M3P - User contributions [en]

Kylie Gauci

2013-03-26T04:42:43Z

Whoswho:

'''Kylie Gauci'''

'''Paralympian'''

Kylie Gauci was born in January 1985 with lumbar sacral agenesis (missing lower part of spine). She lives in Rooty Hill, NSW and works with ABC TV. She first started competing in wheelchair basketball in 1996 because she loved the contact element of the sport as well as the many finer skills required at the elite level.

Kylie is a prominent name in the NWBL (National Wheelchair Basketball League) with the Stacks Goudkamp Bears and in 2011 was MVP (Most Valuable Player) and named in the All Star Five. She also plays in the men’s national league for the Sydney Uni Wheelkings.

On the international scene Kylie played as a 14 year old for the Australian junior national team and by age 17 she became a regular in the senior national team. In 2002 she won a bronze medal at the world championships, a silver in 2004 at the Athens Paralympics, a bronze at Beijing in 2008 and another silver in London in 2012. She has two gold medals following victories in the Osaka Cup in 2009 and the Asia Oceania Regional Championships in 2011.

Kyle is regarded as one of the fittest and most dedicated members of the Australian team with a really good outside game but her inside work is just as effective.

Sources:
1. paralympic.org.au/team/kylie-gauci
2. wikipedia.org

Kylie Gauci

2013-03-26T04:41:16Z

Whoswho: Created page with "'''Kylie Gauci Paralympian''' Kylie Gauci was born in January 1985 with lumbar sacral agenesis (missing lower part of spine). She lives in Rooty Hill, NSW and works with AB..."

'''Kylie Gauci

Paralympian'''

Kylie Gauci was born in January 1985 with lumbar sacral agenesis (missing lower part of spine). She lives in Rooty Hill, NSW and works with ABC TV. She first started competing in wheelchair basketball in 1996 because she loved the contact element of the sport as well as the many finer skills required at the elite level.

Kylie is a prominent name in the NWBL (National Wheelchair Basketball League) with the Stacks Goudkamp Bears and in 2011 was MVP (Most Valuable Player) and named in the All Star Five. She also plays in the men’s national league for the Sydney Uni Wheelkings.

On the international scene Kylie played as a 14 year old for the Australian junior national team and by age 17 she became a regular in the senior national team. In 2002 she won a bronze medal at the world championships, a silver in 2004 at the Athens Paralympics, a bronze at Beijing in 2008 and another silver in London in 2012. She has two gold medals following victories in the Osaka Cup in 2009 and the Asia Oceania Regional Championships in 2011.

Kyle is regarded as one of the fittest and most dedicated members of the Australian team with a really good outside game but her inside work is just as effective.

Source: paralympic.org.au/team/kylie-gauci

Shane Delia

2013-03-26T04:35:44Z

Whoswho:

'''Shane Delia'''

'''Chef/Restaurateur'''

Shane Delia is one of Melbourne’s celebrity chefs. He undertook his apprenticeship at Le Restaurant at the Hotel Sofitel where he excelled within the traditional kitchen structure. At the age of 21 he was appointed sous chef at Eleonore’s at Chateau Yering in the Yarra Valley where he was promoted to executive chef in 2003. Eleonore’s was recognised as one of the finest country Victoria hotels and a member of the prestigious Relais Chateaux chain.

In 2008 Shane opened his much awarded restaurant Maha (named after his Egyptian-born wife) featuring Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. He then opened his second restaurant in Kew in partnership with the Press Club Group and George Calombaris. It is named St Katherine’s after the patron saint of the village of Shane’s parents in Malta.

Shane has appeared frequently on Network Ten’s Ready Steady Cook and The Circle and as a guest on Masterchef. His first cookbook, “Maha, Middle Eastern Home Cooking” was released in October 2011.

Shane is married to Maha and they have two children. His Maltese origins are manifested in a tattoo depicting the “evil eye”. Shane asked the tattooist to combine aspects of the Maltese and Egyptian evil eyes saying, “You always need someone watching your back”. He has three “eyes” watching over St Katherine’s.

Sources:
1. The Age, Epicure, July 20, 2012.
2. mahabg.com.au

Dr John Falzon

2013-03-26T04:35:15Z

Whoswho: Created page with "'''Dr John Falzon CEO St Vincent de Paul Society''' Dr John Falzon is the Chief Executive Officer of the St Vincent de Paul Society National Council of Victoria. His Maltes..."

'''Dr John Falzon

CEO St Vincent de Paul Society'''

Dr John Falzon is the Chief Executive Officer of the St Vincent de Paul Society National Council of Victoria. His Maltese parents migrated to Australia from the East End of London when John was only seven. His parents and their two sons lived in his uncle’s garage in Blacktown, in Sydney’s outer west, before moving into their own house nearby.

John’s interest in issues of social justice stems from his own family context. His father instilled in him a sense of what social justice means for working people. In John’s words “I saw my own father suffering the effects of injustice when he got cancer from having to use carcinogenic solvents while testing road materials for a large company”.

He had a strong academic interest which led to his gaining a PhD and working in academia. He holds degrees in Literature, Theology, Philosophy, Politics and Social Analysis. He is also a published poet. However, he has always had an interest in being involved at the grassroots level. He has held a variety of positions – youth worker, community development officer on public housing estates, and conducting research and advocacy for non-government organisations.

John was a participant in the 2020 Summit, has served as a member of the ACOSS Board and has also served on government advisory committees such as the Community Response Task Force and the Energy White Paper High Level Consultative Committee. He is a member of the Australian Social Inclusion Board.

John has written and spoken widely on the structural causes of marginalisation and inequality in Australia and has long been involved in advocacy campaigns for a fairer and more inclusive Australia, especially with regard to welfare legislation, housing justice, homelessness and poverty.

Sources:
1. socialinclusion.gov.au
2. abc.net.au
3. becausechildrenmatter.org.au

Shane Delia

2013-03-26T04:26:39Z

Whoswho:

'''Shane Delia'''

'''Chef/Restaurateur'''

Shane Delia is one of Melbourne’s celebrity chefs. He undertook his apprenticeship at Le Restaurant at the Hotel Sofitel where he excelled within the traditional kitchen structure. At the age of 21 he was appointed sous chef at Eleonore’s at Chateau Yering in the Yarra Valley where he was promoted to executive chef in 2003. Eleonore’s was recognised as one of the finest country Victoria hotels and a member of the prestigious Relais Chateaux chain.

In 2008 Shane opened his much awarded restaurant Maha (named after his Egyptian-born wife) featuring Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. He then opened his second restaurant in Kew in partnership with the Press Club Group and George Calombaris. It is named St Katherine’s after the patron saint of the village of Shane’s parents in Malta.

Shane has appeared frequently on Network Ten’s Ready Steady Cook and The Circle and as a guest on Masterchef. His first cookbook, “Maha, Middle Eastern Home Cooking” was released in October 2011.

Shane is married to Maha and they have two children. His Maltese origins are manifested in a tattoo depicting the “evil eye”. Shane asked the tattooist to combine aspects of the Maltese and Egyptian evil eyes saying, “You always need someone watching your back”. He has three “eyes” watching over St Katherine’s.

Source:
1. The Age, Epicure, July 20, 2012.
2. mahabg.com.au

Shane Delia

2013-03-26T04:25:47Z

Whoswho: Created page with "'''Shane Delia''' '''Chef/Restaurateur''' Shane Delia is one of Melbourne’s celebrity chefs. He undertook his apprenticeship at Le Restaurant at the Hotel Sofitel where h..."

'''Shane Delia'''

'''Chef/Restaurateur'''

Shane Delia is one of Melbourne’s celebrity chefs. He undertook his apprenticeship at Le Restaurant at the Hotel Sofitel where he excelled within the traditional kitchen structure. At the age of 21 he was appointed sous chef at Eleonore’s at Chateau Yering in the Yarra Valley where he was promoted to executive chef in 2003. Eleonore’s was recognised as one of the finest country Victoria hotels and a member of the prestigious Relais Chateaux chain.

In 2008 Shane opened his much awarded restaurant Maha (named after his Egyptian-born wife) featuring Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. He then opened his second restaurant in Kew in partnership with the Press Club Group and George Calombaris. It is named St Katherine’s after the patron saint of the village of Shane’s parents in Malta.

Shane has appeared frequently on Network Ten’s Ready Steady Cook and The Circle and as a guest on Masterchef. His first cookbook, “Maha, Middle Eastern Home Cooking” was released in October 2011.

Shane is married to Maha and they have two children. His Maltese origins are manifested in a tattoo depicting the “evil eye”. Shane asked the tattooist to combine aspects of the Maltese and Egyptian evil eyes saying, “You always need someone watching your back”. He has three “eyes” watching over St Katherine’s.

Source: 1. The Age, Epicure, July 20, 2012 2. mahabg.com.au

Sarah De Bono

2013-03-26T04:21:57Z

Whoswho:

'''Sarah De Bono'''

'''Singer-songwriter, pianist'''

Melbourne born and raised Sarah began performing at an early age in a variety of local venues including performances with the Australian Girls Choir where she won an Outstanding Potential Award for Excellence in Vocal and Dedication. By the age
of 12 Sarah released her first single CD in 2004 called The Last Anzac. She won the Brimbank Idol competition in 2007. Her genres are Rhythm and Blues, pop, soul and dance.

Sarah shot to national prominence in 2012 after a successful appearance on The Voice (Australia) where she finished fourth. She received support from Joel Madden and his wife Nicole Richie. After signing a record deal with Universal Music Australia in June, she achieved a top 10 hit with Beautiful which peaked at number four on the ARIA Singles Chart and was certified gold. In July, her first album No Shame was released which debuted at number seven on the ARIA Albums Chart.

She was a supporting act for Kelly Clarkson’s Australian leg of her Stronger Tour in September/October 2012. She is currently working on her second album and is likely to move to Sydney to maintain her connection in the music and fashion business. She has already been styled and photographed for Betts 2012/13 spring/summer campaign.

Source: Wikipedia

Sarah De Bono

2013-03-26T04:20:51Z

Whoswho: Created page with "'''Sarah De Bono''' '''Singer-songwriter, pianist''' Melbourne born and raised Sarah began performing at an early age in a variety of local venues including performances wit..."

George Pace

2013-03-26T04:07:23Z

Whoswho:

'''George Pace'''

'''Businessman'''

The fourth child of Joseph Pace and Frances Psaila, George Pace was born in Hamrun, Malta in 1932. His mother died in childbirth when he was just 20 months, so he spent several years living with his aunt until, at the age of nine, he was admitted to St Joseph’s Institute, a home for boys. By seventeen, he qualified as a mechanical engineer and his first job involved mechanical maintenance of college equipment and vehicles.

George migrated to Australia on the Fairsea in 1954. In 1955 he married Rosie Micallef, whom he had met only days prior to his departure from Malta. Rosie migrated to Australia with her family a few months after George and when George heard, through his friend Joe Micallef, of their departure, he made sure he was there to welcome them at Port Melbourne. They eventually married and settled in Melbourne where George worked with the Footscray Bus Depot as a senior motor mechanic and leading hand for over 25 years.

George is the epitome of a self-made man, a jack-of-all trades who achieved success through hard work and dedication. He taught himself many skills which he often used to take on extra work to earn extra income for his family. In addition to working with the Bus Depot, he constructed wrought iron balustrades and gates in his garage at home, initially for himself but quickly turning this into a prosperous side enterprise. He began to involve himself in building, beginning with his own homes and then going on to become a licensed Master Builder. In addition to building his own homes he built a holiday house in St Leonards, assisted his son Michael to build his own house, and supervised the construction of seven units.

However, it was another sideline which really established him in business. During the sixties, he started selling venetian blinds, earning commission only, in the newly expanding housing subdivisions of the western suburbs. This he did while still working at the Bus Depot. From this extra income he started investing in and developing property. By 1983 he set up his own showroom, Pace Interiors in St Albans, and quickly expanded to the shop next door. He set up the manufacturing of curtains in his own small factory and then established a larger factory in Tullamarine. The business was taken over by his son Michael in 1995 and still exists today with a much larger showroom in Hawthorn. George, whilst retired from day to day business, continued to work in property management.

George also enjoys a talent in music. When Fr Claude Borg was transferred to Sydney, George took over the running of the St Gaetan Choir for five years where his daughter Margaret was the organist. His son David is one of the established members of the Painters and Dockers rock band. George’s father, Joseph, composed the music for the Malta Labour Party Hymn which is still played today. In recognition of his musical contribution to Malta, the street where Joseph lived in Hamrun was renamed after him Triq Guże Pace Mużiċist.

George and Rosie have four children and six grandchildren.

Source: Joan Hall: ''George and Rosie'', 2011

George Pace

2013-03-26T04:06:16Z

Whoswho: Created page with "'''George Pace''' '''Businessman''' The fourth child of Joseph Pace and Frances Psaila, George Pace was born in Hamrun, Malta in 1932. His mother died in childbirth when he..."

'''George Pace'''

'''Businessman'''

The fourth child of Joseph Pace and Frances Psaila, George Pace was born in Hamrun, Malta in 1932. His mother died in childbirth when he was just 20 months, so he spent several years living with his aunt until, at the age of nine, he was admitted to St Joseph’s Institute, a home for boys. By seventeen, he qualified as a mechanical engineer and his first job involved mechanical maintenance of college equipment and vehicles.

George migrated to Australia on the Fairsea in 1954. In 1955 he married Rosie Micallef, whom he had met only days prior to his departure from Malta. Rosie migrated to Australia with her family a few months after George and when George heard, through his friend Joe Micallef, of their departure, he made sure he was there to welcome them at Port Melbourne. They eventually married and settled in Melbourne where George worked with the Footscray Bus Depot as a senior motor mechanic and leading hand for over 25 years.

George is the epitome of a self-made man, a jack-of-all trades who achieved success through hard work and dedication. He taught himself many skills which he often used to take on extra work to earn extra income for his family. In addition to working with the Bus Depot, he constructed wrought iron balustrades and gates in his garage at home, initially for himself but quickly turning this into a prosperous side enterprise. He began to involve himself in building, beginning with his own homes and then going on to become a licensed Master Builder. In addition to building his own homes he built a holiday house in St Leonards, assisted his son Michael to build his own house, and supervised the construction of seven units.

However, it was another sideline which really established him in business. During the sixties, he started selling venetian blinds, earning commission only, in the newly expanding housing subdivisions of the western suburbs. This he did while still working at the Bus Depot. From this extra income he started investing in and developing property. By 1983 he set up his own showroom, Pace Interiors in St Albans, and quickly expanded to the shop next door. He set up the manufacturing of curtains in his own small factory and then established a larger factory in Tullamarine. The business was taken over by his son Michael in 1995 and still exists today with a much larger showroom in Hawthorn. George, whilst retired from day to day business, continued to work in property management.

George also enjoys a talent in music. When Fr Claude Borg was transferred to Sydney, George took over the running of the St Gaetan Choir for five years where his daughter Margaret was the organist. His son David is one of the established members of the Painters and Dockers rock band. George’s father, Joseph, composed the music for the Malta Labour Party Hymn which is still played today. In recognition of his musical contribution to Malta, the street where Joseph lived in Hamrun was renamed after him Triq Guze Pace Muzicist.

George and Rosie have four children and six grandchildren.

Source: Joan Hall: ''George and Rosie'', 2011

Dr Joe Abela (author)

2013-03-24T22:53:56Z

Whoswho:

'''Joe Abela (1931-1991)'''
B.Phil., Lic. en Phil., Ph.D.

Foremost among those who struggled to maintain Maltese language in Australia one must include Dr Joe (Guze) Abela. He will be remembered as a promoter and teacher of the Maltese language, as a poet and author, as well as a pioneer of Maltese language broadcasting in Melbourne.
Joe was born in Zabbar and migrated to Australia in 1952. As a keen member of the Society of Christian Doctrine he worked hard to infuse the young with a solid Christian background. He was the Director of this branch for some 17 years. He studied for the priesthood at Corpus Christi in Werribee. He worked within the Maltese community in the western suburbs of Melbourne for several years. He met Carol Parkes, a nurse, when he was hospitalised and they subsequently married. He continued his studies in philosophy at Louvain University in Belgium where he graduated magnum cum laude, obtaining a B.Phil., Lic. en Phil., and a Ph.D.)
On his return he began to undertake research in the Faculty of Education at Monash University and was a volunteer Maltese language broadcaster on community radio 3ZZ. In June 1975 Joe Abela was invited to coordinate the Maltese language programs on the newly established ethnic radio 3EA which later became SBS Radio. Joe continued in his role as coordinator and broadcaster for many years until he resigned due to ill health. In 1981 he was appointed as a lecturer at Coburg State College which, with a later amalgamation, formed the Phillip Institute of Technology. He introduced Maltese as a major area of study initially in the Associate Diploma of Ethnic Studies and later as part of the B.A. in Multicultural Studies. Through his efforts, Maltese was also included as a subject at Higher School Certificate level.
Dr Abela is the co-author of several books in Maltese. His poetry style is largely traditional, although, as Chetcuti remarks, there is in his poetry “a sense of uncertainty, wishes without hope, which elements are characteristic of modern poetry”. They deal with various topics relating to life as he sees it. He says: Today I write on any subject. Whatever I say, and whatever I feel inside me, that for me is a subject of poetry. But the most dear thing to me is the people, the sense of justice. Those are the topics of my poetry, sometimes humorous, sometimes serious, sometime pessimistic… I do not apologize. He considered himself to be a rebel, influenced by the rebel poet – his own teacher in Malta – Karmenu Vassallo.
Publications:
Abela has written both prose and poetry, in Maltese as well as in English. He is also the author of philosophical works. The following is a list of his publications.
• 1953: Tlitt Iqlub. [‘Three Hearts’] – poetry collection (with M. Cassar, J. Sciberras)
• 1957: ‘Maltese death and burial’, Madonna, Melbourne,
• 1964: Hawn min iridek [about seminary life]
• 1983: Meta Jofrogħ il-Baħar [‘When the tide moves out’] – poetry (with Maurice Cauchi).
• 1984: The Concept of the Infinite in the works of Giordano Bruno, which is a philosophical treatise.
• 1984: Siltiet [‘Selections’] – quotations (with Maurice Cauchi).

His poetry is also found in several anthologies, including: Driegħ ma’ Driegħ (1971), Irjieħ (1986), Poet’s Choice (ed. Roberts, Phillip 1976), Ethnic Australia (1981), How strong the roots, London, 1981. He has also written an autobiography, as well as a collection of post-war Maltese immigrants’ letters which has not yet been published. He was involved in editing The Voice of Malta. He has also published several articles, including ‘Maltese settlement in Melbourne’ in The Australian People: An encyclopaedia of the nation, its people and their origins, (ed. by J. Jupp et al., 1988)
His other involvements included:
• Chairperson of the Maltese panel, National Accreditation for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI).
• Member of the Australian Institute of Multicultural Affairs.
• The Maltese Literature Group: Perhaps this will be the most important achievement of Dr Abela, namely his involvement and re-creation of an active group interested in the maintenance of the Maltese language. There were other attempts at organizing a literature group inVictoria, however, he ensured that the MLG became an active force, which in effect has lasted well after his death.
It is unfortunate that Dr Abela died before the Honours system was introduced in Malta. However, in 1988, he was honoured with a citation from the Maltese government for his part in promoting Maltese language & culture in Australia. In this citation from the then Prime Minister, the Hon Dr Eddie Fenech Adami, it states: you have served your country nobly and well, above the normal call of duty, dedicating most of your leisure time to the advancement of culture, friendship and unity within the Maltese community and in the wider multi-cultural society of Australia. You have set a very high standard for others to follow, and I trust that others will be able to continue on the far-sighted course you have initiated.
At the inaugural MCCV Community Awards held at the Maltese Community Centre in Melbourne, on 11August, 2012, Dr Abela received a posthumous award for his contribution to Scholarship and Education. His nephew, Mr Daniel Abela, accepted the award on his behalf. On 24 March 2013, the Maltese Literature Group launched a booklet ''Dr Joe Abela:Hajtu f'Hidmietu'' written by Joe Axiaq on their founder, at the Maltese Centre.

Sources:
1. Joseph Chetcuti, Intervisti, pp.7 & 12
2. The Maltese Herald, 13 December, 1988
3. MCCV News, Sept-Oct 2012
4. Joe Axiaq, Dr Joe Abela: Ħajtu f'Ħidmietu, Maltese Literature Group, 2012
5. Maurice N. Cauchi, Maltese Achievers in Australia, MCCV, 2006

Dr Joe Abela (author)

2013-03-24T22:53:20Z

Whoswho:

'''Joe Abela (1931-1991)'''
B.Phil., Lic. en Phil., Ph.D.

Foremost among those who struggled to maintain Maltese language in Australia one must include Dr Joe (Guze) Abela. He will be remembered as a promoter and teacher of the Maltese language, as a poet and author, as well as a pioneer of Maltese language broadcasting in Melbourne.
Joe was born in Zabbar and migrated to Australia in 1952. As a keen member of the Society of Christian Doctrine he worked hard to infuse the young with a solid Christian background. He was the Director of this branch for some 17 years. He studied for the priesthood at Corpus Christi in Werribee. He worked within the Maltese community in the western suburbs of Melbourne for several years. He met Carol Parkes, a nurse, when he was hospitalised and they subsequently married. He continued his studies in philosophy at Louvain University in Belgium where he graduated magnum cum laude, obtaining a B.Phil., Lic. en Phil., and a Ph.D.)
On his return he began to undertake research in the Faculty of Education at Monash University and was a volunteer Maltese language broadcaster on community radio 3ZZ. In June 1975 Joe Abela was invited to coordinate the Maltese language programs on the newly established ethnic radio 3EA which later became SBS Radio. Joe continued in his role as coordinator and broadcaster for many years until he resigned due to ill health. In 1981 he was appointed as a lecturer at Coburg State College which, with a later amalgamation, formed the Phillip Institute of Technology. He introduced Maltese as a major area of study initially in the Associate Diploma of Ethnic Studies and later as part of the B.A. in Multicultural Studies. Through his efforts, Maltese was also included as a subject at Higher School Certificate level.
Dr Abela is the co-author of several books in Maltese. His poetry style is largely traditional, although, as Chetcuti remarks, there is in his poetry “a sense of uncertainty, wishes without hope, which elements are characteristic of modern poetry”. They deal with various topics relating to life as he sees it. He says: Today I write on any subject. Whatever I say, and whatever I feel inside me, that for me is a subject of poetry. But the most dear thing to me is the people, the sense of justice. Those are the topics of my poetry, sometimes humorous, sometimes serious, sometime pessimistic… I do not apologize. He considered himself to be a rebel, influenced by the rebel poet – his own teacher in Malta – Karmenu Vassallo.
Publications:
Abela has written both prose and poetry, in Maltese as well as in English. He is also the author of philosophical works. The following is a list of his publications.
• 1953: Tlitt Iqlub. [‘Three Hearts’] – poetry collection (with M. Cassar, J. Sciberras)
• 1957: ‘Maltese death and burial’, Madonna, Melbourne,
• 1964: Hawn min iridek [about seminary life]
• 1983: Meta Jofrogħ il-Baħar [‘When the tide moves out’] – poetry (with Maurice Cauchi).
• 1984: The Concept of the Infinite in the works of Giordano Bruno, which is a philosophical treatise.
• 1984: Siltiet [‘Selections’] – quotations (with Maurice Cauchi).

His poetry is also found in several anthologies, including: Driegħ ma’ Driegħ (1971), Irjieħ (1986), Poet’s Choice (ed. Roberts, Phillip 1976), Ethnic Australia (1981), How strong the roots, London, 1981. He has also written an autobiography, as well as a collection of post-war Maltese immigrants’ letters which has not yet been published. He was involved in editing The Voice of Malta. He has also published several articles, including ‘Maltese settlement in Melbourne’ in The Australian People: An encyclopaedia of the nation, its people and their origins, (ed. by J. Jupp et al., 1988)
His other involvements included:
• Chairperson of the Maltese panel, National Accreditation for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI).
• Member of the Australian Institute of Multicultural Affairs.
• The Maltese Literature Group: Perhaps this will be the most important achievement of Dr Abela, namely his involvement and re-creation of an active group interested in the maintenance of the Maltese language. There were other attempts at organizing a literature group inVictoria, however, he ensured that the MLG became an active force, which in effect has lasted well after his death.
It is unfortunate that Dr Abela died before the Honours system was introduced in Malta. However, in 1988, he was honoured with a citation from the Maltese government for his part in promoting Maltese language & culture in Australia. In this citation from the then Prime Minister, the Hon Dr Eddie Fenech Adami, it states: you have served your country nobly and well, above the normal call of duty, dedicating most of your leisure time to the advancement of culture, friendship and unity within the Maltese community and in the wider multi-cultural society of Australia. You have set a very high standard for others to follow, and I trust that others will be able to continue on the far-sighted course you have initiated.
At the inaugural MCCV Community Awards held at the Maltese Community Centre in Melbourne, on 11August, 2012, Dr Abela received a posthumous award for his contribution to Scholarship and Education. His nephew, Mr Daniel Abela, accepted the award on his behalf. On 24 March 2013, the Maltese Literature Group launched a booklet ''Dr Joe Abela:Hajtu f"Hidmietu'' written by Joe Axiaq on their founder, at the Maltese Centre.

Sources:
1. Joseph Chetcuti, Intervisti, pp.7 & 12
2. The Maltese Herald, 13 December, 1988
3. MCCV News, Sept-Oct 2012
4. Joe Axiaq, Dr Joe Abela: Ħajtu f'Ħidmietu, Maltese Literature Group, 2012
5. Maurice N. Cauchi, Maltese Achievers in Australia, MCCV, 2006

Dr Joe Abela (author)

2013-03-24T22:23:05Z

Whoswho:

'''Joe Abela (1931-1991)'''
B.Phil., Lic. en Phil., Ph.D.

Foremost among those who struggled to maintain Maltese language in Australia one must include Dr Joe (Guze) Abela. He will be remembered as a promoter and teacher of the Maltese language, as a poet and author, as well as a pioneer of Maltese language broadcasting in Melbourne.
Joe was born in Zabbar and migrated to Australia in 1952. As a keen member of the Society of Christian Doctrine he worked hard to infuse the young with a solid Christian background. He was the Director of this branch for some 17 years. He studied for the priesthood at Corpus Christi in Werribee. He worked within the Maltese community in the western suburbs of Melbourne for several years. He met Carol Parkes, a nurse, when he was hospitalised and they subsequently married. He continued his studies in philosophy at Louvain University in Belgium where he graduated magnum cum laude, obtaining a B.Phil., Lic. en Phil., and a Ph.D.)
On his return he began to undertake research in the Faculty of Education at Monash University and was a volunteer Maltese language broadcaster on community radio 3ZZ. In June 1975 Joe Abela was invited to coordinate the Maltese language programs on the newly established ethnic radio 3EA which later became SBS Radio. Joe continued in his role as coordinator and broadcaster for many years until he resigned due to ill health. In 1981 he was appointed as a lecturer at Coburg State College which, with a later amalgamation, formed the Phillip Institute of Technology. He introduced Maltese as a major area of study initially in the Associate Diploma of Ethnic Studies and later as part of the B.A. in Multicultural Studies. Through his efforts, Maltese was also included as a subject at Higher School Certificate level.
Dr Abela is the co-author of several books in Maltese. His poetry style is largely traditional, although, as Chetcuti remarks, there is in his poetry “a sense of uncertainty, wishes without hope, which elements are characteristic of modern poetry”. They deal with various topics relating to life as he sees it. He says: Today I write on any subject. Whatever I say, and whatever I feel inside me, that for me is a subject of poetry. But the most dear thing to me is the people, the sense of justice. Those are the topics of my poetry, sometimes humorous, sometimes serious, sometime pessimistic… I do not apologize. He considered himself to be a rebel, influenced by the rebel poet – his own teacher in Malta – Karmenu Vassallo.
Publications:
Abela has written both prose and poetry, in Maltese as well as in English. He is also the author of philosophical works. The following is a list of his publications.
• 1953: Tlitt Iqlub. [‘Three Hearts’] – poetry collection (with M. Cassar, J. Sciberras)
• 1957: ‘Maltese death and burial’, Madonna, Melbourne,
• 1964: Hawn min iridek [about seminary life]
• 1983: Meta Jofrogħ il-Baħar [‘When the tide moves out’] – poetry (with Maurice Cauchi).
• 1984: The Concept of the Infinite in the works of Giordano Bruno, which is a philosophical treatise.
• 1984: Siltiet [‘Selections’] – quotations (with Maurice Cauchi).

His poetry is also found in several anthologies, including: Driegħ ma’ Driegħ (1971), Irjieħ (1986), Poet’s Choice (ed. Roberts, Phillip 1976), Ethnic Australia (1981), How strong the roots, London, 1981. He has also written an autobiography, as well as a collection of post-war Maltese immigrants’ letters which has not yet been published. He was involved in editing The Voice of Malta. He has also published several articles, including ‘Maltese settlement in Melbourne’ in The Australian People: An encyclopaedia of the nation, its people and their origins, (ed. by J. Jupp et al., 1988)
His other involvements included:
• Chairperson of the Maltese panel, National Accreditation for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI).
• Member of the Australian Institute of Multicultural Affairs.
• The Maltese Literature Group: Perhaps this will be the most important achievement of Dr Abela, namely his involvement and re-creation of an active group interested in the maintenance of the Maltese language. There were other attempts at organizing a literature group inVictoria, however, he ensured that the MLG became an active force, which in effect has lasted well after his death.
It is unfortunate that Dr Abela died before the Honours system was introduced in Malta. However, in 1988, he was honoured with a citation from the Maltese government for his part in promoting Maltese language & culture in Australia. In this citation from the then Prime Minister, the Hon Dr Eddie Fenech Adami, it states: you have served your country nobly and well, above the normal call of duty, dedicating most of your leisure time to the advancement of culture, friendship and unity within the Maltese community and in the wider multi-cultural society of Australia. You have set a very high standard for others to follow, and I trust that others will be able to continue on the far-sighted course you have initiated.
At the inaugural MCCV Community Awards held at the Maltese Centre in Melbourne, on 11August, 2012, Dr Abela received a posthumous award for his contribution to Scholarship and Education. His nephew, Mr Daniel Abela, accepted the award on his behalf. On 24 March 2013, the Maltese Literature Group launched a booklet written by Joe Axiaq on their founder, Dr Joe Abela at the Maltese Centre.

Sources:
1. Joseph Chetcuti, Intervisti, pp.7 & 12
2. The Maltese Herald, 13 December, 1988
3. MCCV News, Sept-Oct 2012
4. Joe Axiaq, Dr Joe Abela: Ħajtu f'Ħidmietu, Maltese Literature Group, 2012
5. Maurice N. Cauchi, Maltese Achievers in Australia, MCCV, 2006

Dr Joe Abela (author)

2013-03-24T22:22:02Z

Whoswho: Created page with "'''Joe Abela (1931-1991)''' B.Phil., Lic. en Phil., Ph.D Foremost among those who struggled to maintain Maltese language in Australia one must include Dr Joe (Guze) Abela. He..."

'''Joe Abela (1931-1991)'''
B.Phil., Lic. en Phil., Ph.D
Foremost among those who struggled to maintain Maltese language in Australia one must include Dr Joe (Guze) Abela. He will be remembered as a promoter and teacher of the Maltese language, as a poet and author, as well as a pioneer of Maltese language broadcasting in Melbourne.
Joe was born in Zabbar and migrated to Australia in 1952. As a keen member of the Society of Christian Doctrine he worked hard to infuse the young with a solid Christian background. He was the Director of this branch for some 17 years. He studied for the priesthood at Corpus Christi in Werribee. He worked within the Maltese community in the western suburbs of Melbourne for several years. He met Carol Parkes, a nurse, when he was hospitalised and they subsequently married. He continued his studies in philosophy at Louvain University in Belgium where he graduated magnum cum laude, obtaining a B.Phil., Lic. en Phil., and a Ph.D.)
On his return he began to undertake research in the Faculty of Education at Monash University and was a volunteer Maltese language broadcaster on community radio 3ZZ. In June 1975 Joe Abela was invited to coordinate the Maltese language programs on the newly established ethnic radio 3EA which later became SBS Radio. Joe continued in his role as coordinator and broadcaster for many years until he resigned due to ill health. In 1981 he was appointed as a lecturer at Coburg State College which, with a later amalgamation, formed the Phillip Institute of Technology. He introduced Maltese as a major area of study initially in the Associate Diploma of Ethnic Studies and later as part of the B.A. in Multicultural Studies. Through his efforts, Maltese was also included as a subject at Higher School Certificate level.
Dr Abela is the co-author of several books in Maltese. His poetry style is largely traditional, although, as Chetcuti remarks, there is in his poetry “a sense of uncertainty, wishes without hope, which elements are characteristic of modern poetry”. They deal with various topics relating to life as he sees it. He says: Today I write on any subject. Whatever I say, and whatever I feel inside me, that for me is a subject of poetry. But the most dear thing to me is the people, the sense of justice. Those are the topics of my poetry, sometimes humorous, sometimes serious, sometime pessimistic… I do not apologize. He considered himself to be a rebel, influenced by the rebel poet – his own teacher in Malta – Karmenu Vassallo.
Publications:
Abela has written both prose and poetry, in Maltese as well as in English. He is also the author of philosophical works. The following is a list of his publications.
• 1953: Tlitt Iqlub. [‘Three Hearts’] – poetry collection (with M. Cassar, J. Sciberras)
• 1957: ‘Maltese death and burial’, Madonna, Melbourne,
• 1964: Hawn min iridek [about seminary life]
• 1983: Meta Jofrogħ il-Baħar [‘When the tide moves out’] – poetry (with Maurice Cauchi).
• 1984: The Concept of the Infinite in the works of Giordano Bruno, which is a philosophical treatise.
• 1984: Siltiet [‘Selections’] – quotations (with Maurice Cauchi).

His poetry is also found in several anthologies, including: Driegħ ma’ Driegħ (1971), Irjieħ (1986), Poet’s Choice (ed. Roberts, Phillip 1976), Ethnic Australia (1981), How strong the roots, London, 1981. He has also written an autobiography, as well as a collection of post-war Maltese immigrants’ letters which has not yet been published. He was involved in editing The Voice of Malta. He has also published several articles, including ‘Maltese settlement in Melbourne’ in The Australian People: An encyclopaedia of the nation, its people and their origins, (ed. by J. Jupp et al., 1988)
His other involvements included:
• Chairperson of the Maltese panel, National Accreditation for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI).
• Member of the Australian Institute of Multicultural Affairs.
• The Maltese Literature Group: Perhaps this will be the most important achievement of Dr Abela, namely his involvement and re-creation of an active group interested in the maintenance of the Maltese language. There were other attempts at organizing a literature group inVictoria, however, he ensured that the MLG became an active force, which in effect has lasted well after his death.
It is unfortunate that Dr Abela died before the Honours system was introduced in Malta. However, in 1988, he was honoured with a citation from the Maltese government for his part in promoting Maltese language & culture in Australia. In this citation from the then Prime Minister, the Hon Dr Eddie Fenech Adami, it states: you have served your country nobly and well, above the normal call of duty, dedicating most of your leisure time to the advancement of culture, friendship and unity within the Maltese community and in the wider multi-cultural society of Australia. You have set a very high standard for others to follow, and I trust that others will be able to continue on the far-sighted course you have initiated.
At the inaugural MCCV Community Awards held at the Maltese Centre in Melbourne, on 11August, 2012, Dr Abela received a posthumous award for his contribution to Scholarship and Education. His nephew, Mr Daniel Abela, accepted the award on his behalf. On 24 March 2013, the Maltese Literature Group launched a booklet written by Joe Axiaq on their founder, Dr Joe Abela at the Maltese Centre.

Sources:
1. Joseph Chetcuti, Intervisti, pp.7 & 12
2. The Maltese Herald, 13 December, 1988
3. MCCV News, Sept-Oct 2012
4. Joe Axiaq, Dr Joe Abela: Ħajtu f'Ħidmietu, Maltese Literature Group, 2012
5. Maurice N. Cauchi, Maltese Achievers in Australia, MCCV, 2006

Mifsud Bros

2013-03-20T04:15:11Z

Whoswho:

Mifsud Brothers
Singers

Sam and Laurie Mifsud started their singing career at the Juventus Domus of Zejtun, Malta, with their group called the Texas Skiffle Group. They migrated to Australia in 1962 with their family. It wasn’t long before they formed another group and started playing a mixture of country and rock in pubs and clubs. In 1978 they teamed up with Godfrey Borg, a Maltese drummer and with the help of their sound engineer, Vince Simiana, they formed their own recording label and began writing and recording their own Maltese compositions. Their first release Gheziez Genituri was the start of a recording career that included another four very successful singles, followed by two LPs, Bahar Kahlani and Memorji Fuq Ritratt. Some of the best known compositions of their 50 recorded tracks include Bahar Kahlani, Arana, My Beautiful Islands, Fis-Salina Bay Hotel, Zifna Tal-Fellus, Walzting Matilda and Comme Ci Comme Ca, which are still very popular on the Australian ethnic radio network and in Canada, USA and Malta.

KTA Productions collected 21 tracks, The Best Of The Mifsud Brothers, and released them on a CD. Other artists have recorded some of their compositions as well. Their style of music is a mixture of pop, country and traditional, always precise, light hearted and above all entertaining. Their live performances won them thousands of followers in Australia and overseas. They performed to Maltese communities in all states in Australia and also performed with and backed most of the Maltese entertainers that visited Sydney in the 70s, 80s and 90s. In 1983 they participated in the Maltese Night, hosted by Rolf Harris, at the Sydney Opera House where they sang a number of songs including some from the rock opera Ġensna. Although no longer performing live, Laurie is still involved in providing backing on recordings for other artists, and Sam currently calls himself Uncle Sam DJ/Singer where he specializes in all kinds of music for clubs, social occasions, parties and private functions.

Source: Information courtesy of Mark Caruana

Mifsud Bros

2013-03-20T04:13:57Z

Whoswho:

Mifsud Brothers
Singers

Sam and Laurie Mifsud started their singing career at the Juventus Domus of Zejtun, Malta, with their group called the Texas Skiffle Group. They migrated to Australia in 1962 with their family. It wasn’t long before they formed another group and started playing a mixture of country and rock in pubs and clubs. In 1978 they teamed up with Godfrey Borg, a Maltese drummer and with the help of their sound engineer, Vince Simiana, they formed their own recording label and began writing and recording their own Maltese compositions. Their first release “Gheziez Genituri” was the start of a recording career that included another four very successful singles, followed by two LPs, “Bahar Kahlani” and “Memorji Fuq Ritratt”. Some of the best known compositions of their 50 recorded tracks include Bahar Kahlani, Arana, My Beautiful Islands, Fis-Salina Bay Hotel, Zifna Tal-Fellus, Walzting Matilda and Comme Ci Comme Ca, which are still very popular on the Australian ethnic radio network and in Canada, USA and Malta.

KTA Productions collected 21 tracks, The Best Of The Mifsud Brothers, and released them on a CD. Other artists have recorded some of their compositions as well. Their style of music is a mixture of pop, country and traditional, always precise, light hearted and above all entertaining. Their live performances won them thousands of followers in Australia and overseas. They performed to Maltese communities in all states in Australia and also performed with and backed most of the Maltese entertainers that visited Sydney in the 70s, 80s and 90s. In 1983 they participated in the Maltese Night, hosted by Rolf Harris, at the Sydney Opera House where they sang a number of songs including some from the rock opera Ġensna. Although no longer performing live, Laurie is still involved in providing backing on recordings for other artists, and Sam currently calls himself Uncle Sam DJ/Singer where he specializes in all kinds of music for clubs, social occasions, parties and private functions.

Source: Information courtesy of Mark Caruana

Mifsud Bros

2013-03-20T04:09:24Z

Whoswho:

Mifsud Brothers
Singers

Sam and Laurie Mifsud started their singing career at the Juventus Domus of Zejtun, Malta, with their group called the Texas Skiffle Group. They migrated to Australia in 1962 with their family. It wasn’t long before they formed another group and started playing a mixture of country and rock in pubs and clubs. In 1978 they teamed up with Godfrey Borg, a Maltese drummer and with the help of their sound engineer, Vince Simiana, they formed their own recording label and began writing and recording their own Maltese compositions. Their first release “Gheziez Genituri” was the start of a recording career that included another four very successful singles, followed by two LPs, “Bahar Kahlani” and “Memorji Fuq Ritratt”. Some of the best known compositions of their 50 recorded tracks include Bahar Kahlani, Arana, My Beautiful Islands, Fis-Salina Bay Hotel, Zifna Tal-Fellus, Walzting Matilda and Comme Ci Comme Ca, which are still very popular on the Australian ethnic radio network and in Canada, USA and Malta.

KTA Productions collected 21 tracks, The Best Of The Mifsud Brothers, and released them on a CD. Other artists have recorded some of their compositions as well. Their style of music is a mixture of pop, country and traditional, always precise, light hearted and above all entertaining. Their live performances won them thousands of followers in Australia and overseas. They performed to Maltese communities in all states in Australia and also performed with and backed most of the Maltese entertainers that visited Sydney in the 70s, 80s and 90s. In 1983 they participated in the Maltese Night, hosted by Rolf Harris, at the Sydney Opera House where they sang a number of songs including some from the rock opera Ġensna. Although no longer performing live, Laurie is still involved in providing backing on recordings for other artists, and Sam currently calls himself Uncle Sam DJ/Singer where he specializes in all kinds of music for clubs, social occasions, parties and private functions.

Source: Information and photo courtesy of Mark Caruana

Vic Smith

2013-03-20T03:46:13Z

Whoswho: Created page with "Vic Smith Singer At the dinner dance to welcome Malta’s Commonwealth Games 2006 athletes, Vic Smith was given the honour of being MC for the night. Vic started performing ..."

Vic Smith
Singer

At the dinner dance to welcome Malta’s Commonwealth Games 2006 athletes, Vic Smith was given the honour of being MC for the night. Vic started performing on stage at the age of 13. He later served in the British Army where he was able to perform in several folk and country clubs in Germany, England and Malta. For three years he sang at Jeddah, a five star hotel in Saudi Arabia, singing three nights a week, accompanied only by Doris, his 12 string guitar and a very basic rhythm machine.

He arrived in Australia in 1986. He joined Harmonic 65 where he was instrumental in starting up the Members Night, helping new talent to be developed. He acted, sang and sometimes produced variety shows organized by the club. He has also acted on stage with the Williamstown Little Theatre Group and with the S.T.A.G. players.

He performs at parties, social and charity events, specializing in singing the classic hits of the 60s and the 70s. His linguistic skills allow him to perform the duties of Master of Ceremonies at many shows, parties and weddings.

Sources:
1. www.maltamedia.com/sports/articles/2005
2. www.geocities.com/vicsmith

Mifsud Bros

2013-03-20T03:44:37Z

Whoswho: Created page with "Mifsud Brothers Singers Sam and Laurie Mifsud started their singing career at the Juventus Domus of Zejtun, Malta, with their group called the Texas Skiffle Group. They migr..."

Mifsud Brothers
Singers

Sam and Laurie Mifsud started their singing career at the Juventus Domus of Zejtun, Malta, with their group called the Texas Skiffle Group. They migrated to Australia in 1962 with their family. It wasn’t long before they formed another group and started playing a mixture of country and rock in pubs and clubs. In 1978 they teamed up with Godfrey Borg, a Maltese drummer and with the help of their sound engineer, Vince Simiana, they formed their own recording label and began writing and recording their own Maltese compositions. Their first release “Gheziez Genituri” was the start of a recording career that included another four very successful singles, followed by two LPs, “Bahar Kahlani” and “Memorji Fuq Ritratt”. Some of the best known compositions of their 50 recorded tracks include Bahar Kahlani, Arana, My Beautiful Islands, Fis-Salina Bay Hotel, Zifna Tal-Fellus, Walzting Matilda and Comme Ci Comme Ca, which are still very popular on the Australian ethnic radio network and in Canada, USA and Malta.

KTA Productions collected 21 tracks, The Best Of The Mifsud Brothers, and released them on a CD. Other artists have recorded some of their compositions as well. Their style of music is a mixture of pop, country and traditional, always precise, light hearted and above all entertaining. Their live performances won them thousands of followers in Australia and overseas. They performed to Maltese communities in all states in Australia and also performed with and backed most of the Maltese entertainers that visited Sydney in the 70s, 80s and 90s. Although no longer performing live, Laurie is still involved in providing backing on recordings for other artists, and Sam currently calls himself Uncle Sam DJ/Singer where he specializes in all kinds of music for clubs, social occasions, parties and private functions.

Source: Information and photo courtesy of Mark Caruana

Manuel Bugeja

2013-03-20T03:42:03Z

Whoswho: Created page with "Manuel Bugeja (1900-1993) Actor, broadcaster and radio personality Manuel was born in Valletta on 6th October 1900. He was a bright boy but did not receive an education even w..."

Manuel Bugeja (1900-1993)
Actor, broadcaster and radio personality
Manuel was born in Valletta on 6th October 1900. He was a bright boy but did not receive an education even when he got a scholarship at age 14 (1914) because he could not afford to buy the textbooks. He worked as a lad messenger with the British Army Ordinance Store in Valletta for four years and then in 1918 he joined the Navy where he stayed for five years.
His love for the theatre showed from an early age. In 1922 he helped establish the Maltese Youth Citizens’ Theatre. From 1925 he was involved with the revival of carnival festivities as we now know them, and of which he was the chief organiser for a number of years. During World War II he served as Sergeant in the KOMR and later on was placed in charge of prisoners-of-war at Ta'Qali
It was only later in life, at the age of 55, that Manuel decided to emigrate to Australia, urged no doubt by the experiences of his father-in-law who had spent some years there. His main reasons for emigrating were his family: his five sons and one daughter were keen to emigrate.

Manuel settled in Melbourne and found a job as a clerk with the Motor Registration Branch. Again he immediately began to get involved with the theatre. He helped to start Australia’s first Maltese dramatic company, the Malta Stage Amateurs. This was very popular with Maltese audiences of the 1950s and the Brunswick Town Hall, with a capacity of 1000 people, was packed whenever the Amateurs were performing. During the period 1961-1979, he appeared in several high-rating TV series (including Consider your Verdict and Division Four) in characters requiring a non-Australian accent.

Manuel had other interests, in particular his desire to help his fellow migrants. During the early years (1955-1981) he was considered to be an ‘unofficial social worker’ helping the newly arrived. It was not the first time that he actually helped them financially until they could stand on their own feet. In the 1960s he played a key role in the rejuvenation of the Maltese Community Council in Melbourne. He had also sufficient vision to realise the importance of setting up an Ethnic Communities’ Council in Victoria (ECCV) and in 1974 made an impassioned plea for setting up such a Council. He was also a keen supporter of the Emigrant’s Commission: a soiree held in his honour raised funds and he donated the evening’s proceedings to the Commission. Manuel also played an important role in developing ethnic radio in Melbourne. He was a broadcaster on radio, and helped establish ethnic radio in Melbourne during the 1970s.

In 1981 he suffered a stroke which brought to an end his active participation, but did not stop him from attending several functions where Maltese congregate. He will be remembered as “the grandfather of the Maltese in Australia”. He married Frances Vella in 1927 and they had one daughter and five sons. He died on 11 January, 1993.

Sources:
1. Schiavone, Michael J. & Louis J. Scerri, 1997, Maltese Biographies of the Twentieth Century.
2. The Maltese Herald February 2,1993.
3. Thanks also to Nerissa Murphy for an update on August 31, 2002.

Evaristo Azzopardi

2013-03-14T22:45:38Z

Whoswho: Created page with "Evaristo Azzopardi (1911-2001) Violinist, accordionist, teacher Evaristo was born in Valletta and was taught music and violin by his father, a well-known violinist himself. ..."

Evaristo Azzopardi
(1911-2001)
Violinist, accordionist, teacher

Evaristo was born in Valletta and was taught music and violin by his father, a well-known violinist himself. He was an extremely talented violinist as well as a very competent accordionist and pianist. He was also a qualified piano tuner and musical instrument repairer with qualifications from London where he had gone to study at a college of technology. He played at the Royal Opera House and with the British Institute Orchestra.

In 1952 Azzopardi migrated to Australia. At the Dockyard where he was working, he entertained the workers at lunchtime by playing the piano for them. When the square dancing craze hit Australia, he was very much in demand in the evenings performing at these occasions. He formed a band to play at Maltese dances for those who came from Malta or the Middle East. His band was in demand at Maltese weddings.

He will be remembered as a well-respected teacher of guitar, piano accordion as well as of course the violin. He started his career as a teacher in 1956 and continued until a year before he died. He was particularly popular with the Italian community and many of their children were tutored by him.

He formed and conducted choirs, both Maltese and Italian, to perform at various functions. He also organized and performed at concerts for the St Peter Clavier Society at Kew.

His expertise as a musical repairer was appreciated by Suttons who at the time had a great music shop in Melbourne. He was their musical repairer until he retired when he turned 60. He also repaired instruments for other musical shops and musicians.

He was a prolific composer of music and believed that musical knowledge and talent should be challenged. His themes cover a wide range from his love of Our Blessed Lady to his love of his homeland. His works would vary from complicated pieces and their variations to simple melodic tunes, which would then be used to challenge the musician by the variations he composed. He had even started using computer software to create musical compositions. His compositions include:

• Oratorio on the Resurrection,
• Oratorio on the Birth of Christ – both these oratorios are set to lyrics by Manwel Nicholas Borg (see Chapter 3),
• Masses: two in Italian and six in Maltese,
• Songs: he wrote a number of songs, some of which have been played on Australian television,
• Other compositions, including tarantellas and concertinas for violin.

He was awarded the Manoel de Vilhena Award for his contribution to the propagation of Maltese arts and culture in Australia (1991).

Azzopardi was married to Stella Bruno (d 1993). He died on 5 July, 2001, survived by 3 children, 10 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren.