Thursday, February 23, 2017

Clovelly Beach Run

True passion for the Fiat 500 was shown by 27 members in 20 500’s who turned up at 5:00 am to brave the wind and cold on Clovelly Beach on Sunday morning. It truly shows how enthusiastic and dedicated they all were!

A special mention goes to Graham and Jan Smith with Fatso and Helen Chantel in her Vignale who braved the potential bad weather conditions forecast for the day. Driving around Sydney in their convertible cars!

The photo shoot and other activities went ahead according to plan! We were truly blessed with such fortunate weather conditions! Thank you Dante Giacosa!

While our photographer Daniel Kalcic, from an excellent vantage point, snapped away many photographs, we were relieved of our morning weariness by the arrival of a mobile coffee van. Croissants and muffins were handed out to member’s compliments of NRMA Vintage and Veteran Insurance in conjunction with IMSMC!

IMSMC may have woken up a few locals with Italian music playing in the background of this amazing scene!

We had the honour to have Italy’s Fiat 500 Club President, Mr Domenico Romano join us in celebrating the first of the world-wide celebrations of the 60th birthday of the Fiat 500. He was truly happy to be celebrating this event with us.

Once the photo shoot was complete we then wound our way through the city of Sydney and over the Harbour bridge and onto another spectacular viewing point. Our final photo opportunity was at Tania Park, Balgowlah Heights. Where we enjoyed a glass of Prosecco and ate Crostoli overlooking the harbour out to North Head and the city.

We are told that a very special photo from this event, will be included in a new book on the social aspect of the Fiat 500 - The story of a little car that brings people together and makes people smile!
 There is a high probability that one of our photos will be published on the front cover of "4piccoleruote", the Fiat500clubItalia magazine, that circulates around the world to over 21 000 members!

At Tania Park, we were joined by Roberto Mattei without Carolina (she must have been having a Sunday morning sleep in!) to be presented with a plaque by Domenico Romano acknowledging Roberto and Carolina’s Uluru adventure.

Every member was presented with a set of 60th Anniversary Fiat 500 coasters from IMSMC, and dash magnets or key rings compliments of the Fiat 500 Club Italia.
Our final destination was an organised lunch at Grappa ristorante and bar in Leichhardt where we enjoyed a lovely afternoon.

After lunch, Domenico Romano presented a number of members with plaques acknowledging their achievements.

David Mirabella and Renee Di Rocco were presented with a 500 Problem solving manual. Leo Di Rocco with a desk calendar, Rose Cara for organizing the Clovelly event, Nat Stillone for his efforts in getting people back on the road following minor hiccups!

IMSMC received an Italian plaque in recognition of what was achieved on the day.

Oh Yes! We had Birthday cake too!

After a fantastic lunch shared in good company, the first official Fiat 500 60th birthday celebration concluded.

A very specials mention to Rose Cara and the IMSMC committee for organising and executing the event! As always, a great effort by club members of IMSMC who came together to create a memorable and historic occasion!
Thank You everyone who attended in making what was a truly outstanding day!










Monday, February 6, 2017

Membership Breakfast 2017

On Sunday the 5th of February, 90+ members with family, attended the "Membership Breakfast" at Oran Park Town Cafe. 

Members began to meet around 9am and within minutes, the car park was transformed into a scene from Piazza Navona as it filled will classic Italian Cars ... and 1 Vespa!

As members moved into the hall, they collected their new 2017 membership cards, settled into their seats  eager to be served by the efficient and lovely staff of the Oran Park Town Cafe. 
Prior to proceedings, our president gave a cheer to all "Happy New Year" with a glass of Prosecco! after a short thank you from our club President, the formalities of the morning were soon at and end soon, it was time for the breakfast!

Quickly, bacon, eggs (2 types!), hash browns, sausages, tomato and toast were served up to members. This wonderful breakfast was , topped off with a selection of coffee, ensuring that everyone was happy.

The morning unfolded with a great deal of discussion among members. A raffle was held (we thank the sponsors), many purchasing extra tickets for that special prize!

Our new members were welcomed and with their arrival come some special cars; We welcome Ken Studerus & Paul D'Orazio... Welcome guys!
There are some special events (as always) planned and in the planning hence making the forthcoming year another exciting a special one. 

Bring on 2017.