General News
4 August, 2023
Final three events of festa
THE three final events of the 17-day 2023 Cairns Italian Festival can be enjoyed in Cairns tonight at the Gala Ball, then at two events in Mareeba this weekend.
The achievements and contribution of Italian immigrants in Far North Queensland will be honoured at the Cinecitta Italian Gala Ball at the Pullman International tonight.
The Cinecitta Gala Ball is themed after the iconic film studio in Rome – the Italian Hollywood on the Tiber.
On the evening, the Italian Hall of Fame Awards and Life Member Awards will be announced – a ceremony which aims to recognise the achievements of Italians who migrated to Australia or come from immigrant families and have contributed significantly to the region.
“These awards are so important. It’s our way to recognise people who have contributed in so many ways – to say thank you,” gala ball organiser Patty Poutanen said.
Mareeba will then host the two final events of the 2023 Festival – a new event, the Moriconi-Bomben Soccer Cup, tomorrow, and the final event, the Salami and Sausage Festa, on Sunday.
The Moriconi-Bomben Soccer Cup is a tribute to the late Alfio Moriconi from the Mareeba Football Club and John Bomben from Leichhardt Football Club and their dedication to football.
Both devoted a lifetime of passion to their respective clubs with their contribution to the game unparalleled. The well-known rivals fought out many battles on the soccer field over the years.
An over-45s match will be played as a curtain raiser to the main game which will include a lot of the older players from the glory days of past battles. The event will kick off tomorrow at Lindsay Australia Stadium in Mareeba.
On Sunday, the second Mareeba Salami and Sausages Festa promises to seek out the best homemade salami and sausages in the region, with several awards to be presented and the overall winner up for a $2000 cash prize.
Sponsored by Borgo Salumi, the event at the Mareeba International Club features a panel of five expert judges who will rate each entry out of 20 in the areas of taste, aroma, density and colour.
The Cairns Italian Festival raffle winner of the Trip to Italy for Two will also be announced.
