Italian community spreads Christmas cheer

FAMILIES of the Ballarat Italian Association received a special visitor and delivery last weekend.

Supported by the BIA committee, Santa travelled door-to-door to greet the community group’s young members and hand-deliver some gifts.

Stella Morisi met him on Sunday morning. The Association has been a part of the 12-year-old’s life since she was born. Her dad, Adrian is its former vice-president.

In May 2019, Stella was diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma. Experiencing chemotherapy and radiation treatment, she’s been in remission since last January, and her mum, Maryann is grateful for BIA’s emotional and financial support.

“The Association is lovely. It’s like a big, extended family. They made a significant donation to our family when Stella was having treatment,” she said.

“As hideous as cancer is, it’s brought out some of the best kindness from friends and family. We have friendships that will last forever.”

One-year-old Romeo and his sisters, four-year-old Alessia and six-year-old Sofia met the man in red earlier in the morning.

The children were even more excited for 25 December after he waved goodbye. Alessia said she loves the feeling of Christmas when her family is “spending time together.”

Mum, Louise Rossi said the visit was a special treat for her kids after a year of isolation and home-schooling, and she appreciates their relationship with the BIA.

“Having grown up in an Italian family, I want the kids to be able to do the same things. It’s good they can see some of the culture here in Ballarat,” she said.

Committee member, Alisdair Horgen said due to COVID-19 restrictions, the Association’s annual Christmas function could not run.

“Santa visits all the children at the party and gives them presents. We did not want the children to miss out after such a difficult year,” he said.

“As we cannot host a get together, we have supported our members through vouchers at local restaurants.

“While we are disappointed we can’t all meet in person this year, it was wonderful to see Santa bring joy to our community in Ballarat.”