is from Madras, India. This bi-cultural background provides Lauren with a global outlook and sense of identity – as well as varied gastronomic tastes. Her openness to cultures and positivity fit in well with the Club culture.
Lorenzo Cincotta was born and raised in Lipari and describes his surprise in coming to Australia more recently to find a club devoted to the islander communities. He explains that he is pleased that “the community has somewhere to gather and that there is a strong connection amongst the Aeolians, as well as a sense of being part of Australia, a land of possibilities.” Lorenzo’s passion lies in la cucina italiana (Italian cooking) and his aspirations are to become a chef.
Jillian Arkoudis has fond memories of Italy which she visited with family as a child. Her background is Greek and Iraqi. Whilst her Arabic maybe limited, she speaks Greek fluently and has a working knowledge of Italian which she enjoyed studying at school. She is a second-year Civil Engineering student at Victoria University. Jillian’s connection to the Club initially came from her friendship with Isabella, however, she is keen to share aspects of her bi-cultural background with the Club.
Mr. Isole Eolie Marco Reitano and Lorenzo Cincotta (Photo: Michael Angelini)
A common thread amongst all the winners is that they share an enthusiasm and curiosity in exploring how they can all contribute to the Club.
Sam Portelli, President of the Club, explains that the “purpose for the event is to provide a way for the children of the Aeolians to remain engaged with the Club.” He notes that young adults tend to seek their independence and establish their own sense of identity. The Club provides “an event that recognises young adults from the age of 16 which encourages them by recognising their achievements and their heritage.” Further it fosters links with friends of the Club to also take part so that there is a reciprocal exchange of culture, knowledge, and expertise.
Event Director, Janetta Ziino adds that the winners “become ambassadors for the Club. They often increase their engagement with the Society through their participation – as well as invite family and friends.” She notes that some have gone on to join the Committee. An example is former Mr. Isole Eolie, Michael Angelini who, along with being the Club photographer now plays an important part in leading specific activities. Janetta is pleased when the winners “band together to organise activities. This provides a way to inject vigour and relevance to the Club.”
Janetta Ziino, Events Manager with the Miss Isole Eolie winners. (Photo: Michael Angelini)
The Aeolian islands have a varied history of invasion, colonisation and inhabitants drawn from various places across the world from ancient to modern times. The islands were inhabited by Greeks, Carthaginians, Arabs, the Normans, and the Spanish. History has not always been kind to the Aeolians, nor have the volcanoes. However, their multicultural make-up, resilience and hospitality are remarkable. Elements that underscore the vibe at the Società Isole Eolie. Certainly, the event provided an enjoyable opportunity for celebration and hospitality all’italiana (Italian style) for all.
Moreover, with the 100th anniversary in 2025, many whispers of great plans were in the air as the Club heads towards a pivotal milestone.
A great time to be selected as a young representative of the Club. Watch this space!
