CLIENT LUNCHEON TO CELEBRATE 40 YRS

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Co.As.It. Community Services reached a 40 year milestone in 2018, providing aged care and community services in Queensland since 1978.  Celebrating this anniversary, a Christmas themed luncheon was shared with over 400 clients at the Kedron-Wavell Services Club in Chermside. The event was held on Saturday 1st December in the Blue Room and the free event was a huge success.

Dina Ranieri, Co.As.It. CEO says: “I am honoured to witness this amazing milestone and be a testament to the positive impact our organisation has made on the South East Queensland community.”

The lunch was attended by clients, staff and committee members who were treated to a three course luncheon, live music and a documentary video on the history of Co.As.It. that included an interview with the founder, Fiorenza Jones. The event featured a lucky table prize of the delicious Italian Christmas cake “panettone” for one guest from each table.

One of Co.As.It. Clients John Lind wrote of the event:

“We were amazed by your love and care shown to us yesterday. Obviously Saturday was but a sample of all that has happened over the last 40 years and certainly shown to us in the last few months for Joe, and the last 13-14 months for myself. Your staff have always been kind considerate, willing to help and thorough in all their help towards us.”

Co.As.It. reaches its 40 year milestone

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40th Gala Evening COASIT Queensland

40th Gala Evening COASIT Queensland

 

Co.As.It. Community Services celebrated its 40th year of delivering services to the South East Queensland community with a Gala Dinner at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre on 27th October 2018.

The services go beyond delivering aged care and social support to include the teaching of the Italian language and culture at the Italian Language Centre in Newmarket.

Over 340 guests attended the memorable event including team members and committee members past and present, sponsors, volunteers and VIP guests.

Dina Ranieri, Co.As.It. CEO says: “I am honoured to witness this amazing milestone and be a testament to the positive impact our organisation has made on the South East Queensland community.”

To commemorate the occasion an historical booklet was created capturing the progression over the years, and a documentary was launched on the night featuring an interview with the founder,  Fiorenza Jones. Members of the committee past and present also contributed to the documentary telling the story of the past 40 years.

During the event a slideshow looped hunderds of images that showcased client social outings, forums, classes, celebrations and festivals, past and present.

The president of the committee, Nereo Brezzi hosted VIP’s the Hon. Stirling Hinchliffe, Italian Consul for Queensland and Northern Territory, Dott. Ludovico Carlo Camussi, Jacinta Webb representing Hon. Grace Grace (Minister for Industrial Relations), Councillor Krista Adams, Councillor Vicki Howard, Councillor Norm Wyndham, the Italian Ambassador Hon. Francesco Giacobbe, and President of the Com.It.Es for Queensland and Northern Territory, Mariangela Stagnitti.

Guests were hosted by the charismatic Damien Anthony Rossi and the lovely Naomi Price. They enjoyed a sumptuous 4 course meal, wines and liqueur. The live music was provided by the talented De Bellis Band from Sydney, the lead singer Claudia Migliaccio was a finalist on The Voice the same year as Naomi Price.

Co.As.It. Community Services Inc. is a peak body within the aged care and community services industry which has won recognition for high quality services delivery and excellence in care.  Constant research, planning and improvement ensures that Co.As.It. programs and services are relevant, responsive and meet the diverse needs of its clients, especially those from CALD (culturally and linguistically diverse) backgrounds.  The net proceeds from this event go towards the Dementia Carer Support Program for the CALD community. For more information please contact 07 3262 5755.

Italian Cinema at Chermside Library

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Movies at the Chermside Library

As part of the CISS program, Co.As.It. is holding monthly movie matinees at the Chermside Library (375 Hamilton Road Chermside).  The events are free and open to everyone interested in making new friends, catching up with old ones or simply enjoying few hours with some of Italy’s finest movies. The program may also be useful for those who are interested in improving their skills in Italian, as the brief talks about the movies and the movies themselves – are entirely in Italian.

Aug 14 – Un Americano a Roma (1954)

Sep 24 – Nuovo cinema paradiso (1988)

Oct 30 – Malena (2000)

Nov 26 – Sapore di mare (1983)

Gala Dinner Celebrating 40 Years

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Co.As.It. Community Services is Celebrating 40 Years of operation from 1978 – 2018. According to our founder Cav. Uff. Fiorenza Jones OAM, Co. As. It. represents the vision and hard work of an extraordinary person.  Join us at our prestigious Gala Dinner to be held at the Brisbane Convention and Entertainment Centre using the stunning Southbank Parklands as the backdrop. Here we acknowledge our passion to service the Italian and wider community in the city of Brisbane.

Women’s Day 2018 Celebrations

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Thanks to all who guests celebrated International Women’s Day on Saturday 10 March with a fabulous Morning Tea Event at Victoria Park.
The event was a great way to celebrate women and their many efforts in our community. The celebration was hosted by Channel 7 Presenter and Journalist, Rosanna Natoli. Each guest enjoyed a fashion parade, with a live runway show sponsored by Petrol Boutique – Paddington, raffle prizes and a lovely ‘girl’s day out’.

The Details
Event: International Women’s Day Morning Tea
Time and Date: Saturday 10 March 2018, 10.30am – 2.30pm
Where: Victoria Park Golf Complex, Herston Road, HERSTON
Tickets: $65

Community Concert – Alfio, Music, Prizes and Panettone

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Co.As.It. Community Services was excited to celebrate its 11th Community Concert on Saturday 25 November at the Old Museum at Bowen Hills.
This year, over 300 guests welcomed international performer Alfio to the stage for a mesmerizing solo performance accompanied by incredible vocals, comedy, and classic piano ballads. Held under the patronage of the Italian Consulate for Queensland and Northern Territory, the event also featured a special Broadway performance from Vavachi Entertainment, with soprano Gabrielle Jack and tenor Roger Davy giving new life to all-time favourites from musicals like Phantom of the Opera and Cats.

From left: Co.As.It. Director Dina Ranieri, Hon. Teresa Gambaro, Italian Consul for Qld and NT Dott. Ludovico Carlo Camussi, President of Com.It.Es. Mariangela Stagnitti, Co.As.It. President Cav. Nereo Brezzi.

Master of Ceremonies for the afternoon, TV personality Damien Anthony Rossi, welcomed distinguished guests including Italian Consul for Qld and NT, Dott. Ludovico Carlo Camussi, President of Com.It.Es Mariangela Stagnitti and Hon Teresa Gambaro. After a stellar first act from Vavachi entertainment, the live show continued with the main act for the afternoon, all the way from New York, Emmy nominee Alfio. Amongst applause and laughter, the guests sung along to much loved Italian classics, with Alfio’s unique talent shining through every performance. During intermission audience members were treated to an array of Italian traditional sweets and biscuits, generously donated by Gerbino’s Pasticceria.

 

 

 

 

 

Alfio later returned to the stage for the final act of his performance, followed by the much anticipated drawing of the raffle. Our generous raffle sponsors this year included, Touring Abruzzo by Luciana Masci, Basile Imports, KM Smith Funeral Director, Councillor Norm Wyndham and Dendy Cinemas. Six lucky winners walked away with gourmet gift hampers and vouchers.
The event concluded under the historic entry doors of the Old Museum with traditional panettone and a glass of prosecco, generously donated by Italiquore Brands Internationale.

 

 

 

 

 

Each year Co.As.It. is excited to give something back to its community members, bringing forth a joyous start to the festive season. We would like to thank our sponsors for their continued support, and all Co.As.It. staff who contributed to a successful event.

If you would like to know more about our sponsors, please click on the links below:

  • Italiquore Brands Internationale. Website: http://italiquore.com.au/
  • Gerbino’s Pasticceria. Website: http://www.gerbinos.com.au/
  • Touring Abruzzo by Luciana Masci – For 13 years now Luciana Masci, director of Touring Abruzzo has been sharing her passion for Italy with many wonderful guests.

    For those who dream of taking a trip to Italy and seeing all that ‘The Boot’ of Europe has to offer, there are Italy tours to suit everyone at Touring Abruzzo. Our small group tours of Italy stand out from the rest for their authentic, locally-connected guides and insider knowledge as well as the many experiences and locations we visit. For your next Italy trip, consider these undiscovered gems of central and southern Italy – Abruzzo, Puglia, Basilicata, Marche and Molise regions.
    It is truly the ITALY YOU HAVE BEEN SEARCHING FOR…Learn more about Touring Abruzzo’s range of tour departures, private tours and heritage/genealogy services: www.touringabruzzo.com.　

  • K.M. Smith Funeral Directors – We think of Everything. K.M. Smith is and always has been a 100% Australian family owned firm providing a caring, traditional, and surprisingly affordable funeral service built upon strong family values. We have served Queensland families in their hour of need for 6 generations. Website: http://www.kmsmith.com.au/

  • Councillor for McDowall Ward, Norm Wyndham. Website: http://www.normwyndham.org/
  • Basile Imports – Choose the Best, We Do. Basile Imports has built its reputation on this company motto to become a successful importer of Italian fine food and wine in Australia.
    Website: http://www.basile.com.au
  • Dendy Cinemas, Portside. Website: https://www.dendy.com.au/cinemas/portside
  • Flora Di Lizio – very generous community member

International Performer ALFIO will star at this year’s Community Concert

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Join us for our Annual Community Concert, Saturday 25 November at the Old Museum for a special concert performance with international star, ALFIO!!

Following yet another successful tour of the USA, two prestigious Emmy® Nominations and a national ‘Top 10 Billboard’ album, Sydney born ALFIO now a New York resident, is in Brisbane for one show only! VIEW FLYER for all the details

Captivating audiences around the world with powerful vocals combined with charming comedic banter, ALFIO brings a new approach to the tenor tradition through his modern interpretations of English and Italian standards, classical takes on contemporary chart-toppers and original songs that bridge musical genres. In August 2015, ALFIO joined the illustrious ranks of world class performers in the United States’ Public Broadcasting Station, with the successful debut of ‘ALFIO In Concert’ followed by a national tour in key markets in the Fall of 2016 and a Top 10 Album on the Billboard charts. Additionally, ‘ALFIO In Concert’ has garnered TWO Emmy® Nominations!

An Australian native of Italian descent, classically-trained ALFIO brings passion to his performances and draws constant comparisons to superstars Andrea Bocelli, Michael Bublè, Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley. This charismatic singer, songwriter and musician is a modern throwback to the legendary greats, delivering a mesmerizing live show filled with much-loved classics, pop standards plus his acclaimed originals. Providing a World Class show with equal parts music journey, powerful vocals and comedy, ALFIO effortlessly brings all generations of music lovers together in one audience; and regardless of whether he sings in English, Italian or Spanish, all languages flow as one.

Whether sitting solo at the piano, backed by an orchestra, or singing a cappella, ALFIO effortlessly and organically connects with his audience. One of his most appealing qualities in both his music and his life is his ability to entwine generations. His music and live show is a testament to that and speaks to the sentiment for all generations to move forward while not forgetting to appreciate the classics. With a talent that is uniquely his own, one thing is clear… ALFIO is traveling in his own lane and doing it his way.

Click on the following link to view a short excerpt of ALFIO’s double Emmy Nominated Television Concert broadcast all over the USA: https://youtu.be/1-U0Z9mn6nw


There will also be a special Broadway performance by Soprano Gabrielle Jack and Tenor Roger Davy.

A concert not to be missed!!!

Tickets: $20 and include refreshments – spumante and panettone.
Venue Details: Old Museum , 480 Gregory Terrace, Bowen Hills QLD 4006
Date and Time: Saturday 25 November, 2.30PM -6PM.

Tickets can be purchased by calling Co.As.It. on 3262 5755, or you can book online at: https://www.oldmuseum.org/event/2017-hxnez
A valid ticket must be provided upon entry.

 

 

FESTITALIA – 8 OCT 2017

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The Brisbane Italian Festival “Festitalia” will be held this year on Sunday 8th October at Spencer park at New Market. Co.As.It. is happy to support this annual event celebrating Italian culture and the Italian community in Brisbane. We will also be participating with a photographic exhibition of Venetian Masks and together with delicious Italian food, folklore dances and traditional Flagthrowers, it will be a day not to be missed!

For all the details on Festitalia and how to purchase tickets, please visit their website: https://www.festitalia.com.au/

We hope to see you all there!

Seniors’ Week Celebration

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Last Wednesday 23 August, Co.As.It. was proud to celebrate this year’s Seniors’ Week with a luncheon event at the Tavernetta Function Centre at Carseldine. With the support of COTA, Co.As.It. was happy to share and recognise the many contributions made by seniors in our communities, helping to improve community attitudes towards older people and aging.

On arrival guests had the chance to mingle and catch up with old friends before the start of the event. Italian tunes filled the room as entertainers Walter Morellato and Cathy Drummond began prepping for their 2 Timing performance. After initial speeches from Co.As.It. President, Cav. Nereo Brezzi and Co.As.It. Director Dina Ranieri, guests where moved by the words of a Co.As.It. client who was kind enough to share his story and gratitude for the help and support Co.As.It was able to provide in his greatest time of need. The heartfelt speech resonated with many of the guests and staff.

After a delightful buffet lunch it was time for our inspirational guest speaker, Beverley Rilatt-Richardson who shared with us that ‘Age is no barrier to happiness’. Beverley spoke about her inspiring journey starting out as a welfare worker, and her many achievements including being the oldest contestant on the first Australian reality TV show ‘The Mole’, and starting her own business at the age of 68. Her journey was inspiring to many, showing our community that age is no barrier.

Walter Morellato and Cathy Drummond later entertained guest on the dance floor with timeless hits and some old Italian favourites. It was a delight to see community members enjoying a good dance.

 

 

 

 

 

The drawing of the raffle had many guests excited with 2 scrumptious gift baskets up for grabs from The Little Shop at Virginia, as well as a beauty voucher from Lynne Pai Beauty at Carseldine and two $250 photography vouchers from Deep Grey Photography. The prizes didn’t stop there though, with one lucky winner from each table walking away with a special lucky door prize.

Co.As.It. would like to thank all the sponsors for their generous donations and support as well as our guest speaker Beverley Rilatt-Richardson. We would also like to extend a special thank you to COTA for supporting our event.

 

 

 

 

 

Thank you to our Sponsors
COTA  http://www.cota.org.au/australia/
The Little Shop http://www.acitgroup.com.au/the-little-shop/
Lynne Pai Beauty – Carseldine
Deep Grey Photography  http://www.deepgrey.com/

 

 

Another Great Celebration – International Women’s Day 2017

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Co.As.It. Community Services celebrated yet another successful International Women’s Day Morning tea, last Saturday 4 March at the Victoria Park Golf Complex. This year Co.As.It supported the global theme “Be Bold For Change” calling on the community to help forge a better working world – a more gender inclusive world.

The event reminded community members that each one of us can be a leader within our own spheres of influence and that taking bold pragmatic action can be the first step in accelerating gender parity. Hosted this year by Channel 7’s The Great South East, Damien Anthony Rossi and The Voice Australia’s Naomi Price, the morning tea brought together over 250 women, recognising and celebrating their unique contributions, whether it be in their professional or personal lives.

From upper left: Kate Zegenhagen, Cr Vicki Howard, Naomi Price and Damien Anthony Rossi From lower left: COM.IT.ES President Mariangela Stagnitti, Co.As.It. Director Dina Ranieri and Community Care Manager PHN Brisbane North, Michele Smith

Distinguished guests on the day included, Councillor for Central Ward, Vicky Howard, President of COM.IT.ES. for Qld and NT, Mariangela Stagnitti and Manager Community Care PHN Brisbane North, Michele Smith. Apologies were read out by Co.As.It. Director Dina Ranieri on behalf of Hon Grace Grace MP, Hon Shannon Fentiman MP and Senator Hon Concetta Fierravanti-Wells who sent through a video message addressed to all guests celebrating International Women’s Day.

From left: Sonia Gold Dooney from Petrol and Naomi Price

Fashions from Petrol Paddington elegantly graced the runway once again for a fabulous fashion show. Conducted by Petrol owner Sonia Gold Dooney, the latest on style trends walked the catwalk showcasing a mixture of day wear evening wear and glamour. This year’s guests were encouraged to share the International Women’s Day message on social media with the help of a fun photo corner set up with various props. It was great to see the support and engagement from the audience for this important cause towards equality.

The highlight of the event was of course the drawing of the raffle prizes. Each year Co.As.It. is overwhelmed by the generous support from businesses and individuals donating a prize to help raise funds for their Aged Care Program.

Co.As.It. would like to give a special thanks to its major sponsors, Petrol in Paddington for the fashion show parade, Mt Thompson Memorial Gardens for the lovely flower centrepieces and Italiquore Brands Internationale for the flowing prosecco during the day.

Thank you to all the individuals and business who supported our annual event:

Blue Illusion, Cr Norm Wyndham, Uno Salon, Deep Grey, Brazilian Beauty Clayfield, Ultra Painting, Diva Hair Ascot, Robertson Gardens, Dello Mano, Hon. Grace Grace MP, Azentro, Peter Russo MP, Crown Family Jewellers, Ink for Hair, Shine Beauty Salons, Ella Bachè New Farm, Jeanette Thomas Nail Studio and Flora di Lizio.

Our fantastic raffle prizes