Sydney-based Gianfranco Cresciani was awarded this year’s Bathurst Macquarie Heritage Medal on Saturday, for his involvement in documenting the lives of Italian migrants in Australia.
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An Italian migrant himself, Dr Cresciani arrived in Australia in 1962 at the age of 22 and he said he was extremely proud to be chosen as the medal recipient.
“I was researching and publishing the history of Italian migration to Australia since the early 1970s,” he said.
“In the course of almost 50 years, I’ve published several books on the contribution of Italian migrants in Australia. This is not just migrant work but intellectual and artistic development as well.
“I was not only proud to receive the award but totally surprised because the other three finalists had interesting projects and in my opinion, any of us four finalists would’ve been worthy winners of the award.”
When arriving in Australia over half a century ago, he thought he follow the same pattern that many migrants follow – to stay in Australia for about two to three years and head back.
“It never happened,” Dr Cresciani said.
I was not only proud to receive the award but totally surprised.
- Heritage award winner Gianfranco Cresciani
“You become an Australian and when you back, it’s like migrating back to another country.
“In the meantime, Italy has changed dramatically.”
He said the award is one the highlight’s of his time in Australia.
“Most definitely,” he said.
“It’s highlighted an important mark in Australia, that Italians are being appreciated for their contribution.
“This award is not just for me, but for the hundreds of thousands of Italian migrants who came to this country in difficult conditions after World War Two and who helped build the Australia we know.
“In winning this award, I hope my research will continue to raise the profile of Australia’s heritage at a national and international level.”
Dr Cresciani is not planning to rest on his recognition, however it’s spurred him on to continue his research.
He said he was also impressed by the work Bathurst Regional Council does to restore, maintain, preserve and honour the city’s past and present.
The 2017 winner was Scott Robertson for his commitment to the promotion and enhancement of Australia’s 20th century modern heritage.