THE ALPINI OF WOLLONGONG - PART TWO

In part two of the Alpini of Wollongong we feature some of the members of the group. The Alpini of Wollongong had many. Not all members were from the Alpini Corps or Alpini Reserves, but they were members of the group and contributed greatly. 

 

Massimo De Nardo

Massimo De Nardo was a Granatieri (Grenadier) soldier in Italy. He had a nephew who was an Alpino. In Australia he joined the Alpini of Wollongong. Only Alpini who served in the military could have official committee positions but there were members that were part of the core group who served the community and there were many in that role.

Massimo`s son Daniele, was born with Muscular Atrophy and by the time he was 15 years old he was struggling to write and had very weak motor skills. This affected his school work immensely. 

With the help of the Alpini of Wollongong they raised funds to purchase a specific computer for Daniele to be able to finish his schooling. It was such a help for him as he was able to complete his school certificate and consequently had easier access to communication and information which led to Daniele leading a much more fulfilling life. This was the type of charity work that the Alpini were involved with. Massimo was also part of the Alpini Choir. 

 

 

  

The above newspaper article was from the `La Fiamma Thursday August 10, 1995.`  The Wollongong Alpini Association together with ItSoWel (Italian Social Welfare) and The Trevisani nel Mondo were the three groups who combined their efforts to purchase a PC for Daniel De Nardo. During the course of the luncheon the Alpini Choir performed along with local entertainers on piano and piano accordion. 

 

 

 Massimo (wearing the sunglasses) with Mario Castagna and Domenico La Fata

on the day of the inauguration of the monument to the Alpini soldier. 

 Image from the collection belonging to Maddalena De Nardo

 

 

   

 

Giuseppe Cunial 

 

During World War ll, Possagno was seized by German forces, Giuseppe aged 18 and others escaped to the mountains to seek refuge. Giuseppe’s sister Giovanna risked her life by smuggling food and water to them. She was stopped many times by the German patrols wanting to know where she was going but managed to convince them that she was attending to the herd of animals. Giuseppe was eventually captured and imprisoned in Bassano Del Grappa  and not knowing what was to become of his life.  Giovanna`s friend was employed at the restaurant in his home town that was occupied by the German’s.  She somehow convinced them to having Giuseppe released.. how it happened he never said. 

 

Following the war, Giuseppe migrated to Australia. Approximately twelve months later his wife Anna and their two children arrived.  They headed to Mt Ossa, Queensland where Giuseppe was working as a cane cutter.  He worked there for 2 years.  The family then moved to Hay in NSW for another two years before moving to Wollongong where Giuseppe worked for EPT. Settling in Fairy Meadow he became an active member of the Alpini Group Wollongong until his tragic death September 26, 1979. He was only 54.

 

 

 

Giuseppe Cunial

 

Image from the collection belonging to Tony Cunial  

 

 

 

Domenico Dal Santo

Domenico Dal Santo was part of the Wollongong Alpini group since the early 70`s.  He served in the Alpini Military in Italy and fought on the Russian front.  Domenico was also an accomplished accordion player and took his accordion with him, playing for the troops. 

At the 1991 Adunata in Wollongong, at the Fraternity Club, Domenico and six other men from various Sezione around Australia, marched together with a banner showing the name of the Russian town that they found themselves in. These seven Alpini men came from different squadrons in Italy yet they would end up fighting in the same town. They fought in the Battle of Nikolayevka, a battle of heavy losses for the Alpini. 

 

 

Above: Domenico Dal Santo, Alpino.

 

 Below: Domenico would often bring his accordion 

and play for the troupes.

 At the 1991 Adunata (reunion).  The top photo of the seven men

who fought in the battle of Nikolayevka.

 

 

 

 This artwork was made out of copper. It was a gift to Domenico

made by his daughter Diana.

 

All above images from the collection belonging to Diana Cecchele (Dal Santo)

 

 

 

Giovanni Piagentini

Giovanni did his military service training in Italy when he was 22 years old.  He grew up on the mountain so it made sense that he would do his military service with the Alpini.  Giovanni was proud to be an Alpino and regarded his military comrades as brothers.  Coming from the mountain they were all proud to defend it.

Giovanni`s military service training lasted for 15 months where his training involved simulated war conditions. They spent months away from their base for induction, learning rifle assembly and disassembly and how to shoot accurately. They also completed both a summer  and winter camp consisting of specific exercises and scenarios. With military service being six days per week, Sunday was rest day. The training also consisted of physical exercise, training drills and mountain marches for kilometres at a time. Fitness was paramount for the Alpini. Giovanni contributed greatly to the Wollongong group helping where ever he could. 

Giovanni Piagentini was born in 1932 and was one of the original members of the Alpini of Wollongong group when it officially began in 1976.  Even when they started as a social group years earlier, Giovanni was there. He was one of only two original members left.  I spoke with Giovanni in the first week of November and sadly Giovanni passed away December 11 of this year. He was 93 years old. I felt so blessed to have spoken with him and his family and to share his story.

Images from the collection belonging to Giovanni Piagentini

 

Pietro Damin

Part two of the Alpini story had to end with Pietro Damin. Pietro Damin was the very first president of the Alpini of Wollongong and remained president for many years and continued being part of the committee in the role of treasurer. I spoke with Dina who is Pietro`s daughter. Dina said that the whole family was committed to the Alpini in one way or another. Dina`s mother would always help out to support her husband (as did many of the wives) and to support the Alpini group. Dina and her brother always attended events, picnics and outings. It was the just the thing they did, she said. There were many children of the Alpini who were also in attendance and they loved getting together too!

At the home of Pietro in those early days, the group meetings were held in the room under the house. This went on for several years. A lot of time was put in to establish the group. Through attending meetings in Sydney and becoming a part of the Sydney Sezione in 1976, Wollongong became their own Sezione in 1991 that also culminated with the Adunata that was held in Wollongong.

 

On Sunday July 25th, 1976 the Wollongong Alpini group held their first dinner dance/celebration with approximately 500 people in attendance.  Not only the Alpini from Wollongong, but also from the Sydney group who arrived in three buses, led by the then president Angelo Moras.  It was an afternoon filled with nostalgic songs, dancing and great camaradeire.

 

Dante Simonelli and his ensemble provided the music for the event. Dante was a master accordian player, teacher and mentor for many students.  Also in attendance for the celebration was Monsignor Antonio Cunial, who was a former military chaplain and an Alpino and  Bishop of Vittorio Veneto; the military chaplain Father Romano Cavalieri; (who came to Australia in 1954) and Father Nazareno Frattin of the Scalabrinian Missionaries of the Italian Center in Wollongong.

It was a proud moment for Pietro Damin as president. He thanked all who attended, he honoured the committee and all who helped in making the celebration a success. Pietro also thanked the local businesses who donated prizes for the raffles and who helped with the catering on the day.

 

Pietro Damin

The very first president of the Alpini of Wollongong group.

 

Image from the collection belonging to Dina Chieffe (Damin) 

All images from the collection belonging to Dina Chieffe (Damin)

 

Alpini Choirs

 

Alpini Choirs are all over the world now that you find Sezione of Alpini worldwide. Going back to the very beginning when the Alpini were formed they would sing songs to help them cope in the harsh conditions, they told stories of loss and of brotherhood and comradship. Many of their songs became traditional folk songs and other `non military` civilian choirs would often sing them too. The Alpini of Wollongong had a choir that ran for two years. They didn`t need a choir performance to break into song, they were known for always having a sing-a-long whenever the time felt right. The Alpini Choirs were also known for their harmonies. 

The following song by Marianna Lanteri called `Penne Nera` was first released in 2013. This  modified version below was released in 2015. The video clip was shot at the Monte Grappa  shrine.  The song speaks about the battle at Monte Grappa where many soldiers, on both sides, lost their lives. It also depicts what it means to be an Alpino.  Marianna Lanteri also co-wrote the song.  It is very moving.

 

 

 

Italian Lyrics 

 

                      E` pommeriggio ma sembra l`alba                                             

Il sole che si affacia da una roccia        

Illumina il mio nido, in volo mi alzero`

E questo cielo azzurro abbraccero`

Tra le mie cime del Monte Grappa

Guardando verso il fiume e la sua valle

Lontano sul pendio un uomo vedo ancor

Per mano ha un bambino, ma che ci fa quassu? 

 

Porti un cappello e una penna nera

Ti rivedo, mio vecchio alpino

Porti a casa un ricordo

Lasciando qui il tuo cuor

Quel tuo nome la brigata chiama ancor

Porti a casa un ricordo

Lasciando qui il tuo cuor

Quando combattevi per il tircolor

 

Ormai piegate le stanche spalle

Ma forte, tieni in mano il tuo bastone

Che come una bandiera nel vento si alzera`

Ed un cannone ancor risuonera`

Tra queste cime che tanto hai amato

Torni, ragazzo, in mezzo alla vallata

 Commosso stringi a te quel tuo nipote che

Saluta con la mano, guardandomi nel blu

 

Porti un cappello e una penna nera

Ti rivedo, mio vecchio alpino

Port a casa un ricordo

Lasciando qui il tuo cour

Quel tuo nome la brigata chiama ancor

Porti a casa un ricordo

Lasciando qui il tuo cuor

Quando combattevi per il tricolor

 

Porti a casa un ricordo

Lasciando qui il tuo cuor

Quel tuo nome la brigata chiama ancor

Porti a casa un ricordo

Lasciando qui il tuo cuor

Quando combattevi per il tricolor 

 

 

 

 

 

 English Lyrics

 

 It`s afternoon but feels like dawn

The sun looking out from a rock

Light up my nests, in flight I will rise

And I will embrace this blue sky

Among my peaks of Monte Grappa

Looking towards the river and its valley

Far away on the slope I still see a man

He has a child on his hand, but what is he doing up here?

 

Bring your hat and a black feather

I see you again, my old Alpine soldier

Bring home a memory

Leaving your heart here

The brigade still calls that name of yours

Take home a memory

Leaving your heart here

When you fought for the tricolour

 

Now bend your tired shoulders

But strong, hold your stick in your hand

That like a flag in the wind will rise

And a cannon will still sound

Amoung these peaks that you loved so much

Come back, boy, to the middle of the valley

Moved, hold that nephew of yours close to you

He waves, looking at me in the blue

 

Bring your hat and a black feather

I see you again, my old Alpine soldier

Bring home a memory

Leaving your heart here

The brigade still calls that name of yours

Leaving your heart here

When you fought for the tricolour

 

Bring home a memory

Leaving your heart here

The brigade still calls that name of yours

Leaving your heart here

When you fought for the tricolour 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 https://youtu.be/fmoVi43L4tA?si=lbtRrIz5lM-lC50O

 

from the youtube channel:  https://www.youtube.com/@Bagutti

THE ALPINI OF WOLLONGONG - PART ONE

Who are the Alpini? The Alpini are the Italian `MOUNTAIN INFANTRY`. They are a specialist unit under the Italian army corps. They began in 1872, October 15 and they are the oldest Mountain Infantry in the world. Their main role was to protect the mountain ranges (ALPS - ALPINI) and the Italian borders in times of war. They were used extensively throughout WW1 and WW2. An individual soldier is called an `ALPINO`.

The ANA (Associazione Nazionale Alpini or National Alpini Association) is the registered Italian society representing former members of the Alpini corps. Every year since 1920 the ANA has organized a national reunion (ADUNATA). It is not uncommon for hundreds of thousands of Alpini to congregate in an Italian city for a weekend in the late spring, celebrating and remembering old times.

There are also Alpini groups around the world, operating under the statute of the ANA in Italy. These world wide groups have aided in educating the public of who the Alpini were, along with the various community services, charity work and fundraising that they have done and continue to do today. The Alpini have worked tirelessly to create wonderful events and gatherings of family, friends and the public. They really have left their mark throughout many countries.

Around 1972, a group of Wollongong men who were Alpini (with many of them working at EPT, Transfield and the wider community) formed a social group. By this stage the Sydney Alpini social group had already formed with many of the Wollongong group attending the Sydney meetings as well.

At a reunion in Sydney organised by their local Sydney Alpini members, Wollongong resident Cav. Pietro Damin was in attendance, and with the help and encouragement of the then president Angelo Moras, they discussed the possibility of forming a (Wollongong Group)  under the Sydney Sezione.  

The Sydney Alpini Association became a `Sezione` in 1976, with Wollongong being a part of them. Wollongong eventually became their own Sezione in 1991. Other smaller groups formed in different states and regions. World wide there are 80 associations with approximately 335,000 members. 

The first official Wollongong committee consisted of the following people: President: Pietro Damin, Vice-President: Giovanni Manera, Secretary: Matteo Dalla Pozza, Treasurer: Silvano Tonegato, Councillors: Luigino Pozzacchio, Giuseppe Cunial, Giuseppe Consolaro, Giovanni Bresolin, Primo Galanti, Corrado Cazzolli, & Marcello Pojer.

The Wollongong group at its peak consisted of 40- 50 ex-servicemen as well as others who made up the numbers. They first ran their meetings underneath Pietro Damin`s house for several years. Afterwards the meetings took place at the home of committee member Giovanni Penzo. Giovanni had a room in his house that he dedicated just for the Alpini meetings. The Alpini eventually got a shipping container, parked on the grounds of the Fraternity Club in Fairy Meadow, where they ran their meetings for 25 years. They would eventually require a second shipping container to house all their equipment and supplies.

The Alpini of Wollongong became active in the community and began with fundraising and community events. They quickly established themselves and ran picnic days, road trips, dinner dances and other events to raise money for charity and public donations.

They typically ran two picnic days per year at Cordeaux Dam. The dam is located on Picton Road and it is a 30 min drive from Wollongong. With its large area for picnics and BBQ`s it was perfect for large gatherings but not too far from home. It was well received with family, friends and many in the community. With their famous bolognese sauce they cooked up a feast for all to enjoy. It was many hands on deck, volunteers a plenty and they would usually have a sing-a-long too!

 

 Images from the collection belonging to the Alpini of Wollongong

 

Images from the collection belonging to the Alpini of Wollongong

 

 

The Adunata 

The Adunata is the annual get together of the Alpini. World wide they run them and in Italy thousands are in attendance. The event always brings together current and former members of Alpini. They generally have parades, ceremonies, and cultural activities. It also creates a strong sense of camaraderie. 

In Australia the Adunata is usually a two day (weekend) event. The first Adunata took place in in Sydney November 5 -6, 1983.  Wollongong had their first Adunata Oct 5 -6, 1991, whilst celebrating their ascension to Sezione. Wollongong was no longer under the arm of the Sydney Alpini. They were their own autonomous Sezione. There would be a second time that Wollongong held an Adunata and that was in 2002 October 5 -6.

The Adunata events have taken place in most capital cities in Australia and some other major towns including Griffith, Cairns and Sydney. The Adunata is still celebrated around the world.

 

 

2014 Adunata Pordenone, Italy.

One of the fantastic parades. Sezione from many regions of Italy and

countries from all over the world. There were thousands in attendance. 

 

 At the 11.00 mark you will see Australia marching.

 

Video from the youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@gilbertotedeschi3539

Alpini Park Tarrawanna (PARCO ALPINI)

The following text was taken from the  `L`Alpino in Australia` magazine for the 
2002 Adunata celebrated in Wollongong, October 5 -6. The Alpini Park was officially opened on Sunday August 29, 1991.

TARRAWANNA PARK DEDICATED TO THE ALPINI

It will remind future generations of the role played by Italians in the Illawarra.

Wollongong; Despite the uncertain weather conditions, a large crowd attended the solemn inauguration ceremony of the "Alpine Park" located on Caldwell Avenue in Tarrawanna (a suburb north of Wollongong), home to hundreds of families of Italian origin.

The ceremony was attended by the Mayor of Wollongong, David Campbell, Consular Attaché Turo Chiodo, and representatives of the main Italian associations in the Illawarra.

After the performance of the Australian and Italian national anthems by the Wollongong Alpine Choir and the blessing imparted by Father Luigi, Tony Panozzo, president of the Wollongong Alpine section, welcomed the numerous attendees, including members of the Marconi Club and the Abruzzi Club of Sydney. He explained that the creation of the park had been made possible thanks to the work and funding of the group he represented.

The master of ceremonies, Primo Galanti, explained to those in attendance, mostly Australians, the goals and philosophy of the Alpine troops around the world, who have made the symbolic image of the black feather famous through their work of solidarity with others and their representation of the Alpine Corps and their homeland.

Mayor Campbell was responsible for unveiling the two commemorative plaques that stand out on two columns in the centre of the park, where an elegant marble mosaic depicting the Wollongong Alpine group stands.

In his speech, David Campbell, after praising the work of the Wollongong Alpine troops, noted that the inauguration of the Alpini Park represented his last official commitment as mayor, as after the September 11 local elections he would dedicate himself exclusively to state politics. The official ceremony concluded with a speech by Turo Chiodo, who stated that the park, with its monument and commemorative plaques, would remind future generations of the work of the Wollongong Alpine troops, including important charitable initiatives on the South Coast (most notably the Marco Polo Village), as well as the role of the Italian community, which had contributed significantly to making Wollongong the most multicultural city in Australia.

A magnificent magnolia tree was then planted in the center of the park to commemorate the historic event, before those present enjoyed an outdoor breakfast.

.Images from the collection belonging to the Alpini of Wollongong

The Alpini Monument  and The Alpini Museum Sydney

In 1982, at the Scalabrini Village at Austral, Sydney, the Alpini Associations of both Sydney and Wollongong paid for and constructed a monument as a dedication to the Alpini who lost their lives for their country.

In 2016 the Sydney Alpini Sezione constructed a small Alpine Hut to be used as museum for all the Alpini Sezione in Australia. You will find memorabilia, information, artifacts and many stories. 

The Museum took three months to construct at a cost of approximately $35,000.00. It was built by the men from the Alpini of Sydney Group. The monument that was previously erected at the entrance on the site of the Scalabrini Village was relocated next to the museum after completion of construction. The relocation came at a cost that was covered by both the Sydney and Wollongong Sezione. 

Inside the museum you will also see a large bell donated by Luciano Liberale. Luciano is a member of the Sydney Sezione and the bell is in honour of his young son Antonio who passed away when he was 13. The Bell was presented at the inauguration of the opening of the museum. It was built in Italy but designed here.

The museum was built as a replica of the (Capella della Visitazione). It is a little chapel that was built in 1958 at the Falzarego Pass, situated in the Dolomites. Inside the Capella della Visitazione is a metal plate with a poem that speaks about the loss of life in WW1. 

The Italian Alpini Museum at Austral is a one of a kind museum in Australia that is dedicated to  Italians who fought for and served their country.  For visits to the museum contact Giuseppe Querin:  0414285682.  Visits are by appointment only. 

Images from the collection belonging to the Alpini of Sydney

 

 

Invitation for the unveiling of the Alpini Monument at the Scalabrini Village

 

Image from the collection belonging to Dina Chieffe 

 

The Alpini Monument when it was in its original location

 

Image from the collection belonging to the Alpini of Wollongong

 Castagne Day 

The Alpini of Wollongong first began their Castagne Day back in late 1970’s. It later took on a life of its own at the Fraternity Club, Fairy Meadow.  It became an annual celebration. (roasting the chestnuts). The Alpini men, with their hand made large metal roasting drums were manning the large fires and churning out beautiful roasted chestnuts for the public to eat and enjoy. 

In 2009 when the Association was invited to participate at the `Festa della Repubblica` (Italian Republic Day) in Wollongong Mall, the Alpini chose to continue with their tradition of (roasting chestnuts), which promoted further to the existing community involvement. 

It is has now become a for all the community to enjoy.  People from all walks of life attend Castagne day. A day filled with fun activities for the children with rides ect, market stalls, live entertainment and of course roasted chestnuts. Castagne Day is held annually at the Fraternity Club, Fairy Meadow on the third Sunday in May. 

 

.Images from the collection belonging to the Alpini of Wollongong

 

 

Members of the Alpini of Wollongong visiting the elderly at the Marco Polo nursing home.

 

Images from the collection belonging to the Alpini of Wollongong 

SALVATORE AND ROSINA ROMANO

Salvatore and Rosina Romano, along with their three young children came to Australia in 1957. Travelling on board the ship Sydney they arrived June 19. The Romano family were supposed to dock in Melbourne with the intention of going to Bonegilla Migrant Camp. Apparently the camp was at capacity and so they were sent to Greta Camp in Newcastle, instead.

Greta Camp was originally an Army Camp. Greta Army Camp was built in 1939 near Greta, in the Hunter Region of NSW. It was used to train soldiers for WW2. After the war, it was converted into a camp for Migrants. It was a camp from 1949 till 1960. During those years over 100,000 migrants were housed there from almost 20 countries around the world. It was the largest migrant camp in all of Australia.

Word got out at Greta Camp about employment opportunities in Wollongong at the Port Kembla Steel Works. Salvatore soon left the camp  and headed south down the coast and secured a job. Salvatore was a first class welder at the Port Kembla Steel Works, a job he did prior to arriving in Australia. In Italy he worked at an arms factory in Colleferro before going off to war. He was paratrooper with the well known Italian Nembo regiment. After the war he came back to his home town and commenced working again at the same factory prior to the war, only now it was an iron and steel factory. It was there that he met his future wife Rosina Armenis, who was working there too.

Salvatore found placement at the Unanderra Hostel and shortly after the family moved down to be with him. The Romano family spent approximately two months at the hostel. Salvatore wasn't happy staying at the hostel and he found an Italian family at Cringila who were letting out some rooms. The boarding house was owned by Federico Fina. It seemed like a better fit, so the family moved in, stayed for approximately one month before moving to Woonona where they rented a small garage. Salvatore, Rosina and their three young children all under the one roof.

The dwelling was the size of a single car garage. Salvatore and Rosina put up bed sheets to divide the sleeping arrangements between parents and children. There was no internal kitchen, with Rosina using the kitchen of the main house. They had a dinning table in the garage where the family would eat and and outside bathroom. Daughter Luana recalls going under the main house with their dog, Dora. There was a little table under the house and together with her dog, the neighbours dogs would often join them for a tea party. The stayed in Woonona for approximately 2 years.

In the late 1960`s the NSW Housing Commission operated a scheme where people could rent to buy homes in the Illawarra area. It was aimed at low income earners. Salvatore took up the opportunity and soon the family were moving into a brand new home built at Berkeley. This scheme created a lot interest with many other Italians taking up the offer. Berkeley developed a strong Italian community.

Salvatore and Rosina were all about family and were kindhearted. When they were living at the Unanderra Hostel they met a gentleman called Pietro Sandron (everyone knew him as Peter). Pietro had travelled by himself from Rome and was living at the Hostel. His mother came out from Italy to join him at the Hostel. Salvatore and his family had gone to Woonona and Pietro and his mother had left the Hostel, having found a place to rent. Unfortunatley, almost 12 months later Pietro`s mother passed away. He went to live with a family in Cringila. When they were no longer able to house him Salvatore and Rosina took him in whilst they were living in Woonona in the garage. Pietro then moved with them when the family purchased their new home at Berkeley. Pietro lived with the Romano family for 8 years in total and they had a very close friendship until his passing at 90 years of age. Daughter Luana became Pietro`s carer for five years before  he moved into a nursing home. Pietro passed away November 20, 2024.

ROSINA ARMENIS

Rosina Armenis was a dancer and came from a long line of entertainers. She had parents, grandparents, great grandparents, aunts and uncles who were all performers. It was just in the blood! As performers they were known as Les Armenis, Troupeee Armenis or Duo Armenis, depending who was performing. They were dancers and actors, with dance being their primary art. Her father Luigi father was a `primo ballerino`. Luigi as young boy, along with his parents, danced for the Tsar of Russia. The family entertain until the second world war.  Great grand father Carlo was an actor as well as a dancer. In 1952 Rosina`s Aunt Sara had a cameo role in a movie with Ingrid Bergman called Europa 51.

Her family also dates back to the 13th Century. There was a bishop in the family and you will find their name written in the papal archives in Rome. Speaking of Rome, a funny situation happened by chance. In 1967 a newly wed couple from the Wollongong region were on a 12 month honeymoon in Italy. They were parking their car at St Peter`s Square. One of the parking attendants recognised that they were Australian and casually asked them if they knew of a place called `BERKELEY`. The bride, Catherine George, knew Berkeley only too well as she was a school teacher there for three years at Berkeley Primary School. The parking attendant was Luana`s grandfather Luigi Armenis. Turns out that Catherine George was Luana`s school teacher. What are the odds of that happening?  The story made the local newspaper, Illawarra Mercury in 1968. Luigi Armenis was also an interpreter at the Vatican, speaking seven languages.

The Romano family lived in Berkeley their whole life. It was their family home and they loved the area. With many Italians as neighbours they had a strong connection to their Italian community. Salvatore was only young when he passed away at the age of 56 on September 3rd, 1977.  Rosina Romano passed away November 30, 2010. She was 89. Salvatore and Rosina are survived by their three children, 7 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.

 

 

 

 Above photos of Salvatore Romano WW2. 

He was part of the Nembo Regiment.

Salvatore far left with cigarette. 

 

Photo from Rosina`s passenger card 

for the ship.  

 

 

All images from the collection belonging to Luana Romano Castro.

NICOLA DI CIACCIO - COFFEE ROASTER

Nicola Di Ciaccio arrived in Australia October 13, 1981 and he was 23 years old. Nicola had come from a farming/agricultural background. As a young boy he was already working on the land. The family had a business providing crops for the markets etc.

 

In 1976 Nicola graduated and became a Seaman, becoming a deck officer and eventually first mate. It was also the same year that his father, Marciano, passed away.  Nicola had plans to come to Australia but due to the death of his father he stayed in Italy for some time to help with the family business.

Nicola had two Uncles living in Australia when he arrived. He lived in  Warrawong with his Uncle Pietro who arrived in Australia Jan 27, 1957 aboard the ship `Aurelia`. He was looking for work and his Uncle suggested M & M (Metal Manufacturers) but Nicola felt that wasn’t for him. He did odd jobs for a few years.

After three months in Australia Nicola met Tina Di Blasi. Six months later they were engaged and six months after the engagement they were married.

As a young boy he dreamt of opening his own pizza place and in 1984 the opportunity presented itself. He purchased an existing coffee lounge in Oak Flats and began converting it into a pizzeria called La Riviera Pizza, which opened March 21st at 55 Central Avenue. He knew nothing about making pizza dough and employed his mother in-law, Maria Di Blasi. Maria had extensive experience working in pizza restaurants throughout the Illawarra region.

La Riviera Pizza opened 7 days a week doing both lunch and dinner. With a staff of 4 it had a seating capacity of up to 40 people. They did approximately 150 - 200 pizzas per week as well as a trattoria style kitchen menu. The menu consisted of typical Italian pasta dishes such as lasagna, gnocchi and meat dishes such as scaloppine. According to Nicola, the Italian dishes were more popular than the pizzas. La Riviera Pizza also did takeaway.

In 1995 Nicola opened a second business, this time in Wollongong. He purchased `Il Mondo del Cafe` in Corrimal Street, Wollongong, an upmarket coffee shop. In 1997 Nicola sold the pizzeria and focused on the coffee shop.

He worked hard to build the business up when in 1998, after four years, he sold the coffee shop as he was dealing with illness and needed to recover. He took four months off from work. He soon started up again and ran the restaurant in the Spanish Club at Warrawong. The cuisine was a fusion of Spanish and Italian. 12 months later he moved on.

In 2000 he was running the Tuscany Cafe in Crown Street, Wollongong. He did another 12 months at Tuscany while simultaneously running the Fontana Caffelatte Restaurant upstairs (that he began running six months after commencing at the Tuscany Cafe). He left after 12 months before managing Urban Espresso (cafe) in the mall for another 12 months.

In 2001 Nicola purchased a restaurant in Cowper Street, Warrawong. It  was an existing trattoria that had been there for several years. Nicola was asked if   he would consider taking it over and he opened under the name Nickelangelo Trattoria. Nickelangelo`s was a trattoria style restaurant with a seating capacity of up to 110 people. They also offered wood fired pizza. The pizza oven was newly installed by Nicola. 

The restaurant was open 7 days per week. Initially it opened everyday for both lunch and dinner, but Nicola reduced the hours to lunch only two days per week being Thursday and Friday with dinner being Wed - Sun. The restaurant was busy with functions especially from the Italian community and  they also did takeaway. It was not rare for Nicola to knock back up to 100 people on a Saturday night.

Approx 12 months after opening the restaurant Nicola began to roast coffee. With connections from working at `Il Mondo del Cafe`, he began with a 3 kilo coffee roasting machine that was situated at the front of the restaurant. He was roasting wholesale under contract for a company in Sydney. After approximately 8 months with the 3 kilo roaster he then purchased a 30 kilo roasting machine and moved the coffee roasting to the back of the restaurant. Nicola was now producing more coffee for more clients and for three years he pumped out a whopping one and a half tons of roasted coffee per week! After about 5 years he purchased a 60 kilo roaster from Turkey. The roaster was put in storage for 12 months before he found a premises /warehouse in Unanderra to house the 60 kilo roaster. Nicola was roasting the coffee along with his two sons.

Around 2007 Nicola launched an `Italian Night` at the restaurant. The restaurant was at capacity and turned around 180 people. It was intended to be the beginning of `la grammatica italiana`. The hope was to have many nights like this where people would dine, gather together and speak Italian, encouraging people to connect with their heritage, speaking more of the mother language or even learning the language itself. Members of the Italian community became involved. It ran for a couple of years only before finishing all together. It was really disappointing for Nicola.

The restaurant was busy and trading constantly. It had many regular local customers. They worked solid for nearly ten years and in 2010 Nickelangelo Trattoria was sold. Maria Di Blasi worked with Nicola since 1984 when he opened his first pizzeria in Oak Flats until he finished from the restaurant in Warrawong. Maria Di Blasi passed away 2022, January 15. She was 80 years old.

Nicola was focusing heavily on his coffee roasting business at Unanderra. He was making third party coffee blends now turning out 4 tons per week and he was working six days per week, 12 hours per day working with the 60 kilo roaster.

By this stage both his sons were working full time with him. For 25 years Nicola had been roasting coffee with his children being part of the business. The business has now come full circle, with Nicola helping his sons. The eldest son has a cafe in Unanderra and is involved with distribution. The youngest son owns the roasting business. So for Nicola his coffee project is finished with his sons running the show. Nicola helps and still works in the business, supporting the sons and doing most of the roasting.

He spends much time in his beloved garden and enjoys the company of his eight grandchildren.

Nicola as a young Seaman in Italy

 

 Nicola roasting his coffee

 

 

Images from the collection belonging to Nicola Di Ciaccio

SOUTH COAST TIMES ITALIAN EXHIBITION SUPPLEMENT AUGUST 1956

Back when I started this journey of writing stories about the Italians of Wollongong, I spent many early days at the Wollongong City Library upstairs, where there is access to a variety of resources. History and information about the past in Wollongong, stories, local news items and a room full of newspapers all on microfiche film. Microfiche is an older technology that was eventually replaced by digital technology. Though we are still able to read the film and with the use of modern technology download it to computer files: with great relief.

Whilst I was doing research I had so much help from the wonderful staff who were only too willing to assist and encourage me. They found some fantastic articles and showed me how and where to search for information ect.

An article was found in the South Coast Times (Wollongong`s Premier Newspaper back in the day) dated Monday August 27, 1956 (PAGES 21 -28). In fact it wasn’t an article it was an eight page supplement called `ITALY IN W`GONG`. So much information and I was so grateful. It talked about the many businesses in Wollongong started by Italians with messages from the mayor,  Wollongong City Council, editorials and advertisements. So many of the stories that I have written were about the people who were mentioned in this supplement. This supplement also gave me clues to finding out more information and led me to people I had never even heard of before. 

FILIPPE D`AURIA. I knew of two tailors in Wollongong and one was by first name only and I had been trying for months to find him. I saw this small advertisement in the supplement that showed me his last name. It was Filippe D`Auria. Once I had his name I was then able to track down his son (which took quite a while) and learn all about him. Filippe D`Auria worked for almost 30 years as a tailor and he was quite an accomplished musician as well.

GINO BATTOCCHIO. I came across Gino`s name through an editorial in this supplement. Gino was mentioned as one of many who had their creative works on display at the West Wollongong TAFE. I was able to track Gino`s brother down (who lives here in Wollongong). I learnt about Gino and wrote his story. Gino`s metal creations, and what he built and donated to the church, were amazing pieces.

Others who had their works on display at the TAFE were Peter Menegazzo who’s story was published in two parts. Raimondo Brugnera who was a tailor but also designed and built furniture, was mentioned in our stories in the Tailors of Wollongong. Filippe D`Auria also had his tailored clothes on display.

Advertisements by E. Guido & Co, (that was managed by Ebe Formigoni who eventually purchased the business) who’s story was also published along with Borgo Wines and Bruno Ballesi from Photo Roma. Others who I am still searching for to write their stories. The whole supplement was filled with so many articles and names about the role of Italians in Wollongong and their contributions.

Page 21: Talks about the opening of the exhibition and how it was the first ever international exhibition held on the South Coast. It also mentions those who were featured in the exhibition and about the artisans whose works were on display at the West Wollongong College of TAFE. The exhibition at the TAFE was held over several days with a message from the Mayor at the time J.J. Kelly and a message from the Council of Wollongong.

Page 22: Features articles talking about the cultural impact and benefits of the Italians in the Wollongong community. It also honours the many Italians who had become Australian Citizens and how a large portion of those were Italians, as well as advertisements.

Page 23: The importance of the Italian Centre in Wollongong and the role it played and it’s social value. Even the coffee machine that was used at the Italian Centre was on display at the exhibition along with more advertisements.

Page 24: A Wonderful editorial piece on how Migration had boosted South Coast Industry. How more than 1500 Italians worked at the Port Kembla Industries, others at EPT (Electric Power Transmission). The many skilled and unskilled migrants who made up the work force, how important they were. The number of Italians in Australia at the time and how it was increasing every year.

Page 25: Features E.P.T and it’s contributing growth to Australia and other industries. 

Page 26 : Talks about the Immaculate Conception Church at Unanderra with articles about  (well known) Italian world wide companies.

Page 27:  Features an editorial on E Guido & Company’s store and the many customers they serviced not only in the Wollongong area, but even the Southern Highlands and Kiama. 

Page 28: Speaks about how Italy is a paradise for tourists and the number of people visiting the country. Our wonderful cruise liners and an editorial on Borgo Wines and some more advertising.

Following is the article written on page 23 about the Italian Centre, Wollongong.

Italian Centre’s Important Role

`Playing an important role in the assimilation of Italian migrants on the South Coast is the Wollongong Italian Centre.` 

The social value of the Centre has been fully realised by the Wollongong City Council, the Good Neigbour Council and all the other bodies associated with the assimilation of migrants.

The Centre, situated at 33 Burelli Street, Wollongong was founded and is now conducted by the Pious Society of St Charles, a Catholic Order dedicated to the spiritual and temporal welfare of Italian migrants all over the world.

Moved by the great post-war influx of Italian people to the South Coast, the Society in June, last year acquired the property in Burelli Street. An old home was standing on the land which has a 66` wide double frontage to Burelli and Stewart Streets, Wollongong.The home was renovated internally to provide a modern welfare and recreational centre for the Italian people of the South Coast.

In an endeavour to help fit Italians for better positions in the community, the priest in charge (Rev. Father L. Bianchini) started classes in English for the migrants. These English classes are now held at the centre every Tuesday and Friday nights and are helping Italians to settle in the community within a short time.

Classes in Italian are also provided for Australians who desire to learn the Italian language. Among the many people attending these classes is an engineer who is directing Italian workmen, and local singer whose operatic work demands a grasp of the Italian language.

Since the Centre was established last year, more than 2000 cases have been assisted in one way or another. Financial aid when necessary and assistance with immigration, taxation, housing and industrial problems has been given new settlers at the Centre.

Recreational facilities at the Centre have been warmly appreciated. They include table tennis, and an indoor soccer table made by Mr Gino Sanguinetti of Wollongong.

Meals cooked in the Italian manner are also served at the Centre, the cook being Mrs Rina Montagner, formerly of Venice.  The Centre in not a club. There is no membership fee and it is maintained solely by donations and goodwill of all who regard it as a means of bringing the Australian and Italian people together in the true spirit of assimilation.

What a treasure trove of information and dedication to the Italians in Wollongong. If anyone wishes to read and see the old newspaper articles they are held in Wollongong City Library upstairs they are available to look at on the microfiche reader and the staff are only too willing to help. 

(Information obtained from the South Coast Times Newspaper Monday August 27, 1956.

 from the Wollongong City Library archives)

 

 

 

 Newspaper article about the exhibition and Virgilio and Alberto Gnata 

at the West Wollongong TAFE exhibition of art work standing in front

of some of their creations.

Gino Battocchio at the West Wollongong TAFE exhibition viewing

the artworks on the wall.

 

 

Above images from the collection belonging

to Jessica Zerlinda Gnata

 

 

Gino Battocchio with his creations as part of the exhibition with

two ladies enjoying the wares on display.

 

 

Image from the collection belonging to Cristina Battocchio