Australian Calabrese Cultural Association

I am a Fellow of CPA Australia and Director at RCR Financial Group, I lead a team of dedicated professionals including accountants, tax specialists, financial advisors, and business consultants and was the founder of Clarke Rocca. I lead a team of dedicated professionals including accountants, tax specialists, financial advisors, and business consultants and was the founder of Clarke Rocca. I have over 35 years’ experience in the accounting profession, providing taxation and business advisory services to clients. I also mentor and support the team by providing wisdom and leadership skills.

I was born in the quaint village of Bella, nestled in the heart of Calabria. At the tender age of four, my world expanded dramatically when my mother, two sisters, brother, and I voyaged across the seas to join my father in Melbourne. He had paved the way for us, arriving two years prior. Our family grew with the birth of my two younger brothers soon after we settled into our new home.

Like many immigrant families, ours was a tale of resilience and sacrifice, all driven by the hope of a brighter future. My mother, in particular, bore the emotional weight of leaving behind her homeland and family. Her heartache was palpable, and no amount of persuasion could convince her to return for even a visit. Her poignant words still echo in my mind: “No, I’ve left home once, I can’t do it again.”

In the 1950s, my parents opened an Italian delicatessen in North Carlton, a hub where we all grew up, shaping our lives around the bustling counters and vibrant community. Our clientele was predominantly Italian, and through them, I witnessed the fervent dedication to seeking out the finest Italian delicacies – a cultural phenomenon that is now celebrated. This experience, coupled with family meals steeped in tradition, instilled in me a profound appreciation for authentic Calabrese food and culture.

As I grew, I found myself pulled between two worlds, each with its own unique charm and appeal. The allure of Australian culture was strong, with its vibrant lifestyle, stunning landscapes, and the warmth of its people. Through hard work and determination, I became a successful accountant, navigating the complexities of finance while building a fulfilling life here in Melbourne that I truly love.

In embracing Australian culture, I inadvertently loosened my grip on some facets of my heritage, especially the Calabrese dialect. This is a source of regret for me now, a reminder of the importance of preserving our roots. It fuels my commitment to reconnect with and honour my parents’ traditions, ensuring this rich legacy continues with my own children.Today, as a founding member and the current President of ACCA, I am privileged to champion the celebration of our vibrant Calabrese culture. My dedication lies in safeguarding its continuity for future generations, nurturing a community where our rich heritage thrives in Australia.