THE Mount Gambier Italo Australian Club celebrated a significant milestone on Saturday with a gala dinner to commemorate its 50th year of operation.
The club – which formed with humble beginnings in 1968 – started to accommodate the growing Italian post war immigrants to the region.
While it was formed by the hard work, passion and vision of the proud migrant community, today the vibrant club is home to a melting pot of cultures from around the world.
The club, which has been an integral part of the Mount Gambier community for over 50 years, has grown to become a regional institution.
Not only is it home to the successful International Soccer Club, but regular bocce tournaments and social events.
The weekend’s activities will delve into the rich history of the club and mark its current achievements.
Club president Gino Margiotta described the weekend’s event as “significant” for the club, its members and supporters.
“I am privileged to be part of sharing the club’s history, challenges and successful integration of the local Italian Australian community,” Mr Margiotta told The Border Watch yesterday.
Speaking overlooking the sprawling Casadio Park facility and soccer pitch on the fringe of Mount Gambier, Mr Margiotta said the club continued to be a vibrant grassroots organisation.
He said original committee members Vince Caiazza and Vic Gentile would be special guests on the night.
“Our club has been so successful because it is family orientated, we love children and encourage them to play soccer,” Mr Margiotta said.
“We also have social events during the year.”
Acknowledging the role of the migrant community in establishing the club, he said it was now home to a diversity of cultures and people from around the world.
“We have people from Asia, Scotland and Africa – the international club is synonymous with the international community.
“We look after them as if they were our own.”
Past presidents and distinguished guests – including prominent local Italian Australian identities – will attend the dinner.
High profile soccer coach Tony D’Agostino – who is known for his deep passion for the club – will emcee the night and reflect on the massive contribution the club and its members have made to the local community through economic development, social and cultural diversity.
According to historical archives, the club officially elected its first committee members in March 1968.
Nearly 30 candidates stood for election – the first 13 with the highest number of votes were elected.
The Italo Australian Club was formed following a decision of the Mount Gambier Italian general community.
The community meeting was convened by Sir Gino Zannoni, who was an Italian Knight.
A provisional committee was formed in late 1967, before the formal committee was finalised in 1968.
Tickets are available by contacting club organiser Linda McRobert on 0417 085 272.
