Art of Ageing: Meet top emigrants Tony and Adriana
.TONY and Adriana are everyday seniors who represent the wonderful diversity of NSW's older residents.
Their story reflects an Australia unique to its older generation - a contrast of values, emotions and personality in an ever-changing landscape.
Seniors News, with the help of the NSW Government, will be telling Tony and Adriana's, and many more seniors' stories in a six week series.
Their stories can also be glimpsed in a 30-image exhibition that will be touring NSW throughout 2018 and 2019
The story of top emigrants Tony and Adriana
Born Erminia Antonio in Italy in 1936, Tony, 82, immigrated to Australia in 1954 where he worked in a variety of occupations, including as a kitchen hand, in deliveries and in a fast food store.
Tony was mayor of the City of Goulburn from 1985 until 1991. It is believed he is the first person of Italian descent to be mayor of an Australian city that did not have an established Italian community.
In 1980, an Italian newspaper named Tony as one of the top five emigrants in the world. He was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in 1994 for his service to local government and the community. His hobbies include flying, furniture restoration and hobby farming.
Adriana, 74, came to Australia, "as a bride" with Tony, 52 years ago.
She says, "I haven't noticed my ageing ... I still do what I used to do ... By working, I have pride in what I do and ... meeting the public and helping where I can. I enjoy gardening and taking pride in my house, and I belong to the Goulburn Friendship Club."
Adriana says she's happy with what she has achieved as a club member and meeting everyday people.
"You must experience patience by accepting that people are different," she explains. The motto of the club is "to make new friends, cherish old ones and work in harmony for the benefit of our community."
>> Meet Vignerons Michelle And Helen
