Benvenuti! Council promotes region with Italian Consul visit

18 February 2021

Southern Downs Regional Council will proudly fly the green, white and red Italian flag next week and showcase the region’s vibrant cultural heritage when the Italian Consul, Mr Salvatore Napolitano visits to explore export opportunities with local businesses.

Long regarded an authentic slice of Italy in Queensland, the Granite Belt will have its moment to shine, with a number of iconic local tourism operators and producers meeting with the Consul during the three-day tour from Thursday 25 February 2021.

Southern Downs Mayor Vic Pennisi said it was an honour to host Mr Napolitano and promote the rich and colourful Italian culture and produce that defines the southern region.

“Our Italian heritage has stitched a number of patches into the tapestry of the Granite Belt and broader Southern Downs region and it is a privilege to showcase the region’s diversity and culture to the Consul and his travelling dignitaries,” Mayor Pennisi said.

“We look forward to growing and fostering our partnership with Italy during this visit and exploring new, mutual export opportunities to benefit ‘grassroots tourism’, our local producers and industry.

”Whether you live, work, play or stay on the Southern Downs, we offer everything from amazing fresh produce, award winning wineries, boutique breweries, unique arts and crafts and we are proud to share these regional highlights with the Consul.”

The International Club will host a public dinner with the Consul on Thursday 25 February 2021. This is a COVID-19 safe event and numbers are strictly limited. Tickets must be pre-purchased at www.stanthorpetickets.com.au or the Customer Service Centre in Stanthorpe. More details at the end of this release.

The Consul will also visit food manufactures, review the Italian Enrichment Program at the Stanthorpe State High School and meet with industry representatives such as Chambers of Commerce.

Travelling dignitaries

Mr Salvatore Napolitano, Consul of Italy in Brisbane (Queensland and Northern Territory)

Cav. Filippo D’ Arro, President of the Italian Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Queensland,

Ms Mariangela Stagnitti, President of Comites Queensland and Northern Territory (elected board of Italians in Queensland)

Ms. Dina Ranieri, Director of Co.As.It. Community Services Ltd.

Mr Fabio Orlando, Secretary General of Comites Queensland and Northern Territory

Dinner with the Italian Consul

Date: 6.30pm, Thursday 25 February 2021

Venue: International Club, Club Road, Stanthorpe

Tickets: $40 pp (cash bar available)

Note: Tickets sales close on Monday 22 February 2021

For more information, please contact Council on 1300 697 372