This year’s Super Festa was made even more special by the arrival of a delegation from Roccella Ionica, who travelled specifically to join the celebrations.
It was an important milestone that gathered thousands of people around shared values, Italian culture and religious devotion.
From the early morning hours, the Showground was filled with a cheerful, family-friendly atmosphere. Colourful stalls offered visitors a range of authentic Italian food: zeppole, porchetta, sandwiches, pizza, gelato and other regional products that drew the attention of young and old alike.
Plenty of rides and attractions made the day unforgettable for the children as well. The “Domenico Amalfi” football tournament, featuring 12 teams of players aged 6, 8 and 10, was particularly well attended.
Their participation—along with that of their families—played a key role in the success of the event, which drew around 2000 people and turned the Showground into a lively meeting place for the Italian–Australian community.
Hosting the day was Paolo Rajo, who guided the busy entertainment program flawlessly. On stage performed the Frank De Bellis orchestra, enhanced by the guitar talent of Umberto De Bellis.
They were joined by performers much loved by the public, including George Vumbacca, Grace Rizzo, Brendan Montana, Tony Mazell and the energetic Viva la Diva, creating moments of pure celebration and engagement.
The spiritual centre of the day was the Mass celebrated by Father Mirko Integlia and Father Angelo Festa—the parish priest of Roccella Ionica and part of the visiting delegation.
The Marconi Choir accompanied the liturgy with grace, while the Giuseppe Verdi band led the moving procession carrying the statues of the Madonna and San Vittorio Martire.
Father Mirko’s heartfelt and deeply resonant homily was one of the most emotional moments of the day. Another highlight came when Father Angelo announced the arrival of a relic of San Vittore (as the saint is known in Roccella)—a spiritual gift that further strengthens the bond between the communities of Roccella Ionica and Sydney.
The chairman, Joe Frasca, also received warm applause for his clear and heartfelt address. Among the points he raised was a touching message for former president Silvio Marrapodi, absent for health reasons.
Speakers who took the stage included: Frank Carbone, Mayor of Fairfield; Dai Le, federal MP for Fowler; Morris Licata, president of Club Marconi; Francesco Ursino, president of the Maria delle Grazie Association of Roccella; Fabrizio Chiefari, Roccella Ionica’s councillor for Tourism and Environment who read a warm message from Mayor Vittorio Zito; and David Saliba, state MP for Fairfield.
One particularly appreciated gesture came from Mayor Carbone, who donated $2000 to the Calabrian association, emphasising the importance of cultural continuity and the work carried out by generations of volunteers.
The already emotional day concluded in spectacular fashion with a stunning fireworks display that lit up the sky, earning applause and leaving the crowd with an unforgettable memory.
The 65th Super Festa Italiana proved to be a complete success: a celebration of faith, music, tradition and belonging that brought together past and present, strengthening the connection between the Italian–Australian community and its origins.
