The WA Maritime Museum hosted an inspiring conversation as part of the Totally Lit Festival, spotlighting the remarkable journey of the Fini family and the broader contributions of the Italian diaspora to Fremantle’s cultural life.
The discussion traced the life of Tony Fini, who arrived in Australia as a young migrant from Casoli, Italy, in 1951. From humble beginnings, Tony overcame numerous challenges to become a trailblazing businessman and property developer, leaving a lasting mark on Fremantle’s landscape and community.
Tony’s eldest son, Don Fini, joined UWA academic Maria Rosaria Francomacaro and host Chenée Marrapodi to share personal stories, family memories, and reflections on the experiences of Italian migrants. The conversation opened with a heartfelt recollection from Nadia Ranieri: “The first time I saw Tony Fini was the moment he stepped ashore in Australia… I watched as a young man walked down the gangplank and into the warm embrace of my Uncle Osvaldo.”
The dialogue underscored the enduring influence of Italian migrants in shaping Fremantle’s social, cultural, and economic fabric. Organisers and attendees alike praised the event for its intimate and insightful exploration of migration history, heritage, and identity. The session, running for an hour, is part of a broader Totally Lit Festival program, which continues to feature storytelling, cultural discussions, and interactive activities for audiences of all ages.
Special thanks were extended to Nadia Ranieri and Tony Fini for their invaluable contributions, with many attendees expressing appreciation for the opportunity to honour and learn from these rich personal histories.
