In a heartfelt ceremony held on Saturday, 15 July, 2023, the community of the Inner West gathered to celebrate the official opening of ‘Ross Maniaci Place,’ a shared space on Great North Road. This momentous occasion was a fitting tribute to Ross Maniaci, the first Italian-born alderman and Mayor of Drummoyne, who dedicated his life to serving others and making a lasting impact on his community.
Ross Maniaci, born Cavaliere Rosario Maniaci, MBE, on August 4, 1934, in Lipari, Isole Eolie, migrated to Australia in 1949 at the age of 15. He quickly became a well-known figure within the Italian community and a respected leader in the Drummoyne area. Ross’s journey of community service began in earnest when he established his accountancy practice in Five Dock in 1967, tirelessly serving his clients for over four decades until his retirement in 2007. For many years, he also served the community through Patronato Enasco, on Great North Road.
Beyond his professional success, Ross was driven by a deep desire to uplift and empower others. He inspired many, both within the Italian community and beyond, to become actively engaged in politics and community affairs. Ross’s dedication and unwavering commitment led him to serve as an alderman for 12 years on Drummoyne Council, during which he held the esteemed positions of deputy mayor and mayor, becoming the first mayor from a non-English- speaking background.
Ross Maniaci’s contributions to society extended far beyond his role in local governance. He was a trailblazer who broke barriers, exemplifying the potential of individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds to make a significant impact. Recognizing his tireless efforts, Queen Elizabeth II honoured Ross with an MBE, while the Italian Government bestowed upon him the title of Cavaliere. Moreover, Ross was a pillar within the Italian community, actively involved in various organisations and associations that aimed to preserve and celebrate Italian culture, especially that of the Aeolian Islands. He played an instrumental role in the formation of the Associazione Isole Eolie in Sydney, serving as its first president for an impressive 15 years.
Additionally, Ross became the president of the Federazione Siciliana, which united various Sicilian associations in Sydney, further strengthening the Italian-Australian community. Ross Maniaci’s legacy is one of generosity, integrity, and unwavering dedication. He touched the lives of countless individuals, always ready to lend a helping hand without seeking anything in return.
The respect and admiration he garnered from his family, friends, and the wider community were evident during the opening of ‘Ross Maniaci Place.’ In attendance were his beloved wife, children, grandchildren, extended family, fellow Aeolians, Mayor Angelo Tsirekas, Deputy Mayor Stephanie Di Pasqua MP, and the Councillors of Canada Bay Council.
The dedication of ‘Ross Maniaci Place’ in the heart of the Five Dock Town Centre serves as a poignant reminder of the lasting contributions made by the Aeolian community to the City of Canada Bay Council. This tribute not only honours Ross’s memory but also highlights Australia’s rich cultural heritage that has shaped the vibrant tapestry.
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