di Tom Padula
Immersed in the rolling countryside of Victoria’s northwest, the Calabria Club in Bulla stands as a proud beacon of Italian-Australian identity. Founded in 1970 by a close-knit group of immigrants from Sambiase, Lamezia Terme, this cultural institution has flourished into a vibrant gathering place for generations of Melburnians with Calabrian roots — and for anyone drawn to the warmth of Italian tradition.
At the heart of the club’s annual activities is the Sagra della Soppressata, a festival that draws hundreds each year to celebrate Calabrian salumi-making. Here, family recipes and artisanal methods are passed down in a festive, hands-on environment — a powerful expression of culinary heritage and community pride.
I had the pleasure of attending this year’s festival on Sunday 15 June 2025, where I met with many members of Melbourne’s Italian community, including the Club President, Sam (Salvatore Sposato), whose leadership continues to energise the club’s mission.
The Calabria Club is also known for its broader engagement in Italian cultural events. In 2024, it hosted Melbourne’s Festa della Repubblica, an all-day celebration filled with live performances on dual stages, a children’s zone, delicious regional fare, and the unmistakable joy of a community gathering. The day began solemnly with a tribute from Melbourne’s Armed and Combatant Associations, followed by a Mass celebrated in Italian. This year, the Republic Day festivities were held at the Casa D’Abruzzo Club in Epping.
Beyond its festivals, the Calabria Club plays a central role in community life, hosting religious feasts honouring saints such as San Francesco di Paola and Madonna della Quercia. Its doors are also open to families for weddings, baptisms, and milestone celebrations, while its extensive grounds, in partnership with Dogs Victoria, house the Bulla Exhibition Centre — a premier location for dog shows and canine competitions.
Looking ahead, the club has embraced innovation with its Centre of Excellence. This ambitious initiative blends tradition with technology, promoting Calabrian culture through cooking demonstrations, virtual tours, and regional product sales. It’s a modern twist on heritage, designed to captivate the younger generation and strengthen cultural ties in an ever-changing world. Located at 5 Uniting Lane, Bulla, the Calabria Club remains a cultural cornerstone — a place where history is not only remembered but lived and shared, every day.
