1934 Members
1934 Members
Is your ancestor one of these individuals?
We are looking to find out more about the 85 individuals who reside on our 1934 Members Photo Board situated in our upstairs Museo Società Isole Eolie & Resource Centre.
As we come up to our 100th year in 2025, we need your help to let us know if this person is your ancestor or have more information about them.
Eg. Date of Birth, Place of Birth, Date of Death, Place of Death, Parent’s names, Spouse’s names, marriage date, Children’s names or any other information.
01. Giovanni Alaimo
02. F. Alacqua
03. Enrico Anzilotti (Cavaliere)
04. G. Barbuto
05. G. Barbuto
06. Salvatore Barnao
07 Francesco Basile
08. F. Basile
09. Antonino Bongiorno
10. Antonino Bongiorno
11. Bartolo Canestra
12. V. Canestra
13. V. Canestra
14. Antonio Cappadona
15. A. Casamento
16. Antonino Casamento
17. Giuseppe Casamento
18. Giuseppe Casamento
19. M. Casamento
20. Mariano Casamento
21. G. Cincotta
22. A. De Lorenzo
23. Bartolo Dimattina
24. Domenico Dimattina
25. Frank Dimattina
26. A. Famularo
27. B. Famularo
28. A. Favaloro
29. A. Favaloro
30. A. Ferlazzo
31. B. Ferlazzo
32. G. Ferlazzo
33. Vincenzo Ferro
34. G. Fiume
35. Giuseppe Fonti
36. A. Fraumano
37. Giuseppe (Iacono) Yacono
38. Vincenzo (Iacono) Yacono
39. S. Lamacchia
40. Antonio Licciardo
41. Alessando Licciardo
42. A. Licciardo
43. G. Lopes
44. A. Lo Piccolo
45. Giovanni Lo Piccolo
46. G. Lo Schiavo
47. Francesco Matisi
48. J. Mecca
49. Antonino Megna
50. Dottore G. Merlino
51. A. Mirabito
52. Bartolo Natoli
53. Bartolo Natoli
54. G. Natoli
55. G. Natoli
56. G. Natoli
57. A. Originale
58. Domenico Panettieri
59. Gaetano Peluso
60. N. Pittari
61. S. Quadara
62. Giacomo Rando
63. Salvatore Rando
64. A. Ravesi
65. S. Ristuccia
66. A. Russo
67. Domenico Russo
68. Damiano Russo
69. Giuseppe Russo
70. Vincenzo Russo
71. Giuseppe Santamaria
72. G. Santamaria
73. B. Taranto
74. B. Taranto
75. G. Taranto
76. G. Taranto
77. Domenico Tesoriero
78. Pietro Tesoriero
79. Salvatore Tesoriero
80. Salvatore Tesoriero
81. Stefano Tesoriero
82. Vincenzo Tesoriero
83. V. Tesoriero
84. A. Troia
85. G. Virgona
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01. Giovanni Alaimo
b. 1 April 1883, Stromboli
d. 16 June 1952, Malvern
Husband of Luigini D'Alterio (b. 28 April 1890 Stromboli m. 18 August 1908, Melbourne d. 12 February 1950 Malvern)
Children Names: Giovanni, Alessandro, Caterina, Adelina, Iolanda, Remo, Maria, Gloria, Veronica
Involvement in the Societa: Was a inaugural member of the SMSIE
Giovanni was a Fruiterer. He had a fruit shop in Moonee Ponds, Brunswick and then many years at 20 Glenferrie Rd, Malvern. -
02. F. Alacqua
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03. Enrico Anzilotti (Cavaliere)
b. 8 February 1898, Florence, Italy
d. 17 December 1983, Uzzano, Italy
Son of Dionisio
Anzilotti was the Italian Consul of Melbourne during 1934 to the 23rd of April 1937. He was Honorary President of the S.M.S.I.E from 1933 until his departure from Australia in 1937. -
04. G. Barbuto
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05. G. Barbuto
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06. Salvatore Barnao
b. 14 February 1887, Stromboli
d. 12 September 1966, Melbourne
Son of Vincenzo Barnao (b.25 February 1854 - d.10 February 1920) & Caterina Rando
Married Vincenzina Tesoriero (b.12 October 1897 - d.15 August 1964
Children: Kathleen Barnao married Dante Tesoriero and had 6 children
Vincent Joseph Barnao (b.2 September 1927 - 5 June 2010 married 14 September 1957 to Maria Concetta Yacono 26 June 1936 - 15 November 2017 and had 3 children
Antonio Barnao married Rosa Napoli and had 2 children." -
07 Francesco Basile
b. 2 July 1896, Leni, Salina
d. 6 September 1959, Hawthorn
Son of Giuseppe Basile and Concetta Russo
Husband of Maria Rosa Palamara, (18 Apr 1916, St Patrick's Cathedral)
Children Names: Giuseppe, Francesco, Vincenzo, Maria Concetta, Antonio, Salvatore, Rosina
Francesco arrived in Australia on 24th November 1910, on the ship Otway. He was naturalised in Sep 1935 . Francesco lived in Brougham Street, Kew and worked as a fruiterer. -
08. F. Basile
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09. Antonino Bongiorno
b. 21 May 1877, Stromboli
d. 30 August 1955, Stromboli
Son of Antonino & Francesca Tesoriero
Married Francesca Famularo
Children: -Franceschina, -Maria Rosa, married Antonino D’Angelo and had Frances (Cecelia), Antonietta (Nina), & Anita (Married Rocco D'Andrea, and had Antonietta, Anthony & Daniel) -Maria Antonietta (Ninetta), -Diana, -Antonino Bongiorno (No.10) -
10. Antonino Bongiorno
b. 14 July 1905, Stromboli
d. 29 April 1973, Melbourne
Son of Antonino & Francesca Famularo
Married Francesca Criscillo
Son of No.9 Antonino Bongiorno -
11. Bartolo Canestra
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12. V. Canestra
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13. V. Canestra
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14. Antonio Cappadona
b. 26 March 1910, Stromboli
d. 24 September 2001, Melbourne
Husband of Yolanda Alaimo (b. 10 Jan 1917, Melbourne - d. 17 April 2011, Melbourne) -
15. A. Casamento
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16. Antonino Casamento
b. 15 December 1905, Ballarat, Victoria
d. 15 September 1962
Son of Antonio Casamento (d.1923) & Giuseppa Palmisano (d.Jan 1942) (M. 12 February 1905)
Husband of Cecilia Davies
Children Names: Marie
Antonino (Tony) Casamento's parents Antonio and Giuseppa (nee Palmisano) had a fruit and mixed business at 421 Sturt St Ballarat, and opened up a 2nd fruit business at 905 Sturt Street Ballarat which was later taken over by Giuseppa's brother - Angelo Palmisano.
In April 1910 Giuseppa took Tony to Lipari where she collected two of her husband's nieces - Santa 15 y.o. and Angelina 9 y.o., to bring them back to Melbourne, as their father had died, leaving their mother and 9 children destitute.
In 1919 the family moved to a fruit business at 356 Queens Parade Clifton Hill (North Fitzroy). Unfortunately both parents passed away suddenly - Antonio in 1923 at 49 years of age and Giuseppa in 1924 at 53 years of age.
Tony and his younger sister Nancy were left the business which they sold to Bartolo Ferlazzo, who had been managing it for them. Tony worked in the shop until he enlisted in the Australian Army on the 8th January 1942. He served in New Guinea, his rank was 'Private' and he became a cook. One of his duties was to deliver food to troops on the frontline. He narrowly escaped being shot by a Japanese sniper, due to the sharp eye of a native escort who detected the threat and cleared the track ahead. After 4 years, on the 18th February 1946 Tony returned home, and on discharge worked at Myrl Shoe Company in Preston.
He married Cecilia Davies and they had one daughter Marie Casamento, who became a nun in the Good Samaritan Order.
Unfortunately Tony passed away on the 15th September 1962 at the age of 56. He is buried in a combined grave in Coburg Cemetery with his wife and parents. -
17. Giuseppe Casamento
b. 7 June 1907, Lipari
d. 27 February 1985, Melbourne
Son of Dominico Casamento & Teresa Liccardo
Husband of Angelina Ristuccia (b.26/01/1911)
Children Names: Teresa b.25 March 1934), Dominic (b.4 January 1936, Frances(b.19 April 1937), Cecilia (b.11 February 19141) Jeanette (b.3 June 1948)
Also known as Joe. Giuseppe was 1 of 10 children to parents Dominico Casamento & Teresa Liccardo. Joe was 3 years old when his father passed away, he left school aged 7 to work on the family property.
Joe immigrated alone to Australia aged 15 years on the Ormonde arriving on the 10th of September 1922. Sponsored by his brother Antonio, he was naturalized on 29thg December 1939.
He spent 5 years at brother Antonio’s Fruit Shop at 149 Glenhuntly Rd Elsternwick. In Joe 1927 moved to his own fruit shop at 454 Sydney Rd Coburg. His cousin Tony Casamento introduced him to Angelina Ristuccia (b.26 January 1911) who lived in Sydney. They married 15/07/1933 at St Joseph’s Church, Newton Sydney. The next day travelling by train to Joe’s shop at 454 Sydney Rd Coburg where they started their life together, and 3 children were born. In 1940 they purchased the Fruit shop at 356 Queens Pde Clifton Hill from Bartolo & Santa (Joe’s sister) Ferlazzo. Living there for 9 years, where 2 more children born.
Due to Joe’s ill health in 1949 they left the Fruit Shop moving to 89 Michael St North Fitzroy living for 7 years while Joe worked at a plastic factory in Thornbury and a concrete factory next door making laundry troughs. In 1955 Joe returned to work in the Fruit Shop at 454 Sydney Rd Coburg to help his brother Mariano Casamento (no.20). In 1957 the family moved to 230 Reynard St Coburg where they lived for 20 years, saw children marry and Joe retired. In 1977 Joe & Angelina moved to 32 Diane Cres Viewbank where Joe enjoyed growing fruit & vegetables in his front and back yard spending time with family including their 18 grandchildren. He attended gatherings at the club for as long he could, often attending with his brother Mariano Casamento, his son Domenic and son-in-law Bartolo Casamento.
Joe passed away on the 27th of February 1985 aged 77 years. -
18. Giuseppe Casamento
b. 1 October 1910, Lipari
d. 7 Jan 1999, Melbourne
Son of Pietro Casamento (1872-1955) & Felicia Marino (1874-1925)
Husband of Nunziata Casamento
Children Names: Peter & Felicia (Bellofiore)
Giuseppe arrived in Australia at 17 years of age in 1927. He joined his brother, Marino Casamento and they both worked with relatives in a fruit shop in Clifton Hill.
His future wife, Nunziata had been left an orphan at 12 years of age and after having spent 6 years at boarding school in Ballarat, she too came to Melbourne. She lived with relatives and became employed at the same fruit shop as Giuseppe. They courted and married and then moved to Moonee Ponds, where they worked with Giuseppe’s sister and brother in law in another fruit shop. They finally returned to Clifton Hill where they set up their own fruit shop in Queens Parade. After a number of years, they closed this business and moved to Thornbury, where Giuseppe worked as a factory hand in Preston until he retired.
After Nunziata passed away, he continued to live in Thornbury until he required aged care and moved to Nazareth House in Camberwell. -
19. M. Casamento
b. 31 August 1907, Vulcano
d. 21 October 1976, Melbourne
Son of Pietro Casamento (1872-1955) & Felicia Marino (1874-1925)
Husband of Rosina Natoli (m. 4 June 1933, Melbourne)
Marino Giacomo Giuseppe Casamento was born on 31st August 1907. He came from the island of Vulcano. His father was Pietro Casamento, born 1872 and died 1955. His mother was Felicia Casamento (nee Marino), born 1874 and died 1926. Marino’s parents remained in Italy with their eldest son, Bartolo. Marino was a ship’s boy in the Italian Merchant Navy from the age of twelve. He migrated to Australia on the steamship Palermo and arrived in Australia (Sydney) on 25th September 1925. Marino’s other brother, Giuseppe and his sisters Rosalia and Maria also migrated to Australia.
Marino met Rosina Natoli on 30th November 1931, the first day she arrived in Australia on the Orama. Marino and Rosina married on 4th June 1933 in St Joseph’s Northcote. They had a fruit shop in Queen’s Parade, Clifton Hill for two years and in 1935 moved to Northcote to their fruit shop at 237 High Street. They lived there with their seven children till 1956 when they moved to 230 Clarke Street Northcote which remained the family home till their deaths. Marino finished his working life as an insurance agent. He died on 21 st October 1976. Rosina died on 10th December 1987.
Marino was a member of the Societa from 1930 and on the executive from 1935. He was president in 1951 and 1952 and again from 1961 to 1970. After his last term as President he was declared Honorary President for Life. Marino was treasurer on the first executive committee of the Confraternita San Bartolo which was constituted on 26th May 1966. In 1968, during Marino’s term as President, the Societa bought the hall in Lygon Street. Both Marino and Rosina were foundation donors to St Anthony’s Shrine in Hawthorn and donors to many other organizations. Marino was made an Honorary Life Governor of the Royal Children’s Hospital in 1964. In 1967, the Italian Government conferred on Marino the title of Cavaliere nell’Ordine Al Merito della Repubblica Italiana for his years of service to the Eolian immigrant community.
Marino’s children and their families value their Eolian heritage, maintain their connection with the islands and the Eolian community in Melbourne and are grateful to Societa Isole Eolie for its advancement and support of all things Eolian in Melbourne. -
20. Mariano Casamento
b. 7 February 1903, Lipari
d. 25 February 199, Melbourne
Son of Dominico Casamento & Teresa Liccardo.
Husband of Frances Freeman
He was one of 10 children. Close brother of Guiseppe (Joe) Casamento (no. 17). Affectionately known to many as Uncle Morie. He arrived in Melbourne on the 26th of December 1925 on Citta Di Genoa ship with his mother Teresa and youngest brother Francesco. Mariano applied for naturalization on 7th of June 1944.
He lived and worked at Fruit Shops; 282 Sydney Rd and later in partnership with brother Joe at 454 Sydney Rd Coburg. Around 1946 Mariano married late in life to Jewish woman Frances Freeman (known as Aunty Dolly), they had no children.
For a short time, Mariano and Frances ran a Hotel in Melbourne CBD with relatives Joe & Lina Cavello. Mariano & Frances lived together at 206 Melville Rd, Pascoe Vale South, where he remained after Frances unexpectedly died in 1969. Mariano acquired several properties around Melbourne and was known to be generous man. He enjoyed hunting rabbits in the early days with his brothers, and spending time with extended family. He enjoyed attending the Società Isole Eolie club meetings and events with brother Joe and nephews Dominic and Bartolo. Mariano died 25th of February 1998 at the age of 95 years old. He is buried with his wife Frances and Mother Teresa at Fawkner Cemetery. -
21. G. Cincotta
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22. A. De Lorenzo
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23. Bartolo Dimattina
b. 15 October 1900, Stromboli
d. 2 April 1965, Melbourne
Son of Domenico Dimattina & Francesca Barnao
Husband of Francesca Bongiorno (b.25 June 1908, Stromboli m. 21 October 1928 d. 2 September 1966)
Children Names: Domenico, Antonio, Salvatore, Bartolo. -
24. Domenico Dimattina
b. 25 February 1898, Stromboli
d. 10 June 1959, Melbourne
Son of Domenico Dimattina & Francesca Barnao
Husband of Annetta Cincotta (Daughter of Giuseppe Cincotta & Rosa Ristuccia, b. 1 Sept 1905, Malfa, m. 7 Apr 1926, Melbourne, d.28 Aug 1980 Melbourne)
Children Names: Frances, Rosina, Dominic, Joseph, Anthony, Salvatore (died at birth), Annette & Margaret -
25. Frank Dimattina
b. 10 June 1909, Stromboli
d. 9 August 1963, Melbourne
Son of Domenico & Francesca Barnao
Husband of Angelina Santamaria (b. 21 November 1914 m. 28th January 1935 d. 9 September 2007)
Children Names: Dominic, Francesca, Angela, Diana, Francesco & Peter -
26. A. Famularo
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27. B. Famularo
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28. A. Favaloro
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29. A. Favaloro
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30. A. Ferlazzo
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31. B. Ferlazzo
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32. G. Ferlazzo
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33. Vincenzo Ferro
b. Date, Stromboli
d. Date, Place
Son of Angelo & Maria Giuseppa
Husband of Nunziata Lopes
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34. G. Fiume
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35. Giuseppe Fonti
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36. A. Fraumano
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37. Giuseppe (Iacono) Yacono
b. 19 March 1889, Stromboli
d. 15 April 1971, Melbourne
Son of Vincenzo Iacono & Eugenia Liello
Married to Maria Concetta Frizza b. August 1889, m. June 1908, d. 18 August 1965
Children Names: Vincenzo(No.38), Eugenia, Annunciata, Bartholomew (Deceased in infancy)
The original surname "Iacono" was changed to Yacono when the family migrated to Australia. Father of No.38 Vincenzo (Iacono) Yacono. -
38. Vincenzo (Iacono) Yacono
b. 2 April 1911, Stromboli
d. 26 November 1991, Melbourne
Son of Giuseppe (Iacono) Yacono (No.37) & Maria Concetta Frizza
Married to Santa Amelia Mirabito b. 12 December 1914 m. 4 July 1935 d. 13 July 1998
Children Names: Maria Concetta, Angelina, Giuseppe, Antonio, Vincenzo
The original surname "Iacono" was changed to Yacono when the family migrated to Australia. -
39. S. Lamacchia
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40. Antonio Licciardo
b. 12 May 1897, Vulcano
d. 20 May 1978
Husband of Giuseppina Virgona (b.1898, Alicudi, d. 9 Aug 1967)
Children Names: Felice, Maria, Antonino
No. 41- Alessandro Licciardo was brother to Antonio and resided in Tatura (Victoria) -
41. Alessando Licciardo
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42. A. Licciardo
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43. G. Lopes
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44. A. Lo Piccolo
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45. Giovanni Lo Piccolo
b. 27 Oct 1898, Lipari
d. 11 Jan 1951, Fitzroy, Melbourne
Son of Gaetano and Maria Rose Giardina (Married 28 Feb 1889, Lipari)
Husband of Angelina Casamento (Married at age 25 in Clifton Hill)
Children Names: Marie Rose, Teresa and Margaret
He was a Fruiterer -
46. G. Lo Schiavo
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47. Francesco Matisi
b. 4 June 1901, Pirrera, Lipari
d. 7 August 1979, Melbourne
Son of Bartolo Matisi and Angela Maggiore
Husband of Anna Natoli (1905-1996)
Children Names: Robert and Angelina
He arrived in Melbourne on 23 Sept 1927 on Regina d'Italia and was naturalized 21 Nov 1945. He married Anna Natoli 7th Feb 1932 in St Joseph's church Northcote.
Francesco established a fruit shop at 597 High St Northcote (Croxton) in the late 1920s. They had two children Robert 1932-2009 and Angelina 1934-2012. After Francesco died, his son took over the business until 2007. Francesco is buried in the Preston cemetery. Francesco had a younger brother Antonino 1914-2008, who became mayor of Northcote. -
48. J. Mecca
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49. Antonino Megna
b. 7 June 1880, Lipari
d.30 September 1961, Melbourne
Son of Antonino Megna & Angela Paino
Husband of Giuseppina L'Ambrosa (m.24 Feb 1906, Lipari)
Children Names: Angelina
Antonino "Tony" Francesco, Francesco
Guiseppe "Frank",
Clelia Giulia Rosa "Clara",
Antonietta Maria,
Frederico "Fred" Phillip,
Ernesto "Ernie" "Victorio" Joseph. -
50. Dottore G. Merlino
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51. A. Mirabito
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52. Bartolo Natoli
b. 18 Feb 1900, Lipari
d. 10 July 1980, Melbourne
Son of Bartolo (1871-1913) and Maria Natoli (1880-1963)
Husband of Giuseppina Cincotta
Bartolo born in Lipari on 18th Febraury 1900 was was the eldest child and only son of Bartolo Natoli (1871-1913) and Maria Natoli (1880-1963)
He arrived in Melbourne 1st March 1922 on the Orvieto. On arriving in Melbourne he stayed with Bartolo and Bartola Palamara at 237 Brunswick St Fitzroy for four months. (They were his future uncle and aunt). He then lived and worked with Michele Capichiano at 237 High St Northcote for fourteen months, followed by one year with Angelo Schibeci at 271 High St Northcote. He then worked in partnership with Bartolo Palamara for one year at 267 Brunswick St Fitzroy. It was during this time that he sent for future wife Giuseppina Cincotta (1901-1997), who arrived 25th May 1925 on the Re d'Italia. She stayed with her uncle and aunt Palamara at 237 Brunswick St Fitzroy. They were then married in St Patrick's Cathedral on 5 July 1925.
They subsequently moved to fruit shops in High St Northcote. Number 261 (1926), 271 (1928) and 263 (1930), the last being their home until 1950, when they moved to 133 Flinders St Thornbury. While in High St they had 4 children. Bartolo (Bob) Natoli (1926-1906)[Ex.President of the Societa), Maria(Mary)(1927-1979),Giuseppina (Joyce) (1928-1961), Giuseppe (1931-1933).
Bartolo sent for one of his sisters, Anna to come to Australia in 1927 (She later married Francesco Matisi who is number 47)
In 1931 he sent for his mother and two other sisters to come to Australia. The youngest sister Rosina Natoli subsequently married Marino Casamento, no.19, also President of the Società. There was a fourth sister Concetta who died in 1910 as an infant.
Bartolo was one of the founding members of the Confraternity of St Bartolo in 1966 and held the stendardo in his home at Flinders St Thornbury, until the present hall was purchased in 1968.
He died 10th July 1980 and is buried in the Preston cemetery. -
53. Bartolo Natoli
b. 30 July 1890, Lipari
d. 1966, Melbourne
Son of Giuseppe Natoli (1844-1897) and Anna Mirenda (1852-1899)
Husband of Giuseppina Natoli (1888-1968) married on 12 April 1911 in Lipari.
Children Names: Anna (1912-1996), Giuseppe (1920-1979), Bartolo (1924-2013) and Giuseppina (1926-1931)
He was the 5th child Bartolo arrived in Melbourne on the14 October 1927 on the Palermo. He initially worked with his cousin Bartolo Natoli in High St Northcote and then worked for Bartolo Ferlazzo at 256 Queens Pde Clifton Hill. His son Giuseppe came to Melbourne in 1931 and then his wife and other son and daughter came in 1934. He then had a fruit shop at 276 Queens Pde Clifton Hill in 1935, but lived around the corner at 10 Delbridge St.
He is buried at the Melbourne General cemetery. -
54. G. Natoli
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55. G. Natoli
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56. G. Natoli
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57. A. Originale
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58. Domenico Panettieri
b. 1897, Stromboli
d. 1977, Melbourne
Son of Giovanni Panettieri (1858-1934) & Nunziata Panettieri (1864-1946)
Husband of Maria Giuseppa Panettieri
Children Names: Nunziata (Nancy) and John
Domenico was one of 7 children. Siblings in order of birth- Salvatore, Giuseppe, Vincenzo, Domenico, Maria, Giuseppina, Giovanni.
In 1913 he came to Australia on the Orient line of Royal Mail Steamers- he, Osterley. He boarded the ship in Naples. He was only 16, but the age on the manifest says 22 years old! Profession- Labourer.
He travelled with Stefano Tesoriero, 27 years old.
The ship sailed through Port Said.
Early life: As he knew few people, other Italians from the same islands used to meet up to support each other financially to get a start in life. He met with others from the Eolian Islands and they started the club in Lygon Street.
He worked in a fruit shop with a relative to learn English and understand the fruit shop business, then started a fruit shop in Sydney Road Brunswick. (next to the Town Hall). Sydney road had no tram lines yet. It was horse and cart back and forth to the Victoria Market to the shop in Sydney Road. -
59. Gaetano Peluso
b. 26 Sept 1906, Lipari
d. 8 May 1983, Melbourne
Son of Francesco Peluso & Luisa Biancheri
Husband of Bartolina Ravesi -
60. N. Pittari
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61. S. Quadara
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62. Giacomo Rando
b. 26 July 1858, Stromboli
d. 8 July 1940, Elsternwick, Melbourne
Son of Salvatore Rando & Margarita Tesoriero
Husband of Mariannina Paino (b. 11 November 1867 Stromboli, m. 25 March 1890 Stromboli, d. 13 July 1943 East St.Kilda, Melbourne)
Children Names:
Salvatore Rando (No.63)
Margherita Rando who married Salvatore Tesoriero (No.80),
Eugenia Rando who married Stefano Tesoriero (No.81) -
63. Salvatore Rando
b. 2 November 1893, Stromboli
d. 27 December 1981, Melbourne
Son of Giacomo Rando (No.62) & Mariannina Paino
Husband of Giuseppina Italia Russo (b. 23 October 1903, m. May 1923, Stromboli, d. 12 april 1987)
Children Names: Nina, Carolina, Giacomo
Salvatore migrated to American when he was 16 years of age. He lived in Brooklyn, New York. While he was there he was part of the Circolo Progresso Stromboli.
Photo: Circolo Progresso Stromboli 1922- Salvatore (shown circled) at the age of 29. -
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64. A. Ravesi
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65. S. Ristuccia
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66. A. Russo
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67. Domenico Russo
b. 27 March 1901, Stromboli
d. 11 September 1990, Melbourne
Son of Gaetano Russo & Carolina Alaimo
Husband of Caterina Tesoriero (Di Felice). Married in 1927. -
68. Damiano Russo
b. 19 June 1895, Alicudi
d. 2 July 1975, Melbourne
Son of Onofrio Russo & Giuseppa Taranto
Husband of Maria Grazia Taranto (b. March 1895, Alicudi)
Children Names: Josephine (Russo), Sarina (Taranto), Rose (Fonti)
At the age of 15 Damiano worked for relatives in Brooklyn, New York, USA as a young fruiterer before returning to Alicudi to enlist in the navy. Damiano was in the Italian Merchant Navy around the time of WW1 and was a cook on board. When he came to Australia, he was a fruiterer in Camberwell and Brighton. He sponsored many individuals who came out from Italy. He and his wife offered them lodgings whilst they were able to get established here in Melbourne.
He had 2 outdoor bungalows built in the back of his house with an outhouse for them. For many years their doors were revolving with the many individuals and families that arrived and that they so generously supported in getting established. He was an avid gardener and had a whole extra block attached to his house block that was the vegie garden and chook pens where he grew a lot of produce.
He was naturalised in Australia on 12th of September 1935 Lived at 16 Stanley Street, Brighton East, 3186 -
69. Giuseppe Russo
b. Date, Place
d. Date, Place
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Involvement in the Societa:
Came to Australia in 1920. His brother is D.Russo (No.68) -
70. Vincenzo Russo
b. 1 March 1889, Alicudi
d. 26 Aug 1953, Melbourne
Son of Giuseppe Russo & Rosa Barbuto
Husband of Maria Taranto (d. 18 January 1961)
Children Names: Jean. Rose, Vince, Joe -
71. Giuseppe Santamaria
b. 11 May 1886, Rinella, Salina
d. 3 March 1970, Melbourne
Son of Bartolo & Giuseppa Sabbato
Husband of Maria Terzita Costa (m.19 Aug 1914, Maryborough Victoria)
Children: 1 Daughter, 5 Sons.
Involvement in the Società: President of the Società in 1931, 1940-1949.
Fruiterer, then wine/spirits/delicatessen in Sydney Road. Lived at 1 Melville Street, West Brunswick. -
72. G. Santamaria
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73. B. Taranto
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74. B. Taranto
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75. G. Taranto
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76. G. Taranto
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77. Domenico Tesoriero
b. Date, Stomboli
d. 1964, Place
Son of.....
Husband of Maria Pirera and Caterina Pirera
Children Names: Maria Concetta, Assunta, Salvatore, Giuseppe
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78. Pietro Tesoriero
b. 29 June 1908, Ginostra, Stromboli
d.1 November 1990, Melbourne
Son of Giovanni Tesoriero and Maria Concetta Cincotta
Husband of Maria Concetta Costa
Children Names: Francesco & Maria Concetta (Graffeo)
Survived by 10 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great-grandchildren. -
79. Salvatore Tesoriero
b. 30 July 1910, Ginostra (Stromboli)
d. 30th May 1976, Melbourne
Son of Giovanni Tesoriero and Maria Concetta Cincotta
Husband of Sarina Starvaggi -
80. Salvatore Tesoriero
b. 9 July 1885, Stromboli
d. 4 April 1940, Melbourne
Son of Antonino Tesoriero (b. 18 May 1843, Stromboli d. 6 April 1926, Stromboli) & Maria Bongiorno (b. 28 July 1852, Stromboli d. 1 June 1911, Stromboli
Husband of Margherita Rando (di Giacomo) d.1950
Children Names: Antonio, Giacomo, Dante, Vittorio, Maria, Nina.
Involvement in the Societa: Was Treasurer of the S.M.S.I.E.
Salvatore was brother of Stefano Tesoriero (No. 81)
Family Photo: Salvatore Tesoriero and Margherita Rando with their children Anthony and Giacomo. Margherita is also the sister of Salvatore Rando #63 and daughter of Giacomo Rando #62. -
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81. Stefano Tesoriero
b. 28 June 1888, Stromboli
d. 19 May 1957, Melbourne
Son of: Antonino Tesoriero (b. 18 May 1843, Stromboli d. 6 April 1926, Stromboli) & Maria Bongiorno (b. 28 July 1852, Stromboli d. 1 June 1911, Stromboli
Husband of Eugenia Rando m. 1919 (sister to No. 63 Salvatore Rando and sister to Margherita Rando who married No. 80 Salvatore Tesoriero)
Children Names: Josie (Benjamin)
Brother of Salvatore Tesoriero (No.80)
Photo: Stefano Tesoriero & Genia Rando -
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82. Vincenzo Tesoriero
b. 19 November 1905, Ginostra (Stromboli)
d. 29th January 1967, Carlton, Victoria
Son of Giovanni Tesoriero and Maria Concetta Cincotta
Husband of Caterina Lopes - (m. 16 October 1932)
Children Names: Maria, Marianina and Giovanni
Involvement in the Societa: One of the first members to help set up the Societa
Vincenzo came to Australia in 1919 and went to work in a fruit shop for Giuseppe Tesoriero at 268 Carlisle St, Balaclava. Eventually bought the business from Giuseppe and it stayed in the family for 3 Generations until 2015. His brothers are also in the 1934 photo - Pietro and Salvatore Tesoriero. His nickname was ‘Sant d’Oro’ because of help he gave so many people who migrated to Australia. -
83. V. Tesoriero
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84. A. Troia
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85. G. Virgona
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EXPLORE
In Memoriam
In Memoriam
Remembering those who were part of and contributed to the
Società Isole Eolie Melbourne since 1925.
You can filter by the first letter of a Surname below.
MANDARANO Luciano (1960-2023)
REITANO Bartolo (1939-2024)
SALTALAMACCHIA Antonino (1931-1989)
NARDUZZO Pino (1933-2023)
BARCA Giuseppa (1928-2023)
CASAMENTO Dominic (1936-2023)
MAGGIORE Joe (1952-2023)
BARBUTO Assunta (1946-2023)
NATOLI Bartolina (SCAFFIDI) (1933-2023)
TOSCANO Vincenzo (1905-1981)
CASAMENTO Giuseppe (1907-1985)
CASAMENTO Bartolo (1937-2014)
D'ANDREA Anita (1941-2020)
PELUSO Gaetano (Tom) (1906-1983)
SCAFFIDI Vincenzo
PANETTIERI Francesco (1915-1983)
TESORIERO Pietro (1908-1990
ROSITANO Maria (1924-2015)
LOSCHIAVO Sam (1930-2019)
MOLLICA Caterina (Rene) (1928-2017)
ZIINO Bartolo
NATOLI Bartolo (1928-2018)
ISCHIA Giuseppe (1915-2005)
NATOLI Gino (1926-2003)
NATOLI Bob (1926-2006)
TARANTO Angelo (1913-1987)
PAINO Giuseppe (1905-1997)
MOLINIA Tony (Anthony) (1940-2014)
FERLAZZO Giovanni (1930-1998)
ZAIA Tony (1930-2021)
D'AMICO Nick (Nicola) 1935-2019
D'AMICO Vincenzo (Father)
MARTELLO Giovanni (1931-2021
BENJAMIN Jose (TESORIERO) 1936- 2021
LUCA Giuseppe (Joe) 1932-2021
BOCCABELLA ANGELA (BROCCIO) 1922-2020
BARCA Giuseppe (Joe) 1928-2021
SANTAMARIA GIUSEPPE
FONTI Giuseppe
CASAMENTO Marino
SCAFFIDI Leo 1926-2017
TESORIERO Giuseppe
LUCA Marianina (Nina) (TESORIERO) 1939-2019
CANESTRA Bartolo
DI MATTINA Bartolo 1900-1965
BONGIORNO Antonino
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MANDARANO Luciano (1960-2023)
b.8 October 1960, Lipari
d. 16 September 2023, Melbourne
Luciano was a committee member in the 1980's. -
REITANO Bartolo (1939-2024)
b.1939, Quattropani Lipari
d. 22nd July 2024, Melbourne
Bartolo was a member of the Società for many years. He was a big supporter of the social functions held at Eolian Hall, on bus trips around Victoria, the annual picnic at Seaford, and the Christmas party where he attended with his grandchildren. Bartolo had a big personality and was known to everyone.
Bartolo's family and former Vice President Joe Luca’s family, always shared a table at the dinner dances held at Eolian Hall. Both Joe and Bartolo enjoyed these good times until their health declined. -
SALTALAMACCHIA Antonino (1931-1989)
b.18 March 1931, Lipari
d. 02 April 1989, Melbourne
Antonino was a member from 1973 up until his passing in1989. Before that he frequently attended some of the dinner dances, the picnic and other functions like the Christmas lunch. He was usually invited by Leo Scaffidi and was also nominated by him to join the club. -
NARDUZZO Pino (1933-2023)
b. 6 June 1933, Piscita’ Stromboli
d. 27 November 2023, Melbourne
Pino joined the SIE in 1973 and celebrated 50 years of membership before his passing. He was was Vice-President of the SIE for several years and a long-time member of the Confraternita' San Bartolomeo.
Well known in the broader community as the ‘King of Fruiterers’, Pino was born in Piscita’ Stromboli in 1933 and migrated to Australia after serving in the Italian Navy. Soon after arriving in Melbourne, he celebrated marriage in 1958 to Maria Pittorino (also from Stromboli) and they set up a fruit business in High St, Prahran. They next moved on to Prahran Market where the familiar stall ‘Pino’s Fine Produce’ continues today to bear the name.
He was a man of generous spirit and his contribution to so many fields, led to the awarding of an Order of Australia (OAM) medal in 2004.
Pino became a prominent presence in the community of Stonnington until he stepped back from active engagement as his health declined.
We best remember him as a regular at our SIE functions and are grateful for his donations of produce to our events, esp. the annual Seaford Picnic where he continued to attend until recent times. The holding of the Miss Isole Eolie Quest on the deck of his fruit truck has become an enduring memory of this event. -
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BARCA Giuseppa (1928-2023)
b. 27 March 1928, Varisana, Lipari
d. 14, November 2023, Melbourne
Wife of the late Giuseppe Barca (Once Committee member of the Societa), mother of Gaetano, Antonio, Rosa Marisa, and Giovanina. Nonna to one of our regular performers, Soprano Rebecca Gulinello and sister Naomi. -
CASAMENTO Dominic (1936-2023)
b. 4 January 1936, Melbourne
d. 20, March 2023, Melbourne
Dominic was on the committee in the 1970s with his father Giuseppe Casamento. Over the years he attended various events including the annual picnic and dinner dances etc. -
MAGGIORE Joe (1952-2023)
b. 24 July 1952, Melbourne
d. 4 June 2023, Melbourne
Joe Maggiore was a former ANZ bank manager and was instrumental in obtaining finance for the SIE in times of need.
He was our Treasurer leading up to our 90th Anniversary in 2015 and on our Executive Committee for 4 years. He played a leading role in major raffles and always acted as Race Marshal at the Seaford Picnic after collecting the medals from Ascot Vale Trophies. -
BARBUTO Assunta (1946-2023)
b. 14 August 1946, Vulcano
d. 20 January 2023, Melbourne
Wife of the Long-Standing President Tony Barbuto. -
NATOLI Bartolina (SCAFFIDI) (1933-2023)
b. 21 September 1933, Vulcano
d. 4 February 2023, Melbourne
Betty was born in Vulcano, Italy and was the sister of Leo Scaffidi Betty helped in setting up SIE functions in the 1970s & 80s and was quite active at the time, while her husband Gino (d. 2003) was on our committee pre-2003, and so too her son Claudio who died at a young age.
Her son, Vince Natoli, was our Golden Sponsor at the 70th annual picnic at Seaford. He found the rope we used to use for the Tug-of-War in his dad’s garage and gifted it to us after a 35-year period since it was last used. The family, like many Aeolian families, were fruit shop owners and one of the last prominent figures from the post-WW2 Aeolian Fruit Shop Era. -
TOSCANO Vincenzo (1905-1981)
b. 29 July 1905, Stromboli
d. 22 February 1981, Wellington, New Zealand
Vincenzo was one of the founding members of the S.M.S.I.E in 1925. He migrated from Stromboli to Melbourne in 1922 -
CASAMENTO Giuseppe (1907-1985)
b. 7 June 1907, Lipari
d. 27 February 1985, Melbourne
Giuseppe (Joe) had been a member since the mid-1920s as part of the S.M.S.I.E. -
CASAMENTO Bartolo (1937-2014)
b. 23 January 1937, Melbourne
d. 24 June 2014, Melbourne
Bartolo (Bob) joined as a member in the mid 1950's. He was the S.M.S.I.E treasurer from 1980 until 1983. He was the Son of Marino Casamento, president of the Società from 1950 to 1951, 1963 to 1970. -
D'ANDREA Anita (1941-2020)
b. 19 June 1941
d. 11 August 2020, Melbourne -
PELUSO Gaetano (Tom) (1906-1983)
b. 25 September 1906, Lipari
d. 8 May 1983, Melbourne -
SCAFFIDI Vincenzo
b. 23 October 1902, Sant'Angelo Di Brolo
d. 19 February 1984 -
PANETTIERI Francesco (1915-1983)
b. 23 February 1915, Stromboli
d. 28 August 1983, Melbourne -
TESORIERO Pietro (1908-1990
b. 29 June 1908, Ginostra
d. 12 November 1990, Melbourne -
ROSITANO Maria (1924-2015)
b. 9 December 1924
d. 5 April 2015, Melbourne -
LOSCHIAVO Sam (1930-2019)
b. 14 October 1930
d. 23 January 2019, Melbourne -
MOLLICA Caterina (Rene) (1928-2017)
b. 5 May 1928
d. 13 May 2017, Melbourne -
ZIINO Bartolo
b. 18 May 1943
d. 28 June 2018, Melbourne
Bartolo was the secretary of the club in 1984. -
NATOLI Bartolo (1928-2018)
b. 22 July 1928
d. 29 September 2018, Melbourne -
ISCHIA Giuseppe (1915-2005)
b. 27 September 1915
d. 4 February 2005, Melbourne -
NATOLI Gino (1926-2003)
b. 4 April 1926, Canneto, Lipari
d. 24 July 2003, Melbourne
Husband of Bartolina Scaffidi The family, like many Aeolian families, were fruit shop owners and one of the last prominent figures from the post-WW2 Aeolian Fruit Shop Era. -
NATOLI Bob (1926-2006)
b. 9 May 1926
d. 20 September 2006, Melbourne
Bob was club president between 1984-85, and was awarded the Medal of the Order ( (OAM) of Australia in 1991. -
TARANTO Angelo (1913-1987)
b. 26 January 1913, Alicudi,
d. 18 June 1987, Melbourne
Aged 74 -
PAINO Giuseppe (1905-1997)
b. abt 1905,
d. 5 July 1997, Melbourne
Aged 92 -
MOLINIA Tony (Anthony) (1940-2014)
b.19 August 1940
d. 17 November 2014 -
FERLAZZO Giovanni (1930-1998)
b. 5 January 1930, Lipari
d. 19 February 1998, Melbourne -
ZAIA Tony (1930-2021)
b. 21 July 1930
d. 16 October 2021, Melbourne
Tony was a loyal member of the Societa’ Isole Eolie and the Confraternita’ San Bartolomeo for over 20 years and generously supported the SIE financially during our 1980s Renovation Program. He and his late-wife Barbara always attended our social functions and festas at St. Anthony’s (both as attendees and to also help set up events at the Hall).
As a fruiterer, Tony displayed the typical Aeolian knowledge of the trade in his role as Fruit Department Manager at Coles Supermarkets in the 1980s and 1990s, after working during the 1970s with former-President Joe LoSchiavo at his Bay Street, Brighton fruit shop.
Tony’s is the uncle of Maria-Lucrezia Giorgianni (the wife of Lipari Mayor, Marco), and attended the function in early 2020, when we welcomed them to Eolian Hall.
As a club member, assistant on the Committee and a good friend to many, he will be sadly missed very much. -
D'AMICO Nick (Nicola) 1935-2019
b. 5 April 1935, Malfa
d. 8 June 2019, Melbourne
Nicola or commonly know as "Nick" joined the SIE on 13th July 1976 and to gain membership he was sponsored by the late Bartolo Ziino. He was introduced by his brother Marcello who has been a member since 1966. His other brother was Fr. Vincenzo D’Amico, who was SIE chaplain from 1960 to 2002 - for 42 years.
Nick actively supported the club throughout the years and spent time behind our bar as a barista. We will always remember him as a warm, lovely person with a great smile and sense of humour. He was Maria D'Amico's husband, who has been a long-time committee member of the Società Isole Eolie (SIE).
He was a registered member of the Australian Chiropractic Association and founding member of the Acupuncture Society of Victoria. Nick was also an accomplished Mandolin player. -
D'AMICO Vincenzo (Father)
b. 28 December 1925, Malfa
d. 25 June 2002, Melbourne
Padre (Father) Don Vincenzo D’Amico was the Chaplin of the Società from 1960 to his death in 2002 (42 years)
On the 31st of May in 1967, it was his initiative that the Confraternita San Bartolomeo was constituted. -
MARTELLO Giovanni (1931-2021
b. 26 June 1931, Vulcano
d. 28 July 2021, Melbourne
Giovanni legacy lives on through his children and grandchildren who have been and are great supporters of the club. -
BENJAMIN Jose (TESORIERO) 1936- 2021
b. 30 October 1936, Place of Birth
d. 16 March 2021, Melbourne
Josie (Giuseppina) is the daughter of Stefano Tesoriero who was elected SIE’s first President in the year of its foundation in 1925. His brother (her uncle Giuseppe Tesoriero) was the main instigator to the founding of the SMSIE in 1925. They emigrated to Melbourne after being part of the tightly organised Aeolian community of New York - with Bartolo Dimattina they rallied the support to found a formal body here in Melbourne.
Josie spent numerous years on the Committee acting as the Treasurer’s assistant, but her main role was Membership Officer.
Josie featured in the documentary film ‘Amuninni’, which celebrated the club’s 90th Anniversary in 2015. She spoke of the history of the role of women in the Società. -
LUCA Giuseppe (Joe) 1932-2021
b. 28 October 1932, Place of Birth
d. 11 January 2021, Place of Death -
BOCCABELLA ANGELA (BROCCIO) 1922-2020
b. 30 October 1922, Lipari
d. 1 September 2020, Melbourne
The Società Isole Eolie (SIE) is saddened by the loss of its oldest member and oldest serving Committee Member.
Angela came to Australia by ship at the age of 10. She was accompanied by her mother and younger sister. Upon arrival, they joined father Santo who had previously come to Australia to prepare the way for the rest of the family. Her two brothers were subsequently born here.
Like most Aeolians, while attending school, she helped out in their family fruit shop in Elwood. During World War 2, her father was detained, and having been born overseas to “Aliens”, Angela and her sister had to report to the Police Station every week.
As the eldest child and barely 20 years old, she took a leading role in keeping things going until the War ended in 1945 and the family was reunited.
Typical of many other Italians, Bernardino her husband, and Angela accommodated fellow immigrants during the critical housing shortage of the late 1940s and 1950s, helping them until they settled down and found their own premises. -
BARCA Giuseppe (Joe) 1928-2021
b. 14 April 1928, Varisana-Pianoconte, Lipari
d. 11 June 2021, Melbourne
Joe came to Australia in the early 1950s and worked all his life in Fruit shops.
Joe is remembered by the Committee as a very jovial, friendly and family-oriented person. He and his family attended many of the Società’s functions including the Annual Picnic at Keast Park. Joe valued the Società and its achievements and always acknowledged his Aeolian heritage.
Joe Barca was a very active member in the 1980s and 1990s. Together with his brother-in-law, Bob Natoli (former President) and his son Tony Natoli in the late 90s, Joe attended many meetings. -
SANTAMARIA GIUSEPPE
b. Date of Birth, Place of Birth
d. Date of Death, Place of Death -
FONTI Giuseppe
b. Date of Birth, Place of Birth
d. Date of Death, Place of Death -
CASAMENTO Marino
b. 31, August 1907, Lipari
d. 21 October 1976, Melbourne
Marino was president of the Società from 1950 to 1951, 1963 to 1970. -
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SCAFFIDI Leo 1926-2017
b. 4 April 1926, Sant'Angelo Di Brolo, Sicilia, Italy
d. 10 July 2017, Melbourne
Leo was Treasurer of the Società from 1983-2005 -
TESORIERO Giuseppe
b. Date of Birth, Place of Birth
d. Date of Death, Place of Death
Giuseppe was one of the founders of the Societa Mutuo Soccorso Isole Eolie. He was president of the Societa from 1926-1927. -
LUCA Marianina (Nina) (TESORIERO) 1939-2019
b. 28 August 1939, Melbourne
d. 20 November 2019, Melbourne
Description -
CANESTRA Bartolo
b. Date of Birth, Place of Birth
d. Date of Death, Place of Death
Description -
DI MATTINA Bartolo 1900-1965
b. 15 October 1900, Place of Birth
d. 2 May 1965, Melbourne
One of the founding members of the Società Isole Eolie Mutuo Soccorso. Bartolo was President for 10 years from 1952- 1962. -
BONGIORNO Antonino
b. 21 May 1877, Stromboli
d. 1955 , Stromboli
Son of Antonino & Francesca Tesoriero. Husband of Francesca Famularo.
EXPLORE
Supporters Wall
Supporters Wall - Plaques
This wall commemorates the individuals and families who are or were great supporters of the Società Isole Eolie Melbourne.
Would you like your name or your past families’ names written on bronze plaques on our Supporter’s Wall in our entry hall?
We are offering the Aeolians of Melbourne this unique opportunity by giving you the eternal remembrance of your family’s heritage on these specially-designed plaques.
Each plaque measures 18cm wide by 11cm high and can contain the following as shown in the examples:
First Line: Family Surname (Max 16 Characters including spaces)
Second Line: Family First Names (Max 40 Characters including spaces)
Third Line: Additional names or words (Max 40 Characters including spaces)
Please Note: Maximum characters per line includes spaces and symbols
PAYMENT
Payment will only be accepted when we send you a confirmation form via email, for you to confirm and see what your plaque will look like.
In the email form, you will also receive a reference number to add to your bank transfer or Paypal payment.
Payment can be made by the following options.
BANK TRANSFER
Account Name: Società Isole Eolie
BSB: 083 269
Account No.: 515506799
Reference: (“Your Reference Number E???”)
(Transfer the value of the Plaque $300, $450 or $600)
(No Surcharge applies)
PAYMENT VIA PAYPAL OR CREDIT CARD (ONLINE)
You can pay Online Via Paypal Below if you prefer.
PLEASE NOTE: Paying by this method incurs an additional $17 surcharge to cover Paypal Fees.
If you prefer to not pay the additional surcharge, we suggest you do a Bank Transfer of the plaque value.
EXPLORE
Annual Keast Park Picnic
Annual Keast Park Picnic - Sunday 1st February 2026
Join us for a day out enjoyed by generations over the years…
Everyone and anyone is welcome to attend and participate.
Spend a day out near the beach with the whole family and don’t forget to bring your yummy panini and cotolette.
- running races for all ages – with ribbons & medals to be won,
- egg and spoon races,
- sack races’
- 3-legged races
- our traditional watermelon eating contest,
- Men and Women Tug of War competition,
- Miss and Mr Isole Eolie Quest,
- Entertainment
- FREE watermelon,
- a raffle and soo much more…….
FOOD & DRINKS
Please bring your own food and drinks. Some years we have gelato carts and other various food carts. Onsite there is the Crackerjack Restaurant with sit-down and takeaway meals and drinks.
FAQS – IMPORTANT INFORMATION – 2026 PARKING CHANGES
PARKING ARRANGEMENTS
No parking will be permitted on the lawn area.
- Parking is available in the Keast Park car park (maximum fee approximately $13 for the full day, subject to availability).
- Seaford Railway Station car park offers approximately 300 free parking spaces.
- A free shuttle bus will operate between Keast Park and Seaford Railway Station throughout the morning and afternoon from 10 am-5 pm.
– The bus stop will be inside the park near the main entry and clearly signed.
– Distance to the station: 2.3 km south of Keast Park.
– Travel time: approximately 6 minutes by car.
- A drop-off/pickup point will be available near the Carrum Bowls Club building for passengers and picnic/tent equipment.
– Drivers may then proceed to Seaford Railway Station (southern end) and wait for the shuttle bus.
– For departure, drivers can take the shuttle bus back to the station to collect their vehicles.
– Drivers drive back to the drop-off/pickup point at Keast Park to collect their passengers and picnic/tent equipment
TENTS AND GAZEBOS
- Additional space will be available for tents, as the running track will be relocated further south (Where previous years’ cars were parked)
- Metal pegs are not permitted.
- Tents must be secured using sandbags or plastic containers filled with water.
PICNIC DONATIONS AND ENTRY
-
- Donations will be pre-paid via Hummantix at https://events.humanitix.com/keastparkpicnic
- If pre-payment is not possible, donations may be made on arrival at the park – please see a member of the committee at the club umbrella near the main tent.
- Suggested donations:
– $10 per adult
– $5 per child
– $25 per family (2 adults – Unlimited children)- On presentation of prepaid tickets, attendees will receive the picnic booklet and green wristbands.
RUNNING TRACK AND MAIN TENT
- The main tent and running track will be located south of the pathway (Where previous years cars could park)
- This will provide additional space for running events.
- The on-site nurse will be located in the main tent.
TABLE, CHAIRS, UMBRELLAS, ETC
We welcome you to bring your own portable tables, chairs and umbrellas.
RESTROOMS
Onsite restrooms are present under the CrackerJack Restaurant.
MISS & MR ISOLE EOLIE QUEST
The quest takes place towards the end of the day at 3:30 pm. During the day please put your name down to be called up.
Every year, the Società Isole Eolie elects a Miss and Mr Isole Eolie at the annual Isole Eolie Picnic in February. It is one of many traditions proudly upheld by the Società.
Youth from 16 years of age are encouraged to nominate themselves to be a representative of the Società Isole Eolie.
A panel of judges evaluates the way contestants present themselves to the Aeolian community and respond to prompts delivered by the host of the competition. Those who place in first, second and third positions are later honoured at the annual Mr and Miss Isole Eolie Dance.
Find out more about its history HERE
ANY OTHER QUESTIONS
For any further questions, please contact us at info@eoliemelbourne.com.au or here
WANT TO SPONSOR ONE OF OUR RACES?
Name a race on behalf of yourself, your family or a passed loved one for only $100.
Contact Us in January to put your name as part of a race.
LIST OF EVENTS
- MEN’S WATERMELON EATING COMPETITION
- WOMEN’S WATERMELON EATING COMPETITION
- BOYS’ WATERMELON EATING COMPETITION
- GIRLS’ WATERMELON EATING COMPETITION
- BOYS’ TINY TOTS – UNDER 3 YEARS SPRINT
- GIRLS’ TINY TOTS – UNDER 3 YEARS SPRINT
- BOYS’ UNDER 5 SPRINT
- GIRLS’ UNDER 5 SPRINT
- BOYS’ UNDER 7 SPRINT
- GIRLS’ UNDER 7 SPRINT
- BOYS’ UNDER 9 SPRINT
- GIRLS’ UNDER 9 SPRINT
- BOYS’ UNDER 11 SPRINT
- GIRLS’ UNDER 11 SPRINT
- BOYS’ UNDER 13 SPRINT
- GIRLS’ UNDER 13 SPRINT
- BOYS’ EGG & SPOON RACE
- GIRLS’ EGG & SPOON RACE
- MEN’S EGG & SPOON RACE
- WOMEN’S EGG & SPOON RACE
- BOYS’ 3-LEGGED RACE
- GIRLS’ 3-LEGGED RACE
- MEN’S 3-LEGGED RACE
- WOMEN’S 3-LEGGED RACE
- BOYS’ SACK RACE
- GIRLS’ SACK RACE
- WOMEN’S SACK RACE
- MEN’S SACK RACE
- WOMEN’S OPEN TUG-OF-WAR
- MEN’S OPEN TUG-OF-WAR
1955 Annual Picnic
2019 70th Anniversary of the Annual Picnic
2020 Keast Park Annual Picnic
A History of our Annual Picnic
1929 – Today
Since its beginning, our community gathers on the first Sunday of February for the annual Società Isole Eolie Family Picnic. A celebration of our cultural heritage, the picnic brings the Aeolian people together and signals the start of a new year of club activities.
The first official event was held in 1929 at Aspendale Racecourse and later moved to Seaford; eventually returning to Aspendale where it remained until the outbreak of World War II.
After the close of the war, the SMSIE officially reconvened in 1948. Meetings were held at the Cavour Club in Cecil Street, South Melbourne. The Tradition of the annual family picnic was restored at Keast Park in Seaford.
At the beginning of the 1950s, the annual family picnic was restored to its pre-war levels of vigour and enthusiasm. Aeolian families once again swarmed to the annual picnic to enjoy a day filled with wholesome fun by sharing homemade Aeolian Foods and participating in the many games and events, such as running races, egg and spoon race, a watermelon-eating competition, a tug-of-war, three-legged race (called Siamese race at one time), jumping sack race, a spaghetti-eating contest and even a little bit of old-fashioned boxing.
Although Keast Park has undergone many face-lifts since the 1950’s the picnic contests continue to be a focus for each new generation. While most of the traditional events continue to feature each year, the tug-of-war, boxing and the spaghetti-eating contests were abandoned at some point. For instance, the tug-of-war was discontinued after a feud developed disputing its winner.
To celebrate the Anniversary of the 70th picnic held at Keast Park in 2019, the tug-of-war and the spaghetti-eating contests were reinstated for the first time in decades.
During the 60s, the popularity of the SMSIE family picnic continued to grow. A whopping 1500 people were recorded to have attended the annual picnic at Keast Park on Sunday, February 9 in 1962.
During a meeting held at the Cavour Club in 1967, the SMSIE committee agrees to the introduction of a Miss Isole Eolie guest to the annual picnic’s proceedings.
The first Miss Isole Eolie was elected in the summer of 1968, but unfortunately, as with many of the following years’ winners, the actual name of ‘La Bella Signorina’, as noted in the committee minutes, was never recorded.
The first recorded winner, Lisa Caponio was elected in 1970 on Sunday the 22nd of February at Keast Park.
In 1971, the quest finished controversially when a non-Italian was declared the winner. The results fuelled a heated discussion at the following general election.
The title of Miss Isole Eolie became a highly-regarded position. The 1976 winner, Rosina Fonti, instigated the visiting of patients at the Royal Children’s Hospital and the 1980 winner Teresa Luca went on to win the Italian Community Miss Charity Princess of that same year.
Unfortunately, in some years bad weather prevented the quest from taking place and a winner was never elected.
The Mr Isole Eolie Contest was introduced in 1996.
In 2011, the construction of the community pavilion at Keast Park required the annual picnic to be transferred to an alternative venue, Elwood Beach. Consequently, a Miss and Mr Isole Eolie were not elected.
Again, in 2016, Keast Park underwent further redevelopment which included improvements to the playground and general park facilities. Though the annual picnic is able to continue, the diminished availability of clear space now provides challenges to the staging of some of the picnic traditional events.
EXPLORE
Notable Aeolian-Australians
Notable Aeolian-Australians
“The interesting thing is that these people came from seven small islands to become the leaders in politics, in the church, in commerce, in the community.
They produced probably from these smallest islands more men and women of distinction than anywhere else.”
Al Grassby (Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs) 1975
Notable Aeolian-Australians
| John BARBUTO | Founder of JB Hi-Fi |
| Hon. Bernard BONGIORNO | Justice of the Supreme Court of Victoria |
| Paul BONGIORNO AM | Political Journalist |
| John CASAMENTO | Award-winning Photo Journalist |
| Lina CINCOTTA | Charity Worker |
| Frank COSTA | Entrepreneur & Philanthropist |
| Marcello D’AMICO | Artist, Author & Community Achiever |
| Natalie IMBRUGLIA | Singer/Songwriter/Model/Actress |
| Hon. James MERLINO | Deputy Premier and Minister for Education |
| Tony MATISI | Former Mayor of City of Northcote |
| Pia MIRANDA | Actress |
| Nino RANDAZZO | Italian Senator & Editor of Il Globo Newspaper |
| Guy RUSSO | CEO of Kmart Australia |
| John RUSSO | AFL Umpire |
| Bob SANTAMARIA | Political Activist and Journalist |
| Lena SANTOSPIRITO | Deemed “Madre degli Italiani” for her work among Italians |
| Fred SCHEPISI | Film Director, Producer & Screenwriter |
| Vince SERCIA | AFL Umpire |
| Dante & Kathy TESORIERO | Avanti Charity Committee |
| Angelo TARANTO | Founder of Taranto’s Ice Cream |
| Frank VERGONA | VFA (VFL) Umpire |
| John VILLANTE | Founder of Villante Industries |
| Michael VOZZO | AFL Umpire |
Aeolian-Australian Footballers
| Andrew CARRAZZO | Carlton | 2004 - 2015 |
| Albert “Alby” DELUCA | Carlton | 1934 - 1935 |
| Matthew BALL | Hawthorn | 2004 - 2006 |
| Luke BALL | St Kilda & Collingwood | 2003 - 2014 |
| Adrian DELUCA | Carlton | 2002 - 2006 |
| Fabian DELUCA | Footscray | 2006 - 2008 |
| Andrew DIMATTINA | Collingwood | 1999 - 2002 |
| Frank DIMATTINA | Richmond & North Melbourne | 1964 - 1970 |
| Paul DIMATTINA | Western Bulldogs | 1995 - 2003 |
| Tim FINOCCHIARO | Geelong | 1998 - 1999 |
| John KENNEDY | Hawthorn | 1979 - 1991 |
| Josh KENNEDY | Hawthorn, Sydney | 2008 - present |
| Tony ONGARELLO | Fitzroy | 1952 - 1960 |
| Frank RUGOLO | Melbourne | 1983 - 1994 |
| Joe RUGOLO | Melbourne | 1985 - 1994 |
| Felice RUSSO | St. Kilda | 1950 - 1951 |
| Peter RUSSO | Hawthorn & St. Kilda | 1978 - 1990 |
| Tim TARANTO | Great Western Sydney | 2017 - present |
| Vin TARANTO | Coburg | 1983 - 1999 |
| Lauren TESORIERO | Collingwood & Richmond | 2016 - present |
Aeolian-Australian Sports People
| Alex NATOLI | Adelaide United & Melbourne Victory | 2012 - 2017 |
| Monette RUSSO | Olympic Artistic Gymnast | 2003 – 2007 |
| Adriana TARANTO | Melbourne Victory | 2015 - present |
| Melissa TARANTO | Melbourne Victory | 2015 – present |
EXPLORE
Miss and Mr Isole Eolie
Miss & Mr Isole Eolie
Every year the Società Isole Eolie elects a Miss and Mr Isole Eolie at the annual Isole Eolie Picnic in February. It is one of many traditions proudly upheld by the Società.
Learn more about the history of our Annual Picnic HERE
The pageant began in the 1960s and the title was fiercely sought over by all eligible young women. To be named Miss Isole Eolie was a great honour for the winner and their family. The dynamic of the competition has changed over time, however, with the introduction of the title of Mr Isole Eolie in 1996.
Today, the competition is good-natured and provides a means of encouraging second and third-generation Aeolians to follow the footsteps of their ancestors by continuing this tradition.
Youth from 16 years of age are encouraged to nominate themselves to be a representative of the Società Isole Eolie.
A panel of judges evaluates the way contestants present themselves to the Aeolian community and respond to prompts delivered by the host of the competition. Those who place in first, second and third positions are later honoured at the annual Mr and Miss Isole Eolie Dance.
Back in the days when the Miss Italian Community pageant was still being held, two young Aeolian women qualified in the top positions: Angela La Bozzetta (Miss Italian Community 1980) and Teresa Luca (Charity Princess 1980).
More recently, Miss Isole Eolie 2012, Sandra Mandile, went on to become a finalist at Miss Tourism Australia 2013.
Miss & Mr Isole Eolie Pageant Timeline
- 1968 – The SMSIE holds the first Miss Isole Eolie quest at the annual family picnic.
- 1970 – The first recorded winner, Lisa Caponio was elected as Miss Isole Eolie.
- 1971 – The first Miss Isole Eolie of non-Aeolian or Italian descent was elected.
- 1996 – The first Mr Isole Eolie contest is introduced and is won by Frank Natoli.
Have you been a previous Miss or Mr Isole Eolie Winner or Runner up?
Please email us if you were a Miss or Mr Isole Eolie 1st, 2nd or 3rd place winner and if your name does not appear in the table. We would love to add your name to the list and become part of history.
Full List of Miss and Mr Isole Eolie Winners since 1968
| MISS ISOLE EOLIE | MR ISOLE EOLIE | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1ST | 2ND | 3RD | 1ST | 2ND | 3RD | |
| 2026 | None Elected | None Elected | None Elected | None Elected | None Elected | None Elected |
| 2025 | Nicola Georgoulos | Denise Ventrice | Chiara Bailey | Johnny Quach | Luciano Caputo | Adriano Mandarino |
| 2024 | Mia Cutugno | Laura Patella | None Elected | Alexander Boderi | Julian Cutugno | Vincenzo Cutugno |
| 2023 | Isabella Muleta | Lauren Duarte | Jillian Arkoudis | Marco Reitano | Lorenzo Cincotta | None Awarded |
| 2022 | None Elected | None Elected | None Elected | None Elected | None Elected | None Elected |
| 2021 | Emma Sercia | Giuliana Biviano | Francesca Zuccarello | James Italia | Daniel Cotesta | 3rd Place not awarded |
| 2020 | Madeline Vinaccio | Melissa Manno | Chiara Bailey | Davide Natoli | Rino Coluccio | Andrew Piccolo |
| 2019 | Nadia Natoli | Jessica Casamento | Catherine Natoli | Nicholas Kakolyris | Nicholas Argetto | Davide Natoli |
| 2018 | Adriana Di Petta | Natalie Di Pasquale | Roanna Sanelli | Michael Angelini | Lachlan Blanchard (Luca) | Adam Lauria |
| 2017 | Melissa Ferlaino | Alessi D'Andrea | Angeline Paganella | Adam Salerni | Kahn Vocale | Muhammad Alloushe |
| 2016 | Fabiana Farah | Lisa Ciacchi | Jessica Papaleo | Gianni D'Andrea | David Larne | James Siakavelis |
| 2015 | Isabella Russo | Jessica Cincotta | Katherine Lisa Cerri | Anthony Martenstyn | Andrew Fonti | Matt Italia |
| 2014 | Gabriella Martello | Moriah Russo | Oliva Amato | Eolo Finocchiaro | Anthony Martenstyn | Carlo Martello |
| 2013 | Giulia Martello | Jessica Cincotta | Gabriella Martello | Steven Finocchiaro | Nicholas Maiorana | Robert Ferlaino |
| 2012 | Sandra Mandile | Christina Karouzakis | Rebecca Mariani | Matthew Mandile | Roberto Paolino | Daniel Russo |
| 2011 | None elected due to picnic being held at Elwood Beach. | None elected due to picnic being held at Elwood Beach. | ||||
| 2010 | Gabriella Russo | Gabriella Martello | Rachel Mufale | David Fonti | Daniel America | Nathan Mufale |
| 2009 | Giulia Lentini | Alexandra Brunacci | Christina Sercia | James Daidone | Daniel Russo | David Fonti |
| 2008 | Angelique Mandarano | Nicole Paino | Elise Parisi | Joseph Schmid | Roberto Turco | Les Clarke |
| 2007 | ||||||
| 2006 | Kiara Turcarelli | |||||
| 2005 | Daniella Romeo | |||||
| 2004 | ||||||
| 2003 | Diana Taranto | Angelique Mandarano | Simone Micheli | Sam Cannistra | Fausto Cortese | Paul Taranto |
| 2002 | Bianca Turcarelli | Sarah Domine (TBC) | Josephine Mandarano (TBC) | Anthony Berzi | Luke Surace (TBC) | Matt Bordignon (TBC) |
| 2001 | Anna Maria Mandarano | Anthony Mandarano | ||||
| 2000 | Romina Lo Piccolo | Anthony Lo Piccolo | ||||
| 1999 | Grace Biviano | Anthony Lo Piccolo | ||||
| 1998 | ||||||
| 1997 | Mellinda Sessa | Adrian Patella | ||||
| 1996 | Danielle Sercia | Sandra Barbuto | Anna-Lisa Lenzi | Frank Natoli | Carmine Delnigro | Bill Collins |
| 1995 | Giovanna Mandarano | Kelly Lastrina | Linda Mandarino | -- | Mr Isole Eolie begins in 1996 | -- |
| 1994 | -- | -- | -- | |||
| 1993 | -- | -- | -- | |||
| 1992 | Alessandra Orsini | Julie Biviano | Paula Rizzo | -- | -- | -- |
| 1991 | Louisa Di Florio | Natalie Cappadona | Grace Biviano | -- | -- | -- |
| 1990 | Diana Sercia | Enza Scaffidi | -- | -- | -- | |
| 1989 | Maria Cassera | Luise Phillips | Vikky Rowe | -- | -- | -- |
| 1988 | Andrea Bourke | Daniela Cusmano | Maria Raimondi | -- | -- | -- |
| 1987 | Angela Cincotta | -- | -- | -- | ||
| 1986 | -- | -- | -- | |||
| 1985 | -- | -- | -- | |||
| 1984 | Lisa Cilonio | Gloria Sampieri | Maria Salanatri | -- | -- | -- |
| 1983 | Josie Muleta | Anna Maria Manfre | -- | -- | -- | |
| 1982 | Anna Marguglio (Miss Picnic) | -- | -- | -- | ||
| 1981 | Rosa Carbone | -- | -- | -- | ||
| 1980 | Teresa Luca (Miss Italian Community) | Francesca Luca (Miss Primavera) | -- | -- | -- | |
| 1979 | Emma Paoli (Miss Picnic) | Rosanna Mollica | -- | -- | -- | |
| 1978 | Nancy Antonuccio | Pietrina Mandarano (Miss Primavera) | Rina Luca | -- | -- | -- |
| 1977 | Jeanette Taranto | Tina Scafidi (Miss Primavera) | Rina Luca (Miss Inverno) | -- | -- | -- |
| 1976 | Rosina Fonti | Teresa Luca (Miss Primavera) | -- | -- | -- | |
| 1975 | Lisa Mandarano | -- | -- | -- | ||
| 1974 | Rosy Lo Ricco | -- | -- | -- | ||
| 1973 | Rina Scaramozzino | -- | -- | -- | ||
| 1972 | Maria Leuzzi | -- | -- | -- | ||
| 1971 | First non-Aeolian - name unknown | -- | -- | -- | ||
| 1970 | Lisa Caponio | Rita Cecchitano | Jeanne Ischia | -- | -- | -- |
| 1969 | -- | -- | -- | |||
| 1968 | "La Bella Signorina" | -- | -- | -- | ||
| 1ST | 2ND | 3RD |
EXPLORE
Family History
FAMILY HISTORY RESOURCES
Aeolian Islands Birth, Death and Marriage Records
1746-1767 & 1776-1799 Church Baptism Records
1820-1860 Civil Records
1866-1910 Civil Records
Other useful links
A SAMPLE OF PREVIOUS TALKS AT OUR GENEALOGY SEMINARS
OUR PREVIOUS TOPICS
What does it mean to be an Aeolian-Australian?
Key Note Address by Janetta Ziino
Lipari 1610
What the 1610 census tells us about the Aeolian Islands.
Presented by Joe Russo
Using Official Records and Newspaper Fragments to Enhance Your Family Story
How to add to and enhance your family stories by searching through digitised records and newspaper archives.
Presented by Letizia Mondello
Introduction to Italian Military Records
Discover what Italian military records are available and the information you can find in them to help you learn more about your ancestors.
Presented by Michael Angelini
Writing a Life Story Book
Learn how to use simple methods and programs to compile your very own Life Storey Book with all the research you have collated about your ancestors or family.
Presented by Paulina Bird (Iacono)
The Influence of Sicilian Proverbs on Everyday Aeolian Speech
Sayings are repeated down through the generations because they apply to every age- people find resonance in the meanings they portray. Using the Aeolian dialect, look at how traditional Sicilian wisdom was received into Island life.
Presented by John Barnao
A Glimpse into the Museo Eoliano dell’Emigrazione
Tour through the museum collection of the Museo Eoliano dell’Emigrazione in Malfa, Salina.
Presented by Cristina Neri
Preserving the Past for the Future
Oral history: Recording your family memories for future generations.
Presenter: Janetta Ziino (Keynote Address)
Aeolian Surnames: A Linguistic and Historical Perspective
A closer look at the surnames of the Aeolian Islands as to their origin and how they might have changed over time.
Presenter: Joe Russo
The First Early Aeolian Migrants to America and Australia
What motivated them and what factors differentiated them from their Sicilian cousins? Discover the historical circumstances that forged the identities of the first Aeolian migrants that went on to establish flourishing communities in America and Australia.
Presenter: Cristina Neri
Hostility Against Italians During WW2 & the Service of Aeolian-Italians in the Australian Defence Force
The ‘alien’ Italian community in Australia had to endure a rocky road during WW2. While many Aeolians were in detention camps and their fruit shops forced to close, a number had family members serving in the Australian Army. This talk discusses these confronting times, including the local hostility against Italians that had already built up before the War began. As the only regional-Italian club in Melbourne at the time, how did the SIE survive and regroup at the end of hostilities?
Presenter: John Barnao
Using Online Sites to do Your Family Tree Research
Discover how Ancestry.com, Family Search.org, Genealogy Bank, USA Census Records, Ellis Island and Find a Grave can all complement your Family Tree research.
Presenter: Robert Mandile
Reading the 1960s Stati D’Anime (Status of Souls) Family Cards
Learn how to read the Stato D’Anime (Status of Souls) Family Cards created by the church and how they can help you with vital facts that you may be missing for those alive during the 1960s.
Presenter: Michael Angelini
Preserving the Past for the Future
Oral history: Recording your family memories for future generations.
Presenter: Janetta Ziino (Keynote Address)
Aeolian Surnames: A Linguistic and Historical Perspective
A closer look at the surnames of the Aeolian Islands as to their origin and how they might have changed over time.
Presenter: Joe Russo
The First Early Aeolian Migrants to America and Australia
What motivated them and what factors differentiated them from their Sicilian cousins? Discover the historical circumstances that forged the identities of the first Aeolian migrants that went on to establish flourishing communities in America and Australia.
Presenter: Cristina Neri
Hostility Against Italians During WW2 & the Service of Aeolian-Italians in the Australian Defence Force
The ‘alien’ Italian community in Australia had to endure a rocky road during WW2. While many Aeolians were in detention camps and their fruit shops forced to close, a number had family members serving in the Australian Army. This talk discusses these confronting times, including the local hostility against Italians that had already built up before the War began. As the only regional-Italian club in Melbourne at the time, how did the SIE survive and regroup at the end of hostilities?
Presenter: John Barnao
Using Online Sites to do Your Family Tree Research
Discover how Ancestry.com, Family Search.org, Genealogy Bank, USA Census Records, Ellis Island and Find a Grave can all complement your Family Tree research.
Presenter: Robert Mandile
Reading the 1960s Stati D’Anime (Status of Souls) Family Cards
Learn how to read the Stato D’Anime (Status of Souls) Family Cards created by the church and how they can help you with vital facts that you may be missing for those alive during the 1960s.
Presenter: Michael Angelini
Which Aeolian Islands Do You Think You Come From?
Researching the family of the Hon. James Merlino, MP, Deputy Premier of Victoria and Minister of Education and Patron to the Società Isole Eolie.
Presenter: Janetta Ziino
Research Strategies for Italian Family History
Several strategies to use to advance your Italian genealogical research.
Presenter Joe Russo
The History of the First Aeolian Migrations to Sydney and the Circolo Isole Eolie
Presenter: Cristina Neri
How to Access and Read Italian Records
Learn how to access online sources and read Italian Birth, Death and Marriage records to help you build your family tree.
Presenter: Michael Angelini
Speaking Aeolian in the Broader Italian Context
Presenting examples of the speech of traditional Aeolian migrants, John will discuss similarities to the Sicilian it closely resembles. Comparing differences with standard Italian, we can consider whether ‘Eoliano’ is separate enough to be almost a language in itself.
Presenter: John Barnao
The following are available to subscribe and watch for 90 days at Discovering My Aeolian Heritage
Nicknames “Soprannomi”
How our relative’s nicknames can assist in your family history research.
Presenter: Janetta Ziino
Aeolian Surnames
Examining the origin, meaning and evolution of Aeolian surnames and how this can help with your family research.
Presenter: Joe Russo
Finding distant cousins through DNA
Learn how taking an Ancestry DNA test can help you find long-lost cousins and break down those brick walls in your family tree.
Presenter: Michael Angelini
Five Centuries of Notable Travellers and Adventurers to the Aeolian Islands.
A discussion about bygone visitors and explorers, featuring an introduction to emerging research on 16th & 17th Century settlements by Jewish refugees after their departure from Spain & Portugal.
Presenter: John Barnao
Infant abandonment and the foundling wheel “La ruota” in Sicily
Analysing the rescue system and name-assignment practices of abandoned infants
Presenter: Dr. Lucia Barbera
Tips on how cemeteries can help us with our family tree
Exploring how gravestones can give clues to further help us in our family history research & understanding Italian cemeteries.
Presenter: Michael Angelini
Topic: How to get started on Aeolian Genealogy
From interviews with elderly relatives to sources like the Victorian Public Records Office, Australian National Archives, Sands and McDougall Directories, Cemeteries, Presbyteries, Ancestry.com and Ellis Island websites to kick start your family tree.
Presenter: Robert Mandile
A Tour of the Museum of Aeolian Emigration in Malfa, Salina
Join a virtual tour through the museum collection and discover the factors and events that shaped the Aeolian diaspora in the New World.
Presenter: Cristina Neri
In Search of the Original Aeolians
A genealogical history of the Aeolian Islands for the period after 1544.
Presenter: Joe Russo
I Figghi da Rota (The Children of the Wheel)
The history of abandoned children in Sicily.
Presenter: Dr Lucia Barbera
Researching Your Ancestors Online
Tips on how to use Antenati.it and Family Search.org to find Birth, Marriage and Death records.
Presenter: Michael Angelini
Using Sands and McDougall Directories to Find Addresses and Businesses
Presenter: Robert Mandile
Aspects of Aeolian-Run Fruit Businesses
Perspectives of working in the Fruit Shop. (Part 2)
Presenter: John Barnao
Lipari 1610: A Look at the Aeolian Islands from the Perspective of the Riveli Records
Examining those records for their value for us in researching our Aeolian ancestors.
Presented by Joe Russo
Finding Distant Cousins with DNA
Learn how an Ancestry DNA test can help you find long-lost cousins and break down those brick walls in your family tree.
Presented by Michael Angelini
Finding Family through Historic Property Records
An alternative way to trace family history and find missing or unknown members from the family tree via historic family property records.
Presented by: Robert Serra
The Era of Aeolian Fruit Shops in Melbourne
A pictorial history and the factors that influenced their rise and eventual decline when nearly every fruit shop was run by an Eoliano.
Presented by: John Barnao
Using the Sands and McDougall Directories to Find Your Family’s Business Address
Find out techniques for researching your family’s business address.
Presented by Robert Mandile
Family History Research Strategies
Presented by: Joe Russo
The Fruits of their Labours – A History of the Costa Family (Part II)
Presented by Kevin Costa
Researching Your Ancestors From the Isole Eolie
Presented by Michael Angelini
From the Aeolian Islands to Melbourne and Sydney (Part II)
Presented by: Robert Mandile
‘Cu, u e quannu’
Presented by Janetta Ziino
Aeolian: Dialect or Separate Language?
Presented by John Barnao
The Aeolian Dialect – A Brief Look at the Differences and Similarities to Sicilian and Neapolitan Dialects
Presented by: Rosmarie Taranto
Lena Santospirito – ‘La Mamma Degli Italiani Down-Under’
Presented by Cristina Neri
Italian Dialects Down-Under: A Richness to Preserve
Presented by Angela Tarantini
Reflections on Sicilian Dialects
Presented by Massimo Petterlin
Family & Friends, Food & Wine
Presented by: John Portelli (Entoteca Sileno)
When Our Ancestors Came to the Aeolian Islands
Presented by: Joe Russo
Bob Santamaria – A Retrospective
Presented by: Paul Santamaria QC
The Fruits of Their Labours – A History of the Costa Family
Presented by: Kevin Costa
The Aeolian Dialect – A Brief Look at the Differences and Similarities to the Regional Dialect Sicilian, and the Neapolitan Dialect
Presented by: Rosemarie Taranto
The End of the Era of Abundance in the Aeolian Islands and the Role of the Società Isole Eolie in Channelling Migration to Australia
Presented by: John Barnao
A Genealogical History of the Aeolian Islands Post 1544
Which surnames might have been on the islands pre-1544, Where did the inhabitants come from post-1544, Populating the archipelago during the 1600-1800s, Is it possible to trace one’s ancestry back to when they first arrived on Isole Eolie?
Presented by: Joe Russo
Delving into the Records
What to expect, Accuracy, shortcomings, idiosyncrasies and pitfalls, Problem-solving when records don’t match
Presented by Joe Russo
Getting Started with Aeolian Genealogy & Exploring Online Options
Where to start & How to record your family tree, Who, What and Where to search for Documents and certificates.
Presented by: Robert Mandile
Guided Cemetery Walk
Taken By John Barnao
EXPLORE
Museo Società Isole Eolie and Resource Centre
Museo Società Isole Eolie and Resource Centre
Located on the first floor of our hall at 836 Lygon St, Carlton North, our Museo Società Isole Eolie and Resource Centre houses various memorabilia and photos from our long-standing history since 1925. The room is open during all our events or upon appointment.
View information about the 85 individuals that reside on our 1934 Members Photo Board HERE
Contact Our Historical Archives Department
Contact us below if you have your own historic Società Isole Eolie photos, have additional information regarding one of our museum items or photos or would like to contribute to the museum. We are happy to hear from you.
A sneak peek at what you will find in our Museum
Contact Us
Contact us below if you have your own historic Società Isole Eolie photos, have additional information regarding one of our museum items or photos or would like to contribute to the museum. We are happy to hear from you.
EXPLORE
From Volcanoes We Sailed
From Volcanoes We Sailed- Connecting Aeolian Generations
Thank you to Point Cool Productions for producing this film and to those who feature in the film for this wonderful representation of our Aeolian community in Melbourne. Directed by Oscar Strangio & Jack Ralph. 15mins
Developed in collaboration with the Società Isole Eolie and the wider Aeolian community, part of the exhibition From Volcanoes We Sailed open at the Melbourne Immigration Museum April 30th – October 30th 2016
Between April 30th to October 30th 2016, the Immigration Museum of Melbourne hosted From Volcanoes We Sailed: Connecting Aeolian Generations an exhibition curated by Cristina Neri. She has worked tirelessly with many others from the Aeolian community we have here in Melbourne to create this wonderful memoir of Aeolian history in Australia.
Uncover the remarkable, cultural heritage of a migrant community hailing from the volcanic archipelago of the Mediterranean. Famous in Melbourne for their ‘fruit palaces’, Aeolians established a vast number of independent businesses in their newly adopted home.
Beyond business, Aeolians have become leaders in politics and society. Encounter extraordinary families who have shaped Melbourne’s Aeolian community and learn about how Società Isole Eolie continues to nurture and connect Aeolians in Victoria and abroad.
EXPLORE
Aeolian Fruiterers
Aeolian Fruiterers
It is right to say that the Aeolian Immigrants had an affinity with the fruit and vegetable industry in Australia.
The agricultural knowledge that Aeolian migrants possessed obviously played a major role in the choice of occupation once in Australia. Fruit and vegetables were things that Aeolians knew much about. A small fruit and vegetable business seemed a desirable occupation which, while demanding hard work and long hours, provided a good livelihood and much-wanted independence for the newly-arrived migrants.
This trend of entering into the vegetable retailing industry set by the earliest Aeolian migrants was followed by most of the later arrivals, who were mostly sponsored by well-established Aeolians. These newcomers, who worked and trained under their ‘paesani’ or older relatives, were able to perceive the various benefits of owning one’s own fruit shop business, and so many went on to open up one of their own. Thus they propagated and eventually dominated the fruit and vegetable retailing industry.
However, during the 1980s, the various supermarket chains squeezed out many fruiterers from their suburban strip shopping centres, and today most of the formidable Aeolian fruiterers who set up their own businesses in the 1950s and 1960s have gone into retirement.
Some Aeolian names synonymous with Melbourne’s Fruit & Vegetable industry include Pino Narduzzo, Tesoriero & Luca Bros., Marino Casamento, the Biviano and Scaffidi Brothers, Attilio Peluso, Tullio Scaffidi, the Tarantos, Mario Russo and the Rando family, Bob Natoli, Bob & Lyn Giuliano, Cincotta, Costa, Giuseppe Mandile and family, the De Luca and Mecca families plus F. Dimattina & Co. which still operates today after 80 years, as Dimattina Provedoring, and many more.
There is no doubt that Aeolians have contributed to the Australian community with their efforts and sense of achievement in establishing themselves in a new country where everything seemed so different from the islands where they hailed from.
Please Note: Information about the below fruit shops has been supplied by family members. If there should be any corrections, please contact us at the form below.
- all
- Abbotsford
- Albert Park
- Ararat
- Ascot Vale
- Balaclava
- Ballarat
- Brighton
- Brighton East
- Brunswick
- Box Hill
- Clifton Hill
- Coburg
- Collingwood
- Fitzroy
- Eaglemont
- Essendon
- Fairfield
- Fitzroy
- Footscray
- Elsternwick
- Glen Iris
- Hampton
- Ivanhoe
- Malvern
- Malvern East
- Middle Park
- Moonee Ponds
- Melbourne
- Mordialloc
- Northcote
- Nunawading
- Prahran
- Port Melbourne
- Reservoir
- Richmond
- Ripponlea
- Stawell
- South Yarra
- Thornbury
- Westgarth
- Windsor
- West Melbourne
- Australia
Block Place, Melbourne CBD
53 Glen Eira Rd Ripponlea
34 High St, Glen Iris
23-27 Lindfield Ave, Lindfield NSW
1525 High St, Glen Iris
80 Glenferrie Rd, Malvern
202 Oxford St,Woollahra Sydney
187 Upper Heidelberg Rd, Ivanhoe
122 Hampton St, Hampton
42 Murphy St, Wangaratta
201 Brunswick St, Fitzroy
233 Glenferrie Rd, Malvern - The Embassy Fruit Palace
217 Carlisle St Balaclava
199 Carlisle St Balaclava (East St. Kilda) Rando G. & Co. Fruiterers
121 Nicholson St, Footscray
13 Glass St, Essendon
70 Poath Rd, Hughesdale
190 Swan St, Richmond
Canberra St, Randwick, NSW
125-127 Upper Heidelberg Rd, Ivanhoe
Lakemba / Greenacre, NSW
484 Bridge Rd, Richmond
57 Sydney Rd, Brunswick
226 Johnston St, Abbotsford - The Abbotsford Excelsior
187 Union Rd, Ascot Vale
Waverley Rd, Malvern East
237 High St, Northcote
20 Glenferrie Rd, Malvern
162 Spir Rd, Mosman, NSW
366A Military Rd, Cremorne, NSW
457 Elizabeth St, West Melbourne
51 Chapel St, Windsor
87 Chapel St, Windsor
95 High St Westgarth
59 High St, Westgarth
693 High St, Thornbury
399 Chapel St, South Yarra
Wimmera Café Stawell
Main St, Stawell
115 Swan St, Richmond
244 Broadway Reservoir
31 Bay St, Port Melbourne
608 Main St, Mordialloc
6 Puckle St, Moonee Ponds
301 Waverley Rd, Malvern East
22 Armstrong St, Middle Park
267 Brunswick St, Fitzroy
300 Station St, Fairfield North
149 Glenhuntly Rd, Elsternwick
Silverdale Rd, Eaglemont
128 Johnston St, Collingwood
454 Sydney Rd, Coburg
276 Queens Pde, Clifton Hill
356 Queens Pde, Clifton Hill
587 Sydney Rd, Brunswick
616 Hampton St, East Brighton
194 Bridport St, Albert Park
781 Hampton St, Brighton
356 Bay St, North Brighton
970 Whitehorse Rd, Box Hill
601 Station St, Box Hill
250 Carlisle St, Balaclava - Tesoriero & Luca Brothers
905 Sturt St, Ballarat
102 Bridge St, Ballarat
129 Dundas Place, Albert Park
99 Dundas Place, Albert Park
95 The Avenue, Albert Park
Barkley St, Ararat - Bon Ton Café then Town Hall Cafe
Barkley St, Ararat - Plaza Café then Pinzone Bros Cafe
352 Flinders St, Melbourne
597 High St, Northcote
495 High St, Northcote
263 High St, Northcote
527 Chapel St, Prahran
267 Brunswick St, Fitzroy
601 Station St, Box Hill
135 Victoria Ave, Albert Park
-
Block Place, Melbourne CBD
1950's
Antonio Bongiorno and son Giovanni -
53 Glen Eira Rd Ripponlea
Over 35 in the Paino, Biviano and Materia families. Virgona's owned it previously.
Giuseppe (Joe) Paino, Antonino (Tony) Biviano, Gaetano (Tom) Materia
Victoria Fruit Palace -Oldest running fruit shop in Melbourne. 110 years 2025. Giuseppe Paino had the business first and then,Tony Biviano bought into the business just before he married Mr Paino's niece Grace Materia. Tony, then sold his share to his brother-in-law Mr Gaetano Materia. Tony's wife was around the business from the day she arrived in Australia from Lipari in 1928 until 1955. The shop is still running as a fruit shop with the Maglis Family. -
34 High St, Glen Iris
1950 to 1960
Giuseppe & Josephine Tesoriero
Giuseppe migrated to Melbourne from Stromboli in 1936 at the age of 15. He had a few businesses, a fruit shop in Port Melbourne, a fish shop in Elsternwick after he gained experience and money while working for others. His final fruit shop was in Glen Iris. Later he went into other small business ventures. -
23-27 Lindfield Ave, Lindfield NSW
1950 - 2012
Gaetano "Tom" Tesoriero, Concetta "Connie" Tesoriero, Vincenzo "Vince" Tesoriero, Giovanna "Jenny" Tesoriero
Registered at T&V Tesoriero Pty Ltd -
1525 High St, Glen Iris
1940’s
Tom(Gaetano) & Mary Divola
In the image is Tom’s nephew, Joe Taranto in the darker top. Tom Divola (Gaetano Divola) was born in Leni, Salina in 1906. -
80 Glenferrie Rd, Malvern
1959 to 1998
Giuseppe Giuliano and his brother Leo
As a young 19 year migrant old Giuseppe opened the shop in Malvern and worked there for 40 years before ‘retiring’ and going to work at another fruit shop until he completely retired at age 79. Not only was it his shop but it was our home for a few years as the shop was also a house at the back. -
202 Oxford St,Woollahra Sydney
1920-1937
Gaetano (Thomas) Taranto and Giovannini (Jack) Taranto
The building was on the corner of Nelson and Oxford Sts Woollahra. It was bought in 1937 by a brewery and the Nelson Hotel was built on the site. -
187 Upper Heidelberg Rd, Ivanhoe
Salvatore & Carmela Frizza then Vincenzo & Lucrezia Frizza
1941-1949 (Salvatore & Carmela Frizza),
1949-1978 (Vincenzo & Lucrezia Frizza)
Salvatore & Carmela first operated a fruit shop a few doors up from No. 187 Upper Heidelberg Rd and were present around 1940.
They moved to No.187 Upper Heidelberg Rd in about 1941. It was quickly developed as a typical Aeolian fruit shop, expanding into drinks. Both Salvatore and Carmela fitted in well with local clientele and had an excellent command of the language.
Grandson, Tony Frizza has memories of serving in the shop when he was only 7-8 years of age.
Vincenzo & Lucrezia Frizza - Both were Aeolian migrants from Stromboli who took over an existing fruit shop business and gradually became local identities. They lived behind the shop and raised 4 children, Anthony, Mario, Rosalina & Giovanni - all helping out when needed. They provided accommodation and employment within the shop to other Strombolian relatives and friends. Despite competition from 6 other fruit shops in the strip, the business prospered.
Photo is of Vincenzo Frizza. -
122 Hampton St, Hampton
Salvatore Rando purchased shop
1939 -
42 Murphy St, Wangaratta
Salvatore Rando managed his brother-in-law Mick (Domenico) Russo’s fruit shop, for 12 months.
1937 -
201 Brunswick St, Fitzroy
Giacomo Rando
Before 1905 -
233 Glenferrie Rd, Malvern - The Embassy Fruit Palace
Salvatore Rando, with wife Italia Russo, daughters Nina and Carolina and son Giacomo (John).
Circa 1930s-1987
Salvatore Rando purchased the fruit shop from his brother-in-law Tom (Gaetano) Russo (possibly mid 1930s). It was occupied by the family or leased until Italia's death in 1987.
In 1941 the Embassy Fruit Palace won ‘Best Fruit Shop and Window Dressing Competition by the Apple and Pear Marketing Board (The Argus 15 July 1941) -
-
217 Carlisle St Balaclava
Giacomo Rando
1928 - till retirement c.1931 -
199 Carlisle St Balaclava (East St. Kilda) Rando G. & Co. Fruiterers
Giacomo Rando
1914 -
121 Nicholson St, Footscray
A. Lopes Family
1960-2000
The Lopes family also had Stores at 10 Hall Street Newport and 266 Hampshire Rd Sunshine [Morton Arcade -1955 Lopes, F. - Fruiter] -
13 Glass St, Essendon
Giuseppe and Maria Lopes
1943-1957
Originally from Alicudi and Salina, Giuseppe Lopes ran this fruit shop with the help of their eight children. Possibly called "Quality Fruits" Unfortunately the existing strip of shops were demolished in 2016. -
70 Poath Rd, Hughesdale
Amelia (nee Materazzo) and Tony Marchese
1955 - 1971 (Approximately)
Amelia and Tony were both originally from Malfa, Salina. Tony arrived in 1949, and Amelia followed in 1952 with daughter, Emma. Tony would drive his truck to Queen Victoria market at 2am everyday, as this was the wholesale fruit and vegetable market at the time.
Their two children (Emma and Tony) worked in the shop as well. Fifty percent of the orders were by telephone, and delivered by bike to the customers home. Amelia's brother John Materazzo ran the fruit shop on Bridport St, Albert Park. -
190 Swan St, Richmond
Angelo Natoli and Anna Giulia Natoli
Approximately 1932 to 1946
Angelo Natoli born in Lipari on 12 March 1912 opened his first business at 190 Swan Street Richmond. He married Anna Giulia Peluso in 1941 and remained at that address until 1946.
They then purchased a property incorporating an ongoing fruit shop business at 126 Hopkins Street Footscray where they conducted the business and resided until 1955 when Angelo retired and sold his business to Vincenzo Favorito who was also born in Lipari and who conducted the business until the early 1980's . -
Canberra St, Randwick, NSW
Antonio Virgona
1930s
Photo: circa 1936, Antonio behind the counter with 4 of his 5 children. Giuseppe on the left age about 13 with his siblings Santa (Sary), Benito and Angelo. -
125-127 Upper Heidelberg Rd, Ivanhoe
Cuono & Grazia Biviano, Dominic Biviano, Frank Biviano, Josie Biviano, Nancy Biviano, Cuono jnr Biviano.
1957-1995
Cuono & Grazia were both born in Pianoconte, Lipari. They arrived in Melbourne in 1954. -
Lakemba / Greenacre, NSW
Giovanni ‘John’ Dante Palisi
Circa 1950s- circa 1960s
Giovanni Palisi was born in Santa Marina, Salina, and ran his fruit shop in Sydney’s South West 1950s - 1960s. Daughter, Marina Palisi is pictured bottom right of the photo. -
484 Bridge Rd, Richmond
Angelo Felipe Peluso (Son of Giovanna and Giuseppe Peluso from Lipari)
Dates to be confirmed Circa 1950s- circa 1970 -
57 Sydney Rd, Brunswick
Bobby( Bartolomeo also Robert John Taranto 1939 to 1998) and Maria Taranto (nee Rocca)
1950s
Bob Taranto was know as the fruitologist. Literally born premature in a fruit shop when the weight of carrying the bar of the shop shutters induced an early labour at 479 Sydney Rd Coburg.
His parents Rafeale Taranto and Nancy (nee Lopes) were there since the mid 1920s to the late 1950s when the government forcibly acquired the property to house the Coburg post office. After that they moved to 57 Sydney Rd Brunswick.
In late 1966 Bobby married and soon after took over the family business.
Relocated to 479 Sydney Rd Brunswick until Dec 24 1997. -
226 Johnston St, Abbotsford - The Abbotsford Excelsior
Antonino & Tilda Ziino
1924-1946 Circa
In photo: Antonino Ziino (27 Sept 1893 - 15 May 1976) Marianna (Mary) - daughter (15 Aug 1920 - 12 Apr 1986) Francesco (Frank) - son (14 Jul 1924 - 6Sept 1988) Domenico (Nin) - son (22 Oct 1927) - still living. -
187 Union Rd, Ascot Vale
Giovanni and Nunziata Martello
1950's to 1970's
Giovanni would wake up early to go to the Victoria Market to get his supplies for the day.
The photo depicts Nunziata and Giovanni Martello and their little daughter Angelina Martello-Di Benedetto at 6 years of age.
It was taken in 1955 in their fruit shop located at 187 Union Rd, Ascot Vale.
The Martello family originate from Vulcano & Lipari, Giovanni arriving in Australia, via Fremantle in 1938. -
Waverley Rd, Malvern East
Tom Mollica -
237 High St, Northcote
M. Casamento -
20 Glenferrie Rd, Malvern
Giovanni Alaimo -
162 Spir Rd, Mosman, NSW
Giovanni Favaloro & Son Giuseppe Favaloro
1934 to 1976
In 1944 Giovanni's son, Giuseppe Favaloro took over and ran the fruitshop until 1976. -
366A Military Rd, Cremorne, NSW
Giovanni (Jack) & Angela Favaloro
1953 to 1972
Giovanni Favaloro also run a fruit shop at 162 Spir Rd Mosman NSW from circa 1934 to 1944 when his son Giuseppe Favaloro took it over and ran it until 1976. -
457 Elizabeth St, West Melbourne
Giuseppe Cara and Sons
1914 – 1925
From 1903-1904 Giuseppe and Harry Carra were selling fruit and flowers from barrows on Princes Bridge.
Gaetano and sons Felix, Aurelio and Giuseppe had fruit shops at the following other addresses:
1908 - 1914 Felix Carra 301 Sydney Rd Brunswick
1914 Felix Carra Firebrace St Horsham
1918 Aurelio 208 Victoria St North Melbourne
1924 Giuseppe Carra 527 Chapel St South Yarra
In 1927 Giuseppe moved to 115 Swan Street Richmond and became a Wine Merchant.
Gaetano Senior became an importer of goods from the islands and sons Felix Giuseppe, Aurelio,Lorenzo became wine merchants and publicans. -
51 Chapel St, Windsor
Joe and Rosina Cincotta
1950s and 1960s -
87 Chapel St, Windsor
Francesca Biviano
Years Currently Unknown -
95 High St Westgarth
A.Biviano
1928 -
59 High St, Westgarth
G. Mollica
1926 to 1936 -
693 High St, Thornbury
Cincotta Brothers
1926 to 1933 -
399 Chapel St, South Yarra
Giuseppe & Maria Lagreca & son Bob La Greca
1910 to 1954 -
Wimmera Café Stawell
Charie Strangio & Vincenzo Pinzone
1924-1933 -
Main St, Stawell
Charlie Strangio & Vincenzo Pinzoner
Abt 1917 -
115 Swan St, Richmond
Giuseppe Cara
1927
Between 1903- 1904 Giuseppe and Harry Carra were selling fruit and flowers from barrows on Princes Bridge.
In 1927 Guiseppe moved to 115 Swan st Richmond and became a Wine Merchant. His father Gaetano also established a business in Melbourne.
His brother Felix Carra was a fruiterer in Horsham before moving to Melbourne to become a wine merchant. His brothers Lorenzo and Harry were publicans and wine merchants. -
244 Broadway Reservoir
Felice and Leonilda Natoli
1960s to 1970 -
31 Bay St, Port Melbourne
Giuseppe and Maria Villanti
1936 to 1956 -
608 Main St, Mordialloc
Giacomo and Edna Jean Martello
1929 till 1953
Giacomo would drive his fruit truck to Vic Market several times a week and put long hours in without a break. -
6 Puckle St, Moonee Ponds
Frank and Rosalia Mollica
1934 to 1958 -
301 Waverley Rd, Malvern East
Vince and Melba Portelli
1950s to mid 1960s -
22 Armstrong St, Middle Park
Tony and Mary Mandile
1949 to 1961 -
267 Brunswick St, Fitzroy
Bartolo and Bartolina Palamara
1920s -
300 Station St, Fairfield North
Bartolo and Giuseppina Natoli
1958 to 1977 -
149 Glenhuntly Rd, Elsternwick
Antonio & Angelina Casamento and Frank Casamento -
Silverdale Rd, Eaglemont
Frank and Popi Natoli
1960s to 1970s -
128 Johnston St, Collingwood
Frank and Maria Cincotta
1934 to 1936 -
454 Sydney Rd, Coburg
Angelo and Nunziata Ferlazzo
1920s until unknown -
276 Queens Pde, Clifton Hill
Bartolo Ferlazzo and managed by Marino Casamento (Former President of the Societa) and Giuseppe Casamento.
Circa 1930-1935
They were there until around 1935 when Marino Casamento bought his own business at 237 High Street Northcote and Giuseppe Casamento bought a business with Francesco Mollica at 6 Puckle Street Moonee Ponds.
The premises was bought and sold over the years to many other Aeolian families like Natoli, Villanti, and Muleta.
It is still a fruit shop known as Fruits on Parade. -
356 Queens Pde, Clifton Hill
Antonio and Giuseppina Casamento 1919 until 1925 Bartolo Ferlazzo 1925-1940
Unfortunately in 1924 Antonio died from Peritonitis at aged 49 and Giuseppina died from a stroke in 1925. After this time the business was being managed by Bartolo Ferlazzo on behalf of Antonio and Giuseppina's son, Antonio jnr and daughter Nancy who were 17 and 11 years respectively. They sold it to Bartolo Ferlazzo who was there until about 1940.
In the photograph are Bartolo Ferlazzo and Francesco Mollica who were working there. The children are daughter and son of Bartolo and his wife Santa. They are Caterina (later known as Rene Mollica a member of the Aeolian Club) and her brother Antonio.
The premises was bought and sold a few times by members of the extended family until the 1960's with the surnames of Casamento and Mollica. -
587 Sydney Rd, Brunswick
Angelo & Caterina Russo
1920 to 1940
Angelo Russo at the age of 9 sold flowers at the corner of Flinders & Swanston Streets. At 18 years old, he operated the fruit stall in the laneway behind Young and Jackson then later in 1920 purchased a shop at 587 Sydney Rd Brunswick Angelo Russo's grandson Peter Russo Solicitors operates at 150 Sydney Rd Brunswick today. -
616 Hampton St, East Brighton
Tony and Rosa Devola
1950 to 1990
Son Anthony took over the business -
194 Bridport St, Albert Park
Giovanni (John) Materazzo & Beryl (Fraser)
1935-1953 <br In 1925 when John first arrived in Australia at the age of 14 he worked at the Victoria Market. From 1935 to 1953, (for 18 Years) John and his wife Beryl owned a Fruit Shop at 194 Bridport Street Albert Park. -
781 Hampton St, Brighton
Bartolo and Bartolina Palamara
1948 to 1960 -
356 Bay St, North Brighton
Frank and Maria Cincotta
1937 to 1957 -
970 Whitehorse Rd, Box Hill
Giuseppe (Joe) Russo & Josephine Russo
1947-1959
Workers/Boarders -Micheal Palma, Antonio Castellano, Bob Castellano, John Taranto
In 1959 Joe & his brother Giovanni Russo (Jack) opened another fruit shop in the new Box Hill arcade. They continued to trade here till 1967. Josephine Russo (Jack’s wife) also worked here along with other part-time female staff. -
601 Station St, Box Hill
Antonio Ferlazzo
1950's
Antonio Ferlazzo had three fruit shops. He then married Felicia Natoli and they rented a fruit shop in New Market, then Mont Albert. In the early 1950's they purchased a fruit shop. -
250 Carlisle St, Balaclava - Tesoriero & Luca Brothers
Michele De Luca & Giuseppe Luca
1915- 2015
The original fruit shop was established in 1915. Vincenzo & Caterina Tesoriero's business would operate in the heart of Carlisle Street Balaclava for 70 years.
Due to Vincenzo's poor health, his children and their husbands would take over and the business was renamed TESORIERO & LUCA BROS.
Nearly all the grandchildren worked there at some stage and a number of Aeolians worked with the family. Three generations of family members ran the business until it was sold on February 15th, 2015. -
-
905 Sturt St, Ballarat
Antonino Casamento & Giuseppina Palmisano then Angelo Palmisano and Maria Famularo
1910-1918, 1919-1960
Opposite the Ballarat Base Hospital.
Originally Giuseppina Palmisano and her husband Antonino Casamento owned the fruiterer business from 1910 to 1918.
In 1914 Angelo Palmisano (Giuseppina’s brother) and Maria Famularo moved from Colac to help them run the business.
In 1919 Angelo Palmisano and Maria Famularo purchased the business from Giuseppina and Antonio Casamento after they moved to the fruiterer shop at 356 Queens Parade, Clifton Hills.
In 1960 the 905 Sturt Street fruiterer shop was sold to R. Ritchie, along with all the other shops in the complex, which was then demolished for his supermarket.
Information given my Lyn (Palmer [Palmisano]) Sands. (Granddaughter of Angelo Palmisano)
Image- 1938. The Palmisano Family outside the 905 Sturt St fruiterer shop. L-R: Rosina, Grandmother (Maria Palmisano), Mary, and Angelo (my dad). Absent: Kate and Tony. Grandfather Angelo Palmisano left his family in 1933. -
102 Bridge St, Ballarat
Frank and Jack Re
1940s -1970s -
129 Dundas Place, Albert Park
Giuseppe and Elvira Palamara
1950’s
Established the first Milk Bar with Italian deli and mixed business. -
99 Dundas Place, Albert Park
Giuseppe and Elvira Palamara
1950’s -
95 The Avenue, Albert Park
Giuseppe (Jack) Mandile
1937 to 1962 -
Barkley St, Ararat - Bon Ton Café then Town Hall Cafe
Joe & Tom Pinzone
1935- -
Barkley St, Ararat - Plaza Café then Pinzone Bros Cafe
Vincenzo Pinzone
1935- -
352 Flinders St, Melbourne
Giuseppe and Harry Carra
1903- 1904
They were selling fruit and flowers from barrows on Princes Bridge. -
597 High St, Northcote
G. Lo Piccolo
1926 to 1950 -
495 High St, Northcote
Phil and Lina LoRicco
1950s and 1960s -
263 High St, Northcote
Bartolo and Giuseppina Natoli
1925 to 1955 -
527 Chapel St, Prahran
Giuseppe Carra
1914 - 1925 -
267 Brunswick St, Fitzroy
Bartolo and Bartolina Palamara
1920s -
601 Station St, Box Hill
Antonio Ferlazzo
1950's
Antonio Ferlazzo had three fruit shops. When he first arrived in Melbourne from Vulcano, he worked in his brother's fruit shop. He then married Felicia (nee Natoli born in Lipari) and they rented a fruit shop in New Market, then Mont Albert. In the early 1950's they purchased a fruit shop they were renting at 601 Station Street Box Hill. -
135 Victoria Ave, Albert Park
Tony & Giuseppe (Jack) Mandile
1950's
More shops will be added this year. Please fill in the below form for us to add your family’s fruit shop here.