Thursday, 28 November 2024

Ciro Lombardi

Natalie SULEYMAN (St Albans – Minister for Veterans, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Youth) (11:32): I rise today to pay tribute to Ciro Lombardi, a lifelong St Albans local turning 90 years old. Born in Italy in 1934, Ciro migrated to Australia with nothing more than a suitcase at the age of 17 and quickly became an active member of our community.

Ciro’s legacy includes being the first mayor of Brimbank in 1998 after serving as mayor of Keilor and a lifelong member of the Australian Labor Party, where he also served as branch president and a federal electorate assembly delegate and in many other positions. He has volunteered on many campaigns.

A justice of the peace for over 40 years, Ciro’s community contributions extend beyond politics. He helped established St Albans North Primary School and the mighty Green Gully Soccer Club, the first club in the west, and of course has contributed throughout, including 36 years at the waterfront before retiring. He now enjoys retirement with his wife Dot, six children, 17 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren, who take pride in his remarkable legacy. Thank you, Ciro, for your service, commitment and dedication not only to our movement but of course to the west. Happy birthday, Ciro.