Cherry picking is a traditional practice in Italy, often associated with spring and early summer.
This activity is not merely agricultural, but also provides an opportunity to connect with the land and appreciate the taste of such a beloved fruit.
The large group, led by the recently revamped Sicilian Association committee, gathered at the RSL in Gladesville and departed at six o’clock in the morning.
The new board - with Giuseppe Lombardo as president, Lucia Cascio as vice-president, Orazio Casa as treasurer, Angelo Casa, Giovanni Virga, Nick Basile, Joe Cascio, Alda Catalano and Joe Leggio as councillors – brought a renewed enthusiasm and an ambitious vision for the future of the Trinacria Association.
President Lombardo, with 15 years of experience at the helm of the association, shared his satisfaction at the association’s unparalleled ability to organise such high-quality events. “We’ve planned a lot of parties and still want to make people feel our presence,” he said. “It’s nice to get together and share these moments. We look forward to a 2024 full of events and community participation.”
President Lombardo emphasised that active community participation and enthusiasm is key to supporting the association, stressing that the club is determined to continue creating meaningful events that unite people and preserve traditions for future generations.
Among the varied activities organised by the association, cherry picking is one of the many traditions they cherish. In addition to the day in Orange, Trinacria has planned other trips throughout the year, such as grape picking in February, chestnut picking in April and a bus trip in November.
“Our aim is always to organise these outings to keep the community united,” reiterated Vice-President Cascio. “We do not aim for profit, but we are happy to continue with our traditions and share them with the younger generation.”
The atmosphere of the sunny day was characterised by joy, with many nonnas and their grandchildren sharing in the beauty of nature and the pleasure of picking the delicious cherries.
The day spent in Orange was just another example of how the Trinacria Association continues to thrive, inspiring stronger community bonds and unforgettable moments for its members and those they bring along.
The Trinacria Association committee now looks optimistically to the future, hoping that 2024 will bring even more participation and happiness among members and supporters.
