Concetta Mazzocato
Location: Brisbane
Through her volunteer work over the past 56 years, Concetta Mazzocato has become a central figure in Brisbane's Italian community. With the aim of helping Italian migrants settle into their new lives in Brisbane, Concetta established three important groups.
Firstly, in 1952, Concetta established the Italian Youth Club with her sister. The club brought together younger generations of Italian migrants, many of whom had arrived in Australia alone and without their families.
As Brisbane's Italian community grew, Concetta then founded the Catholic Women's Association in New Farm, where she continued in the role of president for the next 14 years.
Concetta established the third group, the Red Cross New Farm Service Unit, in 1984. The work of the unit raises vital funds for the Red Cross and provides a community-focused purpose for many of its members. In addition to organising activities and excursions, Concetta also coordinates fundraising events, including monthly bingo sessions, the proceeds of which go to the Red Cross.
Now aged 82, Concetta continues to host monthly meetings of the Red Cross New Farm Service Unit at her house. In doing so, Concetta helps others feel at home in Brisbane, just as she has done for more than half a century.
Last reviewed: 21 August 2009