A SMALL group of ladies meeting for lunch turned into the Antonian Italian Seniors Club, which has now been running for more than 25 years.
Founding member and driving force Carmela Sinagra, 86, was this year recognised for her efforts with a City of Wanneroo Australia Day individual award for a person who has made an outstanding contribution to the local community.
“It was a lovely surprise and I was very thrilled,” she said.
Carmela said the seniors’ group has about 80 members who meet every month for cards, carpet bowls and knitting. They also take day trips.
“We have a trip to the Pinnacles coming up,” she said.
“We have members from everywhere, not just Italy.”
Carmela is also involved with organising the group’s annual Christmas lunch and charity appeals.
Her community involvement stretches back a long way.
Carmela was the first president of the Country Women’s Association Wanneroo branch, which was formed in 1965.
As a foster parent, she took in three little ones who ended up staying for good, joining her five children.
“We all still get together every Saturday for spaghetti night,” she said.
“I am a bit of a Jack-of-all trades – I have done all sorts.
“I have trained debs for their debutantes’ ball and driven a bus for children with special needs.”
Carmela and her husband Joe have lived in Wanneroo all their lives, and have previously been awarded the council’s Pioneer Medallion.
