I have been an Australian for over 60 years, but I am proud of my Italian heritage. As a child growing up, I was protected from prejudice by my older brother, and felt that I assimilated quite easily into new life in Australia. However, the more challenging years came as a teenager.

As a young Calabrese female in Australia in the 1970’s, my path had already been mapped by my parents, and me being shy and conforming I followed traditions with little or no resistance. I was like a caged butterfly and felt invisible. I finished school when I was 15 years old, further education not being an option, but I was allowed to go to work. In true Italian tradition, by the time I was 18, I was matched up and married. I was the dutiful wife and mother for the next 26 years, then I decided to leave the marriage. I was able to start on my new life plan, I completed a tertiary course which gave me greater opportunities in the workplace.

I have a passion for the traditional food I was bought up with and cherish the recipes from my mother which I share and hopefully preserve for generations to come. I have totally embraced both cultures and feel extremely fortunate to live in Australia and the opportunities I have been given.