HANSARD
SITTING CALENDAR
SEARCH
LIVE BROADCAST
Hansard Dynamic Member Index
Legislative Council - Fifty-Fifth Parliament, First Session (55-1)
2025-10-16 Daily Xml
Contents
Xml

Radio Italia Uno

The Hon. J.S. LEE (16:55): I move:

That this council—

1. Congratulates Radio Italia Uno Adelaide 87.6FM for reaching the special milestone of its 10th anniversary in 2024;

2. Acknowledges the founding members, current and past presidents, board members, committee members, sponsors and volunteers of Radio Italia Uno for their dedication and contribution to serving the Italian-Australian community in South Australia;

3. Recognises that Radio Italia Uno supports the social and cultural welfare of the Italo-Australian community by providing valuable communication services through broadcasting current affairs, essential information, services and diverse programs in the Italian language; and

4. Commends Radio Italia Uno for sharing the rich culture, language, and success stories among the vibrant Italian community, fostering community engagement and enriching multicultural South  Australia.

I rise today to acknowledge the 10th anniversary of Radio Italia Uno Adelaide 87.6FM, a station that has become a vital voice for the Italian-Australian community in South Australia.

The station was established in 2015 by the founding board which included respected community leaders across the Italian community and they are: Angela Cutri, Antonino Plateroti, Antonio Simeone, Benedict Battiste, Dr Carmine De Pasquale, Cosimo Cutri, Dino Musolino, Frank Salandra, John D'Aloia, John Di Malta, Orso Osti, Patrizia Restaldi, Theodore Luliano and Vincenzo Papandrea. Their commitment to preserving Italian heritage laid the foundation for what Radio Italia Uno is today.

From its early days, broadcasting on 1629AM from a modest studio in Adelaide, the station has grown into a vibrant and far-reaching platform, now broadcasting on 87.6FM and streaming online to listeners across the globe. Radio Italia Uno is a cultural cornerstone of South Australia's multicultural community. It connects generations, supports community events, promotes local businesses, and provides essential information, especially during times of crisis such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

During this period, Radio Italia Uno played a vital role in keeping the community informed and staying connected. With many older Italian-Australians facing isolation, the station became a lifeline broadcasting health updates, support services and messages of hope in both Italian and English. It was a trusted voice during uncertain times, offering not only information but comfort and solidarity.

The station's programming has evolved to include English language shows such as The Breakfast Club and Jeff's Sport Show which has broadened its appeal and fostered greater inclusion across Adelaide's diverse communities. These programs complement the station's Italian language content creating a bilingual platform that reflects the lived experience of many Italian-Australians. Radio Italia Uno is deeply embedded in the South Australian community, through not only its daily broadcast but also its active support of local events.

The station proudly hosts an annual gala ball and the radiothon A Night in Italy, both of which I have had the honour of attending on numerous occasions and most recently for their 10th and 11th anniversary celebrations. These events are more than festive celebrations, they are vibrant expressions of community pride, cultural heritage and collective generosity. Their annual gala ball is a spectacular evening of food, live entertainment, dancing and community connection, and is often attended by many members of parliament from this place, from all sides and persuasions. While this event is the major fundraising event for the station, it is also a night that brings generations together in support of local radio and shared heritage.

The radiothon, A Night in Italy, hosted annually at the Marche Club, is a vibrant, family-friendly event featuring four-course Italian meals, live music, dancing and games for all ages. I recall that Cathy Papandrea, the Marche Club's manager, often would do a live recording, so if you do not want something to be published please say something non-offensive, because Cathy is always on her phone, recording everything! The event is always a joyful expression of Italian culture and generosity.

Proceeds of both these fundraising events go directly to support the station's operations and community initiatives. The station also brings its voice directly into the heart of the community through outside broadcasts from local businesses and festivals. These live segments capture the energy and diversity of Adelaide's Italian-Australian community, making listeners feel part of something larger than themselves. I always love listening to all the favourite Italian songs as well. Today the station continues to thrive under the stewardship of its dedicated board, including returning members and new faces who bring fresh energy and ideas to the community radio station. This continuity of leadership reflects the station's strong community roots and its ability to evolve while staying true to its mission.

I especially would like to acknowledge president Dino Musolino, a really lovely gentleman. I also acknowledge him as a very successful businessman who has operated a family horticultural business for many generations. His leadership has certainly guided the station with integrity and vision. I also want to congratulate the new general manager, Deanna Carbone, whose creative energy and commitment have also helped shape the station's modern identity and outreach programs. I also thank the wonderful Angela Cutri, the head of the events committee, whose dedication ensures that every celebration is meaningful. On this note, I also want to pay tribute to Mark Aiston, the former general manager of Radio Italia Uno, for his contribution during his term of employment.

Radio Italia Uno's contribution goes beyond the Italian community and reaches the broader multicultural fabric of South Australia. In this place today it is a great honour to recognise that Radio Italia Uno supports the social and cultural welfare of the Italian-Australian community by providing valuable communication services in broadcasting, current affairs, essential information services and diverse programs in the Italian language and also in English.

By sharing stories, music and cultural insights, the station fosters cross-cultural understanding and appreciation. It exemplifies the spirit of multicultural South Australia, reminding us that multiculturalism is not just about diversity; it is about connection, contribution and fostering a sense of belonging in this place we call home.

In recognition of this milestone, I commend Radio Italia Uno for over a decade of service. I certainly look forward to many more celebrations with the radio station. I want to thank them for their friendship and for always welcoming me and the community members to attend all the fantastic events. With those remarks, I commend the motion.

Debate adjourned on motion of Hon. I.K. Hunter.

PARLIAMENTARY BUSINESS
MEMBERS
GET INVOLVED
ABOUT PARLIAMENT
VISIT
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL
HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY
CONTACT