Tuesday, April 9, 2024

Auto Italia 2024

On the weekend of 6,7, 8 April, Auto Italia was held in Queanbeyan.

Saturday Morning, 29 members assembled at Pheasants Nest, after braving 200mm of rain in the previous 24 hours, bound for the nations capital. Our arrival at Mackey VC, saw our morning tea, prepared by Tony & Grace Campisi and Mick & Cate Stivala. Leo Di Rocco (Capo Barrister) providing coffee, whilst a wonderful cake, prepared by Frank Roccisano ( Siderno Pasticcieria) was enjoyed by all. Including the presence of Joe Lecce's & Anthony Vecchio's FAMOUS ANCHOVIES, was enjoyed by all!

We placed emphasis on the 60th anniversary of The Fiat 850 and the 125th anniversary of FIAT. It seems that each year, we celebrate anniversaries of the worlds best, that came out of Torino - The Abarth celebrating its 75th anniversary, as well.

After a few stops, giving our "legs a rest" we arrived at our accommodation points and reassembled at The Ostani Bar for refreshments and lite lunch. All things done, our next part of the day, was a "Bus Trip" to Turkish in Woden. Another great meal and company shared by all.

Sunday morning, Our ACT member, Geoff Hall, arranged that we cavalcade through the "Elite" streets of Canberra, via Red Hill, making our way to the Auto Italia display area. Contingency plan B, was implemented by the organisers, as the original site was deemed too wet, due to the amount of rain that fell. A great outcome for our club, as we picked up 4 awards;

1.. New member Ross Pangallo : The Ray Gulgong award

2.. Tim Araullo: Best Modern 500 Abarth

3.. Ross Tizzone: Best Classic Fiat 500

4.. Alfredo Primerano: Best Fiat Sedan

Many members returned home on Sunday, while some remained one more night, with a gathering at Caphs restaurant, where we also had the opportunity to meet the President of the Fiat Club of ACT.

Monday morning, the remaining group travelled home together. Glad to report that everyone returned home, all safe & sound!