Speeches
Tuesday, 11 August 2026
Reception to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Co-Ordinating Italian Committee
I warmly welcome you to Government House to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Co-Ordinating Italian Committee.
The Committee’s story is inseparable from the story of generations of Italian migrants who made this State their home and, through hard work, determination and a deep commitment to family and community, helped build the South Australia we know today.
Their contribution can still be seen across South Australia – in our vineyards and market gardens, in the businesses they established, and in the homes, roads, and buildings they helped construct.
As Italian families built new lives across South Australia, they also built organisations that brought people together, preserved language and culture, and kept future generations connected to their heritage.
The Co-Ordinating Italian Committee was established to bring many of those organisations together and able to speak with a shared voice.
For the past 50 years, it has remained true to the values of its founders: service, generosity, community and a commitment to looking after one another.
In its early years, the Committee helped celebrate Italian culture through the Italian Festival, later known as Carnevale.
For many South Australians, Carnevale was their first experience of Italian culture.
The event brought people together and gave generations of South Australians the chance to experience the traditions, culture and community spirit of the Italian community.
As the generation that helped build South Australia grew older, so too did the Committee's role.
Today, the Committee supports older members of the community through social programs, outings, volunteer home visits and community activities that help people remain connected, independent and engaged.
Whether gathering for Tai Chi, sharing a meal, enjoying an outing or welcoming a volunteer into their home, these moments reduce social isolation, and strengthen the sense of
community that has always been at the heart of the organisation.
For many older Italian Australians, remaining connected to their language, traditions and community is an important part of maintaining their independence, identity and sense of belonging.
It helps people stay active, independent and connected to the community they helped build.
That is why organisations such as the Co-ordinating Italian Committee remain so important.
They preserve the connections that matter most, ensuring people continue to feel understood, supported and valued at every stage of life.
I acknowledge the founders whose vision established the Co-Ordinating Italian Committee and whose legacy is evident in its work today.
I thank the past and present Board Members, staff and volunteers who have carried that vision forward through their dedication, generosity and service.
Because of your service, generations of Italian Australians have remained connected to their language, culture and community,
and South Australia is richer for it.
This evening, we celebrate not only a significant milestone, but the people whose commitment has made it possible.
Congratulations on 50 years, and thank you for continuing to strengthen the lives of Italian Australians and the South Australian community.
Congratulazioni