Italian fest to dish up Ingham’s best

HINCHINBROOK MP Nick Dametto is urging Ingham to turn all shades of red, white and green as the town gears up for its annual Australian Italian Festival this weekend.

From cannoli’s to ciao dancers and everything in between, Mr Dametto said the festival was a fantastic celebration of Ingham’s multicultural roots.

“This event is a wonderful reminder of the enormous contribution made by the Italian community to the Ingham district over many decades,” he said.

“My family have enjoyed a long association with the area in farming and I couldn’t be prouder to now represent this region as the Member for Hinchinbrook.”

Mr Dametto praised the tireless efforts of the festival’s committee and their longstanding commitment to the community.

“We are so fortunate to have a group of hard working, passionate volunteers organising the Australian Italian Festival and I thank them for their efforts,” he said.

“There would simply be no event without them.”

Mr Dametto said the festival helped unite Ingham’s diverse social fabric.

“The festival welcomes people of all cultures with open arms and it is a joy to see that generous and compassionate spirit on display every year,” he said.

“I look forward to getting amongst it and taking part in what is one of Australia’s premier cultural events.”

This year’s festival will be themed “Flavours of Rome”, with a smorgasbord of Italian dishes from the capital set to have locals salivating.

A host of classy entertainment is also in store for revellers while there will be no shortage of cooking demonstrations from local food artisan Paul Hallam, Youssef

Ben-Touati’s Pizza Acrobatics and My Kitchen Rules duo Luciano Ippoliti and Martino Convertino.

“I know locals are just going to love what’s on offer this year and it will be great to see the community embrace the festival once more,” Mr Dametto said.

The Australian Italian Festival will be held on August 4 and 5 at Ingham’s TYTO Precinct.

For more information, visit www.australianitalianfestival.com.au, call 4776 5288 or search “Australian-Italian Festival” on Facebook.