My name is Wilma and I was born in the Italian town of Trieste. My mother was of Yugoslav background and my father was Italian of Hungarian background. I came to Australia in 1953 and married a fellow Italian, named Giordano. At first, we lived in Brisbane, but later we settled in Sydney. We have two children – my son Ronaldo and daughter Amanda.
My dear husband and my family visit me here at Courtlands in North Parramatta almost every day. We have been very close as a family and I love to chat in Italian with my husband.
I still speak fluent Italian, English and languages of former Yugoslavia as well. I love when the staff greets me in these languages, as it brings special memories for me!
I used to work at the Royal Women’s Hospital at Paddington, serving the meals and assisting the chef.
Giordano and I used to enjoy attending Italian clubs and dancing a lot! We have also travelled to our beloved Italy a couple of times together.
I am very happy at Courtlands, and enjoy scenic bus outings, cooking pizzas, singalongs and parties. Recently, we celebrated Italian Cultural Day here, with armchair travel to Italy and that was very special indeed.
I love singing and often I sing Italian songs in the dining room to my fellow residents and staff around me. What can I say? I am Italian. Singing is part of my soul.
I am very comfortable living in this beautiful place and it feels more like my home. Staff are very kind to me, I am treated very nicely and my Italian identity is very well preserved here. Thank you for your care and love towards me and my family.
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