Est. 1960
Our History
A story of community, culture and generations of hospitality in the heart of Mildura.
The Dream
From a Show
to a Club
The history of the Mildura Club Da Vinci started with a dream.
In Easter of 1958, a number of newly arrived Italian migrants decided to put on the Passion of Christ — Opera Sacra. Various members of the young Italian community showcased their ability to act and choreograph. The event was held in the Yugoslav hall and proved to be a hit.
After the show, opera director Beniamino Cirillo and Giuseppe Roccisano discussed their dream of a social club for the Italian community with Fr Monahan and Fr Gregorio. Both priests were supportive, and Fr Gregorio suggested starting with something modest and building upon it.
With encouragement from the priests, Joe and Ben approached members of the Italian community who had been in Mildura for some time. They received strong support, and in 1958, the first committee of the Mildura Club Da Vinci was formed.
The Founding Committee
First Committee
Members (1958)
Committee Members: Angelo Buffone, Domenico Cavallaro, Beniamino Cirillo, Roger David, Cosimo Dichiera, Giuseppe Dichiera, Vincenzo Dimasi, Giuseppe Dimasi, Vincenzo Leonadis, Pietro Mazza, Antonio Marciano, Giuseppe Moro, Filippo Mammone, and Antonio Surace.
The Constitution
Built on Principles
The constitution was written by Ben Cirillo with help from Fr Gregorio. The document, consisting of 26 articles, was approved at a general meeting in July 1958. Three core principles:
The Da Vinci Club was founded to keep alive the friendly spirit among Italians and our hosts.
All political discussions are forbidden. Meetings or functions pertaining to politics will not be tolerated.
All members shall act as gentlemen and avoid any discussions or acts detrimental to the club or its members.
The Building
From Pledges
to Opening Day
The Sunraysia area was divided among committee members, who approached all Italians in the district. A fee of 30 pounds was set — approximately $2,000 today. 230 pledges were made and 158 fully paid, becoming foundation members.
Land was purchased on 24 November 1958 for 1,190 pounds. The building contract was awarded to SJ Weir for 4,500 pounds. As construction neared completion, Angelo Buffone and Cosimo Dichiera stepped forward and each loaned the club 1,500 pounds to cover a significant shortfall.
The club opened its doors to its first function — the engagement of Joe Caia and Mary Leonardis — on 17 April 1960. The first wedding followed: Pietro Dimasi and Nicolina Simonetta. In 1962, the Opera Sacra was held in the club — a fitting tribute to the event that started it all.
The Early Years
Memorable Moments
The early days were difficult — funds were short and profits were low. The committee held many social functions to raise money and often supplied their own time and resources free of charge.
Growth & Development
Club Milestones
Community Pillars
The Ladies
Committee
Formed on 26 July 1976, the Ladies Committee was very active in organising social functions from 1976 to 1995. Their first event was a picnic dance — the band The Ultratones cost $150, entry was $2 for adults.
The ladies raised $1,714 for the Italian earthquake appeal in 1976 alone. Funds from their fundraising activities went back into the club — they purchased hand dryers, orange chairs, curtains and were an important part of lifting the club's standard. Their last great contribution was the chandeliers over the dance floor.
Dedicated Service
Two Extraordinary Members
Two individuals whose contribution to the club has never been matched: Joe Roccisano and Steve Panuccio. Both were on the committee from the day it was formed until they passed away, and both held office on the executive.
Joe Roccisano served as president for 5 years, treasurer for 17 years and club secretary. He was also head cook and catering manager for many years. Steve Panuccio was president for 34 years, of which 32 were consecutive.
They both acted as club trustees, along with 7 others who put their personal assets on the line. During their terms of office, they set down a solid foundation for the next generation to build upon.