The Italian Opera Foundation Australia (IOFA) Gala Dinner held on Friday 11 October, at the opulent Doltone House (Darling Island Wharf). A delightful evening celebrating Italian operatic culture and talent in Australia. The evening was one that combined Italian operatic performances and an exquisite Italian cuisine delivered by the team at Doltone House. The Italian Opera Foundation Australia acknowledged the wonderful contribution that Mr. Nick Scali, the Founder and Life Patron of the IOFA has made and his impact on the growth and prosperity of the foundation over the many years. The chairman of the IOFA, Dr Joseph Rizk AM, addressed the audience commending the support of the founder and Life Patron, Mr. Nick Scali and praising the rich Italian culture in Australia. He also acknowledged the contribution of Cav. Alfredo Bovier OAM for his dedication and commitment as a long standing Board Member for nearly two decades and all that he has contributed during this time for the IOFA
A big thank you to the sponsors of the evening, abal banking/Arab Bank Australia (Tenore Sponsor), Intesa Sanpaolo (Soprano Sponsor) and Morgan Stanley (Bass Sponsor) and our Venue Sponsor Doltone House. Live auction donors: Cerrone, Aroney Art Gallery (Felicia Aroney), Bower Haus, Christian Louboutin, Charles & Christa Billich, Dr. Joseph Rizk AM & Maureen Rizk OAM, Mitronics and Montblanc. Raffle prize donors: abal banking, Alfredo Authentic Italian Restaurant, Blue River Wines, Esca Group, Grappa Ristorante & Bar, Glenrose Beauty Gallery, House of Stone, Oliveto Ristorante & Bar, Dr Joseph Rizk AM & Maureen Rizk OAM and My Tea House, once again a big thank you to all, for your generous support.
It was a wonderful evening enjoyed by all, with performances by the talented Diego Torre, a rising star in the operatic world, known for his powerful tenor, Viktoria Bolonina, a stunning soprano, celebrating her exquisite range and emotional performances and the marvellous Nick Bavarelli Band provided a fusion of traditional Italian melodies with contemporary sounds, their performances were outstanding. A big thank you to our amazing Master of Ceremonies Mr John Mangos who has been an MC at this event over several years and a thank you to our auctioneer for the evening Mr Scott Yung.
The IOFA is very appreciative of the outstanding support provided on the evening and is very proud of the cultural richness the Italian community has founded in Australia. It is from such successful nights like these the IOFA can continue its work in nurturing and cultivating up and rising stars by providing the opportunity for scholarships and a monetary reward to assist them in their career journey.
