Twenty years ago on March 4, 2004, then Mayor of Melbourne, John So, and the alderman for Culture, Museums and International Relations of Milan, Salvatore Carrubba, representing the Mayor of Milan, signed an agreement that would unite the two cities.
Since then, a number of initiatives aimed at strengthening relations between the two cities has been launched, enriching both places in a variety of ways: education, trade, manufacturing, services, business culture and others.
To celebrate the 20th anniversary of twin city status between Melbourne and Milan, an elegant gala evening was organised by the Italian Chamber of Commerce and the Kinaway Chamber of Commerce in collaboration with City of Melbourne and San Pellegrino.
The evening was characterised by an innovative gastronomy that combined Australian Aboriginal ingredients with traditional Italian cuisine in a symbol of the harmony and unity between the two cultures.
The event took place on Thursday, April 18, at the Showtime Events Centre in South Wharf, and was a significant step in strengthening the cultural, economic and social ties between the two communities. It also offered an opportunity for recognising and honouring the First Nations people.
The Gala was opened by a prominent member of the Aboriginal community, ‘Uncle Ringo Terrick,’ who shared with the audience of over 100 guests some of his personal experiences that made him especially fond of Italian culture.
The evening was also a chance for individual speakers to reflect on the many achievements of the relationship since 2004. Starting with Italy’s Ambassador to Canberra, Paolo Crudele, who sent in a video message that highlighted the importance of the partnership between Italy and Australia. Crudele emphasised the significant role of the Italian community in Melbourne and the close economic ties that have developed over time.
The ‘Memorandum of Understanding’ signed recently between Lombardy and Victoria, aimed at deepening cooperation in areas such as finance, aerospace, agriculture and the circular economy, was also mentioned.
“Lombardy, one of Europe’s most dynamic regions, presents immense opportunities for cooperation and growth for companies in Victoria - and Australia in general,” said Crudele.
“The link between Melbourne and Milan has thrived over the past two decades, thanks in part to numerous cultural initiatives. Among these, let me mention the outstanding exhibition on Leonardo da Vinci, currently at THE LUME in Melbourne, organised with the support of the Italian Consulate.”
Also in attendance was the Deputy Mayor of Melbourne, Nicholas Reece, who expressed his gratitude for the fruitful relationship with Milan and recalled the success achieved in design, education and sustainability.
“We are truly honoured that so many Italian families have chosen to make Melbourne their home and have contributed invaluably to the fabric of our city,” said Reece.
“For several years, City of Melbourne has supported Monash University and RMIT to bring our design to the Salone del Mobile in Milan. We’ve also enjoyed other exchanges that have strengthened the design expertise of both cities, providing countless opportunities for students to make new contacts, including at some of those great Italian design brands.
“Even in terms of sustainability and the circular economy, Milan and Melbourne have much to share as modern, dynamic cities.
“For example, the Australian company Lendlease played a key role in the development of the Milan Innovation District.
“We have shared so much in the past, but we still have much to share in our future.”
The microphone was then passed to the Consul General of Italy in Melbourne, Hanna Pappalardo, who also read aloud a letter from the Mayor of Milan, Giuseppe Sala.
“The history between Melbourne and Milan has its roots in 2004, when the two cities decided to promote their ties in the fields of culture and economy,” said Pappalardo.
“The scope of work has expanded over time to include education, climate change, pandemic preparedness and operations, the environment, circular economy and more. Milan and Melbourne are active cities in the C40 Climate Action Network and are committed to being more sustainable and inclusive cities.
“At the same time, both cities are members of the UNESCO-recognised ‘Cities of Literature’ and are part of the World Cities Culture Forum.”
Pappalardo then previewed one of the biggest initiatives planned for this year, again as part of the twin city status between the two cities. She announced that a delegation of students from RMIT’s School of Fashion and Textiles will fly to Milan to participate in the fashion show for emerging talents.
The entire evening was executed to perfection. A wonderfully unique performance by Aboriginal singer Kee’ahn delighted onlookers while the menu was masterfully carried out by chefs Tatsuya Fujii, who represented Melbourne at the San Pellegrino Young Chef Academy (2022/23), and Niyoka Bundall, owner of Pawa Cafe & Bar.
Here’s to many more years of sharing, learning and thriving for these twin cities.
