Craig Laundy (Reid, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Ferragosto, or Assumption Day, is an Italian national holiday celebrated on 15 August, and I was thrilled to join my many Italian friends in Five Dock on Sunday, 17 August, when the main street came alive with the tastes and sounds of Italy. Despite the poor weather—and it did pour—rain failed to dampen the wonderful Italian-Australian spirit at one of the most iconic and best loved festivals in Sydney.

The event attracts more than 50,000 visitors each year, and the many thousands of people who attend the event from right across my electorate and beyond enjoyed delicious Italian food, with over 160 food, wine—which I was keen on!—and merchandise stalls. Meanwhile, magnificent local performers thrilled audiences with activities on four different stages. I am biased and a proud father, but my daughter Analise and her dance crew from Elevate were by far the best.

I would like to congratulate and thank the organisers and sponsors of the festival, which year after year continues to be a highlight on the events calendar of the inner west of Sydney. The organisers, the council and everyone locally worked so hard to bring this together, and it really is an outstanding day for families one and all. I encourage all members in the House and around Australia to come to Five Dock next year and enjoy some magnificent Italian-Australian hospitality.